Air conditioner

Abstract

The application discloses an air conditioner, which comprises a shell, an internal air duct, an indoor heat exchanger, a water pan, a condensed water inlet, an ion emission device, a first through hole arranged on a side wall of the shell close to the ion emission device, a water valve assembly, a water pump assembly, a protective cabin and a second through hole arranged on the protective cabin and matched with the first through hole, the water valve assembly comprises a first inlet and a third outlet, the first inlet is communicated with the condensed water inlet, the third outlet is communicated with the first through hole, the water pump assembly is arranged at the third outlet, when a first signal is received, a controller controls the protective cabin to move from a first position to a second position, the first inlet is communicated with the third outlet, the water pump assembly is started, and condensed water enters the protective cabin through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole and the second through hole, so that the ion emission device is washed by the condensed water. The condensed water in the water pan is regularly pumped to the position of the ion emission device, and the ion emission device is washed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of air conditioner technology, and particularly relates to an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, related technologies use ion generators to clean the interior of air conditioners and the indoor environment. The ion generator's ion emitter can be set as a needle tip, carbon brush, or carbon rod. When working, the ion emitter generates positive or negative ions with a purifying effect. The generated ions diffuse into the air and can adsorb dust and other substances in the air, causing them to gather and settle, thus achieving the purpose of dust removal.

[0003] However, due to static electricity, some dust often accumulates on the ion emitter head, obstructing the discharge area. This affects the operation of the ion carbon brush head, thereby reducing its ion generation efficiency. Furthermore, the ion generator is usually installed in a concealed location, making it difficult to disassemble and clean.

[0004] In view of the above, this application is hereby submitted. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problem of reduced ion release efficiency due to dust accumulation in ion emitters, this application proposes a technical solution that utilizes collected condensate water through pipeline design to flush the ion emitter. This avoids the situation where, due to long-term use, particulate matter on the surface of the ion emitter partially obscures the emitting electrode due to electrostatic adsorption, thereby reducing ion generation and weakening the purification effect.

[0006] This application provides an air conditioner, which includes:

[0007] Indoor unit, the indoor unit further includes:

[0008] case;

[0009] Internal air ducts, formed inside the shell, are used to allow airflow.

[0010] An indoor heat exchanger, located in an internal air duct, is used to exchange heat with the airflow;

[0011] A drip tray, located at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger, is used to collect condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger.

[0012] The condensate inlet is located on the drip tray to allow the collected condensate to pass through.

[0013] An ion emission device, located in the internal air duct and near one side wall of the housing, is used to release ions to clean the interior of the air conditioner and / or the indoor environment.

[0014] The first through hole is located on the side wall near the ion emission device. The location of the first through hole matches the installation position of the ion emission device so that the condensate flowing out of the first through hole is aligned with the ion emission device.

[0015] A water valve assembly includes a first inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet, wherein the first inlet is connected to a condensate inlet, and the third outlet is connected to a third through hole;

[0016] A water pump assembly, located at the third outlet of the water valve assembly, is used to pump the condensate from the first inlet to the third outlet.

[0017] The protective chamber is rotatably mounted on the shell to give the protective chamber a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber is in the first position, the protective chamber does not interfere with the ion emission device. When the protective chamber is in the second position, the protective chamber covers the ion emission device to form a closed or semi-closed space around the ion emission device.

[0018] The second through hole is located on the side wall of the protective compartment near the side wall where the first through hole is located, and the second through hole and the first through hole are matched.

[0019] The controller is configured to: when a first signal is received, the protective chamber moves from a first position to a second position, controls the connection between the first inlet and the third outlet, turns on the water pump assembly, and allows condensate to enter the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole, so as to use the condensate to rinse the ion emission device.

[0020] In some embodiments, the protective chamber includes at least:

[0021] When the first surface is in the second position, the first surface is connected to the bottom surface on which the ion emission device is installed;

[0022] The third through hole is located on the first surface;

[0023] The fourth through hole is located on the bottom surface where the ion emission device is installed. The fourth through hole cooperates with the third through hole and is connected to the first outlet to drain the condensate water that has been flushed through the ion emission device.

[0024] The housing also includes:

[0025] A drain outlet, which is connected to a second outlet;

[0026] The controller is configured to, when receiving the second signal, keep the protective chamber in the second position, keep the water pump assembly in the off state, connect the second outlet to the first outlet, and discharge the condensate water that has rinsed the ion emission device to the outside of the air conditioner through the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first outlet, the second outlet and the drain outlet.

[0027] After a period of time, the protective cabin will be moved from the second position to the first position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to, upon receiving a third signal, control the protective chamber to move to a first position, deactivate the water pump assembly, and connect the first inlet to the second outlet to discharge condensate to the outside.

[0029] In some embodiments, a condensate spray nozzle is also included, which is disposed at the second through hole of the protective chamber. The condensate spray nozzle is configured such that the cross-section near the second through hole is larger than the cross-section away from the second through hole, so as to pressurize the sprayed condensate.

[0030] The water pump assembly draws condensate from the third outlet to the condensate nozzle and flushes the ion emission device.

[0031] In some embodiments, the ion emission device includes:

[0032] A power controller, which is used to provide power;

[0033] The base, which is mounted on a bottom surface of the housing;

[0034] The grounding electrode is electrically connected to the power controller;

[0035] The emitting electrode, which is mounted on the base and electrically connected to the power controller, is used to adsorb moisture in the air onto the surface of the emitting electrode.

[0036] When the protective chamber is in the second position, the transmitting electrode and the base are placed inside the protective chamber, and the transmitting electrode is rinsed with condensate.

[0037] In some embodiments, the protective cabin further includes:

[0038] The clearance space, located on the first side, is used to accommodate the passage of the ion emission device. The protective cabin rotates from the first position and moves to the second position after passing the ion emission device.

[0039] In some embodiments, upon receiving a first signal, the water pump assembly is controlled to operate continuously for a preset number of times.

[0040] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to, upon receiving a fourth signal, move the protective chamber from a first position to a second position, control the first inlet to connect with the third outlet, periodically turn on the water pump assembly, and allow condensate to enter the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole, so as to use the condensate to rinse the ion emission device.

[0041] Maintain the humidity around the ion emitter within a preset range and control the power controller to supply power to the emitting electrode to form charged microparticle water.

[0042] This application also proposes another air conditioner, which includes:

[0043] Indoor unit, the indoor unit further includes:

[0044] case;

[0045] Internal air ducts, formed inside the shell, are used to allow airflow.

[0046] An indoor heat exchanger, located in an internal air duct, is used to exchange heat with the airflow;

[0047] A drip tray, located at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger, is used to collect condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger.

[0048] The condensate inlet is located on the drip tray to allow the collected condensate to pass through.

[0049] An ion emission device, located in the internal air duct and near one side wall of the housing, is used to release ions to clean the interior of the air conditioner and / or the indoor environment.

[0050] The first through hole is located on the side wall near the ion emission device. The location of the first through hole matches the installation position of the ion emission device so that the condensate flowing out of the first through hole is aligned with the ion emission device.

[0051] A water valve assembly includes a first inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet, wherein the first inlet is connected to a condensate inlet, and the third outlet is connected to a third through hole;

[0052] A water pump assembly, located at the third outlet of the water valve assembly, is used to pump the condensate from the first inlet to the third outlet.

[0053] The protective chamber is rotatably mounted on the shell to give the protective chamber a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber is in the first position, the protective chamber does not interfere with the ion emission device. When the protective chamber is in the second position, the protective chamber covers the ion emission device to form a closed or semi-closed space around the ion emission device.

[0054] The second through hole is located on the side wall of the protective compartment near the side wall where the first through hole is located, and the second through hole and the first through hole are matched.

[0055] The controller is configured to move the protective chamber from the first position to the second position when a fourth signal is received, control the connection between the first inlet and the third outlet, periodically turn on the water pump assembly, and allow condensate to enter the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole to flush the ion emission device with the condensate.

[0056] Maintain the humidity around the ion emitter within a preset range and control the power controller to supply power to the emitting electrode.

[0057] In some embodiments, the protective chamber includes at least:

[0058] When the first surface is in the second position, the first surface is connected to the bottom surface on which the ion emission device is installed;

[0059] The third through hole is located on the first surface;

[0060] The fourth through hole is located on the bottom surface where the ion emission device is installed. The fourth through hole cooperates with the third through hole and is connected to the first outlet to drain the condensate water that has been flushed through the ion emission device.

[0061] The housing also includes:

[0062] Drainage outlet, which is connected to the second outlet;

[0063] The controller is configured to, when receiving the second signal, keep the protective chamber in the second position, shut off the water pump assembly, connect the second outlet to the first outlet, and discharge the condensate water that has rinsed the ion emission device to the outside of the air conditioner through the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0064] After a period of time, the protective cabin will be moved from the second position to the first position.

[0065] The air conditioner proposed in this application embodiment includes an indoor unit. The indoor unit includes a housing, an internal air duct formed inside the housing, an indoor heat exchanger disposed in the internal air duct, a water collection tray disposed at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger, a condensate inlet disposed on the water collection tray, an ion emission device disposed in the internal air duct, a first through hole disposed on the side wall of the housing near the ion emission device, a water valve assembly, a water pump assembly, a protective chamber, and a first through hole disposed on the protective chamber that mates with the first through hole. The water valve assembly includes a first inlet, a second outlet, a third outlet, wherein the first inlet communicates with the condensate inlet, and the third outlet communicates with the first through hole. The water pump assembly is located at the third outlet. The protective chamber is rotatably mounted on the shell to have a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber is in the first position, it does not interfere with the ion emission device. When the protective chamber is in the second position, it covers the ion emission device, creating a closed or semi-closed space around it. Upon receiving a first signal, the controller moves the protective chamber from the first position to the second position, connecting the first inlet to the third outlet. The water pump assembly is activated, and condensate water enters the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole to flush the ion emission device. By periodically pumping the condensate water from the collection tray to the location of the ion emission device for flushing, the problem of particulate matter partially obscuring the emission electrodes due to electrostatic adsorption on the surface of the ion emission device after long-term use can be avoided, which would reduce the amount of ions generated and weaken the purification effect. Attached Figure Description

[0066] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0067] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rear panel in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 4 This is an installation diagram of the ion emission device, protective chamber, water pump assembly, and water valve assembly in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 6This is a front view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of position A when the protective cabin is in the first position;

[0074] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of position A when the protective cabin is in the second position;

[0075] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ion emission device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transmitting electrode in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0077] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transmitting electrode in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0078] Figure 12 This is the control logic for the self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 13 This is the control logic for the indoor high-power purification mode in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 14 This is a hardware block diagram of the controller in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] In the above image:

[0082] Air conditioner 100; controller 21; bus 211; memory 212; processor 213; communication interface 214.

[0083] Housing 1; Air inlet 11; Air outlet 12; Air guide plate 13;

[0084] 14. Rear panel; 2. Indoor heat exchanger; 3. Indoor fan; 4. Drain tray; 41. Water guide plate; 42. Condensate inlet;

[0085] 5. Water pump assembly; 6. Water valve assembly; 8. Ion emission device;

[0086] First inlet 61; First outlet 62; Second outlet 63; Third outlet 64; First through hole 18;

[0087] Second through hole 71; Third through hole 72; Fourth through hole 19; Drain outlet 110; Protective compartment 7;

[0088] First side 73; Second side 74; Third side 75; Condensate spray nozzle 76; Power controller 81;

[0089] Base 82; grounding electrode 83; emitting electrode 84; hydrophilic layer 841; porous fiber 842; conductive fiber 843. Detailed Implementation

[0090] The technical solutions in 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 a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0091] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "lateral", "longitudinal", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used 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 limiting this invention.

[0092] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0093] This application discloses an air conditioner, referring to... Figure 1 The air conditioner includes an indoor unit.

[0094] Air conditioners also include outdoor units.

[0095] The outdoor unit is installed outdoors. The indoor and outdoor units are connected by pipes for refrigerant flow.

[0096] The indoor unit includes a housing 1. The housing 1 forms the outer outline of the indoor unit and houses the internal components of the indoor unit.

[0097] An air inlet 11 is formed on the housing 1. The air inlet 11 is used to allow indoor air to enter the housing 1.

[0098] An air outlet 12 is formed on the housing 1. The air outlet 12 is used to exhaust air from the housing 1. Indoor air enters the housing 1 through the air inlet 11 and is then blown out from the air outlet 12.

[0099] An air guide plate 13 is provided at the air outlet 12. The air guide plate 13 is configured to change the air direction of the air outlet 12.

[0100] The housing 1 contains multiple components that constitute a refrigeration cycle or a heating cycle.

[0101] In this application, indoor units include, but are not limited to, wall-mounted air conditioners 100, cabinet air conditioners 100, and ducted air conditioners.

[0102] In this embodiment, a wall-mounted air conditioner 100 is used as an example for illustration. Other types of air conditioners 100 can solve the self-cleaning problem of the indoor unit with the ion emission device 8 by adjusting the structural position based on the technical solution of this embodiment.

[0103] The housing 1 includes at least an outer cover. The outer cover forms the basic frame of the air conditioner 100.

[0104] The housing 1 also includes a front panel. The front panel is mounted on the front side of the outer casing and forms the front surface of the housing 1. As can be understood, the front side in this application is... Figure 1 The direction indicated by the middle arrow is behind. Figure 1 The direction opposite to the middle arrow.

[0105] The housing 1 also includes a rear panel 14, which is mounted on the rear side of the outer cover for mounting the air conditioner 100 on the wall of an indoor space.

[0106] The outer casing includes a bottom surface. The bottom surface is configured to define the bottom structure of the air conditioner.

[0107] The outer casing includes side panels. The side panels are arranged on both sides, one on each side of the bottom surface along its length. They form the sides of the air conditioner.

[0108] The outer casing also includes a front surface. The front surface is located on the front side.

[0109] The outer casing includes a top surface. The top surface is configured to define the top appearance of the air conditioner.

[0110] In some embodiments, the front surface, top surface, and part of the bottom surface are integrated to facilitate a secure connection with the rear panel 14 and side panels, forming a stable external structure of the air conditioner 100.

[0111] In some embodiments, the rear panel 14 and part of the bottom surface are integrally formed to facilitate a secure connection with other components, forming a stable external structure of the air conditioner 100.

[0112] The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger 2. The indoor heat exchanger 2 is installed inside the housing 1. The indoor heat exchanger 2 is used to exchange heat with the airflow entering the housing 1.

[0113] The indoor unit includes an indoor fan 3. The indoor fan 3 is installed inside the housing 1. The indoor fan 3 rotates to allow indoor air to enter the indoor housing 1. After exchanging heat with the indoor heat exchanger 2, the indoor air flows out of the indoor housing 1.

[0114] In some embodiments, the indoor fan 3 is configured as a cross-flow fan.

[0115] The inner circumference of the rear panel 14 is provided with space for installing the indoor fan 3.

[0116] In some embodiments, the indoor heat exchanger 2 is arranged in a ring above the indoor fan 3. (See reference...) Figure 2 The condensate on the indoor heat exchanger 2 will flow down the surface of the indoor heat exchanger 2 and into the water receiving pan 4 at its bottom or into the shell 1. Figure 2 The flow path of the condensate is shown in the diagram.

[0117] The air conditioning system in this application includes a compressor that can compress gaseous refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure and discharge the compressed gaseous refrigerant.

[0118] The compressor includes an intake port. Refrigerant flows into the compressor from the intake port to be compressed.

[0119] The compressor includes a discharge port. Refrigerant enters the compressor through the suction port, is compressed by the compressor, and is discharged through the discharge port.

[0120] The air conditioning system includes an indoor heat exchanger 2, which is used to exchange heat with indoor air.

[0121] The air conditioning system includes an outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with outdoor air.

[0122] The air conditioning system also includes a four-way valve. The first port of the four-way valve is connected to the compressor's discharge port. The second port of the four-way valve is connected to the compressor's suction port. The third port of the four-way valve is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 2. The fourth port of the four-way valve is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0123] The air conditioning system also includes an electronic expansion valve. The electronic expansion valve is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger 2. The electronic expansion valve is used for throttling. It causes the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant condensed in the condenser to expand into a low-pressure liquid refrigerant.

[0124] Indoor heat exchanger 2 and outdoor heat exchanger function as either condensers or evaporators. When indoor heat exchanger 2 functions as a condenser, the air conditioner acts as a heater in heating mode. When indoor heat exchanger 2 functions as an evaporator, the air conditioner acts as a cooler in cooling mode.

[0125] Multi-split air conditioners use refrigerant flow to blow out air at temperatures higher than, lower than, or the same as the indoor temperature to adjust the temperature and humidity of the indoor environment; or they use the speed of the indoor fan 3 to adjust the airflow speed of the indoor environment.

[0126] When the air conditioner is running in cooling mode, the refrigerant from the compressor condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger. The condensed refrigerant then expands through the electronic expansion valve. The expanded condensate evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger. The evaporated refrigerant then circulates back to the compressor.

[0127] When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the refrigerant from the compressor flows through the indoor heat exchanger 2 and condenses. The condensed refrigerant then expands by flowing through the electronic expansion valve. The expanded condensate evaporates through the outdoor heat exchanger. The evaporated refrigerant then circulates back to the compressor.

[0128] When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the indoor heat exchanger 2 exchanges heat with the indoor air to cool and dehumidify the air. Because the wall temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 2 is lower than the dew point temperature of the indoor air, the water vapor in the indoor air will condense on the wall of the indoor heat exchanger 2. When the dew drops grow to a certain size, they will slide down to the condensate pan below the air conditioner terminal, thus forming condensate.

[0129] Condensate stored indoors for extended periods can negatively impact air conditioner efficiency. Therefore, related technologies often employ control logic to reduce condensate generation. This application utilizes the generated condensate for secondary processing, achieving self-cleaning of internal components in the air conditioner 100 while simultaneously reducing energy consumption.

[0130] Reference Figure 2 The indoor unit also includes a drip tray 4. The drip tray 4 is located at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger 2. The drip tray 4 is used to collect condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger 2.

[0131] In some embodiments, a water guide plate 41 is provided on the water receiving tray 4. The water guide plate 41 is provided along the length direction of the water receiving tray 4.

[0132] A condensate inlet 42 is provided on the drip tray 4. The condensate inlet 42 is located on one side of the drip tray 4. The condensate inlet 42 is used to drain the condensate collected on the drip tray 4.

[0133] In some embodiments, the condensate inlet 42 is located at the lowest point of the drip tray 4 to facilitate the collection and drainage of condensate. It should be noted that "lowest point" here refers to the lowest point on the drip tray 4 after the air conditioner 100 is installed.

[0134] In some embodiments, the condensate inlet 42 is provided on the housing 1.

[0135] In some embodiments, the condensate inlet 42 is located at the lowest point of the housing 1 to facilitate the collection and drainage of condensate. It should be noted that the lowest point here refers to the lowest point of the inner surface of the housing 1 after the air conditioner 100 is installed.

[0136] In some embodiments, the drip tray 4 and the housing 1 are disposed separately. The drip tray 4 is disposed at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger 2 through the internal layout of the housing 1 to collect the condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger 2.

[0137] In some embodiments, the water receiving tray 4 and the housing 1 are integrally formed. The integral molding of the water receiving tray 4 and the housing 1 reduces the number of parts and simplifies the installation process.

[0138] Reference Figure 3-4 The indoor unit also includes an ion emission device 8. The ion emission device 8 is installed inside the internal air duct. Figure 3 The installation location of the ion emitter 8 is shown in the image. Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the ion emission device 8.

[0139] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 3 The ion emitter 8 is mounted on one side wall near the housing 1. The ion emitter 8 is used to release ions to clean the interior of the air conditioner 100.

[0140] In some embodiments, the ion emission device 8 can also be used to clean the indoor environment.

[0141] In some embodiments, the ion emitter 8 can be positioned at the air outlet 12 to facilitate the diffusion of ions into the room from a greater distance using the air conditioning airflow, thereby purifying the indoor air.

[0142] In some embodiments, the ion emission device 8 is disposed on one side of the air guide plate 13. The oscillation of the air guide plate 13 can expand the range that the ions can reach.

[0143] In some embodiments, the ion emission device 8 is mounted on a bottom surface of the housing 1. This bottom surface forms the bottom of the indoor air duct.

[0144] Reference Figure 5 The housing 1 also includes a drain outlet 110, which is located at the bottom of the housing 1 and is used to drain the condensate inside the housing 1.

[0145] Reference Figure 3 The indoor unit also includes a first through-hole 18. The first through-hole 18 is located on the side wall near the ion emitter 8 to facilitate spraying water onto the location where the ion emitter 8 is located.

[0146] The first through hole 18 is positioned to match the installation position of the ion emission device 8, so that the condensate flowing out of the first through hole 18 is aligned with the ion emission device 8.

[0147] Reference Figure 4 The indoor unit also includes a second through hole 71, which is located on the side of the protective compartment 7 near the side wall where the first through hole 18 is located. The second through hole 71 and the first through hole 18 are fitted together.

[0148] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 The protective chamber 7 includes at least a first surface 73. The first surface 73 is configured as the base 82 of the protective chamber 7. When the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, the first surface 73 is connected to the bottom surface on which the ion emission device 8 is mounted.

[0149] The protective chamber 7 includes a second surface 74. The second surface 74 is configured as a curved surface. The second surface 74 is connected to the first surface 73 to prevent condensate from being sprayed into the internal air duct, which could lead to bacterial growth over time.

[0150] The protective chamber 7 includes two third surfaces 75, which are located on the sides of the entire protective chamber 7, and can also be referred to as side surfaces. The side surfaces are connected to the first surface 73 and the second surface 74 respectively. The third surface 75, the first surface 73 and the second surface 74 form a semi-enclosed space to prevent the condensate water from the washing ion emission device 8 from being sprayed into the internal air duct.

[0151] Reference Figure 4 The protective chamber 7 includes at least a third through-hole 72. The third through-hole 72 is located on the first surface 73 and is used to drain water from the protective chamber 7.

[0152] Reference Figure 3 The air conditioner 100 includes at least a fourth through hole 19, which is disposed on the bottom surface where the ion emission device 8 is mounted. The fourth through hole 19 mates with the third through hole 72.

[0153] The indoor unit also includes a water valve assembly 6. The water valve assembly 6 is responsible for switching the flow path of the condensate water. (See reference...) Figure 4 The water valve assembly 6 includes a first inlet 61. The first inlet 61 is connected to the condensate inlet 42 to collect condensate from the drip tray 4 and to be used for cleaning the ion emitter 8 or for draining it from the exterior of the housing 1.

[0154] The water valve assembly 6 includes a first outlet 62. The first outlet 62 communicates with the fourth through hole 19 and is used to promptly discharge water from the air conditioner in the protective compartment 7.

[0155] The water valve assembly 6 includes a second outlet 63. The second outlet 63 is connected to a drain port 110 on the housing 1. It is used to drain excess condensate from the air conditioner. The excess condensate includes at least the condensate from cleaning the ion emitter 8 and the condensate when cleaning the ion emitter 8 is not required.

[0156] The water valve assembly 6 includes a third outlet 64. The third outlet 64 communicates with the first through hole 18. It is used to guide condensate into the protective chamber 7, corresponding to the location of the cleaning ion emission device 8.

[0157] In some embodiments, the water valve assembly 6 is configured as a four-way valve. By controlling the connection status of each port of the four-way valve, the self-cleaning of the ion emission device 8 and the discharge of condensate are achieved.

[0158] The four-way valve includes one inlet and three outlets. The first inlet 61 is connected to the condensate inlet 42 of the drip tray 4 of the air conditioner 100. The condensate generated by the operation of the air conditioner 100 reaches the four-way valve through the condensate inlet 42. When the ion emission device 8 performs the self-cleaning mode, the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64 of the four-way valve are connected.

[0159] The condensate generated by the air conditioner is pumped to the condensate nozzle 76 by a high-pressure water pump. The high-pressure condensate washes the emission electrode 84 of the ion emission device 8, and the wastewater generated by the washing flows out of the protective chamber 7 through the third through hole 72.

[0160] Subsequently, the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64 are closed, while the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 63 are connected, allowing sewage to be discharged outdoors through the second outlet 63. The second outlet 63 is connected to a drain pipe, which is responsible for discharging the sewage outdoors.

[0161] It should be noted that when the ion emission device 8 does not perform self-cleaning, the first inlet 61 and the second outlet 63 are connected, and the condensate water generated by the air conditioner can be discharged to the outside in a timely manner.

[0162] The indoor unit also includes a water pump assembly 5. The water pump assembly 5 is used to pump condensate from the piping to the emitting electrode 84 to wash away dust adhering to the surface of the emitting electrode 84. The water pump assembly 5 is installed at the third outlet 64 of the water valve assembly 6. It is used to pump condensate from the first inlet 61 to the third outlet 64.

[0163] In some embodiments, the water pump assembly 5 is configured as a high-pressure water pump.

[0164] The indoor unit also includes a protective compartment 7. The protective compartment 7 is rotatably mounted on the housing 1 so that the protective compartment 7 has different positions.

[0165] The protective chamber 7 includes a rotation axis. The protective chamber 7 rotates around the rotation axis to rotate to a first position and a second position.

[0166] The protective chamber 7 is also equipped with a motor, which is connected to a rotating shaft, and the motor's drive shaft is also connected to the rotating shaft. The motor provides the driving force for the rotation of the protective chamber 7. The operation of the motor drives the protective chamber 7 to rotate, so as to meet the position requirements of the protective chamber 7 in both the clean and unclean ion emission device 8 states.

[0167] Reference Figure 6-7 The protective chamber 7 has a first position. When the protective chamber 7 is in the first position, the protective chamber 7 and the ion emission device 8 do not interfere with each other. That is, the protective chamber 7 does not affect the ion diffusion of the ion emission device 8.

[0168] Reference Figure 8 The protective chamber 7 has a second position. When the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, it covers the ion emission device 8 to form a closed or semi-closed space around the ion emission device 8.

[0169] In some embodiments, the protective chamber 7 further includes a clearance space. The clearance space is located on the first side 73 of the protective chamber 7 and is used to accommodate the passage of the ion emission device 8. As the protective chamber 7 moves from the first position to the second position, the ion emission device 8 passes through the clearance space.

[0170] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 The indoor unit also includes a condensate spray nozzle 76. The condensate spray nozzle 76 is located at the second through hole 71 of the protective compartment 7.

[0171] The condensate nozzle 76 is configured such that the cross-section near the second through hole 71 is larger than the cross-section away from the second through hole 71, in order to pressurize the sprayed condensate.

[0172] After being pressurized by a high-pressure water pump, the condensate is sprayed out from the condensate nozzle 76 and sprayed onto the surface of the ion emission device 8 to wash away the attached particles. The wastewater after washing flows out of the protective chamber 7 through the third through hole 72. The third through hole 72 corresponds to the fourth through hole 19 on the air conditioner base 82. The wastewater discharged from the fourth through hole 19 flows through the pipe to the four-way valve and is then discharged outdoors through the drain pipe.

[0173] In some embodiments, the water pump assembly 5 draws condensate from the third outlet 64 to the condensate nozzle 76 and flushes the ion emission device 8.

[0174] Under the pressurization effect of the water pump assembly 5 and the condensate nozzle 76, a water flow smaller than the diameter of the third outlet 64 is ejected from the condensate nozzle 76, which impacts the ion emission device 8 to achieve the purpose of rinsing.

[0175] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 9The ion emission device 8 includes a power controller 81. The power controller 81 is used to provide power for the ion emission device 8 to release ions.

[0176] The ion emission device 8 includes a base 82. The base 82 is mounted on a bottom surface. This bottom surface is connected to the side wall where the first through hole 18 is mounted.

[0177] The ion emission device 8 includes a ground electrode 83. The ground electrode 83 is electrically connected to the power controller 81.

[0178] The ion emission device 8 includes an emission electrode 84. The emission electrode 84 is mounted on a base 82. The emission electrode 84 is electrically connected to a power controller 81. This is used to adsorb moisture from the air onto the surface of the emission electrode 84.

[0179] In some embodiments, the emitting electrode 84 is configured as a needle-tip emitting electrode 84.

[0180] In some embodiments, the emitting electrode 84 is configured as a carbon brush emitting electrode 84.

[0181] In some embodiments, the emitting electrode 84 is configured as a carbon rod emitting electrode.

[0182] This application uses a carbon rod-type emitter electrode 84 as an example for functional description.

[0183] When the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, the transmitting electrode 84 and the base 82 are placed inside the protective chamber 7, and the transmitting electrode 84 is rinsed with condensed water.

[0184] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 10-11 The emitting electrode 84 includes a hydrophilic layer 841. The hydrophilic layer 841 is used to adsorb water molecules in the air onto the surface of the emitting electrode 84.

[0185] The emitting electrode 84 includes porous fibers 842. The porous fibers 842 have a porous structure. This porous structure gives the porous fibers 842 a high specific surface area. Water molecules on the surface can be stored inside the emitting electrode 84 using the capillary principle.

[0186] The emitting electrode 84 includes conductive fibers 843. The power controller 81 supplies power to the emitting electrode 84, and a negative high-voltage electric field is generated at the end of the conductive fibers 843. Moisture inside the emitting electrode 84 is atomized by high voltage and released through the pore structure of the porous fibers 842, where it is ionized into hydroxyl radicals. At the same time, the electrons released by the emitting electrode 84 form negative ions with the air around the electric field.

[0187] When some of the porous fibers 842 are covered with dust, their surface area is greatly reduced, weakening their ability to discharge into the air. Simultaneously, their water absorption capacity is also significantly reduced. Therefore, this application utilizes condensate collection and piping to clean the emitting electrode 84 of the ion emission device 8 using condensate.

[0188] In some embodiments, the air conditioner 100 includes a controller 21 for sending instructions to the air conditioner 100 to control the operation of the air conditioner 100.

[0189] The controller 21 is used to coordinate the operation of the entire air conditioner 100. This includes receiving user commands, operating in various modes such as cooling mode, heating mode, fan mode, shutdown mode, cleaning mode, and self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device 8, as well as uploading the operating status of the air conditioner 100 to the cloud.

[0190] The controller 21 includes a memory 212. The memory 212 may include high-speed random access memory (RAM) or non-volatile memory (NVM).

[0191] For example, at least one disk storage device 212. Storage device 212 is used to store programs.

[0192] Reference Figure 14 The indoor controller 21 includes a communication interface 214. The communication interface 214 is used to communicate with related components.

[0193] The communication interface 214 of the controller 21 is used to communicate with the water pump assembly 5, the water valve assembly 6, the motor, and the ion emission device 8. Upon receiving corresponding electrical control signals, it can control different components to perform corresponding actions. For example, when the ion emission device 8 is in self-cleaning mode, it controls the motor, the water valve assembly 6, and the water pump assembly 5 to operate.

[0194] The controller 21 includes a processor 213. The processor 213 is used to execute executable modules stored in the memory 212, such as computer programs. The code of the computer program can be in the form of source code, object code, executable file, or some of these forms.

[0195] The controller 21 includes a bus 211. The bus 211 is used to connect the communication interface 214 and the processor 213. The bus 211 can be an ISA bus 211, a PCI bus 211, or an EISA bus 211, etc.

[0196] The controller 21 includes at least one software function module that can be stored in the memory 212 in the form of software or firmware.

[0197] In this application, after receiving an execution instruction, the processor 213 executes the program to implement... Figure 12-13 The control logic related to the self-cleaning and powerful indoor cleaning modes of the ion emission device 8 shown.

[0198] In some embodiments, the controller 21 is configured such that when a first signal is received, the protective chamber 7 moves from a first position to a second position, controls the first inlet 61 to connect with the third outlet 64, turns on the water pump assembly 5, and condensate enters the protective chamber 7 through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18 and the second through hole 71, so as to use the condensate to rinse the ion emission device 8.

[0199] Reference Figure 12 This describes the control logic of the self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device 8 in this application.

[0200] In some embodiments, the controller 21 receives a first signal (S1201). Here, receiving the first signal indicates that the self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device 8 is about to be executed.

[0201] Upon receiving the first signal, if the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode or self-cleaning mode, as long as there is sufficient condensate, it will not affect the self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device 8. After receiving the first signal, the controller 21 can control each component to start operating according to the set program.

[0202] In some embodiments, the protective chamber 7 moves from a first position to a second position (S1202). When the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, that is, the protective chamber 7 covers the ion emission device 8 to prevent condensate from splashing everywhere.

[0203] In some embodiments, the first inlet 61 of the water valve assembly 6 is connected to the third outlet 64 (S1203). By connecting the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64, condensate in the drip tray 4 can be delivered to the water pump assembly 5.

[0204] In some embodiments, the water pump assembly 5 is turned on (S1204). After being pressurized, the water pump assembly 5 delivers water through the outlet pipe to the condensate nozzle 76 to clean the surface of the ion emitter 8. The condensate enters the protective chamber 7 after passing through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18, and the second through hole 71, so as to rinse the ion emitter 8 with the condensate.

[0205] In some embodiments, after the water spraying ends, the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64 are closed, while the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 63 are opened (S1205). This allows the condensate (i.e., wastewater) that has been flushed through the ion emitter 8 to be discharged outdoors.

[0206] In the above control logic, the execution order of S1202 and S1203 can be adjusted; that is, S1203 can be executed first, followed by S1202.

[0207] In some embodiments, after receiving the first signal, the water pump assembly 5 is controlled to operate continuously a preset number of times to better clean the ion emission device 8.

[0208] In the embodiments of this application, the angle x between the first and second positions of the protective chamber 7 is greater than a first parameter. An angle x that is too small may cause the outer shell of the protective chamber 7 to affect the ion diffusion of the ion emission device 8. Therefore, the angle x is made greater than the first parameter. For example, the first parameter can be set to 80°, 85°, or 90°. A suitable specific parameter should be selected during the design process.

[0209] In the embodiments of this application, the angle x between the first and second positions of the protective chamber 7 is less than the second parameter. If x is too large, it may cause excess air outlets 12 to appear in the internal air duct, affecting the airflow of the air outlets 12. Therefore, the angle x is less than the second parameter, which can be set to 92°, 95°, or 100°. A suitable specific parameter should be considered in the specific design.

[0210] In some embodiments, each time the self-cleaning mode of the ion emitter 8 is activated, water spraying should be maintained at least a set number of times to prevent incomplete cleaning due to insufficient rinsing.

[0211] In some embodiments, the number of rinses is set to be greater than the third parameter; if the number of rinses is set too low, the rinsing will be incomplete. Therefore, the number of rinses needs to be greater than the third parameter, which can be set to 2, 3, or 4 times. A suitable specific parameter should be considered in the actual design.

[0212] In some embodiments, the number of cycles should be less than the fourth parameter. Setting the number of cycles too high can lead to insufficient condensate. Therefore, the number of cycles must be less than the fourth parameter. The fourth parameter can be set to 4 or 5 cycles. A suitable parameter should be considered in the specific design.

[0213] The above embodiments address the problem that the ion emission device 8 is difficult to clean due to its concealed installation location. They propose a self-cleaning control logic for the ion emission device 8, which uses condensate to clean the ion emission device 8 without the need for manual water replenishment.

[0214] In some embodiments, the controller 21 is configured to, when receiving a second signal, keep the protective chamber 7 in a second position, the water pump assembly 5 in a closed state, the second outlet 63 connected to the first outlet 62, and the condensate water that has rinsed the ion emitter 8 is discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 100 through the third through hole 72, the fourth through hole 19, the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 63.

[0215] In some embodiments, the controller 21 is configured to move the protective chamber 7 from the second position to the first position after a period of time, following the discharge of condensate from the cleaning overion emitter 8 within the protective chamber 7.

[0216] Here, the self-cleaning mode of the ion emitter 8, which is indicated by the second signal, ends, and the operation of draining the condensate water that has been used to rinse the ion emitter 8 into the protective chamber 7 is initiated.

[0217] In this application, the indicator for determining whether the condensate water used to rinse the ion emission device 8 has been discharged can be set according to the number of water sprays or the water spray time, or it can be activated after receiving a second signal.

[0218] In some embodiments, the controller 21 is configured to, upon receiving a third signal, control the protective chamber 7 to move to a first position, deactivate the water pump assembly 5, and connect the first inlet 61 to the second outlet 63 to discharge condensate to the outside.

[0219] Here, receiving the third signal means that the ion emitter 8 does not enter self-cleaning mode, but the condensate in the water tray 4 needs to be drained.

[0220] In some embodiments, the condensate drain can be activated based on the condensate level in the drip tray 4.

[0221] In some embodiments, the self-cleaning mode of the ion emitter 8 can also be activated based on the water level of the condensate and / or the operating time of the ion emitter 8.

[0222] In some embodiments, the controller 21 is configured to, upon receiving a fourth signal, move the protective chamber 7 from a first position to a second position, control the first inlet 61 to connect with the third outlet 64, periodically turn on the water pump assembly 5, and allow condensate to enter the protective chamber 7 through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18, and the second through hole 71, so as to use the condensate to rinse the ion emission device 8.

[0223] In some embodiments, the humidity around the ion emitter 8 is maintained within a preset humidity range, and the power controller 81 is controlled to supply power to the emitting electrode 84.

[0224] Here, receiving the fourth signal means executing the powerful purification mode. In this mode, high humidity is achieved near the ion emitter 8 using condensed water, and the ion emitter 8 emits high voltage to the surroundings to form charged microparticle water, so that the ions can diffuse further indoors and have a better sterilization effect. In addition, the high humidity atmosphere can effectively reduce the occurrence of ozone exceeding the standard due to air ionization.

[0225] Reference Figure 13 This explains the control logic of the powerful indoor purification mode in this application.

[0226] In some embodiments, the controller 21 receives a fourth signal (S1301), where receiving the fourth signal indicates that an enhanced purification mode for the indoor environment or the air conditioner is about to be executed.

[0227] When the fourth signal is received, if the air conditioner is operating in another mode, such as the cooling or heating mode, as long as there is sufficient condensate, ion release will not be affected. Upon receiving the fourth signal, the controller 21 immediately controls each component to start working according to the set program.

[0228] When the ion emission module is in self-cleaning mode, the ion emission device 8 can be turned on directly. Alternatively, it can be turned on only after the ambient humidity has reached a preset range.

[0229] In some embodiments, the protective chamber 7 moves from a first position to a second position (S1302). When the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, that is, the protective chamber 7 covers the ion emission device 8 to prevent condensate from splashing everywhere.

[0230] In some embodiments, the protective chamber 7 may be held in a first position (S1306) to prevent the protective chamber 7 from hindering ion diffusion.

[0231] In some embodiments, the condensate nozzle 76 is configured to convert condensate into small molecule water. The condensate nozzle 76 can effectively increase the humidity range around the ion emitter 8 without causing water accumulation in the internal air duct and thus preventing contamination of the internal air duct.

[0232] In some embodiments, the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64 of the water valve assembly 6 are connected (S1303). By connecting the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64, condensate in the drip tray 4 can be delivered to the water pump assembly 5.

[0233] In some embodiments, the water pump assembly 5 is turned on at regular intervals, so that condensate enters the protective chamber 7 through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18 and the second through hole 71, thereby increasing the humidity around the ion emission device 8 (S1304).

[0234] After being pressurized, the water pump assembly 5 delivers water through the outlet pipe to the condensate spray nozzle 76 to clean the surface of the ion emission device 8. The condensate enters the protective chamber 7 after passing through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18, and the second through hole 71, so as to rinse the ion emission device 8 with the condensate.

[0235] In some embodiments, the humidity around the ion emitter 8 is maintained within a preset humidity range, and the power controller 81 is controlled to supply power to the emitting electrode 84 (S1305).

[0236] In the above control logic, the order of S1302 and S1303 can be adjusted as needed; that is, S1303 can be executed first, followed by S1302. Alternatively, S1302 can be replaced with S1306.

[0237] When the air conditioner 100 is in the powerful indoor purification mode, water needs to be sprayed periodically onto the ion emitter 8 at intervals of T to maintain a high humidity environment in the vicinity of the ion emitter 8. This allows the ion emitter 8 to generate more charged microparticle water, enabling the ions to diffuse further indoors and resulting in better sterilization. In addition, the high humidity can effectively reduce the occurrence of ozone exceedances caused by air ionization.

[0238] In some embodiments, the spray interval T is greater than the fifth parameter. If the spray interval T is too small, insufficient condensate will result, making it impossible to maintain a high humidity range effectively for an extended period. Therefore, the spray interval must be greater than the fifth parameter. The fifth parameter can be set to 4.5 min, 4.8 min, or 5.5 min. A suitable specific parameter should be considered during the design process.

[0239] In some embodiments, the spray interval T is less than the sixth parameter. If the spray interval T is too large, the entire mode will run for too long, affecting the execution process. Therefore, the spray interval T needs to be less than the sixth parameter. The sixth parameter can be set to 5 minutes, 6 minutes, or 6.5 minutes. A suitable specific parameter should be considered during the design process.

[0240] The above embodiments address the problem that the ion emission device 8 is difficult to clean due to its concealed installation location. They propose a self-cleaning control logic for the ion emission device 8, which uses condensate to clean the ion emission device 8 without the need for manual water replenishment.

[0241] In addition, when cleaning is not required, the area where the ion emitter 8 is located can be sprayed periodically to increase the air humidity in the area, increase the amount of water ions generated, improve the purification effect, and effectively reduce the ozone content to avoid exceeding the ozone standard.

[0242] In some embodiments of this application, the self-cleaning mode of the ion emission device 8 can also be achieved by high-pressure air blowing or vacuuming. This only requires replacing the high-pressure water pump in this application with a high-pressure air delivery pump or suction pump, and also requires the water valve assembly 6.

[0243] The method of cleaning the opening point of the ion emitter 8 using high-pressure air blowing and vacuuming can be referenced to the method of cleaning the ion emitter 8 using condensate water. Further details are omitted here.

[0244] Compared to cleaning with air blowing or vacuuming, the advantage of using condensate for cleaning is that condensate is a byproduct of the air conditioner's 100% cooling process, and using condensate is a form of reuse.

[0245] Simultaneously, using condensate water for cleaning can effectively prevent dust from flying around on the ion emitter 8. This avoids the ion emitter 8 operating in blowing or cooling mode while self-cleaning, which could cause dust to enter the room and pollute it.

[0246] The air conditioner 100 proposed in this application embodiment includes an indoor unit. The indoor unit includes a housing 1, an internal air duct formed inside the housing 1, an indoor heat exchanger 2 disposed in the internal air duct, a water receiving tray 4 disposed at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger 2, a condensate inlet 42 disposed on the water receiving tray 4, an ion emission device 8 disposed in the internal air duct, a first through hole 18 disposed on the side wall of the housing 1 near the ion emission device 8, a water valve assembly 6, a water pump assembly 5, a protective chamber 7, and a first through hole 18 disposed on the protective chamber 7 that cooperates with the first through hole 18. The water valve assembly 6 includes a first inlet 61, a second outlet 63, a first outlet 62, and a third outlet 64.

[0247] The first inlet 61 is connected to the condensate inlet 42, the third outlet 64 is connected to the first through hole 18, the water pump assembly 5 is located at the third outlet 64, and the protective chamber 7 is rotatably installed on the shell 1 so that the protective chamber 7 has a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber 7 is in the first position, the protective chamber 7 does not interfere with the ion emission device 8; when the protective chamber 7 is in the second position, the protective chamber 7 covers the ion emission device 8 so that a closed or semi-closed space is formed around the ion emission device 8.

[0248] When the first signal is received, the controller 21 controls the protective chamber 7 to move from the first position to the second position, the first inlet 61 and the third outlet 64 are connected, the water pump assembly 5 is turned on, and the condensate water enters the protective chamber 7 through the first inlet 61, the third outlet 64, the first through hole 18 and the second through hole 71, so as to use the condensate water to rinse the ion emission device 8.

[0249] By periodically pumping the condensate from the water collection tray 4 to the location of the ion emitter 8 to rinse the ion emitter 8, it is possible to prevent the ion emitter 8 from being partially blocked by particulate matter due to electrostatic adsorption on its surface after long-term use, which would reduce the amount of ions generated and weaken the purification effect.

[0250] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0251] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the embodiments and various different variations of the embodiments suitable for specific application considerations.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: Indoor unit, the indoor unit further comprising: case; An internal air duct, formed inside the housing, is used to allow airflow. An indoor heat exchanger, located in the internal air duct, is used for heat exchange with the airflow; A drip tray, located at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger, is used to collect condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger. A condensate inlet is provided on the drip tray to allow the collected condensate to pass through; An ion emission device is located in the internal air duct and near one side wall of the housing, for releasing ions to clean the interior of the air conditioner and / or the indoor environment. A first through hole is provided on the side wall near the ion emission device. The position of the first through hole is matched with the installation position of the ion emission device so that the condensate flowing out of the first through hole is aligned with the ion emission device. Water valve assembly, comprising: The first inlet is connected to the condensate inlet; A third outlet, which is connected to the first through hole; The indoor unit also includes: A water pump assembly, located at the third outlet of the water valve assembly, is used to pump the condensate from the first inlet to the third outlet; A protective chamber is rotatably mounted on the housing to have a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber is in the first position, it does not interfere with the ion emission device. When the protective chamber is in the second position, it covers the ion emission device to form a closed or semi-closed space around the ion emission device. The second through hole is provided on the side of the protective cabin near the side wall where the first through hole is provided, and the second through hole cooperates with the first through hole; The controller is configured such that, upon receiving a first signal, the protective chamber moves from a first position to a second position, controls the first inlet to connect with the third outlet, activates the water pump assembly, and allows condensate to enter the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole, so as to flush the ion emission device with the condensate.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective cabin includes at least: Firstly, when the protective cabin is in the second position, the first surface is connected to the bottom surface on which the ion emission device is installed; A third through hole is provided on the first surface; Air conditioners also include: A fourth through hole is provided on the bottom surface where the ion emission device is installed. The fourth through hole cooperates with the third through hole and is connected to the first outlet of the water valve assembly to discharge the condensate water that has been flushed through the ion emission device. The housing also includes: A drain outlet, which is connected to the second outlet of the water valve assembly; The controller is configured to, when receiving a second signal, keep the protective chamber in a second position, the water pump assembly in a closed state, the second outlet connected to the first outlet, and the condensate water that has rinsed the ion emission device discharged to the outside of the air conditioner through the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first outlet and the second outlet; After a period of time, the protective cabin is moved from the second position to the first position.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The controller is configured to, upon receiving a third signal, control the protective chamber to move to a first position, the water pump assembly to cease operation, and the first inlet to connect with the second outlet to discharge condensate outdoors.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes a condensate spray nozzle, which is located at the second through hole of the protective chamber. The condensate spray nozzle is configured such that the cross-section near the second through hole is larger than the cross-section away from the second through hole, so as to pressurize the sprayed condensate. The water pump assembly draws condensate from the third outlet to the condensate nozzle and rinses the ion emission device.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ion emission device includes: A power controller, which is used to provide power; The base is installed on the bottom surface; A grounding electrode, which is electrically connected to the power controller; An emitting electrode is mounted on a base and electrically connected to the power controller, used to adsorb moisture in the air onto the surface of the emitting electrode; When the protective chamber is in the second position, the transmitting electrode and the base are placed inside the protective chamber, and the transmitting electrode is rinsed with condensate.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The protective cabin also includes: A clearance space is provided on the first side of the protective cabin to accommodate the passage of the ion emission device. When the protective cabin moves from the first position to the second position, the ion emission device passes through the clearance space.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Upon receiving the first signal, the water pump assembly is controlled to operate continuously for a preset number of times.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is configured to: when a fourth signal is received, the protective chamber moves from a first position to a second position, controls the first inlet to connect with the third outlet, periodically turns on the water pump assembly, and allows condensate to enter the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole; Maintain the humidity around the ion emission device within a preset humidity range, and control the power controller to supply power to the emission electrode.

9. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: Indoor unit, the indoor unit further comprising: case; An internal air duct, formed inside the housing, is used to allow airflow. An indoor heat exchanger, located in the internal air duct, is used for heat exchange with the airflow; A drip tray, located at the bottom of the indoor heat exchanger, is used to collect condensate flowing down from the indoor heat exchanger. A condensate inlet is provided on the drip tray to discharge the collected condensate. An ion emission device, disposed in the internal air duct and near the housing, is used to release ions to clean the interior of the air conditioner and / or the indoor environment; the ion emission device includes a power controller for providing power. A first through hole is provided near the housing sidewall of the ion emission device. The first through hole is positioned to match the installation position of the ion emission device so that the water flowing out of the first through hole is aligned with the ion emission device. Water valve assembly, comprising: The first inlet is connected to the condensate inlet; A third outlet, which is connected to the first through hole; The indoor unit also includes: A water pump assembly, located at the third outlet of the water valve assembly, is used to pump the condensate from the first inlet to the third outlet; A protective chamber is rotatably mounted on the housing to have a first position and a second position. When the protective chamber is in the first position, it does not interfere with the ion emission device. When the protective chamber is in the second position, it covers the ion emission device to form a closed or semi-open space around the ion emission device. The second through hole is provided on the side of the protective chamber near the side wall of the shell where the first through hole is provided, and the second through hole cooperates with the first through hole; The controller is configured such that when a fourth signal is received, the protective chamber moves from a first position to a second position, controls the first inlet to connect with the third outlet, periodically turns on the water pump assembly, and condensate enters the protective chamber through the first inlet, the third outlet, the first through hole, and the second through hole to flush the ion emission device. Maintain the humidity around the ion emission device within a preset humidity range, and control the power controller to supply power to the emission electrode.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, The protective cabin includes at least: Firstly, when the first surface is in the second position, the first surface is connected to the bottom surface on which the ion emission device is mounted; A third through hole is provided on the first surface; A fourth through hole is provided on the bottom surface where the ion emission device is installed. The fourth through hole cooperates with the third through hole and is connected to the first outlet of the water valve assembly to discharge the condensate water that has been flushed through the ion emission device. The housing also includes: A drain outlet, which is connected to the second outlet of the water valve assembly; The controller is configured to, when receiving a second signal, keep the protective chamber in a second position, the water pump assembly in a closed state, the second outlet connected to the first outlet, and the condensate water that has rinsed the ion emission device discharged to the outside of the air conditioner through the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first outlet and the second outlet; After a period of time, the protective cabin is moved from the second position to the first position.

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