Air conditioner and control method

Abstract

The invention provides an air conditioner and a control method, the air conditioner comprises an indoor unit, an outdoor unit and a valve assembly, and the indoor unit comprises a machine shell, an indoor heat exchanger, a collection module and an atomization module; the collecting module can collect condensate water generated by the indoor heat exchanger, and the atomizing module can atomize the condensate water into water mist. The outdoor unit comprises an outdoor heat exchanger and a compressor; the indoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger, the compressor and the valve assembly are communicated through a refrigerant pipeline to form a refrigerant loop; according to the refrigeration mode and the air purification requirement, the two indoor heat exchangers serve as evaporators to absorb heat, and the outdoor heat exchanger serves as a condenser to release heat; or, according to the heating mode and the air purification requirement, one of the two indoor heat exchangers and the outdoor heat exchanger serve as evaporators to absorb heat, and the other one of the two indoor heat exchangers serves as a condenser to release heat; condensate water generated by the indoor heat exchanger is atomized into water mist through the atomization module, and the water mist is mixed with flowing air, so that air purification is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of air conditioning, and in particular relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] As air quality in the home environment becomes increasingly important, existing air conditioning systems mainly passively intercept pollutants through mechanical filters. Their filtration accuracy is limited by the filter aperture, and the filtration effect on smaller particles is limited. They cannot fully remove harmful substances, bacteria, dust and other pollutants in the air, and the cleaning effect is weak. In addition, the indoor air purification function of air conditioning has not been fully utilized. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the present invention provides an air conditioner to solve the problems that the existing air conditioner cannot effectively remove smaller particles in the air only through the filter and has poor cleaning effect.

[0004] The present invention provides an air conditioner, comprising an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a valve assembly, and a controller. The indoor unit comprises a casing, an indoor heat exchanger, a collection module, and an atomization module arranged inside the casing. Two indoor heat exchangers are provided. The collection module is used to collect condensed water generated by either of the two indoor heat exchangers and transport it to the atomization module. The atomization module is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with air flowing through the casing. The outdoor unit comprises an outdoor heat exchanger and a compressor. The two indoor heat exchangers, the outdoor heat exchanger, the compressor, and the valve assembly are connected via a refrigerant pipeline to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0005] The air conditioner is provided with a cooling mode and a heating mode;

[0006] The controller is configured to: control the valve assembly according to the cooling mode and air purification requirements, so that both of the indoor heat exchangers absorb heat as evaporators and the outdoor heat exchanger releases heat as a condenser; or, according to the heating mode and air purification requirements, control one of the two indoor heat exchangers and the outdoor heat exchanger absorb heat as evaporators and the other of the two indoor heat exchangers release heat as a condenser.

[0007] Further optionally, the two indoor heat exchangers include a first indoor heat exchanger and a second indoor heat exchanger, and the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger are sequentially arranged along the flow direction of air in the casing;

[0008] The collecting module is used to collect the condensed water generated by the first indoor heat exchanger, and the atomizing module is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with the air flowing between the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger;

[0009] The first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger are configured such that, in the heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser to release heat.

[0010] Further optionally, the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger are further configured such that, in the cooling mode, the temperature of the first indoor heat exchanger is lower than the temperature of the second indoor heat exchanger.

[0011] Further optionally, the refrigerant pipeline includes an outdoor main pipeline, a first indoor main pipeline, a second indoor main pipeline, a first branch pipeline, a second branch pipeline, a third branch pipeline, an exhaust pipeline, a return pipeline, a first valve outlet pipeline and a second valve outlet pipeline;

[0012] The compressor includes an exhaust port and an air return port; the air return port is connected to one end of the air return pipeline;

[0013] The valve assembly includes a reversing valve, which includes a valve inlet, a first valve outlet, and a second valve outlet; the valve inlet and the exhaust port are connected through an exhaust pipeline, the first valve outlet is connected to one end of the first valve outlet pipeline, and the second valve outlet is connected to one end of the second valve outlet pipeline;

[0014] One end of the outdoor main line, one end of the indoor first main line, and one end of the indoor second main line meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the outdoor main line, the other end of the first outlet pipe of the valve, and one end of the first branch pipe meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the first branch pipe, the other end of the return air pipe, and one end of the second branch pipe meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the first indoor main line, the other end of the second branch pipe, and one end of the third branch pipe meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the second indoor main line, the other end of the third branch pipe, and the other end of the second outlet pipe of the valve meet at the same point and are interconnected;

[0015] The outdoor main line is connected in series with the outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor first main line is connected in series with the indoor first heat exchanger, and the indoor second main line is connected in series with the indoor second heat exchanger.

[0016] Further optionally, the valve assembly further includes a first throttle valve, a second throttle valve, a first control valve, a second control valve and a third control valve;

[0017] The outdoor main line is further connected in series with the first throttle valve, and the indoor first main line is further connected in series with the second throttle valve; the first branch line is connected in series with the first control valve, the second branch line is connected in series with the second control valve, and the third branch line is connected in series with the third control valve;

[0018] The controller can control the reversing valve, the first throttle valve, the first control valve, the second control valve and the third control valve to form different refrigerant circuits for the air conditioner; by adjusting the opening of the second throttle valve, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

[0019] Further optionally, the refrigerant circuit includes a first refrigerant circuit; when the air conditioner forms the first refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet and the valve first outlet are connected, the first control valve is closed, and the second control valve and the third control valve are opened, and the air conditioner can operate in the cooling mode;

[0020] When the opening degree of the second throttle valve is the first preset opening degree, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

[0021] Further optionally, the refrigerant circuit includes a second refrigerant circuit and a third refrigerant circuit;

[0022] When the air conditioner forms the second refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet and the valve second outlet are connected, the first control valve and the third control valve are opened, and the second control valve is closed, the air conditioner can operate in the heating mode, and the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger both serve as condensers to release heat;

[0023] When the air conditioner forms the third refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet and the valve second outlet are connected, the first control valve and the second control valve are opened, and the third control valve is closed. The air conditioner can operate in the heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser to release heat; when the opening of the second throttle valve is a second preset opening, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

[0024] Further optionally, the indoor unit further includes a filter, which is arranged inside the casing and can filter the air mixed with the water mist.

[0025] The present invention further provides a method for controlling an air conditioner, wherein the air conditioner is any one of the air conditioners described above, and the control method:

[0026] determining a target operating mode of the air conditioner;

[0027] Determine whether there is a need for air purification;

[0028] controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operating mode and a determination result of whether there is an air purification demand;

[0029] controlling the air conditioner to operate in a target operating mode;

[0030] The target operation mode includes a cooling mode and a heating mode.

[0031] Further optionally, when the target operating mode of the air conditioner is different, the opening and closing states of each valve in the valve assembly are different; when the air purification demand judgment result is different, the opening size of the second throttle valve is different.

[0032] Further optionally, controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operating mode and the result of determining whether there is an air purification requirement includes:

[0033] When the target operation mode is the cooling mode, the valve inlet is controlled to be connected to the first valve outlet, the first control valve is controlled to be closed, and the second control valve and the third control valve are controlled to be opened;

[0034] When there is no air purification demand, controlling the opening of the second throttle valve to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve;

[0035] When there is a need for air purification, the opening of the second throttle valve is controlled to be a first preset opening.

[0036] Further optionally, the controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operating mode and the determination result of whether there is an air purification demand further includes:

[0037] When the target operating mode is the heating mode and there is no air purification requirement, the valve inlet and the second valve outlet are controlled to be connected, the first control valve and the third control valve are controlled to be open and the second control valve is controlled to be closed, and the opening of the second throttle valve is controlled to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve;

[0038] When the target operating mode is the heating mode and there is a need for air purification, the valve inlet and the valve second outlet are controlled to be connected, the first control valve and the second control valve are controlled to be open and the third control valve is controlled to be closed, and the opening of the second throttle valve is controlled to be a second preset opening.

[0039] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are mainly:

[0040] The system combines the indoor heat exchanger, collection module, and atomization module of the existing air conditioner, making full use of the condensed water naturally generated by the indoor heat exchanger during air conditioner operation. The condensed water is atomized into water mist through the atomization module, and the water mist is mixed with the flowing air. The water mist is used to condense and settle smaller particles in the air, thereby purifying the air and improving the air purification effect. It does not require additional purification equipment, has a simple structure, and reduces equipment cost and maintenance difficulty. It does not require an external water source, saves water resources, and has low energy consumption. It can improve air quality in both heating and cooling modes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can, without inventive effort, derive other implementation drawings based on the provided drawings.

[0042] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. illustrated in this specification are intended only to complement the contents disclosed herein and to facilitate understanding and reading by persons familiar with the art. They are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention may be implemented and therefore have no substantive technical significance. Any structural modifications, changes in proportions, or adjustments in sizes, without affecting the efficacy and objectives of the present invention, shall still fall within the scope of the technical contents disclosed herein.

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of an indoor unit of an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0045] Figure 3a A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of a first refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0046] Figure 3b A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of a second refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0047] Figure 3c A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the third refrigerant circuit of the air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic flow chart of an embodiment of a method for controlling an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0049] Figure 5a A schematic flow chart of an embodiment of a control method for an air conditioner in cooling mode provided by the present invention;

[0050] Figure 5b This is a flow chart of an embodiment of a control method for an air conditioner in a heating mode provided by the present invention;

[0051] In the picture:

[0052] 1-Indoor unit; 11-Casing; 111-Air inlet; 112-Air outlet; 113-Air duct; 12-First indoor heat exchanger; 13-Second indoor heat exchanger; 14-Collection module; 15-Atomization module; 16-Filter; 17-Fan blades; 18-Air guide plate;

[0053] 2-outdoor unit; 21-outdoor heat exchanger; 22-compressor; 221-exhaust port; 222-return air port;

[0054] 31 - outdoor main line; 321 - first indoor main line; 322 - second indoor main line; 331 - first branch line; 332 - second branch line; 333 - third branch line; 341 - exhaust line; 342 - return line; 351 - first valve outlet line; 352 - second valve outlet line;

[0055] 411 - first throttle valve; 412 - second throttle valve; 421 - first control valve; 422 - second control valve; 423 - third control valve; 43 - reversing valve; 431 - first valve outlet; 432 - second valve outlet; 433 - valve inlet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The following describes the implementation of the present invention using specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art will readily understand the other advantages and benefits of the present invention from the disclosure herein. Obviously, the embodiments described are only a portion of the present invention, not all of it. All other embodiments derived by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are intended to fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0057] The terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present invention. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" used in the embodiments of the present invention and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "A plurality of" generally includes at least two, but does not exclude the inclusion of at least one.

[0058] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0059] It should also be noted that the terms "include," "comprises," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a product or system comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such product or system. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the product or system comprising the element.

[0060] Existing air conditioning systems primarily rely on mechanical filters to passively intercept pollutants. However, their filtration accuracy is limited by the filter aperture, making them ineffective at filtering smaller particles. This inability to fully remove harmful substances, bacteria, dust, and other pollutants from the air results in a weak cleaning effect. Furthermore, the indoor air purification function of air conditioning is underutilized.

[0061] The present invention creatively provides an air conditioner, comprising an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a valve assembly and a controller. The indoor unit comprises a casing and an indoor heat exchanger, a collection module and an atomization module arranged inside the casing. The collection module can collect condensed water generated by the indoor heat exchanger, and the atomization module can atomize the condensed water into water mist, which is mixed with the air flowing through the casing to purify the air. The outdoor unit comprises an outdoor heat exchanger and a compressor. The indoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger, the compressor and the valve assembly are connected through a refrigerant pipeline to form a refrigerant circuit. The indoor heat exchanger is provided with two;

[0062] When the air conditioner is in cooling mode and there is a need for air purification, both indoor heat exchangers are used as evaporators to absorb heat and the outdoor heat exchanger is used as a condenser to release heat; or, when the air conditioner is in heating mode and there is a need for air purification, one of the two indoor heat exchangers and the outdoor heat exchanger are used as evaporators to absorb heat and the other of the two indoor heat exchangers is used as a condenser to release heat;

[0063] The condensed water naturally generated by the indoor heat exchanger during air-conditioning operation is fully utilized, and the condensed water is atomized into water mist through the atomization module. The water mist is mixed with the flowing air, and the water mist is used to condense and settle smaller particles in the air to achieve air purification.

[0064] <Air Conditioning>

[0065] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this embodiment provides an air conditioner, including an indoor unit 1, an outdoor unit 2, a valve assembly, and a controller. The indoor unit 1 includes a casing 11 and an indoor heat exchanger, a collection module 14, and an atomization module 15 disposed inside the casing 11. Two indoor heat exchangers are provided. The collection module 14 is used to collect condensed water generated by either of the two indoor heat exchangers and transport it to the atomization module 15. The atomization module 15 is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with the air flowing through the inside of the casing 11. The outdoor unit 2 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 21 and a compressor 22. The two indoor heat exchangers, the outdoor heat exchanger 21, the compressor 22, and the valve assembly are connected through a refrigerant pipeline to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0066] The air conditioner has cooling mode and heating mode;

[0067] The controller is configured to: control the valve assembly according to the cooling mode and air purification requirements, so that both indoor heat exchangers absorb heat as evaporators and the outdoor heat exchanger 21 releases heat as a condenser; or, according to the heating mode and air purification requirements, so that one of the two indoor heat exchangers and the outdoor heat exchanger 21 absorb heat as evaporators and the other of the two indoor heat exchangers releases heat as a condenser.

[0068] Furthermore, the two indoor heat exchangers include a first indoor heat exchanger 12 and a second indoor heat exchanger 13, and the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 are sequentially arranged along the flow direction of the air in the casing 11;

[0069] The collecting module 14 is used to collect the condensed water generated by the first indoor heat exchanger 12, and the atomizing module 15 is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with the air flowing between the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13;

[0070] The first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 are configured as follows: in cooling mode, the temperature of the first indoor heat exchanger 12 is lower than the temperature of the second indoor heat exchanger 13; in heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger 12 acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 acts as a condenser to release heat. The first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 work together to achieve heating and purification of the indoor air.

[0071] It should also be noted that the collection module 14 can both collect condensed water and filter the condensed water;

[0072] The indoor unit 1 also includes a fan blade 17, a filter 16, a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. The fan blade 17 and the filter 16 are both arranged inside the casing 11. Under the action of the fan blade 17, indoor air can enter the inside of the casing 11; the filter 16 can filter the air mixed with water mist; the temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the indoor air, and the humidity sensor is used to detect the humidity of the indoor air; the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor are both electrically connected to the controller, and can transmit the detection data to the controller, and the controller can control the operation of the air conditioner according to the data detected by the temperature sensor; the controller can collect condensed water according to the data detected by the humidity sensor, and the collection module 14 can collect condensed water for cleaning the air; condensed water can be obtained in both cooling and heating modes to purify the air, thereby enhancing adaptability and practicality.

[0073] Preferably, the indoor unit 1 is a cabinet-type indoor unit 1, an air inlet 111 is formed at the top of the casing 11, an air outlet 112 is formed at the bottom of the casing 11, and an air duct 113 is formed inside the casing 11. The air duct 113 extends in a vertical direction and connects the air inlet 111 and the air outlet 112; a rotatable air guide plate 18 is provided at the air outlet 112, and by controlling the rotation of the air guide plate 18, the air outlet direction of the air outlet 112 can be adjusted to achieve different air outlet effects;

[0074] The indoor first heat exchanger 12, collection module 14, atomization module 15, filter 16 and second indoor heat exchanger 13 are arranged in sequence from top to bottom; the collection module 14 collects the condensed water generated by the indoor first heat exchanger 12, filters the condensed water and then transports it to the atomization module 15, and the atomization module 15 atomizes the condensed water into water mist; the air first exchanges heat with the indoor first heat exchanger 12, then mixes with the water mist, and then flows through the filter 16 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 in sequence, and finally is discharged into the room through the air outlet 112.

[0075] The following is a further description of the specific structure of the refrigerant circuit. Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerant pipeline includes an outdoor main line 31, a first indoor main line 321, a second indoor main line 322, a first branch line 331, a second branch line 332, a third branch line 333, an exhaust line 341, a return line 342, a first valve outlet line 351 and a second valve outlet line 352;

[0076] The compressor 22 includes an exhaust port 221 and an air return port 222 ; the air return port 222 is connected to one end of the air return line 342 ;

[0077] The valve assembly includes a reversing valve 43, which includes a valve inlet 433, a first valve outlet 431, and a second valve outlet 432. The valve inlet 433 is connected to the exhaust port 221 via an exhaust pipe 341, the first valve outlet 431 is connected to one end of the first valve outlet pipe 351, and the second valve outlet 432 is connected to one end of the second valve outlet pipe 352. Preferably, the reversing valve 43 is a three-way valve.

[0078] One end of the outdoor main line 31, one end of the indoor first main line 321, and one end of the indoor second main line 322 intersect at the same point and are interconnected. The other end of the outdoor main line 31, the other end of the valve first outlet line 351, and one end of the first branch line 331 intersect at the same point and are interconnected. The other end of the first branch line 331, the other end of the return air line 342, and one end of the second branch line 332 intersect at the same point and are interconnected. The other end of the indoor first main line 321, the other end of the second branch line 332, and one end of the third branch line 333 intersect at the same point and are interconnected. The other end of the indoor second main line 322, the other end of the third branch line 333, and the other end of the valve second outlet line 352 intersect at the same point and are interconnected.

[0079] The outdoor main line 31 is connected in series with the outdoor heat exchanger 21 , the first indoor main line 321 is connected in series with the first indoor heat exchanger 12 , and the second indoor main line 322 is connected in series with the second indoor heat exchanger 13 .

[0080] Furthermore, the valve assembly further includes a first throttle valve 411 , a second throttle valve 412 , a first control valve 421 , a second control valve 422 and a third control valve 423 ;

[0081] The outdoor main line 31 is further connected in series with a first throttle valve 411, and the indoor first main line 321 is further connected in series with a second throttle valve 412; the first branch line 331 is connected in series with a first control valve 421, the second branch line 332 is connected in series with a second control valve 422, and the third branch line 333 is connected in series with a third control valve 423;

[0082] The controller can control the reversing valve 43, the first throttle valve 411, the first control valve 421, the second control valve 422 and the third control valve 423 to form different refrigerant circuits for the air conditioner; by adjusting the opening of the second throttle valve 412, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air;

[0083] Preferably, the reversing valve 43, the first control valve 421, the second control valve 422 and the third control valve 423 are all solenoid valves; the controller is electrically connected to the reversing valve 43, the first control valve 421, the second control valve 422, the third control valve 423, the collection module 14 and the atomization module 15. The controller can control the reversing valve 43, the first control valve 421, the second control valve 422, the third control valve 423, the collection module 14 and the atomization module 15 according to the target operating mode and air purification requirements of the air conditioner to achieve air cleaning through condensed water.

[0084] like Figure 3a 、 Figure 3b and Figure 3c As shown, the specific state of the valve assembly in different refrigerant circuits is further described below. The refrigerant circuit includes a first refrigerant circuit, a second refrigerant circuit and a third refrigerant circuit;

[0085] When the air conditioner forms the first refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet 433 and the valve first outlet 431 are connected, the first control valve 421 is closed, the second control valve 422 and the third control valve 423 are opened, and the air conditioner can operate in the cooling mode;

[0086] When the opening degree of the second throttle valve 412 is the first preset opening degree, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air;

[0087] When the air conditioner forms a refrigerant second circuit, the valve inlet 433 and the valve second outlet 432 are connected, the first control valve 421 and the third control valve 423 are opened, and the second control valve 422 is closed. The air conditioner can operate in a heating mode, and the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 both act as condensers to release heat;

[0088] When the air conditioner forms the third refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet 433 and the valve second outlet 432 are connected, the first control valve 421 and the second control valve 422 are opened, and the third control valve 423 is closed. The air conditioner can operate in the heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 acts as a condenser to release heat; when the opening of the second throttle valve 412 is the second preset opening, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

[0089] <Control method>

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, a method for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner is any one of the air conditioners described above, the control method:

[0091] S1. Determine the target operating mode of the air conditioner;

[0092] S2. Determine whether there is a need for air purification;

[0093] S3, the control valve assembly is in a state corresponding to the target operation mode and the result of the judgment on whether there is an air purification demand;

[0094] S4, controlling the air conditioner to operate in a target operating mode;

[0095] The target operation mode includes cooling mode and heating mode.

[0096] Furthermore, when the target operation mode of the air conditioner is different, the opening and closing states of each valve in the valve assembly are different; when the air purification demand judgment result is different, the opening size of the second throttle valve 412 is different.

[0097] S3 includes:

[0098] When the target operation mode is the cooling mode, the control valve inlet 433 is connected to the valve first outlet 431, the first control valve 421 is controlled to be closed and the second control valve 422 and the third control valve 423 are controlled to be open;

[0099] When there is no air purification demand, the opening of the second throttle valve 412 is controlled to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve 412;

[0100] When there is a need for air purification, the opening of the second throttle valve 412 is controlled to be a first preset opening;

[0101] Specifically, if Figure 5a As shown, the indoor unit 1 receives a signal from the remote control to start the cooling mode, and the status of the valve body assembly is as follows: the valve inlet 433 is connected to the first valve outlet 431, the second valve outlet 432 is closed, the first control valve 421 is closed, and the second control valve 422 and the third control valve 423 are opened; when the air conditioner operates in the cooling mode, the compressor 22 compresses the refrigerant, and the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant flows out from the exhaust port 221 of the compressor 22, flows through the outdoor heat exchanger 21 to release heat, and then passes through the first throttle valve 411 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant.

[0102] If the indoor unit 1 does not receive the clean air signal sent by the remote control, the second throttle valve 412 is opened to the maximum, that is, the second throttle valve 412 does not have a throttling effect. At this time, the refrigerant flows through the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 in the same state to evaporate and absorb heat. The temperatures of the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 are basically the same. The collection module 14 and the atomization module 15 are both in standby state. After the indoor heat exchange is completed, the refrigerant returns to the compressor 22 through the return air pipe 342 for the next cycle; the indoor air is cooled by the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 to complete the cooling.

[0103] If indoor unit 1 receives a clean air signal from the remote control, the second throttle valve 412 activates and adjusts its opening to a first preset opening. This first preset opening is defined by the opening function f(T, Th) and is determined during the development phase. The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant passing through the first throttle valve 411 is split and flows to the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13, respectively. The refrigerant is throttled by the second throttle valve 412 before flowing through the first indoor heat exchanger 12. At this point, the temperature of the first indoor heat exchanger 12 drops below the dew point. The refrigerant before the second indoor heat exchanger 13 is not throttled again, and its temperature is above the condensing temperature. The air is cooled for the first time through the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and condensed water is generated. The generated condensed water is collected and filtered by the collection module 14 and then enters the atomization module 15 to produce water mist. The water mist is released into the air and meets the dust particles suspended in the air, effectively capturing the dust particles in the settled air. The settled large particles are captured by the filter 16, and the air is purified. After the air is purified, it flows through the second indoor heat exchanger 13 to complete the secondary heat exchange and cooling. The clean air is finally discharged into the room through the air outlet 112.

[0104] S3 also includes:

[0105] When the target operating mode is the heating mode and there is no air purification requirement, the control valve inlet 433 is connected to the valve second outlet 432, the first control valve 421 and the third control valve 423 are controlled to be open and the second control valve 422 is controlled to be closed, and the opening of the second throttle valve 412 is controlled to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve 412;

[0106] When the target operating mode is heating mode and there is a need for air purification, the control valve inlet 433 and the valve second outlet 432 are connected, the first control valve 421 and the second control valve 422 are controlled to open and the third control valve 423 is controlled to close, and the opening of the second throttle valve 412 is controlled to be the second preset opening.

[0107] Specifically, if Figure 5b As shown, if the indoor unit 1 receives a signal from the remote control to start the heating mode but does not receive a signal from the remote control to clean the air, the valve assembly operates as follows: the valve inlet 433 is connected to the second valve outlet 432, the first valve outlet 431 is closed, the first control valve 421 and the third control valve 423 are open, and the second control valve 422 is closed. When the air conditioner is operating in the heating mode, the compressor 22 compresses the refrigerant, and the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant flows out of the exhaust port 221 of the compressor 22, passing through the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13 to release heat. The second throttle valve 412 is opened to its maximum, meaning that the second throttle valve 412 does not throttle the refrigerant. The refrigerant is then throttled by the first throttle valve 411, flows through the outdoor heater, and is finally drawn into the compressor 22, completing the heating cycle. The air is simultaneously heated by the first indoor heat exchanger 12 and the second indoor heat exchanger 13, raising the indoor temperature and achieving a heating effect. The collection module 14 and the atomization module 15 are in a standby state.

[0108] If indoor unit 1 receives a signal from the remote control to activate heating mode and a signal to clean air, the valve assembly operates as follows: valve inlet 433 communicates with valve second outlet 432, valve first outlet 431 is closed, first control valve 421 and second control valve 422 are open, and third control valve 423 is closed. When the air conditioner is operating in heating mode, compressor 22 compresses refrigerant, which flows out of compressor 22's exhaust port 221, releases heat in the indoor second heat exchanger 13, then passes through first throttle valve 411 and second throttle valve 412, flows through outdoor heat exchanger 21, and then through indoor first heat exchanger 12, before being drawn back into compressor 22, completing a cycle. Second throttle valve 412 activates and adjusts its opening to a first predetermined opening, which is defined by the opening function g(T, Th) and is determined during the development phase. After throttling, the refrigerant flowing through the first indoor heat exchanger 12 becomes low-temperature and low-pressure, absorbing heat in the first indoor heat exchanger 12. At this point, the temperature of the first indoor heat exchanger 12 is lower than the dew point of the indoor air. As the air passes through the first indoor heat exchanger 12, condensation begins to form. This condensation is collected and filtered by the collection module 14 before entering the atomization module 15. The resulting mist is released into the air, where it encounters dust particles suspended in the air, effectively capturing the settled dust particles. The settled large particles are captured by the filter 16, purifying the air. After passing through the first indoor heat exchanger 12, the air then exchanges heat with the second indoor heat exchanger 13 to raise its temperature, thereby purifying and raising the temperature of the indoor air.

[0109] While the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically illustrated and described above, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the detailed structures, configurations, or implementations described herein; rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass various modifications and equivalent configurations within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that: The invention comprises an indoor unit (1), an outdoor unit (2), a valve assembly and a controller, wherein the indoor unit (1) comprises a casing (11) and an indoor heat exchanger, a collecting module (14) and an atomizing module (15) arranged inside the casing (11); two indoor heat exchangers are provided, the collecting module (14) is used to collect condensed water generated by any one of the two indoor heat exchangers and transport it to the atomizing module (15); the atomizing module (15) is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with the air flowing through the casing (11); the outdoor unit (2) comprises an outdoor heat exchanger (21) and a compressor (22); the two indoor heat exchangers, the outdoor heat exchanger (21), the compressor (22) and the valve assembly are connected through a refrigerant pipeline to form a refrigerant circuit; The air conditioner is provided with a cooling mode and a heating mode; The controller is configured to: control the valve assembly according to the cooling mode and air purification requirements, so that both of the indoor heat exchangers absorb heat as evaporators and the outdoor heat exchanger (21) releases heat as a condenser; or, according to the heating mode and air purification requirements, control one of the two indoor heat exchangers and the outdoor heat exchanger (21) absorb heat as evaporators and the other of the two indoor heat exchangers releases heat as a condenser.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that The two indoor heat exchangers include a first indoor heat exchanger (12) and a second indoor heat exchanger (13), and the first indoor heat exchanger (12) and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) are arranged in sequence along the flow direction of the air inside the casing (11); The collecting module (14) is used to collect condensed water generated by the first indoor heat exchanger (12), and the atomizing module (15) is used to atomize the condensed water into water mist and mix the water mist with the air flowing between the first indoor heat exchanger (12) and the second indoor heat exchanger (13); The first indoor heat exchanger (12) and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) are configured such that, in the heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger (12) acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) acts as a condenser to release heat.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that The first indoor heat exchanger (12) and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) are further configured such that, in the cooling mode, the temperature of the first indoor heat exchanger (12) is lower than the temperature of the second indoor heat exchanger (13).

4. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that The refrigerant pipeline includes an outdoor main pipeline (31), a first indoor main pipeline (321), a second indoor main pipeline (322), a first branch pipeline (331), a second branch pipeline (332), a third branch pipeline (333), an exhaust pipeline (341), a return air pipeline (342), a first valve outlet pipeline (351), and a second valve outlet pipeline (352); The compressor (22) includes an exhaust port (221) and an air return port (222); the air return port (222) is connected to one end of the air return pipeline (342); The valve assembly includes a reversing valve (43), and the reversing valve (43) includes a valve inlet (433), a first valve outlet (431), and a second valve outlet (432); the valve inlet (433) and the exhaust port (221) are connected via an exhaust pipe (341); the first valve outlet (431) and one end of the first valve outlet pipe (351) are connected; and the second valve outlet (432) and one end of the second valve outlet pipe (352) are connected; One end of the outdoor main line (31), one end of the indoor first main line (321), and one end of the indoor second main line (322) meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the outdoor main line (31), the other end of the valve first outlet line (351), and one end of the first branch line (331) meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the first branch line (331), the other end of the return air line (342), and one end of the second branch line (332) meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the indoor first main line (321), the other end of the second branch line (332), and one end of the third branch line (333) meet at the same point and are interconnected; the other end of the indoor second main line (322), the other end of the third branch line (333), and the other end of the valve second outlet line (352) meet at the same point and are interconnected; The outdoor main line (31) is connected in series with the outdoor heat exchanger (21), the indoor first main line (321) is connected in series with the indoor first heat exchanger (12), and the indoor second main line (322) is connected in series with the indoor second heat exchanger (13).

5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that The valve assembly further comprises a first throttle valve (411), a second throttle valve (412), a first control valve (421), a second control valve (422) and a third control valve (423); The outdoor main line (31) is further connected in series with the first throttle valve (411), and the indoor first main line (321) is further connected in series with the second throttle valve (412); the first branch line (331) is connected in series with the first control valve (421), the second branch line (332) is connected in series with the second control valve (422), and the third branch line (333) is connected in series with the third control valve (423); The controller can control the reversing valve (43), the first throttle valve (411), the first control valve (421), the second control valve (422) and the third control valve (423), so that the air conditioner forms different refrigerant circuits; and by adjusting the opening of the second throttle valve (412), water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that The refrigerant circuit includes a first refrigerant circuit; when the air conditioner forms the first refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet (433) and the valve first outlet (431) are connected, the first control valve (421) is closed, and the second control valve (422) and the third control valve (423) are opened, and the air conditioner can operate in the cooling mode; When the opening degree of the second throttle valve (412) is a first preset opening degree, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that The refrigerant circuit includes a second refrigerant circuit and a third refrigerant circuit; When the air conditioner forms the refrigerant second circuit, the valve inlet (433) and the valve second outlet (432) are connected, the first control valve (421) and the third control valve (423) are opened, and the second control valve (422) is closed. The air conditioner can operate in the heating mode, and the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) both serve as condensers to release heat; When the air conditioner forms the third refrigerant circuit, the valve inlet (433) and the valve second outlet (432) are connected, the first control valve (421) and the second control valve (422) are opened, and the third control valve (423) is closed. The air conditioner can operate in the heating mode, the first indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator to absorb heat, and the second indoor heat exchanger (13) acts as a condenser to release heat; when the opening degree of the second throttle valve (412) is a second preset opening degree, water mist can be used to clean the indoor air.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that The indoor unit (1) further comprises a filter (16), the filter (16) being arranged inside the housing (11), and the filter (16) being capable of filtering the air mixed with the water mist.

9. A method for controlling an air conditioner, characterized in that: The air conditioner is the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and the control method is: determining a target operating mode of the air conditioner; Determine whether there is a need for air purification; controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operating mode and a determination result of whether there is an air purification demand; controlling the air conditioner to operate in a target operating mode; The target operation mode includes a cooling mode and a heating mode.

10. The air conditioner control method according to claim 9, characterized in that: When the target operating mode of the air conditioner is different, the opening and closing states of the valves in the valve assembly are different; when the air purification demand judgment results are different, the opening size of the second throttle valve (412) is different.

11. The air conditioner control method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operation mode and the determination result of whether there is an air purification demand includes: When the target operation mode is the cooling mode, the valve inlet (433) is controlled to be connected to the first valve outlet (431), the first control valve (421) is controlled to be closed, and the second control valve (422) and the third control valve (423) are controlled to be opened; When there is no air purification demand, controlling the opening of the second throttle valve (412) to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve (412); When there is a need for air purification, the opening of the second throttle valve (412) is controlled to be a first preset opening.

12. The air conditioner control method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The controlling the valve assembly to be in a state corresponding to the target operation mode and the determination result of whether there is an air purification demand further includes: When the target operation mode is the heating mode and there is no air purification requirement, the valve inlet (433) is controlled to be connected to the valve second outlet (432), the first control valve (421) and the third control valve (423) are controlled to be open and the second control valve (422) is controlled to be closed, and the opening of the second throttle valve (412) is controlled to be the maximum opening of the second throttle valve (412); When the target operating mode is the heating mode and there is a need for air purification, the valve inlet (433) and the valve second outlet (432) are controlled to be connected, the first control valve (421) and the second control valve (422) are controlled to be open and the third control valve (423) is controlled to be closed, and the opening of the second throttle valve (412) is controlled to be a second preset opening.

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