Control method and equipment of air conditioner, storage medium and product

Abstract

The invention provides a control method and device of an air conditioner, a storage medium and a product, the air conditioner comprises a first water receiving container used for collecting condensate water of an indoor unit and a first water pump used for spraying the condensate water in the first water receiving container into outdoor air, and the method comprises the steps that when the air conditioner is in a refrigeration working state, the first water pump is used for spraying the condensate water in the first water receiving container into the outdoor air; when determining that the first water level of condensate water in the first water receiving container is greater than or equal to a first preset water level, controlling a first water pump to start operation; determining a running stopping strategy of the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature when determining that the first water level is smaller than or equal to a second preset water level; wherein the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level; and controlling the first water pump to stop running based on the stop running strategy. The use scene of the air conditioner is effectively expanded, and the discharge requirement of condensate water of the air conditioner is met; and the service life of parts of the air conditioner is effectively prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a control method, device, storage medium and product for an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, during the cooling process of the indoor unit of an air conditioner, when water vapor in the air comes into contact with the low-temperature evaporator, it condenses into water and flows into the air conditioner's condensate drain pan. Normally, the condensate in the drain pan flows to a lower drain pipe and is discharged outdoors, or a drain pump discharges the condensate to a drain pipe above the drain pan and then outdoors. However, in some special cases (such as renovations of older buildings), there is no outdoor drain pipe, which cannot meet the air conditioner's condensate drainage needs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the embodiments of this application provide a control method, device, storage medium and product for an air conditioner, which aims to effectively expand the application scenarios of air conditioners, meet the condensate drainage requirements of air conditioners, and extend the service life of air conditioner components.

[0004] The technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0005] This application provides a control method for an air conditioner, the air conditioner including a first water receiving container for collecting condensate from the indoor unit and a first water pump for spraying the condensate from the first water receiving container into the outdoor air, the method including:

[0006] When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, if the first water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, then the first water pump is controlled to start running.

[0007] If the first water level is determined to be less than or equal to the second preset water level, then a shutdown strategy for the first water pump is determined based on the outdoor temperature; wherein the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level.

[0008] The first water pump is controlled to stop operating based on the aforementioned shutdown strategy.

[0009] In some implementations, the shutdown strategy includes at least a first shutdown strategy; wherein the first shutdown strategy represents controlling the first water pump to continue running for a first preset time before stopping operation; the step of determining the shutdown strategy of the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes:

[0010] If the outdoor temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the first shutdown strategy.

[0011] In some implementations, the shutdown strategy further includes at least a second shutdown strategy; wherein the second shutdown strategy characterizes controlling the first water pump to stop operating immediately; the determination of the shutdown strategy for the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes:

[0012] If the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the second shutdown strategy.

[0013] In some implementations, the method further includes:

[0014] In response to the command to exit the cooling operation state, the first water pump is controlled to run for a second preset time and then stop.

[0015] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes a second water collection container for collecting condensate from the outdoor unit and a second water pump for draining the condensate from the second water collection container to the first water collection container; the method further includes:

[0016] When the air conditioner is in heating mode, if it is determined that the water temperature of the condensate in the second water receiving container is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, and the second water level of the condensate in the second water receiving container is greater than or equal to the third preset water level, then the second water pump and the first water pump are controlled to start running.

[0017] In some implementations, the method further includes:

[0018] If the first water level is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, and / or if the second water level is determined to be less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, then the second water pump is controlled to stop running.

[0019] The third preset water level is greater than the fourth preset water level.

[0020] In some implementations, the method further includes:

[0021] If it is determined that the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level and the second water pump stops running, then the first water pump is controlled to continue running for a third preset time before stopping.

[0022] This application embodiment provides another air conditioner, including:

[0023] The first water collection container is used to collect the condensate from the indoor unit;

[0024] The first water pump is connected to the first water receiving container via a water pumping pipe and to a spray nozzle facing the outside via a water outlet pipe.

[0025] The processor is configured to execute the control method for the air conditioner.

[0026] This application also provides a control device for an air conditioner, including: a processor and a memory for storing a computer program that can run on the processor, wherein the processor, when running the computer program, executes the steps of the control method for the air conditioner.

[0027] This application embodiment also provides a storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the air conditioner.

[0028] This application also 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.

[0029] This application provides a control method, device, storage medium, and product for an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes a first water receiving container for collecting condensate from the indoor unit and a first water pump for spraying the condensate from the first water receiving container into the outdoor air. The method includes: when the air conditioner is in a cooling operation state, if it is determined that a first water level of condensate in the first water receiving container is greater than or equal to a first preset water level, then controlling the first water pump to start operation; if it is determined that the first water level is less than or equal to a second preset water level, then determining a shutdown strategy for the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature; wherein the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level; and controlling the first water pump to stop operation based on the shutdown strategy. Thus, in cooling mode, if the first water level of condensate in the first water receiving container is greater than or equal to the first preset water level, the first water pump is activated to spray the condensate in the first water receiving container into the outdoor air; the first water level is continuously monitored, and if the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level, the outdoor condensate temperature is monitored to determine the shutdown strategy of the first water pump and control the first water pump to stop operating; by spraying the condensate in the air conditioner into the outdoor air, the application scenarios of the air conditioner are effectively expanded, and the condensate drainage needs of the air conditioner are met; by determining the shutdown strategy based on the first water level and the outdoor temperature, the shutdown of the first water pump is controlled, shortening the operating time of the first water pump and effectively extending the service life of air conditioner components (such as the first water pump). Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner control system in an application example of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the condensate treatment method in an application example of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the control device of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0036] This application provides a control method, device, storage medium, and product for an air conditioner, aiming to effectively expand the application scenarios of air conditioners, meet the condensate drainage requirements of air conditioners, and extend the service life of air conditioner components.

[0037] Before describing the control method of the air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application, the components such as the water pump and water level switch in the air conditioner will be described by way of example.

[0038] Water pumps: Water pumps are machines that transport or pressurize liquids. They can transfer mechanical energy from a prime mover or other external energy sources to a liquid, increasing the liquid's energy. Primarily used for transporting liquids, they can be classified into positive displacement pumps, vane pumps, etc., based on different working principles. Positive displacement pumps utilize changes in the volume of their working chamber to transfer energy; vane pumps utilize the interaction between rotating vanes and water to transfer energy, and include centrifugal pumps, axial flow pumps, and mixed flow pumps. Centrifugal pumps and diaphragm pumps are commonly used for draining condensate from air conditioners.

[0039] A water level switch is a switch used to control water levels. It is mainly divided into contact and non-contact types. Commonly used non-contact switches include capacitive level switches and magnetic reed-float switches (where a magnet is built into the float, which floats with the water level; when it approaches the reed switch, the magnetic field inside the float changes the on / off state of the reed switch, outputting a switching signal). Contact float level switches are the most widely used. Electrode level switches, electronic level switches, and capacitive level switches can also be implemented using contact methods. Float level switches are commonly used in air conditioners.

[0040] This application provides a control method for an air conditioner, which includes a first water collection container for collecting condensate from the indoor unit and a first water pump for spraying the condensate from the first water collection container into the outdoor air. Figure 1 As shown, the method includes:

[0041] Step 101: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, if the first water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, then control the first water pump to start running.

[0042] For example, the first water receiving container can be an indoor water receiving tray for collecting condensate from the indoor unit; the first preset water level can be the overflow water level L1 of the condensate in the first water receiving container, which can be the highest water level in the first water receiving container that can hold condensate. The first water pump can be an indoor water pump, specifically, the first water pump can be an indoor spray pump.

[0043] For example, the first water level can be the water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container (also known as the indoor water level). The first water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container can be obtained by monitoring the water level switch. Specifically, the first water level can be compared with a first preset water level based on the first water level switch to determine whether the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level. The first preset water level corresponds to the location of the first water level switch. If it is determined that the first water level has risen to the position of the first water level switch, it indicates that the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level. The first water level switch can be understood as an indoor upper water level switch.

[0044] For example, if the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level, indicating that there is a risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container, the first water pump is controlled to start running to spray the condensate in the first water receiving container into the outdoor air through the water outlet pipe, wherein the water outlet pipe can be connected to the water outlet of the first water pump.

[0045] Understandably, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, if the water level in the indoor drip tray rises to level L1 (i.e., the aforementioned first preset water level), the indoor water pump will start; otherwise, it will determine whether it is in cooling mode. The indoor water pump pumps the condensate in the indoor drip tray to the outside, where it is atomized through the spray nozzles and discharged into the outdoor air.

[0046] Step 102: If the first water level is determined to be less than or equal to the second preset water level, then the shutdown strategy of the first water pump is determined based on the outdoor temperature; wherein the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level.

[0047] For example, the outdoor temperature to be detected can be determined based on the actual situation. No limitation is made here. As an example, the outdoor temperature to be detected can be the condensate temperature on the outdoor unit side or the ambient temperature on the outdoor unit side.

[0048] For example, the second preset water level can be the non-overflow water level L2 of the condensate in the first water receiving container, which can be the lowest water level at which the condensate in the first water receiving container can be discharged. The first water level and the second preset water level can be compared based on the second water level switch to determine whether the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level; specifically, the second preset water level corresponds to the location of the second water level switch. When the first water level falls to the position of the second water level switch, it indicates that the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level. The second water level switch can be understood as an indoor downwater level switch.

[0049] For example, if the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level, indicating that there is no risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container, it can be determined whether there is a risk of condensate freezing in the outdoor part of the outlet pipe connected to the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature, that is, whether there is a risk of damage to the outdoor part of the outlet pipe; thereby, different shutdown strategies for the first water pump can be determined based on whether there is a risk of freezing or damage.

[0050] For example, in cases where there is a risk of freezing or damage, the shutdown strategy is to control the first water pump to continue running for a period of time before stopping it, so as to drain the condensate in the outlet pipe, prevent the condensate in the outlet pipe from freezing due to low outdoor temperatures, thereby preventing damage to the outlet pipe and extending its service life. In cases where there is no risk of freezing or damage, the shutdown strategy is to control the first water pump to stop running immediately, so as to shorten the running time of the first water pump and extend its service life.

[0051] In one application example, the shutdown strategy includes at least a first shutdown strategy; wherein, the first shutdown strategy represents controlling the first water pump to continue running for a first preset time before stopping operation; determining the shutdown strategy of the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes:

[0052] If the outdoor temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the first shutdown strategy.

[0053] For example, the first preset temperature can be determined according to actual conditions. No limitation is made here. As an example, the first preset temperature C1 can be 10℃. If the outdoor temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, indicating a low outdoor temperature, there is a risk of condensation freezing in the outdoor section of the outlet pipe connected to the first water pump, meaning there is a risk of damage to the outdoor section of the outlet pipe. In this case, the first water pump will continue running for a first preset time before stopping. The first preset time T1 can be reasonably set according to requirements.

[0054] It should be noted that in some areas, when the indoor temperature is high, the air conditioner may be switched to cooling mode to lower the indoor temperature; at the same time, when the outdoor temperature is low, if the first water pump is turned off directly, the condensate in the outdoor part of the water outlet pipe may freeze and damage the outdoor part of the water outlet pipe.

[0055] In one application example, the shutdown strategy further includes at least a second shutdown strategy; wherein the second shutdown strategy characterizes controlling the first water pump to stop operating immediately; determining the shutdown strategy of the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes:

[0056] If the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the second shutdown strategy.

[0057] For example, if the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, indicating that the outdoor temperature is high, there is no risk of condensation in the outdoor part of the outlet pipe connected to the first water pump freezing, that is, there is no risk of damage to the outdoor part of the outlet pipe, then the first water pump is controlled to stop operating immediately.

[0058] It should be noted that, in order to prevent condensation from freezing in the outdoor part of the water outlet pipe or damage to the outdoor part of the water outlet pipe, the indoor spray pump is controlled to run for a period of time if the indoor water level drops to the non-overflow level, regardless of changes in outdoor temperature. This may affect the lifespan of the indoor spray pump.

[0059] Step 103: Control the first water pump to stop running based on the stop operation strategy.

[0060] For example, if there is no risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container, the first water pump can be stopped to shorten its operating time and extend its service life. Furthermore, the first water pump can also be stopped based on a shutdown strategy corresponding to the outdoor temperature: when the outdoor temperature is low, the first water pump can continue running for a period of time before stopping; when the outdoor temperature is high, the first water pump can stop immediately.

[0061] Understandably, if the water level in the indoor water tray drops to level L2 (i.e., the aforementioned second preset water level), the outdoor temperature (e.g., outdoor water temperature or ambient temperature) will be detected. If the outdoor temperature is higher than the set value, the indoor water pump will be turned off directly. If the outdoor temperature is lower than the set value, the indoor water pump will stop after running for time T1 (in order to drain the water remaining in the outlet pipe and prevent the water in the outlet pipe from freezing in winter, which could damage the outlet pipe and the nozzle of the indoor water pump).

[0062] In one application example, the method also includes:

[0063] In response to the command to exit the cooling operation state, the first water pump is controlled to run for a second preset time and then stop.

[0064] For example, the instruction to exit the cooling operation state can be determined according to the actual situation. No limitation is made here. As an example, the instruction to exit the cooling operation state can be determined by receiving user instructions, timed shutdown instructions, or other set procedures.

[0065] For example, when the air conditioner is off cooling mode (air conditioner is off cooling), controlling the first water pump to run for a second preset time and then stop can drain the residual water in the outlet pipe of the first water pump, preventing the condensate in the outlet pipe from freezing at low temperatures and damaging the outlet pipe and the nozzle of the indoor mist pump. The second preset time T2 can be set reasonably according to needs.

[0066] Understandably, if the air conditioner is turned off for cooling, the indoor water pump will be forced to run for T2 time to remove the residual water from the indoor drip tray and prevent bacterial growth; and to drain the residual water from the outlet pipe to prevent the water in the outlet pipe from freezing in the low temperature of winter, which could damage the outlet pipe and the nozzle of the indoor water pump.

[0067] In one application example, the air conditioner further includes a second water collection container for collecting condensate from the outdoor unit and a second water pump for draining the condensate from the second water collection container to a first water collection container; the method also includes:

[0068] When the air conditioner is in heating mode, if the water temperature of the condensate in the second water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, and the second water level of the condensate in the second water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the third preset water level, then the second water pump and the first water pump are controlled to start running.

[0069] For example, the second temperature threshold can be determined according to the actual situation. No limitation is made here. As an example, the second temperature threshold C2 can be a natural number greater than or equal to 0. The second temperature threshold can be used to determine whether the condensate in the second water receiving container is an ice-water mixture or solid ice. If the water temperature of the condensate in the second water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, then the condensate in the second water receiving container can be determined to be liquid water, ensuring that the second water pump is drawing liquid condensate, not solid ice, and avoiding dry pumping of the second water pump.

[0070] For example, the second water receiving container can be an outdoor water receiving pan for collecting condensate from the outdoor unit. The third preset water level can be the overflow water level L3 of the condensate in the second water receiving container, which can be the highest water level in the second water receiving container that can hold condensate. It should be noted that the first preset water level and the third preset water level can be the same or different.

[0071] For example, the fourth preset water level can be the non-overflow water level L4 of the condensate in the second water receiving container, which can be the lowest water level at which the condensate in the second water receiving container can be discharged. It should be noted that the second preset water level and the fourth preset water level can be the same or different.

[0072] For example, the second water level can be the water level of the condensate in the second receiving container (also known as the outdoor water level). The third preset water level corresponds to the position of the third water level switch. When the second water level rises to the position of the third water level switch, it indicates that the second water level is greater than or equal to the third preset water level. The third water level switch can be an outdoor upper water level switch. The fourth preset water level corresponds to the position of the fourth water level switch. When the second water level falls to the position of the fourth water level switch, it indicates that the second water level is less than or equal to the fourth preset water level. The fourth water level switch can be an outdoor lower water level switch.

[0073] For example, the second water pump can be an outdoor water pump. If it is determined that the second water level is greater than or equal to the third preset water level, indicating that there is a risk of condensate overflow in the second water receiving container, the second water pump can be controlled to start running to discharge the condensate in the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container through the inlet pipe.

[0074] Understandably, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, if the outdoor water temperature is ≥C2 and the water level in the outdoor drip tray rises to level L3 (i.e., the aforementioned third preset water level), then the outdoor water pump and the indoor water pump will be turned on; otherwise, it will determine whether heating is in operation. The outdoor water pump first pumps the condensate / defrost water from the outdoor unit to the indoor drip tray, and the indoor water pump pumps the condensate / defrost water in the drip tray to the outside, where it is atomized through the nozzles and discharged into the outdoor air.

[0075] In one application example, the method also includes:

[0076] If the first water level is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, and / or if the second water level is determined to be less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, then the second water pump is controlled to stop running.

[0077] The third preset water level is greater than the fourth preset water level.

[0078] For example, if the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level, indicating that there is a risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container, the second water pump can be controlled to stop running, that is, to stop the discharge of condensate in the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container through the inlet pipe.

[0079] In some embodiments, if the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level and the second water level is determined to be less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, the second water pump can be controlled to stop running and the first water pump can be controlled to start running, so as to consume the amount of condensate in the first water receiving container.

[0080] For example, if it is determined that the second water level is less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, indicating that there is no risk of condensate overflow in the second water receiving container, then the second water pump is controlled to stop running, that is, to stop the discharge of condensate in the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container through the inlet pipe, so as to avoid the second water pump running dry, shorten the running time of the second water pump, and extend the service life of the second water pump.

[0081] It is understandable that if the indoor water level rises to level L1, the outdoor water pump will stop running; otherwise, the outdoor water pump will stop running when the water level in the outdoor water receiving pan drops to level L4 (i.e., the aforementioned fourth preset water level).

[0082] In one application example, the method also includes:

[0083] If the first water level is determined to be less than or equal to the second preset water level and the second water pump stops running, then the first water pump is controlled to continue running for a third preset time before stopping.

[0084] For example, if the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level and the second water pump stops operating, it indicates that the discharge of condensate from the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container through the inlet pipe has stopped, and there is no risk of condensate overflowing from the first water receiving container. In this case, the first water pump can be controlled to continue operating for a third preset time before stopping, so as to completely drain the condensate from the outlet pipe, preventing the condensate from freezing due to low outdoor temperatures, thus avoiding damage to the outlet pipe and extending its service life. The third preset time T3 can be reasonably set according to requirements.

[0085] In some embodiments, the air conditioner is controlled to shut down in response to a command to exit the heating operation state. Exemplarily, the command to exit the heating operation state can be determined based on actual circumstances. No limitation is made herein. As an example, the command to exit the heating operation state can be determined by receiving a user command, a timed shutdown command, or other preset procedures.

[0086] Understandably, if the water level in the indoor drip tray drops to level L2, the indoor water pump will continue to run for time T3 to drain the remaining water in the outlet pipe, preventing the water in the outlet pipe from freezing at low temperatures and damaging the outlet pipe and nozzles, and then the indoor water pump will be turned off; if the water level in the indoor drip tray does not drop to level L2, the indoor water pump will continue to run until the water level drops to level L2.

[0087] It should be noted that the first preset duration, the second preset duration, and the third preset duration can be the same or different, and no restrictions are imposed here.

[0088] To understand the embodiments of the present invention, the following description uses an air conditioner condensate water treatment method and the air conditioner itself as an example. This method is applied to an air conditioner control system. Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioner control system includes a central processing unit (CPU), a storage unit, a power supply unit, a display unit, a control unit, and components in the air conditioner (e.g., a water pump and a water level switch).

[0089] The CPU controls the operation of the air conditioner control system; the storage unit stores necessary information; the display unit displays the air conditioner's operating information and fault information (including water pump fault information); the control unit controls the operation of components such as the water pump in the air conditioner, and detects the water pump's operating speed, outdoor water temperature, and the position of the water level switch; after the water pump is powered on, it pumps the condensate water produced by the air conditioner to the designated location.

[0090] The power supply unit provides power to the air conditioner control system and specifically includes the CPU, storage unit, display unit, control unit, water pump, etc.

[0091] The CPU exchanges information with the storage unit; the CPU controls the display unit to display; the CPU exchanges information with the control unit, issues control commands to the control unit, and collects control information and component operation status feedback from the control unit; the control unit controls the operation of components including the water pump in the air conditioner, and detects information such as the water pump speed, outdoor water temperature, and water level switch position.

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, the process of condensate treatment includes:

[0093] Step 301: Turn on the air conditioner.

[0094] Step 302: Determine if the air conditioner is on cooling mode. If yes, proceed to step 304; otherwise, proceed to step 303.

[0095] Step 303: Determine if the air conditioner is in heating mode. If yes, proceed to step 312; otherwise, proceed to step 302.

[0096] Step 304: Determine if the indoor water level has risen to level L1. If yes, proceed to step 305; otherwise, proceed to step 310.

[0097] For example, when the indoor water level rises to level L1 (i.e., the aforementioned first preset water level), it indicates that there is a risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container.

[0098] Step 305: Indoor water pump operation.

[0099] For example, an indoor water pump sprays condensate from the first water receiving container into the outdoor air to consume the condensate in the first water receiving container.

[0100] Step 306: Determine if the indoor water level has dropped to level L2. If yes, proceed to step 307; otherwise, proceed to step 305.

[0101] For example, when the indoor water level drops to water level L2 (i.e., the aforementioned second preset water level), it indicates that there is no risk of condensate overflow in the first water receiving container.

[0102] Step 307: Determine if the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to C1. If yes, proceed to step 309; otherwise, proceed to step 308.

[0103] For example, an outdoor temperature greater than or equal to C1 indicates a high outdoor temperature, meaning there is no risk of condensation freezing in the outdoor portion of the outlet pipe connected to the first water pump, i.e., no risk of damage to the outdoor portion of the outlet pipe. C1 is a natural number greater than or equal to 0, such as 10°C.

[0104] Step 308: The indoor water pump will continue to run for time T1 and then stop running. Proceed to step 310.

[0105] For example, the indoor water pump stops operating after spraying the condensate in the first water receiving container into the outdoor air for time T1, so as to drain the condensate in the outlet pipe, prevent the condensate in the outlet pipe from freezing due to the low outdoor temperature, thereby preventing damage to the outlet pipe and extending its service life.

[0106] For example, T1 can be set reasonably according to needs, such as 2 minutes.

[0107] Step 309: The indoor water pump stops running.

[0108] For example, the spraying of condensate from the first water receiving container into the outdoor air is stopped in order to shorten the operating time of the first water pump and extend its service life.

[0109] Step 310: Determine if the air conditioner is off cooling. If yes, proceed to step 311; otherwise, proceed to step 302.

[0110] Step 311: The indoor water pump will continue to run for time T2 and then stop running. Proceed to step 323.

[0111] For example, the indoor water pump sprays the condensate from the first water receiving container into the outdoor air for time T2, then stops operating to drain the condensate from the outlet pipe, preventing the condensate from freezing due to low outdoor temperatures, thus avoiding damage to the outlet pipe and extending its service life. T2 can be set appropriately according to needs, such as 2 minutes.

[0112] Step 312: Determine if the outdoor water temperature is greater than or equal to C2. If yes, proceed to step 313; otherwise, proceed to step 302.

[0113] For example, if the outdoor water temperature is greater than or equal to C2, it indicates that the condensate in the second water receiving container is in a liquid water state.

[0114] For example, C2 is a natural number greater than or equal to 0, such as 4°C.

[0115] Step 313: Determine if the outdoor water level has risen to level L3. If yes, proceed to step 314; otherwise, proceed to step 322.

[0116] For example, when the outdoor water level rises to level L3 (i.e., the aforementioned third preset water level), it indicates that there is a risk of condensate overflow in the second water receiving container.

[0117] Step 314: The outdoor water pump is running, and the indoor water pump is running.

[0118] For example, the outdoor water pump discharges the condensate in the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container to consume the condensate in the second water receiving container; the indoor water pump sprays the condensate in the first water receiving container into the outdoor air to consume the condensate in the first water receiving container.

[0119] Step 315: Determine if the indoor water level has risen to level L1. If yes, proceed to step 316; otherwise, proceed to step 317.

[0120] Step 316: Stop the outdoor water pump and proceed to step 319.

[0121] For example, the discharge of condensate from the second water receiving container into the first water receiving container is stopped to prevent the first water receiving container from overflowing.

[0122] Step 317: Determine if the outdoor water level has dropped to level L4. If yes, proceed to step 318; otherwise, proceed to step 314.

[0123] For example, when the outdoor water level drops to level L4 (i.e., the aforementioned fourth preset water level), it indicates that there is no risk of condensate overflow in the second water receiving container.

[0124] Step 318: The outdoor water pump stops running.

[0125] For example, the discharge of condensate from the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container is stopped to avoid the outdoor water pump running dry, shorten the operating time of the outdoor water pump, and extend the service life of the outdoor water pump.

[0126] Step 319: Determine if the indoor water level has dropped to water level L2. If yes, proceed to step 321; otherwise, proceed to step 320.

[0127] Step 320: The indoor water pump starts running, proceed to step 319.

[0128] For example, the condensate in the first water receiving container is continued to be sprayed into the outdoor air, and the indoor water level is determined.

[0129] Step 321: The indoor water pump is shut off after running for time T3.

[0130] For example, if the water level in the indoor drip tray drops to level L2, the indoor water pump continues to run for time T3 to drain any remaining water from the outlet pipe, preventing the water from freezing at low temperatures and damaging the outlet pipe and shower head. Then, the indoor water pump is turned off. T3 can be set appropriately according to needs, such as 3 minutes.

[0131] Step 322: Determine if the air conditioner is in heating mode. If yes, proceed to step 323; otherwise, proceed to step 302.

[0132] Step 323: Stop.

[0133] This application embodiment also provides an air conditioner, such as Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner includes: a first water receiving container 401, an indoor unit 402, a first water pump 403, a water extraction pipe 404, a water outlet pipe 405, and a spray nozzle 406; wherein, the first water receiving container 401 is used to collect condensate from the indoor unit 402; the first water pump 403 is connected to the first water receiving container 401 via the water extraction pipe 404, and connected to the spray nozzle 406 facing the outside via the water outlet pipe 405; the air conditioner also includes a processor configured to, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, determine if the first water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container 401 is greater than or equal to a first preset water level, then control the first water pump 403 to start running, spraying the condensate in the first water receiving container 401 into the outdoor air; if the first water level is less than or equal to a second preset water level, then determine a shutdown strategy for the first water pump 403 based on the outdoor temperature; wherein, the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level; and control the first water pump 403 to stop running based on the shutdown strategy.

[0134] For example, the water inlet pipe 404 can be an indoor water inlet pipe, and the water outlet pipe 405 can be a spray pump outlet pipe. The first water pump 403 can be located above the first water receiving container 401.

[0135] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to determine a first stop operation strategy when the outdoor temperature is lower than a first preset temperature; wherein the first stop operation strategy represents controlling the first water pump 403 to continue running for a first preset time and then stop running.

[0136] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to determine a second stop operation strategy when the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to a first preset temperature; wherein the second stop operation strategy represents controlling the first water pump 403 to stop operating immediately.

[0137] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to control the first water pump 403 to stop operating after running for a second preset time in response to an instruction to exit the cooling working state.

[0138] In some embodiments, the air conditioner may further include a second water receiving container 407, an outdoor unit 408, a second water pump 409, and a water inlet pipe 410; wherein, the second water receiving container 407 is used to collect condensate from the outdoor unit 408; the second water pump 409 is connected to the second water receiving container 407 and connected to the first water receiving container 401 via the water inlet pipe 410, for draining the condensate in the second water receiving container 407 to the first water receiving container 401. The processor may also be configured to, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, determine that the water temperature of the condensate in the second water receiving container 407 is greater than or equal to a second preset temperature, and determine that the second water level of the condensate in the second water receiving container 407 is greater than or equal to a third preset water level, then control the second water pump 409 to start operating and the first water pump 403 to start operating.

[0139] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to determine that the first water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level, and / or determine that the second water level is less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, and then control the second water pump 409 to stop operating; wherein the third preset water level is greater than the fourth preset water level.

[0140] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to determine that if the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level and the second water pump 409 stops running, then control the first water pump 403 to continue running for a third preset time before stopping.

[0141] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes an indoor upper water level switch 4011 and an indoor lower water level switch 4012 disposed in a first water receiving container 401; an outdoor upper water level switch 4071 and an outdoor lower water level switch 4072 disposed in a second water receiving container 407; and an outdoor water temperature sensor 4073 disposed in the second water receiving container 407.

[0142] It should be noted that the number and location of the air conditioner's spray nozzles can be adjusted according to the actual situation, as long as the condensate can be atomized and discharged into the outdoor air through the spray nozzles. No specific restrictions are imposed here.

[0143] To implement the method of the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a control device for an air conditioner. Figure 5This only shows an exemplary structure of the control device for the air conditioner, not the entire structure; implementation is possible as needed. Figure 5 The structure shown may be part or all of the structure.

[0144] like Figure 5 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the control device 500 for an air conditioner includes at least one processor 501, a memory 502, and a user interface 503. The various components in the control device 500 are coupled together via a bus system 504. It can be understood that the bus system 504 is used to implement communication between these components. In addition to a data bus, the bus system 504 also includes a power bus, a control bus, and a status signal bus. However, for clarity, in… Figure 5 The general designated all buses as Bus System 504.

[0145] The user interface 503 may include a monitor, keyboard, mouse, trackball, click wheel, buttons, touchpad, or touch screen.

[0146] The memory 502 in this embodiment is used to store various types of data to support the operation of the control device. Examples of such data include any computer program used to operate on the control device.

[0147] The air conditioner control method disclosed in this application embodiment can be applied to, or implemented by, processor 501. Processor 501 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. During implementation, each step of the air conditioner control method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the hardware of processor 501 or by instructions in software form. The processor 501 can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. Processor 501 can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware decoding processor, or execution by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in a storage medium, specifically memory 502. Processor 501 reads information from memory 502 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the air conditioner control method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0148] In an exemplary embodiment, the control device for the air conditioner may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), DSPs, programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), general-purpose processors, controllers, microcontrollers (MCUs), microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the aforementioned method.

[0149] It is understood that memory 502 can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or both. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), ferromagnetic random access memory (FRAM), flash memory, magnetic surface memory, optical disc, or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM); magnetic surface memory can be disk storage or magnetic tape storage. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Synchronous Static Random Access Memory (SSRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (DDRSDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (ESDRAM), SyncLink Dynamic Random Access Memory (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus Random Access Memory (DRRAM).The memories described in the embodiments of this application are intended to include, but are not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memories.

[0150] In an exemplary embodiment, this application also provides a storage medium, namely a computer storage medium, specifically a computer-readable storage medium, such as a memory 502 storing a computer program. This computer program can be executed by the processor 501 of the air conditioner's control device 500 to complete the steps described in the method of this application embodiment. The computer-readable storage medium can be a ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash Memory, magnetic surface memory, optical disc, or CD-ROM, etc.

[0151] In an exemplary embodiment, this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that can be executed by a processor 501 of an air conditioner control device 500 to perform the steps described in any of the foregoing methods.

[0152] It should be noted that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0153] Furthermore, the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily without conflict.

[0154] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology 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. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a first water collection container for collecting condensate from the indoor unit and a first water pump for spraying the condensate from the first water collection container into the outdoor air. The method includes: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, if the first water level of the condensate in the first water receiving container is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, then the first water pump is controlled to start running. If the first water level is determined to be less than or equal to the second preset water level, then a shutdown strategy for the first water pump is determined based on the outdoor temperature; wherein the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level. The first water pump is controlled to stop operating based on the aforementioned shutdown strategy.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shutdown strategy includes at least a first shutdown strategy; wherein the first shutdown strategy represents controlling the first water pump to continue running for a first preset time before stopping operation; the step of determining the shutdown strategy of the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes: If the outdoor temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the first shutdown strategy.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shutdown strategy further includes at least a second shutdown strategy; wherein the second shutdown strategy represents controlling the first water pump to stop operating immediately; the determination of the shutdown strategy for the first water pump based on the outdoor temperature includes: If the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, the shutdown strategy is determined to be the second shutdown strategy.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the command to exit the cooling operation state, the first water pump is controlled to run for a second preset time and then stop.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The air conditioner further includes a second water receiving container for collecting condensate from the outdoor unit and a second water pump for draining the condensate from the second water receiving container to the first water receiving container; the method further includes: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, if it is determined that the water temperature of the condensate in the second water receiving container is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, and the second water level of the condensate in the second water receiving container is greater than or equal to the third preset water level, then the second water pump and the first water pump are controlled to start running.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the first water level is determined to be greater than or equal to the first preset water level, and / or if the second water level is determined to be less than or equal to the fourth preset water level, then the second water pump is controlled to stop running. The third preset water level is greater than the fourth preset water level.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: If it is determined that the first water level is less than or equal to the second preset water level and the second water pump stops running, then the first water pump is controlled to continue running for a third preset time before stopping.

8. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The first water collection container is used to collect the condensate from the indoor unit; The first water pump is connected to the first water receiving container via a water pumping pipe and to a spray nozzle facing the outside via a water outlet pipe. A processor configured to perform the method described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A control device for an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: A processor and memory for storing computer programs that can run on the processor, wherein, The processor, when running a computer program, performs the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A storage medium storing a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method 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 a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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