A water storage device for regulating water level of an air conditioner and an air conditioner

Abstract

The application discloses a water storage device for adjusting water level of an air conditioner and the air conditioner. The water storage device comprises a supporting disc and a water storage module. The supporting disc is arranged at the bottom of a condenser. The supporting disc is provided with a water filling cavity. The water storage module is connected to the supporting disc and is communicated with the water filling cavity. The condenser is connected to the supporting disc. The heat exchange structure of the condenser at least partially extends into the water filling cavity. The water storage module controls the water quantity in the water filling cavity so as to adjust the heat exchange area of the condenser and water. The supporting disc and the water filling cavity are arranged, and part of the structure of the condenser extends into the water filling cavity, so that the direct contact heat exchange between the condenser and water is realized. More importantly, the water storage module can accurately control the water quantity in the water filling cavity according to actual requirements, so that the water level height of the condenser contacting water is dynamically adjusted, the refrigeration or heating efficiency of the air conditioner is improved, and the energy consumption is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and in particular to a water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of modern air conditioner technology, as users' demands for air conditioner performance and comfort continue to increase, the design and functions of air conditioners are also constantly being optimized and improved. Among these improvements, the treatment and utilization of condensate has become a crucial aspect of air conditioner research and development.

[0003] Currently, some air conditioners are equipped with a crucial component: a condensate tray. The main function of the condensate tray is to collect the condensate produced during air conditioner operation, preventing it from flowing freely to the outside and thus avoiding adverse effects on the outdoor environment, such as damaging building facades, affecting the aesthetics of the ground, or creating safety hazards. Furthermore, some advanced air conditioning systems cleverly utilize the collected condensate, directing it to the outdoor condenser area. Through evaporation of the condensate or heat exchange with the condenser surface, enhanced heat transfer to the condenser is achieved. This design not only helps improve the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner but also reduces energy consumption to some extent, aligning with the trend of energy conservation and environmental protection.

[0004] However, although drip trays and condensate utilization technologies have improved the performance of air conditioners to some extent, there are still some problems that need to be solved in practical applications.

[0005] In high-temperature environments, the amount of condensate produced by air conditioners decreases significantly. Since condensate is a crucial medium for enhancing heat exchange in the condenser, its reduction directly leads to insufficient cooling of the condenser, resulting in a noticeable decline in heat exchange efficiency. This not only affects the cooling or heating efficiency of the air conditioner but may also cause damage to critical components such as the compressor due to overheating, shortening the lifespan of the air conditioner.

[0006] On the other hand, in high humidity environments, the amount of condensate produced by air conditioners increases significantly. If the drip tray is undersized or the drainage system is inadequate, excessive condensate will accumulate on the outdoor side, eventually overflowing and creating the so-called "outdoor splatter" phenomenon. This problem not only pollutes the outdoor environment but may also pose a safety threat to pedestrians or surrounding facilities, seriously affecting the user experience and the social acceptance of air conditioners.

[0007] Therefore, in view of the shortcomings of existing air conditioners in terms of condensate treatment and utilization, developing a new technology or device that can adapt to different environmental conditions and effectively solve the problem of reduced or excessive condensate is of great significance for improving the performance of air conditioners. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a water storage device and an air conditioner for regulating water level in an air conditioner.

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0010] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a water storage device for regulating the water level of an air conditioner, comprising: a support plate and a water storage module, wherein the support plate is disposed at the bottom of a condenser, the support plate is provided with a water-filling cavity, the water storage module is connected to the support plate and communicates with the water-filling cavity, the condenser is connected to the support plate, and the heat exchange structure of the condenser extends at least partially into the water-filling cavity, and the water storage module controls the amount of water in the water-filling cavity to adjust the heat exchange area between the condenser and the water.

[0011] In one specific embodiment, the water storage module includes a water storage tank, with movable plates on both sides inside the water storage tank. The movable plates are driven by a drive assembly, and the water storage tank and the movable plates form a water storage cavity. The drive assembly drives the movable plates to move, thereby controlling the capacity of the water storage cavity so that water flows into or out of the water storage cavity.

[0012] In one specific embodiment, the driving assembly includes a motor and a screw. The motor is connected to the water storage tank, and the screw is driven to the motor. The screw is distributed along the length of the water storage cavity. The movable plate is sleeved on the screw. The operation of the motor drives the screw to rotate, so that the two movable plates move closer to or further away from each other.

[0013] In one specific embodiment, the movable plate is connected to a transmission rod, and a sleeve is provided at the bottom of the transmission rod, the sleeve being fitted onto the screw.

[0014] In one specific embodiment, the upper end of the transmission rod extends into the top of the movable plate and is located in the middle of the movable plate.

[0015] In one specific embodiment, the water storage tank is further provided with a groove below the water storage cavity, and the screw is disposed in the groove.

[0016] In one specific embodiment, the movable plate is a rectangular plate, and each of the four corners of the movable plate is provided with a sliding member, and the water storage tank is provided with a slide rail corresponding to the sliding member.

[0017] In one specific embodiment, the support plate is provided with an adjusting water inlet, the water storage tank is provided with an inlet and outlet corresponding to the adjusting water inlet, and the inlet and outlet are located between the two movable plates.

[0018] In one specific embodiment, the support plate is further provided with a water level sensor for detecting the water level height of the water-filling cavity.

[0019] The water storage device for regulating the water level of an air conditioner, as described in this invention, offers several advantages over existing technologies. Firstly, by setting up a support plate and its water-filling cavity, and extending part of the condenser structure into the water-filling cavity, direct contact heat exchange between the condenser and water is achieved. More importantly, the water storage module can precisely control the amount of water in the water-filling cavity according to actual needs, thereby dynamically adjusting the water level in contact with the condenser. Even in high-temperature environments, if the amount of condensate generated decreases, the water storage module can maintain an appropriate water level in the water-filling cavity, ensuring that the condenser is always effectively cooled. This avoids the problem of poor heat exchange due to insufficient condensate, significantly improving the cooling or heating efficiency of the air conditioner and reducing energy consumption. Secondly, through the intelligent regulation of the water storage module, the water storage volume can be automatically adjusted according to changes in the water level in the water-filling cavity, ensuring that even under high humidity conditions, the water level in the water-filling cavity will not exceed a safe threshold, effectively preventing condensate overflow. This design not only solves the problem of water splashing on the outdoor side but also protects the outdoor environment from pollution, improving the safety and comfort of using the air conditioner.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioner, including a water storage device for regulating the water level of the air conditioner as described above.

[0021] The air conditioner of this invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art: By setting up a water storage device, a support plate and its water-filling cavity, the condenser part of the structure extends into the water-filling cavity, realizing direct contact heat exchange between the condenser and water. More importantly, the water storage module can accurately control the amount of water in the water-filling cavity according to actual needs, thereby dynamically adjusting the water level in contact with the condenser. In high-temperature environments, even if the amount of condensate generated decreases, the water storage module can maintain an appropriate water level in the water-filling cavity, ensuring that the condenser is always effectively cooled, avoiding the problem of poor heat exchange effect due to insufficient condensate, significantly improving the cooling or heating efficiency of the air conditioner and reducing energy consumption. In addition, through the intelligent control of the water storage module, the amount of water stored can be automatically adjusted according to the water level changes in the water-filling cavity, ensuring that even under high humidity conditions, the water level in the water-filling cavity will not exceed the safety threshold, thereby effectively preventing condensate overflow. This design not only solves the problem of water splashing on the outdoor side, but also protects the outdoor environment from pollution, improving the safety and comfort of using the air conditioner.

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water storage device for regulating the water level of an air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a water storage device for regulating the water level in an air conditioner provided by the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the water storage device for regulating the water level in an air conditioner provided by the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water storage module provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 A longitudinal cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water storage module provided by the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water storage module provided by the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the transverse cross-section of the water storage module provided by the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the movable plate and the driving component provided by the present invention.

[0032] Figure label:

[0033] Condenser 10, support plate 20, water filling chamber 21, regulating water inlet 22, water storage module 30, water storage tank 31, slide rail 311, inlet and outlet water inlet 312, movable plate 32, drive assembly 33, motor 331, screw 332, water storage chamber 34, transmission rod 35, sleeve 36, sliding component 37. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0035] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0036] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0037] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0038] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0039] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0040] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. The illustrative expressions of the above terms in this specification should not be construed as necessarily referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0041] See Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the present invention discloses a specific embodiment of a water storage device for regulating the water level of an air conditioner, comprising: a support plate 20 and a water storage module 30. The support plate 20 is disposed at the bottom of a condenser 10 and has a water-filling cavity 21. The water storage module 30 is connected to the support plate 20 and communicates with the water-filling cavity 21. The condenser 10 is connected to the support plate 20, and the heat exchange structure of the condenser 10 extends at least partially into the water-filling cavity 21. The water storage module 30 controls the amount of water in the water-filling cavity 21 to adjust the heat exchange area between the condenser 10 and the water.

[0042] Specifically, the condenser 10 is fixed to the support plate 20 using a suitable connection method (such as bolt connection, welding, etc.). It is ensured that certain structures of the condenser 10 (such as heat sinks, water pipes, etc.) can accurately extend into the water-filling chamber 21 and have sufficient contact area with the water to guarantee good heat exchange. The water storage module 30 can be a system composed of a water pump, a water tank, a water level sensor, etc. The water pump is connected to the inlet of the support plate 20 via a pipe. Appropriate valves and filters are installed between the water pump's outlet and inlet to ensure water supply and quality. The water tank, serving as a water storage and regulation container, is connected to the water pump's inlet via a pipe. A water level sensor is installed on the water tank to monitor the water level in real time. The water level sensor is also installed in the water-filling chamber 21 of the support plate 20 to detect the actual water level in the chamber and transmit the water level signal to the control system.

[0043] When the control system determines that the water level in the water-filling chamber 21 is lower than the minimum water level, it sends a start signal to the water pump. The water pump then starts working, transporting water from the water tank through pipes to the water-filling chamber 21 of the support plate 20 until the water level reaches the preset maximum water level, at which point the water pump stops working. When the water level in the water-filling chamber 21 is higher than the maximum water level, the control system opens the drain valve to discharge excess water into the water tank until the water level drops to the normal range. Simultaneously, the control system can dynamically adjust the target water level in the water-filling chamber 21 based on the air conditioner's operating status (such as cooling, heating, dehumidification, etc.) and ambient temperature and humidity to optimize the heat exchange effect of the condenser 10.

[0044] In other words, by setting up the support plate 20 and its water-filling chamber 21, and extending part of the condenser 10 structure into the water-filling chamber 21, direct contact heat exchange between the condenser 10 and water is achieved. More importantly, the water storage module 30 can precisely control the amount of water in the water-filling chamber 21 according to actual needs, thereby dynamically adjusting the water level in contact with the condenser 10. In high-temperature environments, even if the amount of condensate generated decreases, the water storage module 30 can maintain an appropriate water level in the water-filling chamber 21, ensuring that the condenser 10 is always effectively cooled. This avoids the problem of poor heat exchange effect due to insufficient condensate, significantly improving the cooling or heating efficiency of the air conditioner and reducing energy consumption. In addition, through the intelligent control of the water storage module 30, the water storage volume can be automatically adjusted according to the water level changes in the water-filling chamber 21, ensuring that even under high humidity conditions, the water level in the water-filling chamber 21 will not exceed the safety threshold, thereby effectively preventing condensate overflow. This design not only solves the problem of water splashing on the outdoor side, but also protects the outdoor environment from pollution, improving the safety and comfort of using the air conditioner. Furthermore, as one of the core components of the air conditioning system, the condenser 10's operating status directly affects the performance and lifespan of the entire system. The water storage device, by precisely controlling the water level in contact with the condenser 10, ensures that the condenser 10 maintains stable operation under various environmental conditions. In high-temperature environments, it avoids the risk of damage to the condenser 10 due to overheating; in high-humidity environments, it prevents electrical faults or mechanical wear caused by condensate buildup. These measures collectively improve the stability and reliability of the air conditioning system and extend its service life. In addition, existing air conditioning technology has poor adaptability to different environmental conditions, making it difficult to simultaneously meet the needs of various complex environments such as high temperature and low humidity, or high temperature and high humidity. The water storage device of this invention, through the flexible adjustment capability of the water storage module 30, can automatically adjust the water level in the water chamber 21 according to actual environmental conditions, thereby adapting to the heat exchange requirements under different environmental conditions. This design enables the air conditioning system to maintain efficient operation in a wider range of environments, improving the air conditioner's adaptability and market competitiveness. In addition, the water storage device of the present invention improves the energy efficiency ratio of the air conditioning system and reduces energy consumption by optimizing the heat exchange process of the condenser 10; at the same time, it reduces environmental pollution and damage by effectively preventing condensate overflow and outdoor water splashing. These measures together embody the concept of energy conservation and environmental protection and meet the current social requirements for sustainable development.

[0045] See Figures 2 to 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the water storage module 30 includes a water storage tank 31. Movable plates 32 are provided on both sides of the interior of the water storage tank 31. The movable plates 32 are connected to a drive assembly 33. The water storage tank 31 and the movable plates 32 form a water storage cavity 34. The drive assembly 33 drives the movable plates 32 to move, thereby controlling the capacity of the water storage cavity 34, so that water flows into or out of the water filling cavity 21.

[0046] Specifically, movable plates 32 are installed on both sides inside the water storage tank 31. The movable plates 32 are made of the same or compatible materials as the water storage tank 31 to ensure sealing and structural strength. A sealing strip is installed between the movable plates 32 and the inner wall of the water storage tank 31 to prevent water leakage from the gap between them. The movable plates 32 are connected to the inner wall of the water storage tank 31 via slide rails 311 or grooves to ensure smooth and stable movement. The surfaces of the slide rails 311 or grooves are smoothed to reduce friction during movement. Additionally, the drive assembly 33 can be a drive device such as an electric actuator, hydraulic cylinder, or pneumatic cylinder. Taking an electric actuator as an example, one end of the electric actuator is fixed to the external or internal fixed structure of the water storage tank 31 by bolts or welding, and the other end is connected to the movable plates 32 via connectors. The connectors should have sufficient strength and rigidity to ensure reliable transmission of driving force.

[0047] When the air conditioning system is running, a water level sensor installed in the water filling chamber 21 monitors the water level in the chamber in real time and transmits the water level signal to the control system. The control system analyzes and judges the water level based on the preset water level range and the actual water level signal. If the water level in the water filling chamber 21 is lower than the minimum water level, the control system sends a command to the electric push rod, causing it to extend and move the movable plate 32 towards the center of the water storage tank 31, reducing the volume of the water storage chamber 34. At this time, water in the water storage chamber 34 flows into the water filling chamber 21 until the water level reaches the preset maximum water level, at which point the electric push rod stops moving. If the water level in the water filling chamber 21 is higher than the maximum water level, the control system controls the electric push rod to retract, pushing the movable plate 32 to move to both sides of the water storage tank 31, increasing the volume of the water storage chamber 34, allowing excess water to flow into the water storage chamber 34 until the water level drops to the normal range.

[0048] In other words, by precisely controlling the capacity of the water storage chamber 34, the amount of water entering the water filling chamber 21 can be accurately adjusted, thereby achieving precise control over the water level in contact with the condenser 10. Under different operating conditions, the condenser 10 can always maintain optimal heat dissipation. For example, in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, timely increases in the water volume within the water filling chamber 21 allow the condenser 10 to dissipate heat fully, improving the air conditioner's cooling efficiency, reducing the compressor's workload, and extending the compressor's lifespan. Furthermore, different air conditioner operating modes (such as cooling, heating, and dehumidification) have different heat dissipation requirements for the condenser 10. The capacity of the water storage chamber 34 can be automatically adjusted according to different operating modes to provide the condenser 10 with an appropriate amount of water. In heating mode, the water supply is reduced to prevent frost or ice formation on the surface of the condenser 10; in dehumidification mode, precise control of the water level improves the dehumidification effect. In addition, traditional air conditioners produce a large amount of condensate in high-humidity environments, which can easily cause the drip tray to overflow. This device, by precisely controlling the capacity of the water storage chamber 34, can promptly drain excess condensate into the water storage chamber 34, preventing condensate overflow. For example, during the rainy season, even if the air conditioner runs for a long time, there will be no condensate dripping from the indoor unit, keeping the indoor floor dry and clean.

[0049] See Figure 2 , Figures 5 to 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the drive assembly 33 includes a motor 331 and a screw 332. The motor 331 is connected to the water storage tank 31, and the screw 332 is drivenly connected to the motor 331. The screw 332 is distributed along the length direction of the water storage cavity 34. The movable plate 32 is sleeved on the screw 332. The operation of the motor 331 drives the screw 332 to rotate, so that the two movable plates 32 move closer to or further away from each other.

[0050] Specifically, the motor 331 is fixed to the external or internal fixed structure of the water storage tank 31 using bolts, welding, or clips. The fixing position should ensure that the axis of the motor 331 is coaxial with the axis of the screw 332 to reduce vibration and noise during transmission. For example, a motor 331 mounting base can be provided at one end of the water storage tank 31, and the motor 331 can be mounted on the mounting base and secured with bolts. Additionally, one end of the screw 332 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 331 via a coupling, ensuring a secure connection and preventing loosening or slippage. The coupling should have good elasticity and buffering performance to reduce vibration transmission between the motor 331 and the screw 332. Then, the other end of the screw 332 is installed on a bearing seat at the other end of the water storage tank 31, allowing the screw 332 to rotate smoothly and steadily. During installation, care should be taken to ensure that the axis of the screw 332 is parallel to the length direction of the water storage tank 31 to ensure that the movable plate 32 can move in a straight line.

[0051] In other words, by precisely controlling the rotation of the screw 332 through the motor 331, the position of the movable plate 32 can be accurately adjusted, thereby achieving precise control over the capacity of the water storage chamber 34. This allows the amount of water entering the water filling chamber 21 to be precisely adjusted according to actual needs, ensuring that the condenser 10 always maintains optimal heat dissipation. For example, in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, timely increases in the amount of water in the water filling chamber 21 allow the condenser 10 to dissipate heat fully, improving the cooling efficiency of the air conditioner, reducing the workload of the compressor, and extending the compressor's service life.

[0052] See Figure 2 , Figures 5 to 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the movable plate 32 is connected to a transmission rod 35, and the bottom of the transmission rod 35 is provided with a sleeve 36, which is sleeved on the screw 332.

[0053] Specifically, the sleeve 36 is directly fitted onto the screw 332 and tightly connected to the transmission rod 35. Compared to other transmission methods, such as chain or belt drives, this reduces transmission backlash, allowing the rotation of the motor 331 to be transmitted more directly and accurately to the movable plate 32, improving transmission precision and stability. For example, during the operation of an air conditioning system, the movable plate 32 can move promptly and accurately based on the signal from the water level sensor, precisely adjusting the capacity of the water storage chamber 34. Furthermore, the tight fit between the sleeve 36 and the screw 332 reduces friction and energy loss during transmission. Simultaneously, the rigid connection of the transmission rod 35 avoids energy loss caused by the elastic deformation of the chain or belt, which not only improves transmission efficiency and reduces the energy consumption of the motor 331 but also extends the service life of the entire drive assembly 33.

[0054] See Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the upper end of the transmission rod 35 extends into the top of the movable plate 32 and is located in the middle of the movable plate 32.

[0055] Specifically, the upper end of the transmission rod 35 extends into the middle of the top of the movable plate 32. Compared to other connection methods, such as eccentric connections, this significantly reduces the swaying of the movable plate 32 during movement. Because the connection is in the middle, the force on the movable plate 32 is more evenly distributed in all directions, avoiding deflection and swaying caused by uneven force, thus improving the stability of the entire drive system. Furthermore, since the connection is in the middle of the movable plate 32 and a suitable connection method (such as threaded connection, keyed connection, etc.) is used, it effectively prevents the transmission rod 35 from detaching from the movable plate 32 during long-term operation. Additionally, the transmission rod 35's location in the middle of the movable plate 32 allows the driving force generated by the drive assembly 33 to be evenly transmitted to all parts of the movable plate 32. For example, when the motor 331 drives the screw 332 to move the transmission rod 35, the driving force on the movable plate 32 is evenly distributed in the horizontal direction, preventing deformation or damage to the movable plate 32 due to uneven force. From a mechanical perspective, the intermediate connection allows for a more reasonable stress distribution on the movable plate 32 during movement, reducing stress concentration at its edges, extending its service life, and lowering the risk of breakage due to excessive stress. Furthermore, the stable connection and uniform force distribution between the transmission rod 35 and the movable plate 32 ensures high linear motion accuracy during movement. During operation of the air conditioning system, the movable plate 32 can accurately move along a preset trajectory, precisely adjusting the capacity of the water storage chamber 34 to meet the water level regulation requirements of the air conditioning system.

[0056] See Figures 5 to 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the water storage tank 31 is further provided with a groove below the water storage cavity 34, and the screw 332 is disposed in the groove.

[0057] Specifically, the screw 332 is positioned within a groove below the water storage chamber 34, fully utilizing the space beneath the water tank 31. This makes the entire water storage device more compact, achieving the driving and movement functions of the movable plate 32 within a limited space, thus improving space utilization. Furthermore, the groove provides dedicated installation space for the screw 332, and its stability can be enhanced by incorporating a support structure. Compared to directly mounting the screw 332 on the surface of the water tank 31 or other unsuitable locations, this design reduces vibration and deformation of the screw 332 during rotation, improving its service life and transmission accuracy. Additionally, because the screw 332 is positioned within the groove, it does not directly interfere with the water flow within the water storage chamber 34, allowing for smoother water flow. This reduces eddies and resistance caused by components such as the screw 332, improving the uniformity and stability of the water flow.

[0058] See Figures 7 to 8As shown, in one embodiment, the movable plate 32 is a rectangular plate, and each of the four corners of the movable plate 32 is provided with a sliding member 37, and the water storage tank 31 is provided with a slide rail 311 corresponding to the sliding member 37.

[0059] Specifically, the sliding members 37 at the four corners of the movable plate 32 cooperate with the slide rails 311 of the water storage tank 31, effectively limiting the swaying of the movable plate 32 during movement. Compared to a design without sliding members 37 and slide rails 311, the movable plate 32 can move stably along the slide rails 311 when subjected to driving force, improving the straightness and smoothness of the movement of the movable plate 32. In addition, the precise cooperation between the sliding members 37 and the slide rails 311 reduces the possibility of jamming during the movement of the movable plate 32. The sliding members 37 can be sliders or pulleys.

[0060] See Figures 2 to 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the support plate 20 is provided with an adjusting water inlet 22, and the water storage tank 31 is provided with an inlet and outlet water inlet 312 corresponding to the adjusting water inlet 22, and the inlet and outlet water inlet 312 is located between the two movable plates 32.

[0061] Specifically, the proper connection between the regulating inlet 22 and the inlet / outlet 312 reduces the resistance of water flow when entering and exiting the water storage chamber 34, allowing water to flow smoothly through the regulating inlet 22 and the inlet / outlet 312, thus reducing energy consumption and improving the overall performance of the air conditioning system. Furthermore, the inlet / outlet 312 is located between the two movable plates 32, ensuring that water can only enter or flow out of the water storage chamber 34, preventing water from flowing to other areas of the water storage tank 31.

[0062] In one embodiment, the support plate 20 is further provided with a water level sensor for detecting the water level height of the water-filling cavity 21.

[0063] Specifically, based on the accuracy requirements of the water level detection in the water chamber 21 and the operating environment, a suitable type of water level sensor is selected, such as a float-type water level sensor, an ultrasonic water level sensor, or a pressure-type water level sensor. In high-temperature environments, the condenser 10 of the air conditioner requires better heat dissipation performance. When the water level sensor detects a low water level in the water chamber 21, the control system can control the moving plate to move towards the center of the water storage tank 31 to increase the water volume in the water chamber 21. This absorbs heat from the condenser 10, improves its heat exchange performance, thereby reducing the condensing temperature, increasing the air conditioner's cooling efficiency, and achieving energy savings. Furthermore, by monitoring the water level in real time through the water level sensor, the control system can automatically adjust the water volume in the water chamber 21 according to the actual ambient temperature and operating status, achieving intelligent energy efficiency regulation. This avoids the tediousness and errors of manual intervention, improving the system's stability and reliability. In high-humidity environments, the air conditioner produces a large amount of condensate. If outdoor condensate drainage is not permitted, the water level sensor can detect when the water level in the water chamber 21 is too high. At this point, the control system moves the movable plate away from the center of the water storage tank 31, expanding the volume of the water storage chamber 34 to store excess condensate and prevent it from being discharged and affecting the environment. This design effectively prevents indoor or outdoor water accumulation caused by poor condensate drainage, protecting the safety of the building and its surrounding environment.

[0064] The present invention also discloses an air conditioner, including a water storage device for regulating the water level of the air conditioner as described above.

[0065] Specifically, by setting up a water storage device, a support plate 20, and a water-filling cavity 21, a portion of the condenser 10 extends into the water-filling cavity 21, achieving direct contact heat exchange between the condenser 10 and water. More importantly, the water storage module 30 can precisely control the amount of water in the water-filling cavity 21 according to actual needs, thereby dynamically adjusting the water level in contact with the condenser 10. In high-temperature environments, even if the amount of condensate generated decreases, the water storage module 30 can maintain an appropriate water level in the water-filling cavity 21, ensuring that the condenser 10 is always effectively cooled, avoiding the problem of poor heat exchange effect due to insufficient condensate, significantly improving the cooling or heating efficiency of the air conditioner, and reducing energy consumption. In addition, through the intelligent control of the water storage module 30, the amount of water stored can be automatically adjusted according to the changes in the water level in the water-filling cavity 21, ensuring that even under high humidity conditions, the water level in the water-filling cavity 21 will not exceed the safety threshold, thereby effectively preventing condensate overflow. This design not only solves the problem of water splashing on the outdoor side, but also protects the outdoor environment from pollution, improving the safety and comfort of using the air conditioner.

[0066] The above embodiments are preferred implementations of the present invention. In addition, the present invention can be implemented in other ways. Any obvious substitutions without departing from the concept of the present technical solution are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The system includes a support plate and a water storage module. The support plate is located at the bottom of the condenser and has a water-filling cavity. The water storage module is connected to the support plate and communicates with the water-filling cavity. The condenser is connected to the support plate, and at least part of the heat exchange structure of the condenser extends into the water-filling cavity. The water storage module controls the water volume in the water-filling cavity to adjust the heat exchange area between the condenser and the water. The water storage module includes a water tank with movable plates on both sides inside the tank. The movable plates are driven by a drive assembly. The water tank and the movable plates form a water storage cavity. The drive assembly moves the movable plates to control the capacity of the water storage cavity, allowing water to flow into or out of the cavity. The support plate has an adjusting inlet, and the water tank has inlet and outlet corresponding to the adjusting inlet, located between the two movable plates.

2. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a motor and a screw. The motor is connected to the water storage tank, and the screw is driven to the motor. The screw is distributed along the length of the water storage cavity. The movable plate is sleeved on the screw. The operation of the motor drives the screw to rotate, so that the two movable plates move closer to or further away from each other.

3. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The movable plate is connected to a transmission rod, and a sleeve is provided at the bottom of the transmission rod, which is fitted onto the screw.

4. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The upper end of the transmission rod extends into the top of the movable plate and is located in the middle of the movable plate.

5. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water storage tank is located below the water storage cavity and has a groove, and the screw is disposed in the groove.

6. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable plate is a rectangular plate, and each of the four corners of the movable plate is provided with a sliding member. The water storage tank is provided with a slide rail corresponding to the sliding member.

7. The water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support plate is also equipped with a water level sensor to detect the water level in the water-filling cavity.

8. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes a water storage device for regulating water level in an air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1-7.

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