Air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses an air conditioner and a control method thereof, relates to the technical field of air conditioners, and is used for avoiding damage caused by fault operation of a fan motor. The fan motor is used for driving the fan to rotate; the temperature controller and the over-temperature protection circuit are used for performing over-temperature protection on the fan motor; the controller is configured to obtain a temperature control signal output by the temperature controller; wherein the temperature controller outputs a first temperature control signal under the condition that the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold value, and the temperature controller outputs a second temperature control signal under the condition that the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold value; under the condition that the first temperature control signal is obtained, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected so as to control the fan motor to stop running; and under the condition that the second temperature control signal is obtained, the fan motor is controlled to keep running.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and in particular to an air conditioner and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] The fan motor is a common component in air conditioners. The fan motor can not only drive air to circulate across the surface of the outdoor unit's heat exchanger to achieve heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant, but also circulate and deliver the air throughout the room, enabling the air to quickly transfer temperature, thereby achieving the purpose of lowering or raising the temperature.

[0003] Existing built-in drive DC motors have lower end-user design costs but poor reliability, cannot promptly troubleshoot their own faults, and are difficult to maintain later. External drive DC motors offer flexible design and a wide range of applications, but cannot monitor their own operating temperature in real time, which may lead to overheating and motor failure.

[0004] Therefore, how to protect the smooth operation of the fan motor and how to detect and address faults in the fan motor in a timely manner are urgent problems to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an air conditioner and its control method to prevent damage to the fan motor caused by malfunction.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an air conditioner, comprising: a fan for promoting air circulation; a fan motor for driving the fan to rotate; a thermostat and an over-temperature protection circuit for over-temperature protection of the fan motor; and a controller configured to: acquire a temperature control signal output by the thermostat; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the thermostat outputs a first temperature control signal, and when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the thermostat outputs a second temperature control signal; upon acquiring the first temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the fan motor to stop running; and upon acquiring the second temperature control signal, the fan motor is controlled to continue running.

[0008] The technical solution provided in this application provides at least the following beneficial effects: This application includes a thermostat inside the fan motor to control its operating temperature and prevent it from operating at high temperatures; simultaneously, a protection circuit is provided, and based on different temperature control signals received by the controller from the thermostat, the fan motor is controlled to operate in different states. This allows for timely and accurate control of the protection circuit to take measures when the fan motor malfunctions, preventing damage to the fan motor during faulty operation, reducing component losses, making the air conditioner's operating system more reliable, and extending the fan motor's service life.

[0009] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to issue an over-temperature alarm signal upon receiving a first temperature control signal.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the fan motor is in a stopped state, the temperature controller outputs a third temperature control signal; the controller is also configured to: upon receiving the first temperature control signal, close the over-temperature protection circuit to provide over-temperature protection for the fan motor.

[0011] In some embodiments, after disconnecting the over-temperature protection circuit to control the fan motor to stop running, the controller is further configured to: control the fan motor to resume operation through the over-temperature protection circuit when the acquired temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor drops below a preset threshold, the temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal.

[0012] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes: a pressure detector for detecting the pressure value of the air conditioner; and a controller further configured to: acquire the pressure value of the air conditioner through the pressure detector; and disconnect the over-temperature protection circuit to control the air conditioner to stop operating if the pressure value is not within a preset pressure range.

[0013] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control method for an air conditioner, the method comprising: acquiring a temperature control signal output by a thermostat; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the thermostat outputs a first temperature control signal, and when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the thermostat outputs a second temperature control signal; upon acquiring the first temperature control signal, disconnecting an over-temperature protection circuit to control the fan motor to stop running; and upon acquiring the second temperature control signal, controlling the fan motor to continue running.

[0014] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a controller, including: one or more processors; one or more memories; wherein the one or more memories are used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and when the one or more processors execute the computer instructions, the controller executes any of the air conditioner control methods provided in the second aspect.

[0015] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium including computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods provided in the second aspect and possible implementations.

[0016] Fifthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer program product that can be directly loaded into a memory and contains software code. After being loaded and executed by a computer, the computer program product can implement the methods provided in the second aspect and possible implementations.

[0017] It should be noted that the aforementioned computer instructions may be stored, in whole or in part, on a computer-readable storage medium. This computer-readable storage medium may be packaged together with the controller's processor, or it may be packaged separately from the controller's processor; this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0018] The beneficial effects described in aspects two through five of this application can be referred to the analysis of the beneficial effects of aspect one, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings are provided to further understand the technical solutions of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain the technical solutions of the present invention and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 1 A hardware structure block diagram of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the composition of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fan motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another fan motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 A hardware structure block diagram of another air conditioner provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an over-temperature protection circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 A schematic block diagram of a control circuit structure for a fan motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 13 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 14 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another air conditioner control device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0037] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present invention are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0038] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0039] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly, for example, as a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, when describing pipelines, the terms "connected" and "linked" as used in this application have the meaning of establishing electrical connection. The specific meaning needs to be understood in conjunction with the context.

[0040] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0041] To facilitate understanding, we will first provide a brief introduction and explanation of some terms or basic concepts of technology involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] As mentioned above, existing fan motors cannot detect their own temperature during operation, which may lead to malfunctions or damage due to overheating.

[0043] Based on this, this application provides an air conditioner, including: a fan for promoting air circulation; a fan motor for driving the fan to rotate; the fan motor including a thermostat and an over-temperature protection circuit; wherein the thermostat is used to control the operating temperature of the fan motor; the over-temperature protection circuit including a main control chip, a thermostat power supply, and a relay; wherein the relay is disposed within the thermostat and is used to control the opening and closing of the fan motor; a controller configured to: acquire the operating mode of the fan motor; the operating mode includes a normal mode, a shutdown mode, and an abnormal mode; determine the target operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit according to the operating mode; the target operating parameters include the main control chip outputting a high level or a low level, the thermostat power supply being closed or open, the output voltage value of the first terminal of the relay being a first voltage value, and the output voltage value of the second terminal of the relay being the first voltage value or a second voltage value; and control the over-temperature protection circuit to operate with the target operating parameters.

[0044] This improves the operational reliability of the fan motor in the air conditioner and extends its service life.

[0045] The embodiments provided in this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 A hardware structure block diagram of an air conditioner provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include a controller 2 and a memory 3.

[0047] In some embodiments, the controller 2 and the memory 3 are electrically connected directly or indirectly to enable data transmission or interaction. For example, these components can be electrically connected to each other through one or more communication buses or signal lines.

[0048] In some embodiments, the air conditioner 1 includes at least one software module that can be stored in the memory 3 in the form of software or firmware or embedded in the operating system (OS) of the air conditioner 1.

[0049] In some embodiments, the controller 2 is used to execute executable modules stored in the memory 3, such as software function modules and computer programs included in the air conditioner 1, to implement the control method of the air conditioner.

[0050] In some embodiments, the controller 2 can execute a computer program after receiving an execution instruction. The controller 2 can be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller 2 may also be a general-purpose processor, such as a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a discrete gate or transistor logic device, or a discrete hardware component, which can implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. In addition, the general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, etc.

[0052] In some embodiments, memory 3 may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0053] In some embodiments, the memory 3 is used to store a program, which the controller 2 executes upon receiving an execution instruction.

[0054] In the embodiments shown in this application, controller 2 refers to a device that can generate operation control signals according to instruction opcodes and timing signals, instructing air conditioner 1 to execute control commands. Exemplarily, controller 2 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. Controller 2 can also be other devices with processing functions, such as circuits, devices, or software modules; this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0055] In addition, the controller 2 can be used to control the various components inside the air conditioner 1 so that each component can operate to achieve the predetermined functions of the air conditioner 1.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the composition of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 2As shown, the air conditioner 1 includes an outdoor unit 4, an indoor unit 5, and a remote control 6. Figure 2 (Not shown in the image).

[0057] In some embodiments, outdoor unit 4, typically installed outdoors, is used for heat exchange with the indoor environment. Additionally, in Figure 1 In the diagram, outdoor unit 4 is located on the opposite side of indoor unit 5, separated from indoor unit 5 by wall WL, and is represented by a dashed line.

[0058] In some embodiments, the indoor unit 5, taking a wall-mounted unit as an example, is typically installed on an indoor wall surface such as WL. Another example is a floor-standing unit (…). Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) is also a type of indoor unit.

[0059] In some embodiments, the remote controller 6 has the function of communicating with the controller 2, for example, using infrared or other communication methods. The remote controller 6 is used by the user to perform various controls on the air conditioner 1, realizing interaction between the user and the air conditioner 1.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the air conditioner 1 also includes: a refrigerant circuit 7, a compressor 8, a four-way valve 9, an outdoor heat exchanger 10, a fan 11, an expansion valve 12, a liquid receiver 13, an indoor heat exchanger 14, a filter 15, and a gas-liquid separator 16.

[0061] In some embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 7 allows the refrigerant to circulate in a loop consisting of the compressor 8, the outdoor heat exchanger 10, the expansion valve 12, and the indoor heat exchanger 14.

[0062] In some embodiments, the compressor 8 draws in refrigerant from the suction port and discharges the internally compressed refrigerant to the indoor heat exchanger 14 from the discharge port.

[0063] In some embodiments, the four-way valve 9 switches between heating and cooling modes when the air conditioner 1 is operating in heating or cooling mode.

[0064] In some embodiments, the outdoor heat exchanger 10 has a first inlet and outlet for allowing refrigerant to flow through a receiver 13 between the receiver 13 and the suction port of the compressor 8, and a second inlet and outlet for allowing refrigerant to flow between the receiver 12 and the expansion valve 12. The outdoor heat exchanger 10 has a heat transfer tube connecting the second inlet and outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 10 and the first inlet and outlet. Figure 3 (Not shown) The refrigerant flowing in the container exchanges heat with the outdoor air.

[0065] In some embodiments, fan 11, including an outdoor fan and an indoor fan, is used to promote air circulation and dissipate heat from the heat exchanger.

[0066] In some embodiments, fan 11 includes fan motor 111 ( Figure 3 (Not shown in the image), the fan motor 111 is used to drive the fan 11 to rotate, and the fan motor 111 includes an outdoor fan motor and an indoor fan motor.

[0067] In some embodiments, the fan motor 111 may be a built-in drive DC motor or an external drive DC motor.

[0068] In this type of DC motor, the drive circuit is usually built into the motor. The fan motor 111 leads out a control signal line, and the main control chip generates a pulse width modulation (PWM) waveform, which is then shaped into a speed control port (voltage sag protector, VSP) signal by the hardware circuit for speed regulation. The fan motor 111 feeds back the speed signal, which is detected by the microcontroller unit (MCU) to form a closed-loop proportional integral differential (PID) control.

[0069] In some embodiments, the external drive DC motor typically has its drive circuit portion placed on the control board of the outdoor unit 4, with the motor winding leads extending out.

[0070] In practical implementation, the advantage of built-in drive DC motors is reduced design costs at the user end; however, they are expensive, have poor reliability, and are difficult to troubleshoot and maintain. External drive DC motors, on the other hand, offer higher reliability, more flexible drive design, and support for more application scenarios. However, external drive motors only have their winding leads exposed for motor operation control and cannot detect the motor's temperature during operation, which may lead to overheating and subsequent failure or damage. Currently, the industry-standard protection measure is to set overcurrent protection values ​​in the control board's drive circuit to keep the motor operating within a controllable range. However, this method is not intuitive, requires extensive testing to determine the appropriate protection value, and cannot meet the needs of various application environments.

[0071] Therefore, this application includes a temperature controller 1111 in the fan motor 111.

[0072] In some embodiments, the fan motor 111 includes a temperature controller 1111. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image) is used to control the operating temperature of the fan motor.

[0073] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fan motor provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 4As shown, taking the fan motor 111 as an example of a built-in DC motor, the drive circuit is built into the fan motor 111, and the fan motor 111 leads out control signal lines.

[0074] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another fan motor structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The location of the temperature controller power supply 172 is as follows: Figure 5 As shown.

[0075] The relay 173 is located in the thermostat 1111 and is used to control the opening and closing of the fan motor 111.

[0076] In some embodiments, when the fan motor 111 starts working, the controller begins to detect the switching signal and operating status of the fan motor 111, and feeds back the detected information to the controller.

[0077] In some embodiments, an expansion valve 12 is disposed between an outdoor heat exchanger 10 and an indoor heat exchanger 14, and the expansion valve 12 has the function of expanding and depressurizing the refrigerant flowing between the outdoor heat exchanger 10 and the indoor heat exchanger 14.

[0078] Furthermore, the expansion valve 12 is configured to change its opening degree. By decreasing the opening degree, the flow resistance of the refrigerant through the expansion valve 12 increases; by increasing the opening degree, the flow resistance of the refrigerant through the expansion valve 12 decreases. During heating operation, this expansion valve 12 causes the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 14 towards the outdoor heat exchanger 10 to expand and depressurize. Moreover, even if the states of other components installed in the refrigerant circuit 7 remain unchanged, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circuit 7 will change when the opening degree of the expansion valve 12 changes.

[0079] In some embodiments, the indoor heat exchanger 14 has a second inlet for allowing liquid refrigerant to flow between it and the expansion valve 12, and a first inlet for allowing gaseous refrigerant to flow between it and the outlet of the compressor 8. The indoor heat exchanger 14 enables heat exchange between refrigerant flowing in a heat transfer tube connected between the second inlet and the first inlet of the indoor heat exchanger 14 and indoor air.

[0080] In some embodiments, a receiver 13 is disposed between the outdoor heat exchanger 10 and the suction inlet of the compressor 8. In the receiver 13, the refrigerant flowing from the outdoor heat exchanger 10 to the compressor 8 is separated into gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant. Furthermore, gaseous refrigerant is primarily supplied from the receiver 13 to the suction inlet of the compressor 8.

[0081] In some embodiments, the filter 15 is used to remove welding slag, oxide scale, iron filings from wear of the compressor scroll or piston, and deteriorated impurities in the lubricating oil that may be present in the refrigerant.

[0082] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid separator 16 is used to achieve gas-liquid separation through principles such as centrifugal separation and wire mesh filtration.

[0083] Figure 6 A hardware structure block diagram of another air conditioner provided in the embodiments of this application is shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may also include: an over-temperature protection circuit 17, a pressure detector 18, a pressure input power supply 19, and a communication interface 1001.

[0084] In some embodiments, the over-temperature protection circuit 17 includes a main control chip 171, a temperature controller power supply 172, and a relay 173.

[0085] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an over-temperature protection circuit provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the over-temperature protection circuit 17 includes: a temperature controller terminal 174, a main control chip input 175, a main control chip output 176, a relay first terminal 177, a relay second terminal 178, a 5V signal terminal pull-up resistor 179, a main control chip port transmission resistor 180, a transistor Q1, a transistor pull-down resistor 181, an optocoupler PC1, an optocoupler pull-up resistor 182, a freewheeling resistor 183, a Zener diode 184, a clamping diode 185, a main control chip power supply port 186, and a relay power supply port 187.

[0086] Figure 8 This application provides a schematic block diagram of a control circuit structure for a fan motor, as shown in the embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, when the fan motor 111 is in normal mode, the AC power input to the filter circuit is rectified into DC power by the rectifier circuit, and then driven by the motor inverter circuit to drive the fan motor 111 to operate normally (the relay is closed).

[0087] In some embodiments, when the fan motor 111 is in an abnormal mode, the thermostat power supply of the fan motor 111 is disconnected. After the over-temperature protection circuit 17 detects that the thermostat power supply 172 is disconnected, the relay 173 is disconnected, the fan motor 111 stops working, and the protection signal is input to the main control chip 171 and fed back to the controller 2. The controller 2 controls the air conditioner 1 to stop working to avoid system failure of the air conditioner 1.

[0088] In some embodiments, when the temperature of the fan motor 111 is normal, the thermostat 1111 closes. After the over-temperature protection circuit 17 detects the signal of the thermostat 1111 closing, it closes the relay 173 and sends the signal to the controller 2. The controller 2 controls the air conditioner 1 to operate normally.

[0089] In some embodiments, pressure detector 18 is used to detect the pressure value of the air conditioner.

[0090] In some embodiments, the pressure input power supply 19 is used to control the input of the air conditioner pressure value.

[0091] In some embodiments, the communication interface 1001 is used to establish communication connections with other network entities, such as establishing communication connections with terminal devices. The communication interface 1001 may include a radio frequency (RF) module, a cellular module, a wireless fidelity (WIFI) module, and a GPS module, etc. Taking an RF module as an example, the RF module can be used for signal reception and transmission; specifically, it sends received information to the controller 2 for processing; additionally, it transmits signals generated by the controller 2. Typically, the RF circuit may include, but is not limited to, an antenna, at least one amplifier, a transceiver, a coupler, a low-noise amplifier (LNA), a duplexer, etc.

[0092] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 6 The hardware structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the air conditioner 1. The air conditioner 1 may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0093] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0094] S101, The controller acquires the temperature control signal output by the temperature controller.

[0095] Specifically, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a first temperature control signal; when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a second temperature control signal.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first temperature control signal is used to characterize the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit to output a high level and input a high level, and the second temperature control signal is used to characterize the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit to output a high level and input a low level.

[0097] It should be noted that the preset threshold is set and stored in the memory by the air conditioner manufacturer. Different air conditioner manufacturers may set different preset thresholds, and this application does not limit this.

[0098] It should be noted that fan motors include outdoor fan motors and indoor fan motors. The main function of the outdoor fan motor is to drive air circulation through the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger to achieve heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant. The main function of the indoor fan motor is to circulate and deliver air throughout the room, so that the air can quickly transfer temperature, thereby achieving the purpose of lowering or raising the temperature.

[0099] In some embodiments, the fan motor may malfunction or be damaged due to overheating during operation, so the controller needs to constantly monitor the temperature control signal output by the temperature controller.

[0100] Specifically, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches the preset threshold, it indicates that the temperature of the fan motor is too high and may be malfunctioning, and the temperature controller outputs the first temperature control signal; when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, it indicates that the temperature of the fan motor is normal or the fan motor is in a stopped state, and the temperature controller outputs the second temperature control signal.

[0101] S102. Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, the controller disconnects the over-temperature protection circuit to stop the fan motor from running.

[0102] In some embodiments, since the fan motor may malfunction or be damaged, an over-temperature protection circuit is built into the fan motor. Different operating parameters are used to operate the fan motor under different working modes to ensure the normal operation of the fan motor.

[0103] The target operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit include closing or disconnecting the thermostat power supply, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay being a first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay being either the first voltage value or the second voltage value.

[0104] In some embodiments, a relay can be represented by RLY, with the first terminal of the relay being represented by RLY-A and the second terminal of the relay being represented by RLY-B.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first voltage value can be 15V and the second voltage value can be 0V.

[0106] For example, the output voltage of the relay's RLY-A terminal is 15V and the output voltage of the relay's RLY-B terminal is either 15V or 0V.

[0107] In some embodiments, when the controller receives the first temperature control signal, it indicates that the fan motor may be malfunctioning. In this case, the over-temperature protection circuit needs to be disconnected and the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit need to be adjusted.

[0108] Figure 10This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application, used to determine the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0109] S201, The controller receives the first temperature control signal.

[0110] S202. The controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit based on the first temperature control signal as follows: the temperature controller power is off, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is the first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is the first voltage value.

[0111] It should be noted that when the fan motor is in normal operation, if the fan motor overheats, the temperature controller will disconnect, the main control chip will output a high level, and an over-temperature alarm signal will be fed back.

[0112] Specifically, if the controller receives a high-level output and a high-level input signal from the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit sent by the temperature controller, the controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit as follows: disconnect the temperature controller power supply, the output voltage of the relay RLY-A terminal is 15V, and the output voltage of the relay RLY-B terminal is 15V.

[0113] In some embodiments, when the controller receives the first temperature control signal sent by the temperature controller, the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit also include: the relay RLY is disconnected, the fan motor stops working (to prevent the fan motor from being damaged by high temperature), the output terminal of the optocoupler is not conducting, the transistor is cut off, the main control chip input is high level, and the controller sends an over-temperature alarm signal.

[0114] In some embodiments, after the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the fan motor to stop running, the fan motor resumes operation through the over-temperature protection circuit when the acquired temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal.

[0115] When the temperature of the fan motor drops below a preset threshold, the temperature control signal is switched from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal.

[0116] Specifically, after the power connection of the fan motor is disconnected through the over-temperature protection circuit, when the temperature control signal is converted from the high level output and high level input of the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit to the high level output and low level input of the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit, the over-temperature protection circuit controls the fan motor to resume operation.

[0117] S103. Upon receiving the second temperature control signal, the controller controls the fan motor to continue running.

[0118] In some embodiments, when the controller receives the second temperature control signal, it indicates that the temperature of the fan motor is normal. At this time, the controller continues to run the fan motor and adjusts the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit.

[0119] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application, used to determine the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit, such as... Figure 11 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0120] S301, the controller receives the second temperature control signal.

[0121] S302. The controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit based on the second temperature control signal: the temperature controller power is closed, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is the first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is the second voltage value.

[0122] Specifically, if the controller receives a high-level output and a low-level input signal from the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit sent by the thermostat, the controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit as follows: the thermostat power supply is closed, the output voltage of the relay's RLY-A terminal is 15V, and the output voltage of the relay's RLY-B terminal is 0V.

[0123] In some embodiments, when the controller receives the second temperature control signal sent by the temperature controller, the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit further include: the output power of the anode (or pin 1) of the optocoupler is 15V, the output power of the cathode (or pin 2) is 0V, the input terminal of the optocoupler is on, the transistor is on, and the main control chip input is low level.

[0124] In some embodiments, when the controller receives a second temperature control signal from the temperature controller, the controller will not receive an over-temperature alarm signal.

[0125] In some embodiments, if the fan motor is not in use, that is, when the fan motor is in a stopped state, the temperature controller will also send a third temperature control signal to the controller.

[0126] The third temperature control signal is used to indicate that the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit outputs a low-level signal and inputs a high-level signal.

[0127] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application, used to determine the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0128] S401, the controller receives the third temperature control signal.

[0129] S402. The controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit based on the third temperature control signal: the temperature controller power is closed, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is the first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is the first voltage value.

[0130] Specifically, if the fan motor is in shutdown mode, the controller determines the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit as follows: the main control chip outputs a low level, the temperature controller power supply is closed, the output voltage of the relay RLY-A terminal is 15V, and the output voltage of the relay RLY-B terminal is 15V.

[0131] In some embodiments, when the controller receives a signal from the temperature controller that the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit outputs a low level and inputs a high level, the operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit also include: disconnecting the relay RLY, stopping the fan motor, not conducting at the output of the optocoupler, cutting off the transistor, and inputting a high level to the main control chip.

[0132] At this time, a high level will send an over-temperature alarm signal, but since the fan motor has stopped working, the over-temperature alarm signal is not transmitted and the controller will not receive the over-temperature alarm signal.

[0133] In some embodiments, when the controller determines that the target operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit are closing the thermostat power supply, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is a first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is a second voltage value, the controller controls the thermostat power supply in the over-temperature protection circuit to close, the output voltage of the relay's RLY-A terminal to be 15V, and the output voltage of the relay's RLY-B terminal to be 0V.

[0134] In some embodiments, when the controller determines that the target operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit are closing the thermostat power supply, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is a first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is a first voltage value, the controller controls the thermostat power supply in the over-temperature protection circuit to close, the output voltage of the RLY-A terminal of the relay to be 15V, and the output voltage of the RLY-B terminal of the relay to be 15V.

[0135] In some embodiments, when the controller determines that the target operating parameters of the over-temperature protection circuit are that the thermostat is powered off, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay is a first voltage value, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay is a first voltage value, the controller controls the thermostat in the over-temperature protection circuit to be powered off, the output voltage of the first terminal of the relay to be 15V, and the output voltage of the second terminal of the relay to be 15V.

[0136] In some embodiments, when the temperature of the fan motor drops to a safe temperature, the thermostat power is switched off, and the fan motor enters normal mode.

[0137] The technical solution provided in this application provides at least the following beneficial effects: This application includes a thermostat inside the fan motor to control its operating temperature and prevent it from operating at high temperatures; simultaneously, a protection circuit is provided, and based on different temperature control signals received by the controller from the thermostat, the fan motor is controlled to operate in different states. This allows for timely and accurate control of the protection circuit to take measures when the fan motor malfunctions, preventing damage to the fan motor during faulty operation, reducing component losses, making the air conditioner's operating system more reliable, and extending the fan motor's service life.

[0138] In some embodiments, the over-temperature protection circuit can detect not only the relevant signals of the fan motor, but also other switching signals in the air conditioner, such as the air conditioner pressure signal.

[0139] In some embodiments, the over-temperature protection circuit may further include a pressure input power supply.

[0140] Figure 13 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application, used to detect air conditioner pressure signals, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0141] S501, The controller obtains the pressure value of the air conditioner.

[0142] In some embodiments, the controller can obtain the pressure value of the air conditioner through a pressure detector.

[0143] In some embodiments, the pressure detector of the air conditioner is connected to the thermostat terminal. The pressure detector may include an exhaust pressure detector, an intake pressure detector, a compressor pressure detector, a heat exchanger pressure detector, etc. The pressure detector may also include other possible pressure detectors, which will not be described in detail here.

[0144] For example, the controller can detect the exhaust pressure value through the exhaust pressure detector, the intake pressure value through the intake pressure detector, the compressor pressure value through the compressor pressure detector, and the heat exchanger pressure value through the heat exchanger pressure detector.

[0145] S502. If the pressure value of the air conditioner is not within the preset pressure range, the controller disconnects the over-temperature protection circuit to stop the air conditioner from operating.

[0146] Specifically, when the pressure value of the air conditioner is not within the preset pressure range, indicating an abnormal pressure, the controller will disconnect the over-temperature protection circuit to stop the air conditioner from operating.

[0147] In some embodiments, when the pressure of the air conditioner is abnormal, the main control chip in the over-temperature protection circuit inputs a high level, the pressure input power supply is disconnected, and an over-temperature alarm signal indicating abnormal air conditioner pressure input is fed back to the controller. The controller then controls the air conditioner to disconnect the power supply to protect the air conditioner. After the fault is investigated, the controller restores the power supply to the air conditioner.

[0148] In some embodiments, the control method for closing or opening the thermostat power supply can also be achieved through, for example... Figure 14 The method shown is implemented as follows: Figure 14 This is a schematic flowchart of another air conditioner control method provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 14 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0149] S11, The controller starts the air conditioner from running.

[0150] S12, The controller detects the power status of the temperature controller.

[0151] The power supply status of the thermostat includes either a closed state or an open state.

[0152] S13. When the thermostat power supply is in the closed state, the controller controls the air conditioner to continue operating.

[0153] S14. When the power supply to the temperature controller is off, the controller controls the relay to disconnect and reports an abnormal over-temperature alarm signal.

[0154] S15. The controller stops the air conditioner and executes the above step S12.

[0155] In this embodiment of the invention, electronic products can be divided into functional modules according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0156] When dividing each function into modules according to its corresponding function. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 15 As shown, the control device 200 of the air conditioner may include: an acquisition module 201 and a control module 202.

[0157] In some embodiments, the acquisition module 201 is used to acquire the temperature control signal output by the temperature controller; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a first temperature control signal, and when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a second temperature control signal.

[0158] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is configured to disconnect the over-temperature protection circuit upon receiving a first temperature control signal, thereby controlling the fan motor to stop running.

[0159] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is further configured to control the fan motor to continue running upon receiving a second temperature control signal.

[0160] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is further configured to issue an over-temperature alarm signal upon receiving the first temperature control signal.

[0161] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is further configured to detect the operating status of the fan motor when a first temperature control signal is received; and to control the fan motor to remain in a stopped state when the fan motor is detected to be in a stopped state.

[0162] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is further configured to control the fan motor to resume operation via a temperature protection circuit when the acquired temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal; wherein the temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal when the temperature of the fan motor drops below a preset threshold.

[0163] In some embodiments, the acquisition module 201 is further configured to acquire the pressure value of the air conditioner via a pressure detector.

[0164] In some embodiments, the control module 202 is further configured to disconnect the over-temperature protection circuit when the pressure value is not within the preset pressure range, so as to control the air conditioner to stop operating.

[0165] When using integrated units, Figure 16 A schematic diagram of another possible structure of the control device for the air conditioner involved in the above embodiments is shown. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the control device 200 of the air conditioner may further include: a storage module 203, a communication module 204, and a processing module 205. The communication module 204 can be used to support communication between the control device of the air conditioner and other entities. The storage module 203 is used to store the program code and data of the control device of the air conditioner.

[0166] In some embodiments, processing module 205 may be a processor or a controller. Storage module 203 may be a memory. Communication module 204 may be a transceiver, transceiver circuit, or communication interface, etc.

[0167] In this configuration, when the processing module 205 is a processor, the storage module 203 is a memory, and the communication module 204 is a transceiver, the processor, transceiver, and memory can be connected via a bus. The bus can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Buses can be categorized as address buses, data buses, control buses, etc.

[0168] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer-executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method provided in the above embodiments.

[0169] This invention also provides a computer program product that can be directly loaded into a memory and contains software code. After being loaded and executed by a computer, the computer program product can implement the methods provided in the above embodiments.

[0170] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one or more of the examples above, the functions described in this invention can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, these functions can be stored in a computer-readable medium or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media, wherein communication media include any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0171] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0172] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely exemplary; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and there may be other division methods in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed between each other may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. Units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; components shown as units may be one physical unit or multiple physical units, i.e., they may be located in one place or distributed in multiple different places. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0173] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this invention can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the various embodiments of this invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0174] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: Fans are used to promote air circulation; A fan motor, used to drive the fan to rotate; A thermostat and over-temperature protection circuit are used to protect the fan motor from over-temperature. The controller is configured as follows: The temperature control signal output by the temperature controller is obtained; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a first temperature control signal, and when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a second temperature control signal. Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the fan motor to stop running; Upon receiving the second temperature control signal, the fan motor is controlled to continue running.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, an over-temperature alarm signal is issued.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the fan motor is in the off state, the temperature controller outputs a third temperature control signal; The controller is also configured to: Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is closed to protect the fan motor from over-temperature.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, After disconnecting the over-temperature protection circuit to stop the fan motor, the controller is further configured to: When the acquired temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is connected to control the fan motor to resume operation; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor drops below the preset threshold, the temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal.

5. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes: A pressure detector is used to detect the pressure value of the air conditioner; The controller is also configured to: The pressure value of the air conditioner is obtained through the pressure detector; If the pressure value is not within the preset pressure range, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the air conditioner to stop operating.

6. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The method includes: The temperature control signal output by the temperature controller is acquired; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor reaches a preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a first temperature control signal, and when the temperature of the fan motor does not reach the preset threshold, the temperature controller outputs a second temperature control signal. Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the fan motor to stop running; Upon receiving the second temperature control signal, the fan motor is controlled to continue running.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, an over-temperature alarm signal is issued.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the fan motor is in the off state, the temperature controller outputs a third temperature control signal; The method further includes: Upon receiving the first temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is closed to protect the fan motor from over-temperature.

9. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, After disconnecting the over-temperature protection circuit to control the fan motor to stop running, the method further includes: When the acquired temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal, the over-temperature protection circuit is connected to control the fan motor to resume operation; wherein, when the temperature of the fan motor drops below the preset threshold, the temperature control signal is converted from the first temperature control signal to the second temperature control signal.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the pressure value of the air conditioner; If the pressure value is not within the preset pressure range, the over-temperature protection circuit is disconnected to control the air conditioner to stop operating.

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