Air outlet device, air conditioner and control method of air conditioner

Abstract

The invention relates to an air outlet device, an air conditioner and a control method of the air conditioner. The air outlet device comprises a fixed air duct and an air outlet assembly, the air outlet assembly communicates with the fixed air duct, the air outlet assembly can be driven by the driving mechanism to do lifting motion relative to the fixed air duct, and the air outlet assembly is provided with an upper air outlet used for upward air outlet. The air outlet assembly and the front side of the fixed air duct jointly define a front air outlet used for discharging air forwards at the rising position. Therefore, diversified use scenes of a user can be met, meanwhile, the front air outlet can be formed through dynamic cooperation of lifting of the air outlet assembly and the fixed air duct, the design difficulty of the air outlet device is reduced, and the structural design of the air conditioner is simplified advantageously.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of air conditioning equipment, and in particular to an air outlet device, an air conditioner, and a control method for the air conditioner. Background Art

[0002] In some related technologies, air conditioners have a relatively single air outlet direction, which cannot flexibly meet user needs in different scenarios. For example, when a user needs to quickly reduce the perceived temperature, a device with only top air outlet function cannot achieve the desired effect. Some devices with multi-directional air outlet function have complex structural designs and cumbersome switching between different air outlet channels. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the problems existing in the related art, the present disclosure provides an air outlet device, an air conditioner and a control method for the air conditioner.

[0004] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an air outlet device, comprising: Fixed air duct; an air outlet assembly, connected to the fixed air duct and capable of being driven by a driving mechanism to perform lifting motion relative to the fixed air duct, the air outlet assembly being provided with an upper air outlet for discharging air upward; Wherein, the air outlet assembly, in the raised position, together with the front side of the fixed air duct defines a front air outlet for discharging air forward.

[0005] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure may include the following beneficial effects: the air outlet device provided by the present disclosure includes a fixed air duct and an air outlet assembly, the air outlet assembly is provided with an upper air outlet, the air outlet assembly can be lifted and lowered relative to the fixed air duct, and in the raised position, can define a front air outlet for forward air outlet together with the front side of the fixed air duct, thereby achieving both upward and forward air outlets. When the air outlet assembly is lowered, upward air outlet is achieved through the upper air outlet, meeting conventional upward air supply requirements; when the air outlet assembly is raised, it cooperates with the front side of the fixed air duct to form a front air outlet, at which time the upper air outlet can work simultaneously with the front air outlet to achieve composite upward and forward air outlets, effectively expanding the air outlet coverage range and meeting the user's diverse usage scenarios. At the same time, the air outlet device provided by the present disclosure can form a front air outlet by dynamically cooperating with the fixed air duct through the lifting and lowering of the air outlet assembly, thereby reducing the difficulty of designing the air outlet device and eliminating the need for additional complex mechanisms, which is conducive to simplifying the structural design of the air conditioner.

[0006] In some possible embodiments, the air outlet assembly includes a partitioning structure that separates the interior of the fixed air duct into an upward air outlet channel and a forward air outlet channel. The upward air outlet channel communicates with the upper air outlet, and the forward air outlet channel communicates with the front air outlet. By separating the interior of the fixed air duct into independent upward and forward air outlet channels through the partitioning structure, airflow paths can be separated, preventing airflow from interfering with each other, thereby improving air outlet efficiency and stability.

[0007] In some possible implementations, the first end of the partition structure extends toward the inner cavity of the fixed air duct, and the second end of the partition structure extends toward the front side of the fixed air duct, wherein: In the raised position, the second end of the partition structure is spaced apart from the fixed air duct to form the front air outlet; In the lowered position, the second end of the partition structure contacts the fixed air duct to close the front air outlet.

[0008] When the air outlet assembly is raised, the second end of the partition structure is spaced apart from the fixed air duct to form a front air outlet. There is no need to add additional independent opening and closing structures such as independent movable door panels. Instead, the partition structure itself is used as a component of the front air outlet, simplifying the overall structure; when the air outlet assembly is lowered, the second end of the partition structure contacts the fixed air duct to close the front air outlet. The partition structure uses its own shape to form a closed contact with the fixed air duct, and the front air outlet can be closed without using complex sealing components, avoiding the problem of sealing failure caused by aging of components in traditional sealing methods, thereby improving the service life of the product.

[0009] In some possible embodiments, the fixed air duct includes a base body and a cover plate disposed on top of the base body. The cover plate is provided with an opening that intersects the base body. When in the raised position, the air outlet assembly and the cover plate together define the front air outlet. Separating the fixed air duct into two independent components, the base body and the cover plate, allows for separate molding, allowing for flexible structural adjustments based on process requirements. This eliminates the need for significant modifications to the base body, reducing mold design complexity and manufacturing costs.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the fixed air duct includes a base body, and the outlet assembly, when in the raised position, jointly defines the front air outlet with the base body. This method of utilizing the base body and the outlet assembly to form the front air outlet reduces the number of components to be installed. Compared to fixed air ducts composed of multiple components, this facilitates simplified installation and improves efficiency.

[0011] In some possible embodiments, the air outlet assembly includes a movable air outlet frame and a movable air duct cover that interlock together, each of which is provided with an opening that intersects with the other. The movable air duct cover is provided with a guide protruding from the movable air outlet frame on the front side, and the guide forms the partition structure. The movable air outlet frame and the movable air duct cover can be formed in separate molds, and the movable air outlet frame can be designed with a relatively regular shape, reducing mold design difficulty and manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the guide on the front side of the movable air duct cover serves as the partition structure, and its shape and position can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs.

[0012] In some possible embodiments, the air outlet assembly includes a movable frame, wherein: an inner cavity of the movable frame forms the upward air outlet channel; and a front sidewall of the movable frame forms the partition structure. The front sidewall of the movable frame serves as the partition structure. This integrated construction reduces the number of parts, facilitating improved production efficiency. Furthermore, the integrated structural design enhances the overall rigidity of the air outlet assembly.

[0013] In some possible implementations, a damper mechanism is further provided at the upper air outlet, configured to open or close the upper air outlet. By providing an openable or closable damper mechanism at the upper air outlet, users can flexibly select a single forward airflow mode, a single upward airflow mode, or a combination of the two, depending on the usage scenario, thereby increasing the degree of adjustment freedom and adaptability of the air conditioner's airflow direction.

[0014] In some possible embodiments, the damper mechanism includes a plurality of spaced-apart blades and a blade drive motor for driving the blades to swing. The blade drive motor is located at the rear of the air outlet device and drives the blades to swing back and forth and / or left and right. This allows the blades to swing at multiple angles to adjust the direction of the upward airflow. Fore and aft swinging changes the pitch angle of the airflow, while left and right swinging widens the horizontal airflow range, avoiding regional temperature differences caused by fixed-direction airflow and meeting airflow requirements in different scenarios.

[0015] In some possible embodiments, the air outlet device further includes a top cover plate interlocked with the air outlet assembly, the air outlet assembly and the top cover plate each having an opening intersecting therewith, and the damper mechanism is disposed in the opening of the top cover plate. The top cover plate is disposed independently of the air outlet assembly, allowing maintenance of the damper mechanism without disassembling the entire air outlet assembly.

[0016] In some possible embodiments, the drive mechanism is disposed on the outer wall of the fixed air duct, the drive mechanism being fixedly mounted on the fixed air duct, and the drive portion of the drive mechanism being connected to the air outlet assembly. By disposing the drive mechanism on the outer wall of the fixed air duct, it is possible to avoid occupying space within the fixed air duct, thereby ensuring smooth airflow within the duct, and to facilitate installation and maintenance.

[0017] In some possible embodiments, the drive mechanism includes a mounting bracket, a movable bracket, and a drive motor. The mounting bracket is fixedly mounted to the fixed air duct, the movable bracket can be driven by the drive motor to move up and down relative to the mounting bracket, and the movable bracket is connected to the air outlet assembly. The mounting bracket is disposed in the fixed air duct to provide stable support for the entire drive mechanism, preventing the movable bracket from shaking or other instability during the raising and lowering process, thereby ensuring the stability of the air outlet assembly during the raising and lowering process.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the mounting bracket is provided with a rack, and the output end of the drive motor is provided with a gear for meshing with the rack. Using a gear and rack meshing transmission method can provide higher transmission efficiency and higher control accuracy.

[0019] In some possible embodiments, the mounting bracket is provided with a first sliding guide structure, and the movable bracket is provided with a second sliding guide structure. The first sliding guide structure and the second sliding guide structure slide together to enable the movable bracket to slide along a predetermined trajectory. Providing sliding guide structures on both the mounting bracket and the movable bracket improves the stability of the air outlet assembly's lifting and lowering motion, preventing the air outlet assembly from drifting or jamming during movement.

[0020] In some possible implementations, a grille structure is provided at the air outlet of the fixed air duct to prevent larger particles of foreign matter from entering the air duct. In addition, the grille structure can also play a preliminary role in guiding and homogenizing the airflow, making the outflowing air softer and more stable, thereby optimizing the air outlet experience.

[0021] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an air conditioner comprising any one of the above-mentioned air outlet devices.

[0022] According to a third aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an air conditioner is provided, for controlling any of the above-mentioned air conditioners, wherein a damper mechanism is provided at the upper air outlet, and the damper mechanism can open or close the upper air outlet, wherein the method for controlling the air conditioner comprises: Get the indoor temperature value; According to the obtained indoor temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open or close the upper air outlet.

[0023] In some possible implementations, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet according to the acquired indoor temperature value includes: In cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is greater than a preset cooling temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise to open the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

[0024] In some possible implementations, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet according to the acquired indoor temperature value includes: In cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to a preset cooling temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to descend to close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

[0025] In some possible implementations, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet according to the acquired indoor temperature value includes: In the heating mode, when the indoor temperature is lower than the preset heating temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise to open the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

[0026] In some possible implementations, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet according to the acquired indoor temperature value includes: In the heating mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to the preset heating temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to descend to close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

[0027] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 1is a cross-sectional view of an air outlet device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the front air outlet is open.

[0030] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an air outlet device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the front air outlet is closed.

[0031] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the center air outlet device.

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the structural decomposition of the center air outlet device.

[0033] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another air outlet device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the front air outlet is open.

[0034] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of another air outlet device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the front air outlet is closed.

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the center air outlet device.

[0036] Description of Reference Numerals 1-fixed air duct, 11-front air outlet, 12-upper air outlet, 13-upward air outlet channel, 14-forward air outlet channel, 15-seat body, 151-grille structure, 16-cover plate, 2-air outlet assembly, 21-partition structure, 22-movable air outlet frame, 23-movable air duct cover, 231-air guide part, 24-top cover plate, 241-damper mechanism, 25-movable frame, 3-driving mechanism, 31-mounting bracket, 32-movable bracket, 33-driving motor, 34-rack, 35-gear, 361-second sliding guide structure, 362-first sliding guide structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail herein, with examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, when referring to the drawings, identical numerals in different figures represent identical or similar elements, unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments are not intended to represent all possible embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatus and methods consistent with certain aspects of the present disclosure, as detailed in the appended claims.

[0038] It should be noted that all actions of acquiring signals, information or data in the present disclosure are carried out in compliance with the corresponding data protection laws and policies of the country where they are located and with the authorization given by the owner of the corresponding device.

[0039] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air outlet device, which is optionally applicable to an air conditioner, including but not limited to a cabinet air conditioner, a wall-mounted air conditioner, a fresh air fan and an air purification device, etc. The fresh air fan includes an outdoor circulation type, an indoor circulation type or an indoor and outdoor dual circulation type fresh air fan.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the air outlet device provided by the present disclosure includes a fixed air duct 1 and an air outlet assembly 2. The air outlet assembly 2 is connected to the fixed air duct 1. The air outlet assembly 2 can be driven by the driving mechanism 3 to perform lifting movement relative to the fixed air duct 1, and the air outlet assembly 2 is provided with an upper air outlet 12 for upward air outlet. Among them, the air outlet assembly 2 and the front side of the fixed air duct 1 together define a front air outlet 11 for forward air outlet in the raised position. It should be noted that the front, back, left, right, up and down here are defined based on the normal use state of the air conditioner, that is, in the use and installation state, the side facing the user is the front side. Inside and outside are relative to the internal and external spaces of the air conditioner.

[0041] When the air outlet component 2 is lowered, the upward air outlet of the air outlet device can be achieved through the upper air outlet 12 to meet the conventional upward air supply needs; when the air outlet component 2 is raised, the air outlet component 2 cooperates with the front side of the fixed air duct 1 to form the front air outlet 11. At this time, the upper air outlet 12 can work simultaneously with the front air outlet 11 to achieve upward and forward composite air outlet, effectively expanding the air outlet coverage range to meet the user's diverse usage scenarios, and the forward air outlet is directed to the upper body area of the human body, which can meet the temperature regulation needs of the upper body area of the human body more quickly than the upward air outlet, thereby improving the physical comfort during cooling / heating.

[0042] At the same time, the air outlet device provided by the present invention can form a front air outlet 11 by dynamically cooperating with the fixed air duct 1 through the lifting and lowering of the air outlet component 2, without the need to set up a complex opening and closing mechanism, or by making a complex design of the air outlet component 2 to achieve upward and forward air outlet, thereby reducing the difficulty of designing the air outlet device, and without the need to add additional complex mechanisms, which is conducive to simplifying the structural design of the air conditioner.

[0043] In some possible implementations, such as Figure 1 or Figure 5As shown, the air outlet assembly 2 may include a partition structure 21, which divides the inner cavity of the fixed air duct 1 into an upward air outlet channel 13 and a forward air outlet channel 14. The upward air outlet channel 13 is connected to the upper air outlet 12, and the forward air outlet channel 14 is connected to the front air outlet 11. By separating the inner cavity of the fixed air duct 1 into the independent upward air outlet channel 13 and forward air outlet channel 14 through the partition structure 21, the air flow path separation can be achieved. The upward air outlet channel 13 corresponds to the upper air outlet 12, and the forward air outlet channel 14 corresponds to the front air outlet 11. The air outlets in these two different directions do not interfere with each other, thereby improving the air outlet efficiency and air outlet stability.

[0044] In some other possible embodiments, the first end of the partition structure 21 extends toward the inner cavity of the fixed air duct 1, and the second end of the partition structure 21 extends toward the front side of the fixed air duct 1, wherein: Figure 1 As shown, in the raised position, the second end of the partition structure 21 is spaced apart from the fixed air duct 1 to form a front air outlet 11; Figure 2 As shown, in the lowered position, the second end of the partition structure 21 contacts the fixed air duct 1 to close the front air outlet 11 .

[0045] When the air outlet component 2 is raised, the second end of the partition structure 21 is spaced apart from the fixed air duct 1 to form the front air outlet 11. There is no need to add an independent movable door panel or other opening and closing structure. Instead, the partition structure 21 itself is used as a component of the front air outlet 11, which simplifies the overall structure; when the air outlet component 2 is lowered, the second end of the partition structure 21 contacts the fixed air duct 1 to close the front air outlet 11. The partition structure 21 itself is used to form a closed contact with the fixed air duct 1, and the front air outlet 11 can be closed without using a complex sealing component, thereby avoiding the problem of sealing failure caused by aging of components in traditional sealing methods and improving the service life of the product.

[0046] There are many ways to achieve fixed air duct 1. Also refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 In some possible embodiments, the fixed air duct 1 includes a base body 15 and a cover plate 16 disposed on top of the base body 15. The cover plate 16 has an opening extending through the base body 15. When the air outlet assembly 2 is raised, it and the cover plate 16 together define a front air outlet 11. By separating the fixed air duct 1 into two independent components, the base body 15 and the cover plate 16, the cover plate 16 can be formed using a separate mold. The structure can be flexibly adjusted according to process requirements, eliminating the need for significant modifications to the base body 15 and reducing mold design difficulty and manufacturing costs.

[0047] Also refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7In other possible embodiments, the fixed air duct 1 includes a base body 15, and the air outlet assembly 2, when in the raised position, together with the base body 15, defines a front air outlet 11. In other words, in this embodiment, the fixed air duct 1 utilizes an integrated structure. This method of utilizing the base body 15 and the air outlet assembly 2 to form the front air outlet 11 reduces the number of components to be installed. Compared to a fixed air duct 1 composed of multiple components, this facilitates simplified installation and improves efficiency.

[0048] The air outlet assembly 2 and the partition structure 21 can be realized in a variety of ways. Figure 4 As shown, in some possible embodiments, the air outlet assembly 2 includes a movable air outlet frame 22 and a movable air duct cover plate 23 that are interlocked together, and the movable air outlet frame 22 and the movable air duct cover plate 23 are respectively provided with openings that intersect with each other, wherein the front side of the movable air duct cover plate 23 is provided with a guide portion 231 protruding from the movable air outlet frame 22, and the guide portion 231 is formed into a partition structure 21. The movable air outlet frame 22 and the movable air duct cover plate 23 can be respectively formed in independent molds, and the movable air outlet frame 22 can be designed to have a relatively regular shape, reducing the difficulty of mold design and manufacturing costs; at the same time, the guide portion 231 on the front side of the movable air duct cover plate 23 serves as the partition structure 21, and its shape and position can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs. By optimizing the processing of the movable air duct cover plate 23 alone, the forward air outlet diversion effect can be improved without changing the mold of the entire air outlet assembly 2.

[0049] In other embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, the air outlet assembly 2 includes a movable frame 25, wherein: the inner cavity of the movable frame 25 forms the upward air outlet channel 13; and the front side wall of the movable frame 25 forms the partition structure 21. The inner cavity of the movable frame 25 forms the upward air outlet channel 13, and the front side wall of the movable frame 25 serves as the partition structure 21. This integrated construction reduces the number of parts, which is conducive to improving production efficiency. The integrated structural design also enhances the overall rigidity of the air outlet assembly 2. During the lifting movement, the movable frame 25 has higher stability, making the air outlet effect more stable and reliable.

[0050] In order to realize multiple air outlet modes, in some possible implementations, such as Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, a damper mechanism 241 is further provided at the upper air outlet 12, and the damper mechanism 241 is used to open or close the upper air outlet 12. By providing an openable or closable damper mechanism 241 at the upper air outlet 12, the user can flexibly select a single forward air supply mode, a single upward air supply mode, or a combination of the two according to the usage scenario, thereby improving the degree of adjustment freedom of the air outlet direction and the adaptability of the air conditioner to different scenarios.

[0051] The damper mechanism 241 can be implemented in a variety of possible ways. In some embodiments, the damper mechanism 241 includes a plurality of spaced-apart blades and a blade drive motor, which is arranged on the rear side of the air outlet device to drive the blades to swing back and forth and / or left and right. The damper mechanism 241 is configured to include a plurality of spaced-apart blades and a blade drive motor that drives the blades to swing back and forth and left and right. The upward airflow direction can be adjusted by swinging the blades at multiple angles, wherein the front and back swing changes the pitch angle of the airflow, and the left and right swing widens the horizontal air supply range, avoiding regional temperature differences caused by fixed-direction air supply, and meeting airflow requirements in different scenarios.

[0052] In some possible embodiments, the air outlet device may further include a top cover plate 24 that is interlocked with the air outlet assembly 2. The air outlet assembly 2 and the top cover plate 24 are each provided with an opening that intersects with each other, and the damper mechanism 241 is provided at the opening of the top cover plate 24. This arrangement of the top cover plate 24 being independent of the air outlet assembly 2 allows maintenance of the damper mechanism 241 without disassembling the entire air outlet assembly 2.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown, the drive mechanism 3 is disposed on the outer wall of the fixed air duct 1. The drive mechanism 3 is fixedly disposed on the fixed air duct 1, and the drive portion of the drive mechanism 3 is connected to the air outlet assembly 2. By arranging the drive mechanism 3 on the outer wall of the fixed air duct 1, on the one hand, it can avoid occupying the internal space of the fixed air duct 1, ensuring the smoothness of the air flow channel inside the air duct, and improving the air outlet efficiency and air outlet stability. On the other hand, this external installation method is easier to access, making installation and maintenance more convenient.

[0054] The drive mechanism 3 may include a mounting bracket 31, a movable bracket 32, and a drive motor 33. The mounting bracket 31 is fixedly mounted on the fixed air duct 1. The movable bracket 32 can be driven by the drive motor 33 to move up and down relative to the mounting bracket 31. The movable bracket 32 is connected to the air outlet assembly 2. The mounting bracket 31 is mounted on the fixed air duct 1 to provide stable support for the entire drive mechanism 3, preventing the movable bracket 32 from shaking or other instability during the lifting and lowering process, thereby ensuring the stability of the air outlet assembly 2 during the lifting and lowering process.

[0055] The drive motor 33 can drive the movable bracket 32 in a variety of ways. In some possible embodiments, the mounting bracket 31 is provided with a rack 34, which can be integrally formed with the mounting bracket 31 or fixed to the mounting bracket 31 by bolts, etc. The output end of the drive motor 33 is provided with a gear 35 for engaging with the rack 34. The use of a meshing transmission method between the gear 35 and the rack 34 can provide higher transmission efficiency and higher control accuracy. In addition, by controlling the air outlet assembly 2 to hover at different positions, the size of the front air outlet 11 can be changed, thereby controlling the air volume of the front air outlet.

[0056] Further, continue to refer to Figure 3 The mounting bracket 31 may be provided with a first sliding guide structure 362, and the movable bracket 32 may be provided with a second sliding guide structure 361. The first sliding guide structure 362 and the second sliding guide structure 361 are slidably engaged with each other to enable the movable bracket 32 to slide along a predetermined trajectory. The sliding guide structure may, for example, be a sliding groove and roller, or a sliding rail and guide rib. By providing sliding guide structures on the mounting bracket 31 and the movable bracket 32, respectively, the stability of the lifting movement of the air outlet assembly 2 is improved, and the air outlet assembly 2 is prevented from deflecting or jamming during movement.

[0057] A grille structure 151 may also be provided at the air outlet of the fixed air duct 1. Providing the grille structure 151 at the air outlet of the fixed air duct 1 prevents larger particles of foreign matter from entering the air duct. Furthermore, the grille structure 151 provides preliminary guidance and homogenization for the airflow, making the outflowing air softer and more stable, thus optimizing the airflow experience.

[0058] According to a second aspect of the embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is also provided, comprising any of the above-mentioned air outlet devices and having all the beneficial effects thereof. Taking a cabinet air conditioner as an example, the air outlet duct provided by the present disclosure can be arranged at the top of the air conditioner.

[0059] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an air conditioner is further provided, for controlling any of the above air conditioners. A damper mechanism 241 is provided at the upper air outlet 12 , and the damper mechanism 241 can open or close the upper air outlet 12 .

[0060] The air conditioner control method includes: obtaining an indoor temperature value; and, based on the obtained indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to raise or lower to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet. By obtaining the indoor temperature value and controlling the opening and closing states of the front air outlet 11 and the upper air outlet 12 based on the obtained indoor temperature value, the air conditioner can dynamically adjust the air outlet mode based on the indoor ambient temperature, improving the air conditioner's flexible response to different temperature requirements and providing diverse air supply solutions.

[0061] This method can be applied to a variety of air-conditioning modes, for example, cooling mode or heating mode, which will be introduced below.

[0062] Regarding cooling mode: In some possible embodiments, based on the acquired indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to raise or lower to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet, includes: in cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is greater than a preset cooling temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to raise to open the front air outlet, and simultaneously controlling the damper mechanism to open the upper air outlet. In cooling mode, by setting the indoor temperature to be higher than a preset value and opening both the front air outlet 11 and the upper air outlet 12 simultaneously, the air conditioner prioritizes a combined mode of forward direct cooling air and upward auxiliary air supply in high-temperature environments, quickly reducing the temperature in the area where people are active.

[0063] In other possible embodiments, based on the acquired indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise and fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: in cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to a preset cooling temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to fall to close the front air outlet, and simultaneously controlling the damper mechanism to open the upper air outlet. In cooling mode, when the indoor temperature drops below a preset value, the front air outlet 11 can be closed, while the upper air outlet 12 remains open, thereby maintaining a stable indoor temperature while preventing cold air from blowing directly onto the human body and causing discomfort after the temperature has dropped below the preset value.

[0064] In heating mode, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise and fall to open or close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open or close the upper air outlet based on the acquired indoor temperature. In heating mode, when the indoor temperature is below a preset heating temperature, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise to open the front air outlet, while the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet. In heating mode, by setting the indoor temperature to fall below a preset value and opening both the front air outlet 11 and the upper air outlet 12 simultaneously, the air conditioner prioritizes a combined forward direct hot air supply and upward auxiliary air supply mode in high-temperature environments, rapidly raising the temperature in areas where people are active.

[0065] In other possible embodiments, based on the acquired indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise and fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: in heating mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to a preset heating temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to fall to close the front air outlet, while simultaneously controlling the damper mechanism to open the upper air outlet. In heating mode, when the indoor temperature rises below a preset value, the front air outlet 11 can be closed, while the upper air outlet 12 remains open. This maintains a stable indoor temperature while preventing hot air from blowing directly onto the human body and causing discomfort after the temperature has risen above the preset value.

[0066] In the foregoing detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of illustration, specific aspects of the present disclosure in which it may be practiced. In this regard, terms indicating directions or expressing positional relationships, such as "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inside," "outside," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," "circumferential," etc., may be used with reference to the orientation of the figures being described. Since the components of the described devices may be positioned in a plurality of different orientations, the directional terms may be used for illustrative purposes rather than restrictive. It should be understood that other aspects may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be taken in a limiting sense.

[0067] It should be understood that, unless otherwise specifically noted, the features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure described herein may be combined with each other. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the relevant listed items and any combination of any two or more thereof; similarly, "at least one of" includes any one of the relevant listed items and any combination of any two or more thereof.

[0068] It should be understood that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "join," "attach," "install," "connect," "connect," "fix," etc. used in the embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrated; they can be mechanically connected, electrically connected, or communicable with each other; they can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and they can be internally connected between two elements or an interactive relationship between two elements, unless otherwise expressly limited. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this article can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0069] Additionally, the term "over" as used in reference to a component, element, or material layer being formed "over" or located "over" a surface may be used herein to mean that the component, element, or material layer is "indirectly" positioned (e.g., placed, formed, deposited, etc.) on the surface such that one or more additional components, elements, or layers are disposed between the surface and the component, element, or material layer. However, the term "over" as used in reference to a component, element, or material layer being formed "over" or located "over" a surface may alternatively have a specific meaning: the component, element, or material layer is "directly" positioned (e.g., placed, formed, deposited, etc.) on the surface, e.g., in direct contact with the surface.

[0070] Although terms such as "first", "second" and "third" may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers or sections are not limited to these terms. On the contrary, these terms are only used to distinguish one component, part, region, layer or section from another component, part, region, layer or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of each example, the first component, part, region, layer or section mentioned in the examples described herein may also be referred to as the second component, part, region, layer or section. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, the features defined as "first" and "second" can explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description herein, the meaning of "multiple" is at least two, for example, two, three, etc., unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0071] It should be understood that spatially relative terms, such as "above," "upper," "below," and "lower," are used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element shown in the figures. Such spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as being "above" or "upper" relative to another element would then be "below" or "lower" relative to the other element. Thus, the term "above" encompasses both above and below orientations, depending on the spatial orientation of the device. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0072] Furthermore, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, the use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. As used herein, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, "X applies to A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X applies to A; X applies to B; or X applies to both A and B, then "X applies to A or B" satisfies any of the aforementioned instances. Furthermore, the articles "a" and "an," as used in this application and the appended claims, are generally understood to mean "one or more," unless otherwise specified or clear from the context to refer to the singular form.

[0073] Likewise, although the present disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent variations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure includes all such modifications and variations and is limited only by the scope of the claims. With particular regard to the various functions performed by the components described above (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), unless otherwise indicated, terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond to any component (functionally equivalent) that performs the specific function of the described component, even if not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, although particular features of the present disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "include," "have," "have," "have," or variations thereof are used in the detailed description or claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising."

[0074] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present disclosure after considering the specification and practicing the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present disclosure that follow the general principles of the present disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The description and examples are to be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure being indicated by the appended claims.

[0075] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the exact structures that have been described above and shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An air outlet device, characterized in that: include: Fixed air duct; an air outlet assembly, connected to the fixed air duct, the air outlet assembly being capable of being driven by a driving mechanism to perform lifting motion relative to the fixed air duct, the air outlet assembly being provided with an upper air outlet for discharging air upward; Wherein, the air outlet assembly, in the raised position, together with the front side of the fixed air duct defines a front air outlet for discharging air forward.

2. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air outlet assembly includes a partition structure, which divides the inner cavity of the fixed air duct into an upward air outlet channel and a forward air outlet channel. The upward air outlet channel is connected to the upper air outlet, and the forward air outlet channel is connected to the front air outlet.

3. The air outlet device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first end of the partition structure extends toward the inner cavity of the fixed air duct, and the second end of the partition structure extends toward the front side of the fixed air duct, wherein: In the raised position, the second end of the partition structure is spaced apart from the fixed air duct to form the front air outlet; In the lowered position, the second end of the partition structure contacts the fixed air duct to close the front air outlet.

4. The air outlet device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The fixed air duct includes a seat body and a cover plate arranged on the top of the seat body, the cover plate is provided with an opening that is in communication with the seat body, and the air outlet assembly and the cover plate together define the front air outlet in the raised position.

5. The air outlet device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The fixed air duct includes a seat body, and the air outlet assembly and the seat body jointly define the front air outlet in a raised position.

6. The air outlet device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The air outlet assembly includes a movable air outlet frame and a movable air duct cover plate that are interlocked together, and the movable air outlet frame and the movable air duct cover plate are respectively provided with openings that are connected to each other, wherein the front side of the movable air duct cover plate is provided with a guide portion protruding from the movable air outlet frame, and the guide portion forms the partition structure.

7. The air outlet device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The air outlet assembly includes a movable frame, wherein: the inner cavity of the movable frame forms the upward air outlet channel; and the front side wall of the movable frame forms the partition structure.

8. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper air outlet is also provided with a damper mechanism, which is used to open or close the upper air outlet.

9. The air outlet device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The damper mechanism includes a plurality of blades arranged at intervals and a blade drive motor for driving the blades to swing. The blade drive motor is arranged on the rear side of the air outlet device and drives the blades to swing forward and backward and / or left and right.

10. The air outlet device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The air outlet device further comprises a top cover plate which is buckled with the air outlet assembly. The air outlet assembly and the top cover plate are respectively provided with openings which are in communication with each other. The damper mechanism is provided at the opening of the top cover plate.

11. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving mechanism is arranged on the outer wall surface of the fixed air duct, the driving mechanism is fixedly arranged on the fixed air duct, and the driving part of the driving mechanism is connected to the air outlet component.

12. The air outlet device according to claim 11, characterized in that: The driving mechanism includes a mounting bracket, a movable bracket and a driving motor. The mounting bracket is fixedly arranged on the fixed air duct. The movable bracket can be driven by the driving motor to perform lifting movement relative to the mounting bracket, and the movable bracket is connected to the air outlet assembly.

13. The air outlet device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The mounting bracket is provided with a rack, and the output end of the driving motor is provided with a gear for engaging with the rack.

14. The air outlet device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The mounting bracket is provided with a first sliding guide structure, and the movable bracket is provided with a second sliding guide structure. The first sliding guide structure and the second sliding guide structure are slidably matched to enable the movable bracket to slide along a preset track.

15. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A grille structure is provided at the air outlet of the fixed air duct.

16. An air conditioner, characterized in that: The invention comprises the air outlet device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A method for controlling an air conditioner, for controlling the air conditioner according to claim 16, characterized in that: The upper air outlet is provided with a damper mechanism, which can open or close the upper air outlet, wherein the control method of the air conditioner includes: Get the indoor temperature value; According to the obtained indoor temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open or close the upper air outlet.

18. The air conditioner control method according to claim 17, wherein: According to the obtained indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: In cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is greater than a preset cooling temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise to open the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

19. The air conditioner control method according to claim 18, characterized in that: According to the obtained indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: In cooling mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to a preset cooling temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to descend to close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

20. The air conditioner control method according to claim 17, wherein: According to the obtained indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: In the heating mode, when the indoor temperature is lower than the preset heating temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to rise to open the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

21. The air conditioner control method according to claim 20, characterized in that: According to the obtained indoor temperature value, controlling the air outlet assembly to rise or fall to open or close the front air outlet, and controlling the damper mechanism to open or close the upper air outlet includes: In the heating mode, when the indoor temperature is less than or equal to the preset heating temperature value, the air outlet assembly is controlled to descend to close the front air outlet, and the damper mechanism is controlled to open the upper air outlet.

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