Air conditioner and control method, device, storage medium and computer program product thereof

Abstract

The application discloses an air conditioner and a control method, device, storage medium and computer program product thereof, a film is arranged on the surface of a water channel of a water pan to form a water channel film; the method comprises the following steps: determining whether self-cleaning is needed according to the pollution degree of the water pan; if it is determined that self-cleaning is needed, a preset self-cleaning program is executed to: in combination with the indoor environment temperature, the indoor environment relative humidity, the frozen surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the water film thickness of the water channel film, at least one of the freezing function, the rotating speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled, so that the condensed water generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be gathered to the surface of the water channel film and frozen, defrosted and dried to realize self-cleaning. According to the scheme, the water channel film is used to generate condensed water in the water pan by the freezing function of the evaporator, and self-cleaning is realized by frosting and defrosting and drying, so that the water channel is prevented from being dirty and smelly, and the human health is beneficial.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of air conditioner technology, specifically relating to an air conditioner control method, device, air conditioner, storage medium, and computer program product, and particularly to an air conditioner water channel self-cleaning control method, device, air conditioner, storage medium, and computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioners produce condensate during operation, which is collected in a drip tray (also called a water channel) and drained outdoors through a drain pipe. Over time, a large amount of dust and pollutants inevitably accumulate inside the water channel. Simultaneously, it exists in a warm, humid environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and mold. The proliferation of bacteria and mold affects indoor air quality. Furthermore, the presence of these microorganisms causes them to secrete a slime-like substance within the air conditioner environment, which acts like an adhesive, binding with dust, particles, and other substances to form a sticky deposit. This deposit adheres to the surface of the water channel membrane, affecting the normal operation of the air conditioner; this is known in the industry as biological slime. Figure 7 As shown. Figure 7 The diagram shows the current status of biological slime pollution in the waterways of air conditioners, where (a) represents the current situation. Figure 1 (b) represents the current situation. Figure 2 .

[0003] The accumulation of dust and the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms are the key causes of the aforementioned problems. Due to the narrow structure of the water channels, it is difficult to clean dust and other contaminants by external force unless the unit is disassembled. However, disassembling the unit for cleaning is obviously impractical in terms of both economy and operation. Therefore, the main solution in the relevant proposals is to treat the air conditioner's water channels with antibacterial agents to inhibit microbial growth and thus control the water channel pollution problem. However, the antibacterial water channels in these proposals cannot solve the problem of dirty and odorous water channels in the air conditioner, which is detrimental to human health.

[0004] The above content is only used to assist in understanding the technical solution of the present invention and does not represent an admission that the above content is a related solution. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a control method, device, air conditioner, storage medium, and computer program product for an air conditioner, in order to solve the problem that the antibacterial water channel of the air conditioner cannot solve the problem of dirty and odorous water channel, which is detrimental to human health. The invention achieves the effect of self-cleaning by covering the water channel with a film, using the freezing function of the evaporator to generate condensate water into the water tray, and performing frost formation and defrosting drying, thereby avoiding dirty and odorous water channel and benefiting human health.

[0006] This invention provides a control method for an air conditioner, the air conditioner having an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, the outdoor unit having a compressor, and the indoor unit having an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray; a membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels of the drip tray to form a water channel membrane; the refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate generated by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying; the control method for the air conditioner includes: after the air conditioner is powered on and the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the drip tray is activated, acquiring the degree of contamination of the drip tray, acquiring the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, acquiring the indoor ambient relative humidity of the air conditioner; and acquiring the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger. The degree; and, the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane, denoted as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; based on the degree of contamination of the water tray, determine whether the water tray needs to be self-cleaned; if it is determined that the water tray needs to be self-cleaned, then execute a preset self-cleaning program to: combine the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor ambient relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane to control the freezing function, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can gather on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the water tray.

[0007] In some embodiments, the water channel membrane can directly contact the air inlet surface of the indoor heat exchanger and / or the bottom end of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0008] In some embodiments, a coating is provided on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray to form a water channel coating, including: setting a preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or insert injection molding to form the water channel coating; or, after setting the preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or injection molding, a preset anti-corrosion coating is then applied to form the water channel coating.

[0009] In some embodiments, a preset self-cleaning program is executed to: control the freezing function in conjunction with the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; and control at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray. This includes: executing a preset condensation process under the preset self-cleaning program: controlling at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated on the fins at the freezing function is... and controlling the freezing function to... The condensate generated by the fins collects on the water channel membrane; a preset frosting process is executed: based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency is controlled to frost the fin surface at the freezing function point in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane; a preset defrosting process is executed: the air conditioner is controlled to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency is controlled to defrost the fin surface at the freezing function point in the indoor heat exchanger, melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane; a preset cyclic freezing and peeling process is executed: based on the degree of contamination of the drip tray, the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process are executed cyclically; a preset drying process is executed: the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the self-cleaning of the drip tray.

[0010] In some embodiments, based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function includes: determining the surface dew temperature of the indoor heat exchanger based on the indoor ambient temperature and the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner; reducing the rotation speed of the indoor fan and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is less than or equal to the surface dew temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and recording the duration of a preset dew process; determining whether the water film thickness of the water channel membrane is greater than a preset target water film thickness and whether the duration of the preset dew process is greater than a preset maximum dew time; if the conditions are met, the preset dew process is terminated; if the conditions are not met, the process is returned to continue executing the preset dew process so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane.

[0011] In some embodiments, controlling at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane, includes: determining a corrected temperature for the indoor heat exchanger; turning off the indoor fan or reducing the rotational speed of the indoor fan, and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, such that the sum of the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and maintaining a set frosting time to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane.

[0012] And / or, control the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger and melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane, including: reducing the speed of the indoor fan and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; maintaining the set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane.

[0013] In some embodiments, the preset frosting process and preset defrosting process are cyclically executed according to the degree of contamination of the drip tray, including: after executing the preset frosting process and preset defrosting process, the cumulative number of cleaning times for the drip tray is incremented by 1 to obtain the cumulative number of cleaning times for the drip tray; based on the degree of contamination of the drip tray, it is determined whether the drip tray is clean; and it is determined whether the cumulative number of cleaning times for the drip tray is greater than a preset number; if it is determined that the drip tray is not clean, and it is determined that the cumulative number of cleaning times for the drip tray is less than or equal to the preset number, then the process returns to continue executing the preset frosting process and preset defrosting process; if it is determined that the drip tray is clean... If the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water collection tray is greater than a preset number, the preset frosting process and preset defrosting process are terminated, and a preset drying process is executed; and / or, the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the self-cleaning of the water collection tray, including: reducing the speed of the indoor fan, and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; maintaining the set defrosting time so that the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger defrosts, thereby allowing the defrosting water frozen on the water channel membrane to be dried.

[0014] In conjunction with the above method, another aspect of the present invention provides a control device for an air conditioner, the air conditioner having an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, the outdoor unit having a compressor, and the indoor unit having an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray; a membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels of the drip tray to form a water channel membrane; the refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate generated by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried; the control device for the air conditioner includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire the degree of contamination of the drip tray, acquire the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, acquire the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, and acquire the frozen surface of the indoor heat exchanger when the air conditioner is powered on and the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the drip tray is activated; and acquire the frozen surface of the indoor heat exchanger. Temperature; and, obtaining the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane, denoted as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; the control unit is configured to determine whether the water tray needs to be self-cleaned based on the degree of contamination of the water tray; the control unit is further configured to, if it is determined that the water tray needs to be self-cleaned, execute a preset self-cleaning program to: control the freezing function in combination with the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor ambient relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the water tray.

[0015] In some embodiments, the water channel membrane can directly contact the air inlet surface of the indoor heat exchanger and / or the bottom end of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0016] In some embodiments, a coating is provided on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray to form a water channel coating, including: setting a preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or insert injection molding to form the water channel coating; or, after setting the preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or injection molding, a preset anti-corrosion coating is then applied to form the water channel coating.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control unit executes a preset self-cleaning program to: control the freezing function in conjunction with the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; and control at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray. This includes: executing a preset condensation process under the preset self-cleaning program: controlling at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated on the fins at the freezing function is condensed; and controlling the freezing function to allow the condensate generated on the fins at the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger to be condensed. The condensate generated by the fins at the functional area collects on the water channel membrane; a preset frosting process is executed: based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency is controlled to cause frost to form on the surface of the fins at the freezing functional area in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane; a preset defrosting process is executed: the air conditioner is controlled to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency is controlled to cause defrosting on the surface of the fins at the freezing functional area in the indoor heat exchanger, melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane; a preset cyclic freezing and peeling process is executed: based on the degree of contamination of the drip tray, the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process are executed cyclically; a preset drying process is executed: the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited, completing the self-cleaning of the drip tray.

[0018] In some embodiments, the control unit controls at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function includes: determining the surface dew temperature of the indoor heat exchanger based on the indoor ambient temperature and the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner; reducing the rotational speed of the indoor fan and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is less than or equal to the surface dew temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and recording the duration of a preset condensation process; determining whether the water film thickness of the water channel membrane is greater than a preset target water film thickness and whether the duration of the preset condensation process is greater than a preset maximum condensation time; if the conditions are met, the preset condensation process ends; if the conditions are not met, the process returns to continue executing the preset condensation process so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane.

[0019] In some embodiments, the control unit controls at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane. This includes: determining a corrected temperature for the indoor heat exchanger; shutting off the indoor fan or reducing the rotational speed of the indoor fan, and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, so that the sum of the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and maintaining a set frosting time to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane. The condensate that accumulates on the water channel membrane freezes; and / or, the control unit controls the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and controls at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger and melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane, including: reducing the speed of the indoor fan and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; maintaining the set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane.

[0020] In some embodiments, the control unit, based on the degree of contamination of the drip tray, cyclically executes a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process, including: after executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process, incrementing the cumulative number of cleaning cycles for the drip tray by 1 to obtain the cumulative number of cleaning cycles for the drip tray; determining whether the drip tray is clean based on the degree of contamination; and determining whether the cumulative number of cleaning cycles for the drip tray is greater than a preset number; if it is determined that the drip tray is not clean, and it is determined that the cumulative number of cleaning cycles for the drip tray is less than or equal to the preset number, then returning to continue executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process; if it is determined that the drip tray is clean... If the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water collection tray exceeds a preset number, the preset frosting and defrosting processes are terminated, and a preset drying process is executed; and / or, the control unit dries the defrosting water on the water channel membrane, then exits the preset self-cleaning program, completing the self-cleaning of the water collection tray, including: reducing the speed of the indoor fan, and / or increasing the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; maintaining the set defrosting time so that the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger defrosts, thereby drying the defrosting water frozen on the water channel membrane.

[0021] In conjunction with the above-described device, the present invention further provides an air conditioner, comprising: the control device for the air conditioner described above.

[0022] In conjunction with the above method, the present invention further provides a storage medium comprising a stored program, wherein, when the program is executed, the device on which the storage medium is located executes the steps of the control method for the air conditioner described above.

[0023] In conjunction with the above method, the present invention further provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the air conditioner described above.

[0024] Therefore, the solution of this invention involves covering the water channels of the indoor unit of the air conditioner with a film (such as adhering or injecting copper foil onto the water channels, or setting copper foil on the water channels and then coating an anti-corrosion layer to form a water channel film); when the air conditioner is turned on and running in cooling mode, it is determined whether the air conditioner's self-cleaning program needs to be activated; if the air conditioner's self-cleaning program needs to be activated, during the condensation process: the freezing function is activated, and based on the thickness of the water film on the water channel film, at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency is adjusted to cause the freezing function to generate condensate and collect it in the drip tray; during the frosting process: the... The system adjusts at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency to freeze the water channel membrane surface of the drip tray. During the defrosting and drying process, the system switches from cooling mode to heating mode and adjusts at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency to restore the water channel membrane surface temperature to above 0°C, thus defrosting and drying the water channel. Afterward, the self-cleaning program is exited: the freezing function is turned off and the heat exchange function is turned on. Thus, by using the water channel membrane and the freezing function of the evaporator to generate condensate in the drip tray, and performing frost and defrosting drying, self-cleaning is achieved, avoiding dirty and odorous water channels, which is beneficial to human health.

[0025] Other features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention.

[0026] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the control method for an air conditioner according to the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention, in which the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger is collected on the water channel membrane surface and frozen, defrosted and dried.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention, which describes the condensation water generated by the fins at the freezing function.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention, which involves frosting the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for melting the frost layer frozen onto the waterway membrane;

[0032] Figure 6This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention, which cyclically executes a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for drying defrosting water on the waterway membrane;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the control device for an air conditioner according to the present invention;

[0035] Figure 9 The diagram shows the current status of biological slime pollution in the waterways of air conditioners, where (a) represents the current situation. Figure 1 (b) represents the current situation. Figure 2 ;

[0036] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of an air conditioner with a self-cleaning water tray function;

[0037] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the waterway cladding scheme.

[0038] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating a water channel self-cleaning control method for an air conditioner;

[0039] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the water channel self-cleaning control device for an air conditioner.

[0040] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the reference numerals in the embodiments of the present invention are as follows:

[0041] 1-Drain tray; 2-Fins; 3-Copper pipe; 4-Air inlet; 5-Air outlet; 6-Evaporator; 61-Evaporator air inlet surface; 62-Evaporator bottom end; 8-Internal fan; 9-Aluminum foil water channel (conducting cooling capacity); 10-Air conditioner bottom shell; 102-Acquisition unit; 104-Control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with specific embodiments and corresponding drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this invention, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0043] Considering that the proposed solutions for antibacterial water channels in air conditioners cannot solve the problem of dirty and odorous water channels, which is detrimental to human health, the following considerations are taken into account. Specifically, the proposed solutions mainly involve antibacterial treatment of the air conditioner's water channels to inhibit microbial growth and thus control water channel contamination. However, contact-type antibacterial methods, such as antibacterial treatment of the water channel membrane surface material, have limited effectiveness, especially when the antibacterial water channel membrane surface is covered by contaminants, rendering it ineffective. Desorption-type antibacterial methods work by releasing antibacterial substances from residual condensate in the water channels, but the speed is uncontrollable, the effect is not long-lasting, and it eventually becomes ineffective. Replaceable desorption-type antibacterial modules can solve some problems, but replacement and installation are difficult given the narrow water channels and congested internal structure of air conditioners. Furthermore, even if the problem of microbial contamination is solved, the presence of dust can still lead to blockages and odors. In conclusion, the proposed solutions aim to completely solve the problem of dirty water channels in air conditioners.

[0044] The promotion and application of self-cleaning technology for air conditioner evaporators in related solutions provides a certain technical approach to solving the above problems. This involves methods such as freezing and peeling off heat exchangers, condensation flushing, and high-temperature sterilization to achieve a good cleaning effect on the inner surface of the air conditioner. The only difference is that in the related solutions, both the dirty and cleaned components are on the evaporator, making it easier to achieve the above effects. However, in the latter case, there is a certain distance between the water channel and the evaporator. Due to air insulation issues, the heat from the evaporator cannot be smoothly transferred to the water channel, thus failing to achieve the corresponding self-cleaning effect.

[0045] It is evident that, due to limitations such as the water channel structure, there is still no good solution to the problems of dirty water channels and bacterial growth in the relevant solutions; in addition, the evaporator self-cleaning technology in the relevant solutions cannot achieve the cleaning effect on the water channels.

[0046] Therefore, the present invention proposes a control method for an air conditioner, specifically a self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner. This method employs water channel freezing and peeling technology to provide a highly efficient, durable, and consumable-free air conditioner water channel purification solution based on the natural process of structural damage caused by the freezing and expansion of moisture (thermal expansion and contraction). By covering the water channels in the air conditioner with a membrane (such as copper foil covering the surface of the membrane) and combining this with the air conditioner's own control program to perform freezing and peeling, condensation flushing, and high-temperature sterilization, the self-cleaning effect of the water channels is achieved. This better solves the problem of dirt in the air conditioner's water channels and is beneficial to human health.

[0047] In the waterway freezing and stripping technology, the freeze-thaw stripping principle of waterway slime is a natural process that utilizes the expansion of water during freezing (thermal expansion and contraction) to cause structural damage, as detailed below:

[0048] 1) Moisture freezing and expansion: When the moisture in the clay freezes at low temperatures, it expands in volume by about 9%, generating internal pressure. This pressure exceeds the tensile strength of the clay, leading to crack formation.

[0049] 2) Crack propagation and detachment: Cracks propagate during repeated freeze-thaw cycles, eventually causing the clay layer to detach from the inner wall of the waterway. This process is similar to ice wedging in rock weathering, but the clay material is softer and the effect is more pronounced.

[0050] 3) Effects of repeated freeze-thaw cycles: Frequent freeze-thaw cycles exacerbate damage, with each freeze increasing expansion pressure, eventually leading to complete delamination. Large temperature differences and frequent temperature changes accelerate this process.

[0051] 4) The effect of water flow scouring: After the slime material is frozen and peeled off, it is carried away from the waterway by the defrosting water during the defrosting process of the air conditioner.

[0052] According to embodiments of the present invention, a control method for an air conditioner is provided, such as... Figure 1 The diagram shows a flow chart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention. The air conditioner has an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit has a compressor, and the indoor unit has an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray. A membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels in the drip tray to form a water channel membrane. The refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate generated by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying. The drip tray is as follows: Figure 10 Water receiving tray 1, water channel lining as follows Figure 11 The aluminum foil waterway 9 in the invention. In the embodiment of the invention, as... Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the air conditioner includes steps S110 to S130.

[0053] In step S110, after the air conditioner is powered on and the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the water tray is activated, the degree of contamination of the water tray is obtained, the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner is obtained, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner is obtained, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is obtained, and, if a water film is formed on the water channel membrane, the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane is obtained and recorded as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane.

[0054] In step S120, it is determined whether the water receiving tray needs to be self-cleaned based on the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray.

[0055] In step S130, if it is determined that the water tray needs to be self-cleaned, a preset self-cleaning program is executed to: control the freezing function by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the water tray.

[0056] The present invention provides a self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner. It adopts a highly efficient, durable, and consumable-free water channel purification solution based on the natural process of water freezing and expansion (thermal expansion and contraction) leading to structural damage. By combining the water channel coating (such as covering the surface of the water channel coating with copper foil) with the air conditioner's own control program, the self-cleaning effect of the water channel is achieved through freezing and peeling, condensation flushing, and high-temperature sterilization. This can better solve the problem of dirt in the water channels of air conditioners and is beneficial to human health.

[0057] In some embodiments, the water channel membrane can directly contact the air inlet surface of the indoor heat exchanger and / or the bottom end of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0058] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner with a self-cleaning drip tray. Figure 10 As shown, the air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit has an air inlet 4, an internal fan 8, and an air outlet 5. A duct connecting the air inlet 4 and the air outlet 5 contains a drip tray 1 and environmental parameter detection devices (such as temperature and humidity sensors). The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an external fan, and a condenser. The environmental parameter detection devices are an air quality detection unit and an air temperature and humidity detection unit. The air quality detection unit detects indoor air quality and includes PM2.5 sensors and microbial sensors. The air temperature and humidity detection unit detects indoor temperature and humidity and includes temperature sensors, humidity sensors, or temperature and humidity sensors. An evaporator 6 is installed above the drip tray 1. The evaporator 6 has copper tubes 3 and fins 2. During cooling operation, the evaporator 6 produces condensate, which flows down the fins 2 of the evaporator 6 and collects in the drip tray 1. The condensate flows from the higher end of the drip tray to the lower end and finally drains to the outside through the drain nozzle and the air conditioner's drain pipe. Optionally, the drain nozzle has a controllable valve that can be opened and closed to control the flow of condensate in the drip tray 1.

[0059] The environmental parameter detection device includes an air quality detection unit and an air temperature and humidity detection unit. The air quality detection unit is used to detect indoor air quality, including PM2.5 sensors and microbial sensors. The air temperature and humidity detection unit is used to detect indoor temperature and humidity, including temperature sensors, humidity sensors, or temperature and humidity sensors. A water channel liquid film thickness and icing detection unit is used to determine whether the water thickness in the water channel meets the freezing requirements and whether the accumulated water has frozen, using methods such as temperature detection, infrared thermography, or even camera recognition. A heat exchanger (such as an evaporator 6) is installed above the water tray 1. During the cooling operation of the air conditioner, the heat exchanger produces condensate, which flows down along the fins 2 of the heat exchanger and collects in the water tray 1, finally draining outdoors through the drain nozzle and the air conditioner's drain pipe. The water channel film coating uses copper foil, which has excellent antibacterial and thermal conductivity properties, meeting the requirements of the freeze-peel technology.

[0060] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a waterway cladding scheme. (Example:) Figure 11 As shown, after a copper foil film is bonded to the water channel, a copper foil water channel 9 is formed. The copper foil water channel 9 can also conduct cold air, and the large heat transfer area makes it easier for the water at the bottom of the copper water channel to freeze. The water channel is located on the bottom shell 10 of the air conditioner. The copper foil film on the water channel is in direct contact with the air inlet surface 61 of the evaporator, and the copper foil film on the water channel is also in direct contact with the bottom end 62 of the evaporator to fit the water channel, making the surface of the plastic bottom shell copper. This facilitates the collection of condensate and achieves self-cleaning.

[0061] In some embodiments, a coating is provided on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray to form a water channel coating, including: setting a preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by bonding or injection molding to form the water channel coating. Alternatively, after setting the preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by bonding or injection molding, a preset anti-corrosion coating is applied to form the water channel coating.

[0062] Specifically, the copper foil coating technology uses copper foil material with moderate thickness (usually 0.1mm to 0.5mm) and excellent thermal conductivity. The width and length of the copper foil are customized according to the specific dimensions of the water channel, because the bottom shell structure of each air conditioner is different, and the copper foil must be completely adhered to the bottom shell structure during coating. Adhesive: A high-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant adhesive is selected (requiring a certain bonding time or bonding under certain conditions; it is liquid before bonding). This adhesive ensures that the copper foil will not fall off in the high-temperature and high-humidity environment of the air conditioner operation. After cleaning and drying the copper foil, the adhesive is applied to the back, and the copper foil is adhered to the water channel. Molding is used to make the shape of the water channel and the copper foil completely fit together. Under certain conditions (such as heating conditions), the adhesive completes the bonding, completing the water channel coating process. Molding can use plastic injection molds. Plastic injection molding is usually divided into male molds and female molds: the male mold is a raised structure in the mold, used to form the outer surface of the product; the female mold is a recessed structure in the mold, used to form the inner surface of the product. During molding, a pre-formed plastic base shell is used, and a matching male mold is pressed into the recessed structure within the water channel. Preferably, the male mold has a heating function to provide the appropriate temperature for the adhesive to heat-cure. Related solutions use extended fins to transfer heat, while the solution of this invention uses a copper coating to transfer heat.

[0063] The present invention provides a waterway based on a material coating and an air conditioner having the same, which uses an adhesive that requires a curing process as the bonding material, so that the waterway and the coating material are completely bonded together before curing, thereby achieving a better bonding effect.

[0064] In some alternative embodiments, an anti-corrosion coating, such as epoxy resin, acrylic resin, or polyurethane coating, can be applied to the surface of the copper foil to improve the long-term reliability of the coating solution. In addition to the above methods, insert molding or other methods can be used to achieve a tight bond between the copper foil and the water channels of the heat exchanger bottom shell. Both the upper and lower water channels of the heat exchanger bottom shell can be coated, enabling the air conditioner's drip tray to achieve long-term self-cleaning using condensate and freeze-thaw purification, while ensuring effective cleaning.

[0065] In some embodiments, a preset self-cleaning procedure is executed to: control the freezing function by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby realizing the self-cleaning process of the drip tray. See the following exemplary description for details.

[0066] The following is combined Figure 2The schematic diagram shown is a flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention in which the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried. It further illustrates the specific process of step S130 in which the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried, including steps S210 to S250.

[0067] Step S210: Execute a preset condensation process under a preset self-cleaning program: Based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, control at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to cause condensation generated by the fins at the freezing function; and control the freezing function to cause the condensation generated by the fins at the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger to collect on the water channel membrane.

[0068] Step S220: Perform a preset frosting process: Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, control at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to frost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that collects on the water channel membrane.

[0069] Step S230: Perform a preset defrosting process: Control the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode. According to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, so that the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane melts.

[0070] Step S240: Execute a preset cyclic freezing and peeling process: Based on the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, execute a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process cyclically.

[0071] Step S250: Execute the preset drying process: dry the defrosting water on the water channel membrane, and then exit the preset self-cleaning program to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray.

[0072] In the present invention, the freezing function is controlled by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the relative humidity of the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane. At least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is also controlled so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the water tray. This can better solve the problem of dirt in the water channel of the air conditioner and is beneficial to human health.

[0073] In some embodiments, in step S210, at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function is specifically described in the following exemplary description.

[0074] The following is combined Figure 3 The schematic diagram shown is a flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for generating condensate in the fins of the freezing function. It further illustrates the specific process of generating condensate in the fins of the freezing function in step S210, including steps S310 to S350.

[0075] Step S310: Determine the surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger based on the indoor ambient temperature and the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner.

[0076] Step S320: Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is less than or equal to the surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and record the duration of the preset condensation process.

[0077] Step S330: Determine whether the water film thickness of the waterway membrane is greater than the preset target water film thickness, and whether the preset duration of the condensation process is greater than the preset maximum condensation time. The preset duration of the condensation process is, for example, a certain time t during the condensation process on the evaporator surface. 露 The preset maximum condensation time is such as the maximum duration t0 of condensation on the evaporator.

[0078] Step S340: If the condition is satisfied, the preset condensation process ends.

[0079] Step S350: If it is determined that the condition is not met, return to continue executing the preset condensation process so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane.

[0080] Figure 12 is a schematic flow diagram of a water channel self-cleaning control method for an air conditioner. To achieve the above objective, as Figure 12 shows, in combination with the above heat exchanger, the solution of the present invention provides a self-cleaning control scheme for a drain pan of an air conditioner. As Figure 12 shows, the water channel self-cleaning control method for an air conditioner comprises the following steps:

[0081] Step 1: the air conditioner is powered on and operates, and then step 2 or step 3 is executed.

[0082] Step 2: a drain pan self-cleaning instruction from a user is acquired, and then step 3 is executed.

[0083] Step 3: the contamination degree of the drain pan of the air conditioner is detected and acquired, and whether it is necessary to run the self-cleaning program is determined: if yes, step 4 is executed; otherwise, step 5 is executed.

[0084] In step 3, the contamination degree P of the drain pan is determined by combining the cumulative operation time t of the air conditioner and the average indoor pollutant concentration C within the corresponding time period, that is P=f(t,C). Specifically, P=k1×t×C, wherein k1 is a pollutant deposition coefficient, which represents the degree of contamination of the drain pan caused by the deposition and growth of pollutants. The cumulative operation time t can be determined according to the operation time of a motor of the air conditioner, and the average indoor pollutant concentration C is detected in real time or at regular intervals by an indoor pollutant sensor, and the corresponding average value is calculated and obtained.

[0085] When the contamination degree P of the drain pan is less than or equal to a preset value P0, the determination is negative, which indicates that the cumulative operation time of the air conditioner is not long or the air quality is good, and there is no obvious dirt on the drain pan, so relevant cleaning is not required.

[0086] When the contamination degree P of the drain pan is greater than or equal to a preset value P1, the determination is positive, which indicates that the air conditioner has been operated for a long time or the indoor air quality is poor, the possibility that the drain pan is contaminated is relatively high, and relevant procedures need to be run as soon as possible for cleaning, so as to ensure healthy use by users.

[0087] When the contamination degree P of the drain pan satisfies P0<P<P1, it indicates that the contamination condition of the drain pan is moderate, and cleaning can be performed in time or delayed. Specifically, when the drain pan self-cleaning instruction comes from a user setting, the user's will shall prevail, and timely cleaning is taken as the priority; when the drain pan self-cleaning instruction comes from autonomous detection by the air conditioner, the user is reminded by voice, APP push and other methods to decide whether to perform water channel self-cleaning. Specifically, when the drain pan self-cleaning instruction comes from autonomous detection by the air conditioner and other conventional instructions such as cooling from the user are being executed at this time, the reminding is performed after the operation of relevant modes is finished.

[0088] Optionally, the degree of contamination of the water tray can also be determined directly by the cumulative running time or the interval since the last self-cleaning, or by visual judgment using visualization technology such as a camera, which can also achieve the effect of the present invention.

[0089] The number of cleaning cycles is recorded as x = 0.

[0090] Step 4: Control the air conditioner to perform self-cleaning of the drip tray.

[0091] When it is determined that the drip tray self-cleaning is required, the air conditioner is controlled to run the following self-cleaning program. The drip tray self-cleaning program includes processes such as condensation, frosting, defrosting, and drying, which are performed sequentially. Specifically:

[0092] Step 41, Condensation process: Measure the water film thickness and determine if the condensation time has exceeded the limit, and perform cyclic freezing and peeling control to open the air conditioner's air guide plate.

[0093] ① The current temperature and relative humidity of the indoor environment where the indoor unit is located are obtained by using an ambient temperature and humidity sensor to determine the condensation temperature T on the evaporator surface. 露 .

[0094] ② Reduce the indoor unit fan speed and adjust the compressor operating frequency to control the evaporator surface temperature T, keeping it below the indoor condensation temperature, i.e., T ≤ T. 露 The surface temperature of the evaporator is obtained by detecting a temperature sensor.

[0095] ③ Maintain the above-mentioned condensation process on the evaporator surface for a certain period of time t. 露 This is to generate enough condensate to contact and cover the entire water film surface. The current water film thickness D is then measured. x For example, infrared or capacitive sensors can be used to detect changes in the water film, or cameras can be used to identify changes in the water film. The target water film thickness D0 is then used to determine the water film thickness D. x >D0 proceeds to the next step; otherwise, condensation continues. Simultaneously, t is determined. 露 If t0 is true, proceed to the next step. Preferably, the longest duration of condensation in the evaporator is t0, which is 15 minutes. Otherwise, condensation continues.

[0096] Step 42, the frosting process.

[0097] Step 43, defrosting process.

[0098] Step 44: Cyclic freeze-peeling process.

[0099] Step 45: Drying process.

[0100] In the present invention, at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane with condensate and clean the surface of the water channel membrane, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

[0101] In some embodiments, the specific process of controlling at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor in step S220, based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that collects on the water channel membrane, is described in the following exemplary description.

[0102] The following is combined with Figure 4 The schematic diagram shown is a flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for frosting the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger. It further illustrates the specific process of frosting the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger in step S220, including steps S410 to S430.

[0103] Step S410: Determine the correction temperature of the indoor heat exchanger. The correction temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is, for example, correction temperature T. 霜修正 .

[0104] Step S420: Turn off the indoor fan or reduce the speed of the indoor fan, and / or increase the frequency of the compressor, so that the sum of the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger. Wherein, the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is, for example, the frosting target temperature T... 霜 -1℃ to target frost temperature T 霜 +1℃.

[0105] Step S430: Maintain the set frosting time to allow frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane. The set frosting time is, for example, the duration t of evaporator frosting. 霜 .

[0106] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0107] During the frosting process in step 42: The indoor unit fan is turned off or its speed is adjusted and / or the compressor's operating frequency is adjusted to cause frost to form on the surface of the main heat exchange zone of the indoor unit evaporator, thereby achieving a freezing effect on the water channels. This includes: ① reducing the indoor unit fan speed or turning it off, and adjusting the compressor's operating frequency to control the surface temperature T of the main heat exchange zone of the evaporator 6, ensuring that it remains within a certain target frosting temperature range after freezing correction. The target frosting temperature range is T. 霜 ±1℃, i.e., T 霜 -1℃≤T+T 霜修正 ≤T 霜 +1℃. Specifically, when T 霜 -1℃-T 霜修正 When T ≥ T, increase the wind speed or decrease the frequency. 霜 +1℃-T 霜修正 At that time, reduce wind speed or increase frequency, T 霜 +1℃-T 霜修正 ≥T≥T 霜 -1℃-T 霜修正 At that time, the wind speed frequency remains constant. Preferably, the target frost temperature T 霜 The temperature range is -4℃ to -2℃. The corrected temperature T... 霜修正 This is related to the efficiency of heat transfer from the heat exchanger fins to the copper foil channels. ② Maintain the above-mentioned frosting process on the evaporator surface for a certain period of time t. 霜 This ensures that the entire surface of the waterway membrane is frozen. Preferably, the duration t of frost formation on the evaporator is... 霜 It takes 15 minutes.

[0108] In the present invention, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to frost on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that gathers on the water channel membrane, so that the entire surface of the water channel membrane can be frozen, and the dirt on the surface of the water channel membrane is frozen together to achieve cleaning.

[0109] In some embodiments, step S230 involves controlling the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode. Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled to defrost the fin surface at the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, and to melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane. For the specific process, please refer to the following exemplary description.

[0110] The following is combined with Figure 5The schematic diagram shown is a flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for melting the frost layer frozen on the waterway membrane. It further illustrates the specific process of melting the frost layer frozen on the waterway membrane in step S230, including steps S510 to S520.

[0111] Step S510: Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrost target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; wherein, the error range of the set defrost target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, such as the defrost target temperature T... 化 -2℃ to the target defrosting temperature T 化 +2℃.

[0112] Step S520: Maintain the set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane.

[0113] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0114] During the defrosting process in step 43: Through the compressor stopping, the four-way valve reversing, and the compressor restarting, the air conditioner switches from cooling mode to heating mode. The speed of the indoor fan and / or the operating frequency of the compressor are adjusted to raise the temperature of the evaporator fins, reaching the conditions for melting the frost at the bottom of the water channel, thus initiating the defrosting and drying process. The indoor unit fan speed is adjusted, and the compressor operating frequency is controlled to bring the water channel temperature back above 0°C (until the frost melts). For example: the fan can be turned off directly because the copper foil itself has good thermal conductivity, eliminating the need for the fan to carry heat to the water channel, and under these conditions, the water channel temperature will return to normal faster. The compressor can run at a high frequency; the higher the heat exchange capacity, the faster the speed, and it doesn't have a significant impact.

[0115] In the present invention, the air conditioner is controlled to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode. Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, so that the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane melts and the dirt on the surface of the water channel membrane can be discharged with the defrosting water.

[0116] In some embodiments, the specific process of cyclically executing a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process in step S240 according to the degree of contamination of the water receiving pan is described in the following exemplary description.

[0117] The following is combined with Figure 6The flowchart shown is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method of the present invention, in which a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process are executed cyclically. The specific process of executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process cyclically in step S240 is further explained, including steps S610 to S640.

[0118] Step S610: After executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process, the cumulative number of cleaning times of the water receiving tray is incremented by 1 to obtain the cumulative number of cleaning times of the water receiving tray.

[0119] Step S620: Determine whether the water tray is clean based on its degree of contamination; and determine whether the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray is greater than a preset number. The cumulative number of cleaning cycles is denoted as x, and the preset number is 3. The cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray is obtained by adding 1 to the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray.

[0120] Step S630: If it is determined that the water tray is not clean, and the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray is less than or equal to the preset number, then return to continue executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process.

[0121] Step S640: If it is determined that the water receiving tray has been cleaned, or if it is determined that the cumulative number of cleaning times of the water receiving tray is greater than the preset number, then the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process are terminated, and the preset drying process is executed.

[0122] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0123] In the cyclic freeze-peeling process of step 44: determine whether it is clean. If it is "clean", proceed to the next step; otherwise, return to the condensation process and record the number of cleanings as x = x + 1. At the same time, when x > 3, directly proceed to the drying process.

[0124] The degree of contamination P of the water tray is determined by combining the cumulative operating time t of the air conditioner and the average indoor pollutant concentration C within the corresponding time, i.e., P = f(t, C). Specifically, P = k1 × t × C. k1 is the pollutant deposition coefficient, characterizing the degree of contamination of the water tray due to pollutant deposition and growth. This can be confirmed based on the above judgment. The solution of this invention uses sensors to determine the concentration of pollutants in the water to judge whether it is clean. As the number of cleaning cycles increases, the concentration of pollutants in the water will decrease; cleaning can be controlled until it is clean.

[0125] In the present invention, a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process are executed cyclically according to the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, so as to improve the cleaning effect on the surface of the water channel membrane.

[0126] In some embodiments, in step S250, the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the specific process of self-cleaning the water receiving tray. See the following exemplary description.

[0127] The following is combined with Figure 7 The schematic diagram shown is a flowchart of an embodiment of the method of the present invention for drying the defrosting water on the waterway membrane. It further illustrates the specific process of drying the defrosting water on the waterway membrane in step S250, including steps S710 to S720.

[0128] Step S710: Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0129] Step S720: Maintain the set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby allowing the defrosting water frozen on the water channel membrane to be dried.

[0130] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0131] During the drying process in step 45: the air conditioner switches from cooling mode to heating mode through compressor shutdown, four-way valve reversal, and compressor restart. The speed of the indoor fan and / or the operating frequency of the compressor are adjusted to raise the temperature of the evaporator fins, reaching the conditions for frost melting at the bottom of the water channel, thus initiating the defrosting and drying process. This includes: ① adjusting the indoor unit fan speed and controlling the compressor operating frequency to maintain the evaporator surface temperature T within a certain defrosting target temperature range, where the defrosting target temperature range is T. 化 ±2℃, i.e., T 化 +2℃≥T≥T 化 -2℃. Specifically, when T 化 When -2℃ ≥ T, reduce wind speed or increase frequency; when T ≥ T 化 At +2℃, increasing the wind speed or decreasing the frequency, T 化 +2℃≥T≥T 化 At -2℃, the wind speed frequency remains constant. Preferably, the defrosting target temperature T 化 The temperature is 56℃~65℃; ② Maintain the above-mentioned defrosting and drying process on the evaporator surface for a certain period of time t. 化 This ensures that the frost layer between the fins and in the water collection tray is effectively melted and fully dried. Preferably, the duration t of the defrosting and drying process of the evaporator is... 化 The time is 30 to 40 minutes.

[0132] Step 5: When it is determined that the water tray self-cleaning is not required, control the air conditioner to perform the water tray drying function, and then exit the self-cleaning mode to allow the air conditioner to operate normally. Drying the water in the drain pipes helps prevent the growth of microorganisms.

[0133] In the present invention, the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray, thereby preventing the defrosting water that has not been drained from the surface of the water channel membrane from accumulating dirt again and improving the cleaning effect.

[0134] In the solution of this invention, the air conditioner can achieve the processes of condensation, frost formation, defrosting and drying of the water tray by using the compressor, fan and other actuators in related solutions through water channel lining without adding an additional purification device, combined with system parameter control. This achieves the effects of condensation cleaning, freezing and peeling, and high-temperature sterilization. In other words, the water tray is self-cleaned entirely by the air conditioner itself, and it is highly efficient, durable and requires no consumables, thus solving the problem of difficult cleaning of the water tray in related solutions.

[0135] The technical solution of this embodiment involves covering the water channels of the indoor unit of the air conditioner with a film (such as adhering or injecting copper foil onto the water channels, or setting copper foil on the water channels and then coating it with an anti-corrosion layer to form a water channel film); when the air conditioner is turned on and running in cooling mode, it is determined whether the air conditioner's self-cleaning program needs to be activated; if the air conditioner's self-cleaning program needs to be activated, during the condensation process: the freezing function is activated, and based on the thickness of the water film on the water channel film, at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency is adjusted to cause the freezing function to generate condensate and collect it in the drip tray; during the frosting process... The process involves adjusting at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency to freeze the water channel membrane surface of the drip tray; during defrosting and drying: switching from cooling mode to heating mode, adjusting at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency to restore the water channel membrane surface temperature to above 0°C, thus defrosting and drying the water channel; then exiting the self-cleaning program: turning off the freezing function and turning on the heat exchange function; thereby, by using the water channel membrane and utilizing the freezing function of the evaporator to generate condensate in the drip tray, and performing frosting and defrosting drying to achieve self-cleaning, avoiding dirty water channels and odors, which is beneficial to human health.

[0136] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a control device for an air conditioner corresponding to the control method for an air conditioner is also provided. See also Figure 8The diagram shows a structural schematic of an embodiment of the device of the present invention. The air conditioner has an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit has a compressor, and the indoor unit has an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray. A membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels in the drip tray to form a water channel membrane. The refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate generated by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying. The drip tray is as follows... Figure 10 Water receiving tray 1, water channel lining as follows Figure 11 The aluminum foil waterway 9 in the present invention; as in the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 As shown, the control device of the air conditioner includes: an acquisition unit 102 and a control unit 104.

[0137] The acquisition unit 102 is configured to, after the air conditioner is powered on and when the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the drip tray is activated, acquire the degree of contamination of the drip tray, acquire the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, acquire the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, acquire the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and, if a water film is formed on the water channel membrane, acquire the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane, denoted as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane. For the specific functions and processing of this acquisition unit 102, please refer to step S110.

[0138] The control unit 104 is configured to determine whether the water receiving tray needs to be self-cleaned based on the degree of contamination of the tray. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are described in step S120.

[0139] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset self-cleaning program if it is determined that self-cleaning of the drip tray is required. This program involves: controlling the freezing function based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the relative humidity of the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; and controlling at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray. The specific functions and processing of this control unit 104 are further described in step S130.

[0140] The present invention provides a self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner. It adopts a highly efficient, durable, and consumable-free water channel purification solution based on the natural process of water freezing and expansion (thermal expansion and contraction) leading to structural damage. By combining the water channel coating (such as covering the surface of the water channel coating with copper foil) with the air conditioner's own control program, the self-cleaning effect of the water channel is achieved through freezing and peeling, condensation flushing, and high-temperature sterilization. This can better solve the problem of dirt in the water channels of air conditioners and is beneficial to human health.

[0141] In some embodiments, the water channel membrane can directly contact the air inlet surface of the indoor heat exchanger and / or the bottom end of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0142] like Figure 10 As shown, the air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit has an air inlet 4, an internal fan 8, and an air outlet 5. A duct connecting the air inlet 4 and the air outlet 5 contains a drip tray 1 and environmental parameter detection devices (such as temperature and humidity sensors). The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an external fan, and a condenser. The environmental parameter detection devices are an air quality detection unit and an air temperature and humidity detection unit. The air quality detection unit detects indoor air quality and includes PM2.5 sensors and microbial sensors. The air temperature and humidity detection unit detects indoor temperature and humidity and includes temperature sensors, humidity sensors, or temperature and humidity sensors. An evaporator 6 is installed above the drip tray 1. The evaporator 6 has copper tubes 3 and fins 2. During cooling operation, the evaporator 6 produces condensate, which flows down the fins 2 of the evaporator 6 and collects in the drip tray 1. The condensate flows from the higher end of the drip tray to the lower end and finally drains to the outside through the drain nozzle and the air conditioner's drain pipe. Optionally, the drain nozzle has a controllable valve that can be opened and closed to control the flow of condensate in the drip tray 1.

[0143] The environmental parameter detection device includes an air quality detection unit and an air temperature and humidity detection unit. The air quality detection unit is used to detect indoor air quality, including PM2.5 sensors and microbial sensors. The air temperature and humidity detection unit is used to detect indoor temperature and humidity, including temperature sensors, humidity sensors, or temperature and humidity sensors. A water channel liquid film thickness and icing detection unit is used to determine whether the water thickness in the water channel meets the freezing requirements and whether the accumulated water has frozen. A heat exchanger (such as an evaporator 6) is installed above the water collection tray 1. During the cooling operation of the air conditioner, the heat exchanger produces condensate, which flows down along the fins 2 of the heat exchanger and collects in the water collection tray 1, finally draining to the outside through the drain nozzle and the air conditioner's drain pipe. The water channel film coating uses copper foil, which has excellent antibacterial and thermal conductivity properties, meeting the requirements of the freeze-peel technology.

[0144] like Figure 11As shown, after a copper foil film is bonded to the water channel, a copper foil water channel 9 is formed, which can also conduct cold air. The copper foil film on the water channel is in direct contact with the air inlet surface 61 of the evaporator, and also in direct contact with the bottom end 62 of the evaporator. This facilitates the collection of condensate and achieves self-cleaning.

[0145] In some embodiments, a coating is provided on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray to form a water channel coating, including: setting a preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or insert injection molding to form the water channel coating; or, after setting the preset copper foil on the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by means of bonding or injection molding, a preset anti-corrosion coating is then applied to form the water channel coating.

[0146] Specifically, the copper foil coating technology uses copper foil material with moderate thickness (typically 0.1mm to 0.5mm) and excellent thermal conductivity. The width and length of the copper foil are customized according to the specific dimensions of the water channel. Adhesive: A high-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant adhesive is selected (requiring a certain bonding time or specific conditions; it must be liquid before bonding) to ensure that the copper foil does not peel off in the high-temperature and high-humidity environment of the air conditioner. After cleaning and drying the copper foil, adhesive is applied to the back. The copper foil is then adhered to the water channel, and molding is used to ensure that the shape of the water channel and the copper foil fits perfectly. Under certain conditions, the adhesive completes the bonding, thus completing the water channel coating process.

[0147] The present invention provides a waterway based on a material coating and an air conditioner having the same, which uses an adhesive that requires a curing process as the bonding material, so that the waterway and the coating material are completely bonded together before curing, thereby achieving a better bonding effect.

[0148] In some alternative implementations, an anti-corrosion coating can be applied to the surface of the copper foil to improve the long-term reliability of the coating solution. In addition to the methods described above, insert molding or other methods can be used to ensure a tight bond between the copper foil and the water channels of the heat exchanger bottom shell. Both the upper and lower water channels of the heat exchanger bottom shell can be coated, enabling the air conditioner's drip tray to achieve long-term self-cleaning using condensate and freeze-thaw purification methods, while ensuring effective cleaning.

[0149] In some embodiments, the control unit 104 executes a preset self-cleaning program to: control the freezing function in conjunction with the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane; and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray, including:

[0150] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset condensation process under a preset self-cleaning program: based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, it controls at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to cause condensation generated by the fins at the freezing function; and controls the freezing function to cause the condensation generated by the fins at the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger to collect on the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S210.

[0151] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset frosting process: based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, it controls at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that collects on the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of this control unit 104 are further described in step S320.

[0152] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset defrosting process: controlling the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode; and controlling at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger and melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are also described in step S230.

[0153] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset cyclic freezing and stripping process: based on the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process are executed cyclically. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S240.

[0154] The control unit 104 is further configured to execute a preset drying process: drying the defrosting water on the water channel membrane, and then exiting the preset self-cleaning program to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S250.

[0155] In the present invention, the freezing function is controlled by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the relative humidity of the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane. At least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is also controlled so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the water tray. This can better solve the problem of dirt in the water channel of the air conditioner and is beneficial to human health.

[0156] In some embodiments, the control unit 104 controls at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor ambient relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function includes:

[0157] The control unit 104 is further configured to determine the surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger based on the indoor ambient temperature and the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S310.

[0158] The control unit 104 is further configured to reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is less than or equal to the surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and to record the duration of the preset condensation process. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S320.

[0159] The control unit 104 is further configured to determine whether the water film thickness of the water channel membrane is greater than a preset target water film thickness, and whether the preset duration of the condensation process is greater than a preset maximum condensation time; wherein, the preset duration of the condensation process is a certain time t during the condensation process on the evaporator surface. 露 The preset maximum condensation time is such as the maximum duration t0 for condensation on the evaporator. For the specific functions and processing of this control unit 104, please refer to step S330.

[0160] The control unit 104 is further configured to terminate the preset condensation process if the condition is met. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S340.

[0161] The control unit 104 is further configured to return to the preset condensation process if it is determined that the condition is not met, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S350.

[0162] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a water channel self-cleaning control method for an air conditioner. To achieve the above objectives, such as... Figure 12 As shown, in conjunction with the aforementioned heat exchanger, the present invention provides a self-cleaning control scheme for the water tray of an air conditioner. Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner includes the following steps:

[0163] Step 1: Power on the air conditioner and then proceed to either Step 2 or Step 3.

[0164] Step 2: Obtain the user's water tray self-cleaning command, and then proceed to Step 3.

[0165] Step 3: Detect the degree of contamination in the air conditioner's water tray and determine whether the self-cleaning program needs to be run: if yes, proceed to step 4; otherwise, proceed to step 5.

[0166] In step 3, the degree of contamination P of the drip tray is determined by combining the cumulative operating time t of the air conditioner and the average indoor pollutant concentration C within the corresponding time period, i.e., P = f(t, C). Specifically, P = k1 × t × C. k1 is the pollutant deposition coefficient, characterizing the degree of contamination of the drip tray caused by pollutant deposition and growth. The cumulative operating time t can be determined by the operating time of the air conditioner motor, and the average indoor pollutant concentration C is obtained by real-time or timed detection by indoor pollutant sensors and calculation of the corresponding average value.

[0167] When the contamination level of the drip tray P is less than or equal to the preset value P0, the result is negative, indicating that the air conditioner has not been running for long or the air quality is good, and the drip tray is not obviously dirty, so no cleaning is required.

[0168] When the contamination level of the drip tray P is greater than or equal to the preset value P1, it is considered as such. This indicates that the air conditioner has been running for a long time or the indoor air quality is poor, and the drip tray is likely to be dirty. It is necessary to run the relevant program for cleaning as soon as possible to ensure the user's health.

[0169] When the pollution degree of the water receiving pan satisfies P0<P<P1, it indicates that the dirt condition of the water receiving pan is moderate, and cleaning can be performed in time or processed later. Specifically, when the self-cleaning instruction for the water receiving pan is set by a user, the user's will shall prevail, and timely cleaning shall be taken as the priority; when the self-cleaning instruction for the water receiving pan is autonomously detected by an air conditioner, the user shall be reminded by means of voice, APP push and other methods to decide whether to perform self-cleaning on the water channel. In particular, when the self-cleaning instruction for the water receiving pan is autonomously detected by the air conditioner and the air conditioner is currently executing other conventional instructions such as user cooling instruction, the reminder shall be given after the relevant mode finishes running.

[0170] Optionally, the pollution degree of the water receiving pan can also be directly determined by the cumulative operating duration or the interval duration from the last self-cleaning, or the effect of the present invention can also be achieved through direct visual judgment by visualization technologies such as a camera.

[0171] The number of cleanings is recorded as x=0.

[0172] Step 4: controlling the air conditioner to perform self-cleaning on the water receiving pan.

[0173] When it is judged that self-cleaning of the water receiving pan needs to be performed, the air conditioner is controlled to run the following self-cleaning procedure. The self-cleaning procedure for the water receiving pan includes processes of condensation, frosting, defrosting and drying, which are performed in sequence, specifically:

[0174] Step 41: condensation process: measuring the water film thickness, judging whether the condensation time is overtime, performing cyclic freezing stripping and controlling the air deflector of the air conditioner to open.

[0175] ① Acquiring the current temperature and relative humidity of the indoor environment where an indoor unit is located through an environment temperature and humidity sensor, and determining the condensation temperature T on the surface of an evaporator 露 .

[0176] ② Reducing the rotation speed of the fan of the indoor unit and adjusting the operating frequency of the compressor, so as to control the surface temperature T of the evaporator to maintain it below the indoor condensation temperature, that is T≤T 露 , wherein the surface temperature of the evaporator is acquired and detected by a temperature sensing bulb.

[0177] ③ Maintaining the condensation process on the surface of the evaporator for a certain time t 露 , so as to generate enough condensed water to contact and cover the entire surface of the water channel coating. Detect the current water film thickness D x , where D0 is a target water film thickness, and when the water film thickness D x >D0, the process proceeds to the next step, otherwise condensation continues. At the same time, when t 露 >t0 is true, the process proceeds to the next step. Preferably, the maximum duration t0 for condensation of the evaporator is 15min, otherwise condensation continues.

[0178] Step 42: frosting process.

[0179] Step 43, defrosting process.

[0180] Step 44: Cyclic freeze-peeling process.

[0181] Step 45: Drying process.

[0182] In the present invention, at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the water channel membrane with condensate and clean the surface of the water channel membrane, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

[0183] In some embodiments, the control unit 104 controls at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane, including:

[0184] The control unit 104 is further configured to determine the correction temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; wherein the correction temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is, for example, correction temperature T. 霜修正 For details on the specific functions and processing of the control unit 104, please refer to step S410.

[0185] The control unit 104 is further configured to shut down the indoor fan or reduce the speed of the indoor fan, and / or increase the frequency of the compressor, so that the sum of the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; wherein, the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, such as the frosting target temperature T... 霜 -1℃ to target frost temperature T 霜 +1℃. For the specific functions and processing of this control unit 104, please refer to step S420.

[0186] The control unit 104 is further configured to maintain a set frosting time to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane; wherein the set frosting time is the duration t of evaporator frosting. 霜 For details on the specific functions and processing of the control unit 104, please refer to step S430.

[0187] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0188] During the frosting process in step 42: The indoor unit fan is turned off or its speed is adjusted and / or the compressor's operating frequency is adjusted to cause frost to form on the surface of the main heat exchange zone of the indoor unit evaporator, thereby achieving a freezing effect on the water channels. This includes: ① reducing the indoor unit fan speed or turning it off, and adjusting the compressor's operating frequency to control the surface temperature T of the main heat exchange zone of the evaporator 6, ensuring that it remains within a certain target frosting temperature range after freezing correction. The target frosting temperature range is T. 霜 ±1℃, i.e., T 霜 -1℃≤T+T 霜修正 ≤T 霜 +1℃. Specifically, when T 霜 -1℃-T 霜修正 When T ≥ T, increase the wind speed or decrease the frequency. 霜 +1℃-T 霜修正 At that time, reduce wind speed or increase frequency, T 霜 +1℃-T 霜修正 ≥T≥T 霜 -1℃-T 霜修正 At that time, the wind speed frequency remains constant. Preferably, the target frost temperature T 霜 The temperature range is -4℃ to -2℃. The corrected temperature T... 霜修正 This is related to the efficiency of heat transfer from the heat exchanger fins to the copper foil channels. ② Maintain the above-mentioned frosting process on the evaporator surface for a certain period of time t. 霜 This ensures that the entire surface of the waterway membrane is frozen. Preferably, the duration t of frost formation on the evaporator is... 霜 It takes 15 minutes.

[0189] In the present invention, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to frost on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that gathers on the water channel membrane, so that the entire surface of the water channel membrane can be frozen, and the dirt on the surface of the water channel membrane is frozen together to achieve cleaning.

[0190] In some embodiments, the control unit 104 controls the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and controls at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger and melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane, including:

[0191] The control unit 104 is further configured to reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrost target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; wherein, the error range of the set defrost target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, such as the defrost target temperature T... 化 -2℃ to the target defrosting temperature T 化 +2℃. For the specific functions and processing of this control unit 104, please refer to step S510.

[0192] The control unit 104 is further configured to maintain a set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby melting the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S520.

[0193] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0194] During the defrosting process in step 43: Through the compressor stopping, the four-way valve reversing, and the compressor restarting, the air conditioner switches from cooling mode to heating mode. The speed of the indoor fan and / or the operating frequency of the compressor are adjusted to raise the temperature of the evaporator fins, reaching the conditions for melting the frost at the bottom of the water channel, thus entering the defrosting and drying process. The indoor unit fan speed is adjusted, and the compressor operating frequency is controlled to bring the water channel temperature back above 0°C (until the frost melts).

[0195] The fan can be turned off directly because copper foil itself has good thermal conductivity, so there's no need to use a fan to carry heat into the water channels. Furthermore, under these conditions, the water channel temperature will return to normal faster. The compressor can run at high frequency; the higher the heat exchange capacity, the faster the speed, so it won't have a significant impact.

[0196] In the present invention, the air conditioner is controlled to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode. Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, so that the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane melts and the dirt on the surface of the water channel membrane can be discharged with the defrosting water.

[0197] In some embodiments, the control unit 104, based on the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, cyclically executes a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process, including:

[0198] The control unit 104 is further configured to increment the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray by 1 after executing a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process, thereby obtaining the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray. The specific functions and processing of this control unit 104 are further described in step S610.

[0199] The control unit 104 is further configured to determine whether the water tray is clean based on the degree of contamination of the water tray; and to determine whether the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray level is greater than a preset number; wherein the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray level is x, and the preset number is 3. The cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray is obtained by adding 1 to the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray. The specific functions and processing of this control unit 104 are further described in step S620.

[0200] The control unit 104 is further configured to return to the preset frosting and defrosting processes if it is determined that the water tray is not clean and the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray is less than or equal to a preset number. The specific functions and processing of this control unit 104 are further described in step S630.

[0201] The control unit 104 is further configured to terminate the preset frosting and defrosting processes and execute the preset drying process if it is determined that the water tray has been cleaned or the cumulative number of cleaning cycles of the water tray is greater than a preset number. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S640.

[0202] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0203] In the cyclic freeze-peeling process of step 44: determine whether it is clean. If it is "clean", proceed to the next step; otherwise, return to the condensation process and record the number of cleanings as x = x + 1. At the same time, when x > 3, directly proceed to the drying process.

[0204] The degree of contamination P of the water tray is determined by combining the cumulative operating time t of the air conditioner and the average indoor pollutant concentration C within the corresponding time, i.e., P = f(t, C). Specifically, P = k1 × t × C. k1 is the pollutant deposition coefficient, characterizing the degree of contamination of the water tray due to pollutant deposition and growth. This can be confirmed based on the above judgment. The solution of this invention uses sensors to determine the concentration of pollutants in the water to judge whether it is clean. As the number of cleaning cycles increases, the concentration of pollutants in the water will decrease; cleaning can be controlled until it is clean.

[0205] In the present invention, a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process are executed cyclically according to the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, so as to improve the cleaning effect on the surface of the water channel membrane.

[0206] In some embodiments, the control unit 104 dries the defrost water on the water channel membrane, then exits the preset self-cleaning program to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray, including:

[0207] The control unit 104 is further configured to reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor, so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S710.

[0208] The control unit 104 is further configured to maintain a set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby drying the defrosting water frozen on the water channel membrane. The specific functions and processing of the control unit 104 are further described in step S720.

[0209] like Figure 12 As shown, the self-cleaning control method for the water channels of an air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0210] During the drying process in step 45: the air conditioner switches from cooling mode to heating mode through compressor shutdown, four-way valve reversal, and compressor restart. The speed of the indoor fan and / or the operating frequency of the compressor are adjusted to raise the temperature of the evaporator fins, reaching the conditions for frost melting at the bottom of the water channel, thus initiating the defrosting and drying process. This includes: ① adjusting the indoor unit fan speed and controlling the compressor operating frequency to maintain the evaporator surface temperature T within a certain defrosting target temperature range, where the defrosting target temperature range is T. 化 ±2℃, i.e., T 化 +2℃≥T≥T 化 -2℃. Specifically, when T 化 When -2℃ ≥ T, reduce wind speed or increase frequency; when T ≥ T 化 At +2℃, increasing the wind speed or decreasing the frequency, T 化 +2℃≥T≥T 化 At -2℃, the wind speed frequency remains constant. Preferably, the defrosting target temperature T 化 The temperature is 56℃~65℃; ② Maintain the above-mentioned defrosting and drying process on the evaporator surface for a certain period of time t. 化 This ensures that the frost layer between the fins and in the water collection tray is effectively melted and fully dried. Preferably, the duration t of the defrosting and drying process of the evaporator is... 化 The time is 30 to 40 minutes.

[0211] Step 5: When it is determined that the water tray self-cleaning is not required, control the air conditioner to perform the water tray drying function, and then exit the self-cleaning mode to allow the air conditioner to operate normally.

[0212] In the present invention, the defrosting water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray, thereby preventing the defrosting water that has not been drained from the surface of the water channel membrane from accumulating dirt again and improving the cleaning effect.

[0213] In the solution of this invention, the air conditioner can achieve the processes of condensation, frost formation, defrosting and drying of the water tray by using the compressor, fan and other actuators in related solutions through water channel lining without adding an additional purification device, combined with system parameter control. This achieves the effects of condensation cleaning, freezing and peeling, and high-temperature sterilization. In other words, the water tray is self-cleaned entirely by the air conditioner itself, and it is highly efficient, durable and requires no consumables, thus solving the problem of difficult cleaning of the water tray in related solutions.

[0214] Since the processing and functions implemented by the device in this embodiment are basically the same as the embodiments, principles and examples of the aforementioned methods, any details not covered in the description of this embodiment can be found in the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0215] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air conditioner corresponding to a control device for an air conditioner is also provided. This air conditioner may include the control device for an air conditioner described above.

[0216] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the water channel self-cleaning control device for an air conditioner. To achieve the above objectives, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the present invention further provides an air conditioner control device for implementing the above-described control method. The control device includes: a storage module, a processing module, and an air conditioner control program stored in the storage module and executable on the processing module. When the air conditioner control program is executed by the processing module, it implements each step of the air conditioner control method described above.

[0217] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention further provides an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes the aforementioned water channel self-cleaning control device, which is capable of performing the above control method to achieve the desired effect of the present invention.

[0218] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention further provides an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes the heat exchanger with irregularly shaped fins and a variable flow path described above, and a control device. The control device, in conjunction with the heat exchanger, etc., performs the above-described control method to achieve the desired effect of the solution of the present invention.

[0219] By adopting the technical approach of this invention, the air conditioner can achieve the processes of condensation, frosting, defrosting and drying of the water tray without adding external purification devices. This is achieved through heat exchanger flow path adjustment, fin optimization, and the coordinated control of actuators such as compressors and fans in related solutions, combined with system parameter control. This results in condensation cleaning, freezing and peeling, and high-temperature sterilization. In other words, the water tray is self-cleaned entirely by the air conditioner itself, and it is highly efficient, durable and requires no consumables.

[0220] Since the processing and functions implemented by the air conditioner in this embodiment are basically the same as the embodiments, principles and examples of the aforementioned devices, any details not covered in the description of this embodiment can be found in the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0221] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a computer program product corresponding to the control method for an air conditioner is also provided, comprising a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for an air conditioner described above.

[0222] Since the processing and functions implemented by the product in this embodiment are basically the same as the embodiments, principles and examples of the aforementioned methods, any details not covered in the description of this embodiment can be found in the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a storage medium corresponding to a control method for an air conditioner is also provided, the storage medium including a stored program, wherein, when the program is executed, the device where the storage medium is located executes the steps of the control method for the air conditioner described above.

[0224] Since the processing and functions implemented by the storage medium in this embodiment are basically the same as the embodiments, principles and examples of the aforementioned methods, any details not covered in this embodiment can be found in the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0225] In summary, it is readily understood by those skilled in the art that, without conflict, the aforementioned advantageous methods can be freely combined and superimposed.

[0226] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner has an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit has a compressor, and the indoor unit has an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray. A membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels in the drip tray to form a water channel membrane. The refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate produced by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying. The control method of the air conditioner includes: After the air conditioner is powered on and the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the water tray is activated, the contamination level of the water tray is obtained, the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner is obtained, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner is obtained, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is obtained, and the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane is obtained, denoted as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane. Determine whether the water tray needs to be self-cleaned based on the degree of contamination. If it is determined that the drip tray needs to be self-cleaned, a preset self-cleaning program is executed to: control the freezing function by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray.

2. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water channel membrane can directly contact the air inlet surface of the indoor heat exchanger and / or the bottom end of the indoor heat exchanger.

3. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A membrane is provided on the surface of the water channel in the water receiving tray to form a water channel membrane, including: On the surface of the water channel of the water receiving tray, a pre-set copper foil is applied by bonding or insert injection molding to form a coating on the water channel; Alternatively, a pre-set copper foil can be applied to the water channel surface of the water receiving tray by bonding or injection molding, followed by a pre-set anti-corrosion coating to form the water channel film.

4. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Execute a preset self-cleaning program to: control the freezing function by combining the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane and be frozen, defrosted, and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray, including: A preset condensation process is executed under a preset self-cleaning program: based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function is condensed; and the freezing function is controlled so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger collects on the water channel membrane. Perform a preset frosting process: Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, control at least one of the rotation speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor to frost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate that collects on the water channel membrane. Perform a preset defrosting process: control the air conditioner to turn off the cooling mode and turn on the heating mode, and control at least one of the indoor fan speed and the compressor frequency according to the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, so as to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger and melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane. Perform a preset cyclic freezing and stripping process: based on the degree of contamination of the water receiving tray, perform a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process cyclically; Perform the preset drying process: dry the defrosting water on the water channel membrane, and then exit the preset self-cleaning program to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray.

5. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, Based on the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function includes: The surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is determined based on the indoor ambient temperature and the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner. Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is less than or equal to the surface condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; and record the duration of the preset condensation process. Determine whether the water film thickness of the waterway membrane is greater than the preset target water film thickness, and whether the preset continuous condensation time of the condensation process is greater than the preset maximum condensation time. If the conditions are met, the preset condensation process ends. If the condition is not met, the process returns to continue executing the preset condensation process so that the condensate generated by the fins at the freezing function can cover the surface of the waterway membrane.

6. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, in, Based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, at least one of the rotational speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor is controlled to cause frost to form on the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby freezing the condensate collected on the water channel membrane, including: Determine the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; The indoor fan is turned off or its speed is reduced, and / or the compressor frequency is increased, so that the sum of the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger and the corrected temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set frosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger. Maintain the set frosting time so that the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger is frosted, thereby freezing the condensate that collects on the water channel membrane; And / or, Controlling the air conditioner to turn off cooling mode and turn on heating mode, and controlling at least one of the indoor fan speed and compressor frequency based on the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, and to melt the frost layer frozen on the water channel membrane, including: Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; Maintain the set defrosting time to allow the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger to defrost, thereby melting the frost layer frozen onto the water channel membrane.

7. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, in, Based on the degree of contamination of the water collection tray, a preset frosting process and a preset defrosting process are executed cyclically, including: After executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process, the cumulative number of cleaning times of the water tray is incremented by 1 to obtain the cumulative number of cleaning times of the water tray. Based on the degree of contamination of the water tray, determine whether the water tray is clean; and determine whether the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray is greater than a preset number. If it is determined that the water tray is not clean, and the cumulative number of cleanings of the water tray is less than or equal to the preset number, then return to continue executing the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process. If it is determined that the water tray has been cleaned, or if it is determined that the cumulative number of times the water tray has been cleaned is greater than the preset number of times, then the preset frosting process and the preset defrosting process will end, and the preset drying process will be executed. And / or, The defrost water on the water channel membrane is dried, and then the preset self-cleaning program is exited to complete the self-cleaning of the water receiving tray, including: Reduce the speed of the indoor fan and / or increase the frequency of the compressor so that the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is within the error range of the set defrosting target temperature of the indoor heat exchanger; Maintain the set defrosting time to defrost the fin surface of the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger, thereby defrosting and drying the water frozen on the water channel membrane.

8. A control device for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner has an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit has a compressor, and the indoor unit has an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and a drip tray. A membrane is provided on the surface of the water channels in the drip tray to form a water channel membrane. The refrigerant flow path of the indoor heat exchanger has a freezing function, and the condensate produced by the freezing function can collect on the surface of the water channel membrane for freezing, defrosting, and drying. The control device of the air conditioner includes: The acquisition unit is configured to acquire, after the air conditioner is powered on and when the self-cleaning function for self-cleaning the water tray is activated, acquire the degree of contamination of the water tray, acquire the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, acquire the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, acquire the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and acquire the thickness of the water film formed on the water channel membrane, denoted as the water film thickness of the water channel membrane. The control unit is configured to determine whether the water tray needs to be self-cleaned based on the degree of contamination of the water tray. The control unit is further configured to execute a preset self-cleaning program if it is determined that self-cleaning of the drip tray is required, in order to: control the freezing function in combination with the indoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, the indoor relative humidity of the air conditioner, the freezing surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the water film thickness of the water channel membrane, and control at least one of the speed of the indoor fan and the frequency of the compressor, so that the condensate generated by the freezing function in the indoor heat exchanger can be collected on the surface of the water channel membrane and frozen, defrosted and dried, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the drip tray.

9. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The control device for an air conditioner as described in claim 8.

10. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium includes a stored program, wherein, when the program is executed, the device containing the storage medium is controlled to perform the control method of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the steps of the control method for the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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