Defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium and program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium and program product, and relates to the technical field of air conditioners. The method comprises: determining a target control strategy of the air conditioner from a specified control strategy according to an outdoor environment temperature of the air conditioner; the specified control strategy comprises a first control strategy and a second control strategy; and executing the target control strategy to realize defrosting of an outdoor unit of the air conditioner. Through the above method, different defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments are fully considered, and dynamic adaptation of working conditions and control strategies is realized. This differentiated control can accurately match the frost characteristics under different outdoor environment temperatures, avoid the problems of insufficient defrosting leading to heating efficiency decay or excessive defrosting wasting energy from the source, improve energy utilization rate, and prolong the service life of the equipment. At the same time, according to different defrosting requirements, different degrees of defrosting control strategies are matched, which can effectively alleviate indoor temperature fluctuations and improve user comfort.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and more particularly to a defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] During winter heating operation, the outdoor heat exchanger of an air conditioner will continuously condense water vapor in the air and form a frost layer due to factors such as low ambient temperature and high humidity. If the frost layer accumulates for a long time, it will severely hinder the heat exchange between the outdoor heat exchanger and the ambient air, resulting in a significant decrease in the heating efficiency of the air conditioner and its inability to meet indoor heating needs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To overcome the problems existing in the related technologies, this disclosure provides a defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium, and program product.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a defrosting control method is provided, the method comprising: Based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, a target control strategy for the air conditioner is determined from a specified control strategy; the specified control strategy includes a first control strategy and a second control strategy. The target control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0005] In this way, taking into full account the varying defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments, dynamic adaptation of operating conditions and control strategies is achieved. This differentiated control can precisely match the frost characteristics under different outdoor temperatures, preventing issues such as insufficient defrosting leading to reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting wasting energy, thereby improving energy utilization and extending equipment lifespan. Simultaneously, matching different defrosting control strategies to different defrosting needs can effectively mitigate indoor temperature fluctuations and enhance user comfort.

[0006] In some possible implementations, determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from a specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner includes: When the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the first control strategy; or, When the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the second control strategy.

[0007] Therefore, if the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current defrosting pressure is high, and a first control strategy with higher defrosting efficiency can be used to defrost, thereby shortening the defrosting time as much as possible. If the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current defrosting pressure is low, and a second control strategy with lower defrosting efficiency can be used to defrost, thereby improving indoor thermal comfort as much as possible during defrosting while ensuring defrosting capacity.

[0008] In some possible implementations, the first control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting, and the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flowing into the compressor's liquid receiver tank.

[0009] In this way, the refrigerant output from the compressor flows into the outdoor heat exchanger for defrosting, quickly removing frost and preventing it from affecting heat exchange efficiency, thus ensuring the air conditioner's heating capacity at low temperatures. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the receiver liner, where it is temporarily stored, balancing the refrigerant flow within the system, preventing liquid slugging of the compressor, protecting the compressor, and ensuring stable refrigerant circulation, thereby improving the air conditioner's operational reliability.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the first control strategy may further include controlling the activation of the indoor auxiliary heating device of the air conditioner.

[0011] In this way, the indoor auxiliary heating device can maintain the indoor temperature to a certain extent, avoiding large fluctuations in indoor temperature that could affect the user experience.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the second control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into a first branch and a second branch respectively. The refrigerant flowing out of the first branch and the second branch mixes and flows into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the compressor's liquid receiver tank. The temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the second branch is higher than the temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the first branch.

[0013] In this way, the low-temperature refrigerant flowing out of the first branch mixes with the high-temperature refrigerant flowing out of the second branch before flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger, which can raise the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger. This allows for simultaneous heating of the indoor space during defrosting, thereby improving indoor thermal comfort during the defrosting process.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the first branch includes an indoor unit, one end of which is connected to the compressor and the other end of which is connected to an outdoor heat exchanger; one end of the second branch is connected to the compressor and the other end of the second branch is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0015] In this way, the dual-branch design can switch or work together as needed, ensuring both indoor heating and outdoor defrosting effects, and enhancing the adaptability and operational flexibility of the air conditioner under different operating conditions.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: When defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, adjust the frequency of the air conditioner's compressor.

[0017] This avoids energy waste or incomplete defrosting caused by fixed-frequency defrosting of the compressor, while stabilizing system pressure and temperature, protecting the compressor, and ensuring more reliable and efficient operation of the air conditioner during the defrosting process.

[0018] In some possible implementations, adjusting the frequency of the air conditioner's compressor includes: The compressor frequency is controlled to be adjusted to a first target frequency within a first preset time. After the compressor frequency reaches the first target frequency and is maintained for a time greater than or equal to a second preset time, the compressor frequency is controlled to be adjusted from the first target frequency to a second target frequency. The first target frequency is greater than the second target frequency.

[0019] Thus, by first increasing the compressor frequency to a higher first target frequency within a first preset time, the refrigerant circulation volume can be rapidly increased, enhancing the heat dissipation capacity of the outdoor heat exchanger, accelerating the melting of frost in the initial defrosting stage, and shortening the defrosting time. Maintaining this frequency until a second preset time, and then reducing it to a lower second target frequency, can avoid excessive energy consumption caused by continuous high-frequency operation, while stabilizing system operating conditions, preventing over-defrosting, protecting the compressor, and balancing defrosting efficiency with operational economy and reliability.

[0020] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: While defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the indoor pipe temperature of the indoor unit of the air conditioner is obtained; Adjust the speed of the indoor fan of the air conditioner according to the indoor duct temperature.

[0021] In this way, by obtaining the indoor pipe temperature during defrosting, the indoor heat exchange status can be monitored in real time, providing a precise basis for adjusting the indoor fan speed and avoiding blind adjustments.

[0022] In some possible implementations, adjusting the speed of the indoor fan of the air conditioner according to the indoor duct temperature includes: Determine a first temperature difference between the target pipe temperature and the indoor pipe temperature; The rotational speed of the internal fan is adjusted based on the first temperature difference.

[0023] Therefore, by first calculating the temperature difference between the target pipe temperature and the actual indoor pipe temperature, a quantitative basis is provided for adjusting the indoor fan speed, avoiding errors caused by experience-based adjustments and making the adjustment more precise. Based on the difference adjustment, it can dynamically adapt to changes in indoor temperature, taking into account both the stability of the indoor environment during defrosting and user comfort, thereby improving the accuracy and intelligence of the air conditioner's operation.

[0024] In some possible implementations, adjusting the speed of the internal fan based on the first temperature difference includes: If the first temperature difference is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature threshold, the speed of the internal fan is reduced.

[0025] Thus, when the first temperature difference is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature threshold, it means that the actual temperature of the indoor pipe is much lower than the target pipe temperature. At this time, reducing the speed of the indoor fan can reduce the amount of air blown into the room by the indoor unit, prevent the indoor temperature from continuously dropping due to defrosting, effectively maintain the stability of the indoor temperature, ensure user comfort, and balance the defrosting effect with the indoor experience.

[0026] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: When defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit is controlled to stop operating.

[0027] Therefore, during the defrosting process of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit can be stopped. When the outdoor fan is running, the heat of the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger is dissipated, thus affecting the defrosting effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, to ensure the defrosting effect of the outdoor heat exchanger, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit can be stopped during the defrosting period.

[0028] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting termination conditions, the target control strategy is stopped to terminate the defrosting of the outdoor unit.

[0029] Thus, the defrosting target control strategy, which stops defrosting once the preset conditions are met, can avoid excessive defrosting that wastes energy and damages equipment, accurately control the defrosting time, and balance the defrosting effect with system reliability.

[0030] In some possible implementations, the preset defrosting termination conditions include: The temperature of the first outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to a third preset temperature threshold; or... The time for executing the target control strategy is greater than or equal to the third preset time.

[0031] Thus, by setting the temperature of the first outdoor pipe to be greater than or equal to the third preset threshold, the frost layer on the outdoor unit can be directly determined through the pipe temperature, avoiding incomplete defrosting that could affect heat exchange and ensuring defrosting effectiveness. By setting the execution time of the target control strategy to be greater than or equal to the third preset time, energy waste and equipment overheating caused by defrosting timeouts can be prevented, protecting system components.

[0032] In some possible implementations, determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from a specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner includes: When the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, the target control strategy of the air conditioner is determined from the specified control strategy according to the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner. The preset defrosting time conditions include the air conditioner's start-up time being greater than or equal to a fourth preset time; or the time since the last defrosting ended being greater than or equal to a fifth preset time.

[0033] This effectively prevents increased energy consumption and equipment damage caused by repeated defrosting in a short period of time, while ensuring that the strategy is activated only within a reasonable period when defrosting is likely to occur, improving the accuracy of defrosting timing, and taking into account the air conditioner's operating efficiency, reliability, and user experience.

[0034] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: Obtain the temperature of the second outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit; Determine a second temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second outdoor pipeline temperature; When the air conditioner meets the preset defrost time condition, determining the target control strategy of the air conditioner from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner includes: If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, and if the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to the fifth preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy of the air conditioner is determined from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner.

[0035] Thus, after the preset defrosting time condition is met, the target control strategy will only be determined if the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to the fifth preset temperature threshold. This can exclude non-frost scenarios, prevent ineffective defrosting, reduce energy consumption and equipment wear, and balance the necessity of defrosting with the operating efficiency and reliability of the air conditioner.

[0036] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: When the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting control conditions, a third control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner; the defrosting effect of the third control strategy is better than the defrosting effect of the specified control strategy.

[0037] Thus, the third control strategy, which executes a more effective defrosting when the preset defrosting control conditions are met, can handle complex scenarios such as severe frost that are difficult to handle by the specified control strategy, and quickly and thoroughly defrost, avoiding the impact of frost residue on the heat exchange efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0038] In some possible implementations, the preset defrost control conditions include any one of the first defrost control conditions, the second defrost control conditions, and the third defrost control conditions; The first defrosting control condition includes the air conditioner not meeting the preset defrosting time condition and the second outdoor pipe temperature being less than the fifth preset temperature threshold. The second defrosting control condition includes the number of times the air conditioner continuously executes the target control strategy in a historical period being greater than or equal to the preset number of executions; The third defrosting control condition includes the following: when the air conditioner stopped executing the target control strategy because the execution time of the target control strategy was greater than or equal to the third preset time, the third outdoor pipe temperature of the outdoor unit was less than or equal to the sixth preset temperature threshold when the target control strategy was last stopped; wherein the sixth preset temperature threshold is less than the third preset temperature threshold.

[0039] In this way, by covering different scenarios of incomplete or emergency defrosting using the above three conditions, a powerful strategy is precisely triggered, balancing the timeliness and thoroughness of defrosting to ensure equipment efficiency. A rich selection of defrosting strategies allows the air conditioner to adapt to different levels of frost, improving defrosting flexibility and reliability, and ensuring stable operation under harsh conditions.

[0040] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: If the target defrosting time is determined to be less than or equal to the sixth preset time, the step of determining the target control strategy of the air conditioner from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner and the step of executing the target control strategy will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting. The target defrosting time is the time taken from when the air conditioner starts executing the third control strategy to when it stops executing the third control strategy.

[0041] Thus, if the target defrosting time is less than or equal to the sixth preset time, it indicates that the outdoor unit is experiencing severe frost buildup, and that a good defrosting effect has been achieved by executing the third control strategy. Therefore, when the target defrosting time is determined to be less than or equal to the sixth preset time, the step of determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from the specified control strategies based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, and the step of executing the target control strategy, will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting.

[0042] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: If the target defrosting time is greater than the sixth preset time, the third control strategy described in step [step 3] will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting.

[0043] Therefore, if the target defrosting time exceeds the sixth preset time, it indicates that the outdoor unit is experiencing abnormally severe frost buildup, and executing the third control strategy only once may not be sufficient to achieve the desired defrosting effect. Thus, if the target defrosting time exceeds the sixth preset time, executing the third control strategy can be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting cycle.

[0044] In some possible implementations, the third control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting, the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger to flow into the indoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner's indoor unit to absorb heat, and the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger to flow into a liquid receiver connected to the compressor.

[0045] In this way, the compressor outputs refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger for defrosting, efficiently melting the frost layer and solving the problem of incomplete defrosting in ordinary strategies, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency on the outdoor side. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the indoor heat exchanger to absorb heat, recovering heat and reducing heat loss during defrosting, preventing a sudden drop in indoor temperature and improving user comfort. The refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger flows into the liquid receiver, balancing the refrigerant flow in the system, preventing liquid slugging of the compressor, protecting equipment, and balancing efficient defrosting, comfortable experience, and system reliability.

[0046] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a defrosting control system is provided, the system comprising: a controller and an actuator; the controller being connected to the actuator; the actuator comprising a compressor, an outdoor unit, a first branch, and a second branch; the first branch comprising an indoor unit, one end of the indoor unit being connected to the compressor, and the other end of the indoor unit being connected to the outdoor unit; one end of the second branch being connected to the compressor, and the other end of the second branch being connected to the outdoor unit; The controller is used to control the execution component to perform the defrosting control method provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0047] In some possible implementations, the first branch further includes a first throttling device disposed between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, for controlling the conduction or disconnection of the first branch.

[0048] In some possible implementations, the second branch further includes a second throttling device disposed on the second branch for controlling the conduction or disconnection of the second branch.

[0049] In some possible implementations, the actuator further includes a four-way valve, the first end of which is connected to the output end of the compressor, the second end of which is connected to the indoor unit and the second throttling device, the third end of which is connected to the compressor's liquid receiver, and the fourth end of which is connected to the outdoor unit.

[0050] In some possible implementations, the indoor unit includes an indoor auxiliary heating device and an indoor fan; the indoor auxiliary heating device is located at the air outlet of the indoor fan.

[0051] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided, including the defrosting control system provided in the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores computer program instructions thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the defrosting control method provided in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0053] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the defrosting control method provided in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0054] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure can include the following beneficial effects: Based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, a target control strategy for the air conditioner is determined from a specified control strategy; the specified control strategy includes a first control strategy and a second control strategy; the target control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. Through the above method, the different defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments are fully considered, achieving dynamic adaptation between operating conditions and control strategies. This differentiated control can accurately match the frost characteristics under different outdoor ambient temperatures, preventing insufficient defrosting from causing a decrease in heating efficiency or excessive defrosting from wasting energy, thereby improving energy efficiency and extending equipment lifespan. Simultaneously, matching different levels of defrosting control strategies according to different defrosting needs can effectively alleviate indoor temperature fluctuations and improve user comfort.

[0055] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a defrosting control method according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating a defrosting control system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating another defrosting control system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating another defrosting control system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating another defrosting control system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating another defrosting control system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0065] It should be noted that all actions involving the acquisition of signals, information, or data in this disclosure are carried out in compliance with the relevant data protection laws and policies of the country where the location is situated, and with authorization from the owner of the relevant device.

[0066] The term "comprising" and its variations as used herein are open-ended inclusions, meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment"; the term "some embodiments" means "at least some embodiments". Definitions of other terms will be given in the description below.

[0067] In the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more, and other quantifiers are similar; "at least one," "one or more," or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one 'a' can represent any number of 'a's; as another example, one or more of a, b, and c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple; "and / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0068] Although operations or steps are described in a specific order in the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this disclosure, it should not be construed as requiring these operations or steps to be performed in the specific order or serial order shown, or requiring all of the shown operations or steps to be performed to obtain the desired result. In the embodiments of this disclosure, these operations or steps may be performed serially; they may be performed in parallel; or a portion of these operations or steps may be performed.

[0069] Before introducing the defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium, and program product provided in this disclosure, the application scenarios involved in the various embodiments of this disclosure will first be introduced. In modern homes, offices, commercial spaces, and other scenarios requiring large-area temperature control, floor-standing air conditioners, with their powerful cooling and heating capabilities and wide coverage, have become one of the core devices for ensuring indoor environmental comfort. Especially in low-temperature winter environments, floor-standing air conditioners need to continuously operate in heating mode to maintain a stable warm indoor environment and meet the temperature needs of users in work, rest, and social scenarios.

[0070] However, during winter heating operation, the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner continuously condenses water vapor in the air and forms a frost layer due to factors such as low ambient temperature and high humidity. If the frost layer accumulates for a long time, it will severely hinder the heat exchange between the outdoor heat exchanger and the ambient air, leading to a significant decrease in the heating efficiency of the air conditioner, and even malfunctions such as compressor overload protection and heating interruption, failing to meet indoor heating needs. To solve this problem, most mainstream cabinet air conditioners in the industry currently use reverse circulation defrosting technology. The principle is to switch the four-way valve of the air conditioner to temporarily switch the system from heating mode to a circulation state similar to cooling, allowing high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant to flow to the outdoor heat exchanger, using the heat of the refrigerant to melt the frost layer. After the frost layer is cleared, the system is switched back to heating mode to restore the normal heating function of the air conditioner.

[0071] However, this defrosting technology has significant limitations. During reverse-cycle defrosting, due to the change in the air conditioner's circulation direction, the indoor heat exchanger, which should be supplying heat to the room, temporarily becomes an evaporator. It needs to absorb heat from the indoor environment and then transfer the heat to the outdoor heat exchanger through the circulation system for defrosting. During this process, heat is continuously extracted from the indoor environment, causing significant fluctuations in indoor temperature. This typically manifests as a continuous drop in indoor temperature after defrosting begins, and if the defrosting time is long, the cumulative drop in indoor temperature may be substantial. This temperature fluctuation directly affects the user's comfort experience. In home settings, users may feel cold due to the sudden drop in temperature, especially the elderly, children, and other sensitive groups who are prone to discomfort. In offices and commercial spaces, unstable temperatures may interfere with work efficiency, affect customer experience, or even lead to negative perceptions of the air conditioner's performance.

[0072] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a defrosting control method, system, air conditioner, storage medium, and program product. It fully considers the varying defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments, achieving dynamic adaptation between operating conditions and control strategies. This differentiated control accurately matches the frost characteristics under different outdoor temperatures, preventing insufficient defrosting from causing reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting leading to energy waste, thereby improving energy utilization and extending equipment lifespan. Furthermore, matching different defrosting control strategies to varying defrosting needs effectively mitigates indoor temperature fluctuations and enhances user comfort.

[0073] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0074] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a defrosting control method according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 1 As shown, this method can be used in air conditioners and may include the following steps.

[0075] In step S101, the target control strategy for the air conditioner is determined from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner.

[0076] The specified control strategy includes a first control strategy and a second control strategy. Under the same environment, the defrosting effect of the first control strategy is greater than that of the second control strategy.

[0077] In step S102, the target control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0078] Through long-term practice, the inventors discovered that outdoor ambient temperature is one of the core factors affecting the defrosting of outdoor heat exchangers. Different outdoor ambient temperatures reflect different defrosting pressures and defrosting efficiencies. Higher outdoor ambient temperatures indicate lower defrosting pressures, as the outdoor air still retains some heat, which can assist the outdoor heat exchanger in heating up, resulting in higher defrosting efficiency and faster frost melting. Conversely, lower outdoor ambient temperatures indicate higher defrosting pressures, as the outdoor air has less heat, and the outdoor heat exchanger relies mainly on high-temperature refrigerant for heating up, resulting in lower defrosting efficiency and slower frost melting.

[0079] Therefore, in this embodiment, by detecting the outdoor ambient temperature, different control strategies can be adopted for different outdoor ambient temperatures. If the outdoor ambient temperature is low, a more targeted and gentler first control strategy can be selected. If the outdoor ambient temperature is high, a gentler second control strategy can be selected. This differentiated control can accurately match the characteristics of the frost layer at different temperatures, avoiding the problem of insufficient defrosting leading to reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting wasting energy from the source, improving defrosting efficiency, and solving the problem of poor user comfort during defrosting.

[0080] By employing the above methods, the varying defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments are fully considered, achieving dynamic adaptation between operating conditions and control strategies. This differentiated control precisely matches the frost characteristics under different outdoor temperatures, preventing issues such as insufficient defrosting leading to reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting wasting energy, thereby improving energy utilization and extending equipment lifespan. Simultaneously, matching different defrosting control strategies to varying defrosting needs effectively mitigates indoor temperature fluctuations and enhances user comfort.

[0081] Specifically, in step S101 above, determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner may include: When the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the first control strategy; or, When the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the second control strategy.

[0082] The first control strategy has a higher defrosting efficiency than the second control strategy. When the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current defrosting pressure is high, so the first control strategy with higher defrosting efficiency can be used to shorten the defrosting time as much as possible. When the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current defrosting pressure is low, so the second control strategy with lower defrosting efficiency can be used to improve indoor thermal comfort during defrosting while ensuring defrosting capacity.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting, and the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flowing into the compressor's liquid receiver tank.

[0084] When the defrosting pressure of current air conditioners is relatively high, the refrigerant (e.g., cold-pressurized refrigerant) can be controlled to flow directly from the indoor unit's heat exchanger to the outdoor unit's heat exchanger (where the outdoor unit acts as a condenser) to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger then flows back into the compressor's receiver liner, where it is compressed by the compressor into a high-temperature refrigerant and enters a new cycle.

[0085] Since the refrigerant bypasses the indoor unit and circulates only on the outdoor unit side in the first control strategy, meaning the refrigerant does not flow through the indoor unit, in order to avoid large fluctuations in indoor temperature affecting the user experience, the first control strategy also includes controlling the activation of the indoor auxiliary heating device (e.g., electric auxiliary heating) of the air conditioner, while the indoor fan of the indoor unit continues to rotate, thereby relying on the heat generated by the indoor auxiliary heating device to achieve continuous heating of the indoor environment.

[0086] In other embodiments, the second control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into a first branch and a second branch respectively. The refrigerant flowing out of the first branch and the second branch mixes and flows into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the compressor's liquid receiver tank.

[0087] The temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the second branch is higher than the temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the first branch. Specifically, the first branch includes an indoor unit, one end of which is connected to the compressor, and the other end of which is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger; one end of the second branch is connected to the compressor, and the other end of the second branch is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0088] When the defrosting pressure of the current air conditioner is relatively low, the refrigerant can be controlled to flow through two separate branches (i.e., the first branch and the second branch) before entering the outdoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit (which acts as the condenser) absorbs heat from the high-temperature refrigerant output from the compressor, raising its temperature. The indoor fan then drives air through the heat exchanger, heating the air before it is evenly distributed to the indoor space through the air outlet, rapidly increasing the indoor temperature. The refrigerant, after absorbing heat in the indoor unit, then cools down. In other words, the low-temperature refrigerant from the first branch mixes with the high-temperature refrigerant from the second branch before flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger, raising the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through it. This allows for simultaneous heating of the room during defrosting, improving indoor thermal comfort during the defrosting process.

[0089] In other embodiments, to further improve the defrosting efficiency of the air conditioner during defrosting, the frequency of the air conditioner's compressor can be adjusted while the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is defrosting.

[0090] Specifically, the compressor frequency can be controlled to be adjusted to a first target frequency within a first preset time (e.g., 3 minutes), and after the compressor frequency reaches the first target frequency and is maintained for a time greater than or equal to a second preset time, the compressor frequency can be controlled to be adjusted from the first target frequency to the second target frequency; wherein the first target frequency is greater than the second target frequency.

[0091] Typically, air conditioners are in heating mode before entering defrost mode. In heating mode, the compressor's operating frequency is usually not high (especially for fixed-frequency air conditioners or inverter air conditioners operating under low load heating). At this frequency, the heat output of the compressor is usually insufficient to meet the energy requirements of the defrost process. Insufficient energy supply directly leads to two key problems: first, defrost time is significantly prolonged; second, the period of delayed heating is extended, causing the indoor temperature to fail to maintain the set value for a longer period, increasing the perceived temperature difference, and ultimately amplifying the decline in comfort. Therefore, after entering defrost mode, the compressor frequency is increased to the first target frequency (usually the upper limit of the frequency) to achieve maximum defrost efficiency.

[0092] High-frequency operation for a certain period accumulates more heat, laying the foundation for subsequent defrosting. This results in faster frost melting and prevents excessively long defrosting times. Furthermore, to ensure defrosting reliability, after a period of high-frequency operation, the frequency can be appropriately reduced to avoid system malfunctions (such as abnormal pressure or component overload) caused by parameter mismatches, ensuring a stable and safe defrosting process while achieving energy savings. For example, the frequency can be gradually reduced from a first target frequency to a second target frequency to achieve stable frequency reduction. For instance, the frequency can be reduced from the first target frequency to a third target frequency and maintained for a seventh preset time. After the time to reach the third target frequency is greater than or equal to the seventh preset time, the compressor frequency can be controlled to decrease from the third target frequency to the second target frequency. The third target frequency is greater than the second target frequency but less than the first target frequency.

[0093] In the second control strategy, the refrigerant flows through the first and second branches, meaning part of it is indoors and part is outdoors. If too much heat is consumed indoors, the heat available for outdoor defrosting will decrease, thus affecting the defrosting effect. Furthermore, the speed of the indoor fan affects the indoor pipe temperature; a higher speed results in a lower indoor pipe temperature and more heat output from the indoor unit, which in turn affects the outdoor defrosting efficiency. Therefore, in some embodiments, to ensure outdoor defrosting efficiency, the indoor pipe temperature of the air conditioner can be obtained while the outdoor unit is defrosting. The speed of the indoor fan is then adjusted based on this indoor pipe temperature.

[0094] To ensure the accuracy of indoor pipe temperature data acquisition, the indoor pipe temperature of the air conditioner's indoor unit can be obtained when the compressor frequency is adjusted to a first target frequency (or the defrosting time is greater than or equal to a first preset time). The speed of the indoor fan is then adjusted based on this indoor pipe temperature.

[0095] Specifically, a first temperature difference between the target pipe temperature and the indoor pipe temperature can be determined. The target pipe temperature can be a preset standard temperature of the indoor unit's indoor pipe during defrosting. Based on this first temperature difference, the degree of deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature is determined, thereby determining whether the indoor fan speed needs to be adjusted; that is, the indoor fan speed is adjusted based on the first temperature difference.

[0096] In one possible implementation, if the first temperature difference is greater than or equal to a second preset temperature threshold, the speed of the indoor fan is reduced. When the first temperature difference is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current indoor pipe temperature deviates significantly from the target pipe temperature, which may have affected the outdoor defrosting effect. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the speed of the indoor fan to reduce the heat output to the indoor environment and improve the outdoor defrosting efficiency.

[0097] In another possible implementation, multiple temperature ranges can be pre-defined, with different temperature ranges corresponding to different speeds. A target temperature range is determined based on a first temperature difference, and the target speed of the internal fan is adjusted according to the target speed corresponding to the target temperature range. This allows for more precise adjustment of the internal fan speed.

[0098] For example, the target rotational speed can be determined by referring to the table below.

[0099]

[0100] For example, when ΔT ≤ 3℃, it indicates that the deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature is not significant, and the current indoor fan speed can be maintained. When 3℃ < ΔT ≤ 6℃, it indicates that there is a certain deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature, and the current indoor fan speed can be appropriately reduced, such as by reducing it by one level (one level is usually in the range of 20-150, which can be set according to actual needs). When 6℃ < ΔT ≤ 9℃, it indicates that the deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature is relatively large, and the current indoor fan speed can be further reduced, such as by reducing it by two levels. When 9℃ < ​​ΔT ≤ 12℃, it indicates that the deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature is large, and the current indoor fan speed can be further reduced, such as by reducing it by three levels. When 12℃ < ΔT, it indicates that the deviation between the current indoor pipe temperature and the target pipe temperature is extremely large, and the degree of reduction in the current indoor fan speed can be increased, such as by reducing it by four levels.

[0101] Additionally, during the defrosting process of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the outdoor fan of that unit can be stopped. When the outdoor fan is running, the heat of the refrigerant inside the outdoor heat exchanger is dissipated, thus affecting the defrosting effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, to ensure the defrosting effect of the outdoor heat exchanger, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit can be stopped during the defrosting period.

[0102] In some embodiments, if it is determined that the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting termination conditions, the target control strategy is stopped to terminate the defrosting of the outdoor unit.

[0103] The preset defrosting termination conditions include: the temperature of the first outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to a third preset temperature threshold; or, the time for executing the target control strategy is greater than or equal to a third preset time.

[0104] During defrosting, the temperature of the first outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit can be monitored in real time. If the temperature of the first outdoor pipe is greater than or equal to the third preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the defrosting has met the preset requirements, and defrosting can be stopped. Alternatively, considering that in some scenarios, relying on the current target control strategy may not be able to meet the preset requirements, and continuing defrosting would only waste resources and cause a sharp drop in indoor temperature, the target control strategy can also be stopped if the execution time is greater than or equal to the third preset time. Here, the execution time of the target control strategy refers to the time during a single defrosting cycle.

[0105] In some embodiments, if the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, the target control strategy of the air conditioner can be determined from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner.

[0106] The preset defrosting time conditions include the air conditioner's start-up time being greater than or equal to a fourth preset time; or the time since the last defrosting ended being greater than or equal to a fifth preset time.

[0107] In other words, to ensure the stability and reliability of the air conditioner's operation, the defrosting activation trigger time can be preset. This way, when the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time conditions, it can be activated. Figure 1 The provided defrosting control method: Specifically, if the air conditioner's start-up time is greater than or equal to a fourth preset time, or if the time since the last defrosting ended is greater than or equal to a fifth preset time, it can be assumed that the air conditioner may experience frost buildup (i.e., if the preset defrosting conditions are not met), then a defrosting operation can be performed. For example, based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, a target control strategy for the air conditioner can be determined from a specified control strategy, and then the air conditioner can be controlled to defrost according to the target control strategy.

[0108] Furthermore, to improve the accuracy of defrosting control and avoid wasting resources by defrosting when frost is not severe, the temperature of the second outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit can be acquired in real time. A second temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second outdoor pipe temperature is determined. If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, and if the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to a fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to a fifth preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy for the air conditioner is determined from the specified control strategies based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0109] For air conditioners, the current frosting status can be determined by the second temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second pipe temperature of the outdoor unit. If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, it indicates that frosting may occur. Furthermore, the current frosting status can be determined by whether the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to a fourth preset temperature threshold, and whether the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to a fifth preset temperature threshold. That is, if the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to the fifth preset temperature threshold, it can be determined that the air conditioner needs defrosting; otherwise, the heating effect will be affected. Therefore, under the above conditions, the target control strategy for the air conditioner can be determined from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0110] Both the first and second control strategies, by taking into account indoor temperature fluctuations, will naturally affect the defrosting effect of the outdoor unit to some extent. For scenarios where defrosting is not severe, either the first or second control strategy can effectively solve the frosting problem. However, in some scenarios, such as freezing rain or severe weather, the air conditioner may experience severe frosting, making it impossible to balance comfort and reliability. In such cases, a third control strategy with superior defrosting performance is needed to prioritize defrosting efficiency. Specifically, the third control strategy can be executed when the air conditioner meets preset defrosting control conditions to achieve defrosting of the outdoor unit.

[0111] The third control strategy exhibits a superior defrosting effect compared to the designated control strategy. For example, the third control strategy may include controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting; the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the indoor heat exchanger of the indoor unit to absorb heat; and the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger flows into a liquid receiver connected to the compressor. This third control strategy can be understood as reverse-cycle defrosting in related technologies. Due to the change in the air conditioner's circulation direction, the indoor heat exchanger, which should normally supply heat to the room, temporarily becomes an evaporator, needing to absorb heat from the indoor environment and then transfer the heat to the outdoor heat exchanger through the circulation system for defrosting. During this process, heat from the indoor environment is continuously extracted, causing significant fluctuations in indoor temperature. However, it is precisely because a certain amount of heat is absorbed from the indoor environment that the defrosting effect of the outdoor unit is significant and superior to the first and second control strategies. In practical applications, different control strategies can be selected based on the defrosting situation and different scenarios to achieve optimal defrosting.

[0112] In some embodiments, the preset defrost control conditions include any one of the first defrost control conditions, the second defrost control conditions, and the third defrost control conditions.

[0113] In one possible implementation, the first defrosting control condition includes the air conditioner not meeting the preset defrosting time condition and the second outdoor pipe temperature being less than the fifth preset temperature threshold.

[0114] In other words, if the air conditioner's start-up time has not reached the fourth preset time, and the time since the last defrost has not reached the fifth preset time, and the temperature of the outdoor unit's second outdoor pipe is already very low (below the fifth preset temperature threshold), then it indicates that the frosting situation on the outdoor unit is already very serious. Continuing to wait for the trigger time of the specified control strategy and using either the first or second control strategy will not effectively alleviate the frosting situation. Therefore, in this case, the third control strategy, which offers better defrosting performance, can be used directly for defrosting.

[0115] In another possible implementation, the second defrosting control condition includes the number of times the air conditioner continuously executes the target control strategy in a historical period being greater than or equal to a preset number of executions.

[0116] During air conditioner operation, multiple defrosting actions may occur. If, within a historical timeframe (e.g., after the air conditioner has been turned on), the target control strategy (i.e., the first or second control strategy) is executed consecutively multiple times, it indicates that the first or second control strategy is insufficient to effectively resolve the current defrosting issue. In such cases, a third control strategy can be executed.

[0117] In another possible implementation, the third defrosting control condition includes the following: if the air conditioner stopped executing the target control strategy last time because the execution time of the target control strategy was greater than or equal to a third preset time, the third outdoor pipe temperature of the outdoor unit was less than or equal to a sixth preset temperature threshold at the time the target control strategy was last stopped.

[0118] The sixth preset temperature threshold is less than the third preset temperature threshold. For example, the sixth preset temperature threshold can be the difference between the third preset temperature threshold and the seventh preset temperature threshold. For instance, if the third preset temperature threshold is 10℃ and the seventh preset temperature threshold is 2℃, then the sixth preset temperature threshold is 8℃.

[0119] As mentioned earlier, for an air conditioner to stop executing the target control strategy, preset defrosting termination conditions must be met. Normally, this termination occurs when defrosting is effective, meaning the temperature of the first outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to the third preset temperature threshold. If the air conditioner terminates the target control strategy because the execution time exceeds or equals the third preset time, it indicates that the current defrosting effect may not be ideal. Furthermore, if the temperature of the third outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit was less than or equal to the sixth preset temperature threshold when the target control strategy was last terminated, it confirms that the defrosting effect was indeed not ideal, and effective defrosting was not achieved. In this case, the third control strategy can still be executed.

[0120] It should be noted that, when the aforementioned air conditioner meets the preset defrost control conditions, it can either immediately execute the third control strategy or execute it when the next defrost cycle is reached. The defrost cycle can be: meeting a preset defrost time condition; or, when the air conditioner meets the preset defrost time condition, the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to a fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to a fifth preset temperature threshold; or, a separate execution cycle can be set for the third control strategy, i.e., executing the third control strategy when the time for meeting the preset defrost control conditions is greater than or equal to an eighth preset time. The specific settings can be configured according to actual needs, and this disclosure does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0121] In other embodiments, after the air conditioner executes the third control strategy, it can be determined whether the target defrosting time is less than or equal to a sixth preset time. The target defrosting time is the time taken from when the air conditioner starts executing the third control strategy to when it stops. The defrosting effect of the third control strategy is determined by detecting the target defrosting time corresponding to the execution of the third control strategy. Typically, the condition for stopping the execution of the third control strategy is whether the temperature of the fourth outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit meets the requirements. When it exceeds a certain threshold, the current defrosting is considered complete, and the execution of the third control strategy can be stopped. If the target defrosting time is greater than the sixth preset time, it indicates that the frost on the outdoor unit is abnormally severe, and executing the third control strategy only once may not achieve a good defrosting effect. Therefore, if the target defrosting time is greater than the sixth preset time, the step of executing the third control strategy can be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting. If the target defrosting time is less than or equal to the sixth preset time, it indicates that the frost on the outdoor unit is relatively severe, and executing the third control strategy once has achieved a good defrosting effect. Therefore, if the target defrosting time is determined to be less than or equal to the sixth preset time, the step of determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, and the step of executing the target control strategy, will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting. In other words, subsequent steps can continue according to... Figure 1 The provided embodiments control defrosting.

[0122] Furthermore, the determination cycle can be set according to different situations and actual needs. For example, it can continuously detect whether the target defrosting time of the third control strategy executed multiple times (such as twice) is less than or equal to the sixth preset time. If it is less than or equal to the sixth preset time, then the step of determining the target control strategy of the air conditioner from the specified control strategies based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner and the step of executing the target control strategy will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting. Otherwise, the step of executing the third control strategy will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting.

[0123] By employing the above methods, the varying defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments are fully considered, achieving dynamic adaptation between operating conditions and control strategies. This differentiated control precisely matches the frost characteristics under different outdoor temperatures, preventing issues such as insufficient defrosting leading to reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting wasting energy, thereby improving energy utilization and extending equipment lifespan. Simultaneously, matching different defrosting control strategies to varying defrosting needs effectively mitigates indoor temperature fluctuations and enhances user comfort.

[0124] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating a defrosting control system based on an exemplary practical example, such as... Figure 2As shown, the system 200 includes: a controller 201 and an execution component 202; the controller 201 is connected to the execution component 202; the execution component 202 includes a compressor 2021, an outdoor unit 2022, a first branch 2023, and a second branch 2024; the first branch 2023 includes an indoor unit 20231, one end of which is connected to the compressor 2021, and the other end of which is connected to the outdoor unit 2022; one end of the second branch 2024 is connected to the compressor 2021, and the other end of which is connected to the outdoor unit 2022. The controller 201 is used to control the execution unit 202 to perform the above-mentioned tasks. Figure 1 The defrosting control method provided.

[0125] The internal operation and structure of the actuator are described in detail below.

[0126] like Figure 3 As shown, the first branch 2023 where the indoor unit 20231 is located also includes a first throttling device 20232, which is installed between the indoor unit 20231 and the outdoor unit 2022. Figure 3 The middle section (connected to the outdoor heat exchanger D of the outdoor unit 2022) is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the first branch 2023.

[0127] The indoor unit 20231 also includes an indoor heat exchanger A, an indoor auxiliary heating device B, and an indoor fan C; the indoor auxiliary heating device B is located at the air outlet of the indoor fan C. The indoor auxiliary heating device B can be, for example, an electric auxiliary heating device.

[0128] The second branch 2024 also includes a second throttling device 20241, which is disposed on the second branch 2024 and is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the second branch 2024.

[0129] The throttling device can be an electronic expansion valve.

[0130] The actuator 202 also includes a four-way valve 2025. The first end of the four-way valve 2025 is connected to the output end of the compressor 2021. The second end of the four-way valve 2025 is connected to the indoor unit 20231 and the second throttling device 20241, respectively. The third end of the four-way valve 2025 is connected to the liquid receiver of the compressor 2021 (i.e.,...). Figure 3 The component located on the left side of the compressor 2021 and directly connected to the compressor 2021 is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve 2025, which is connected to the outdoor unit 2022 (specifically, the outdoor heat exchanger D of the outdoor unit 2022).

[0131] In this embodiment, the refrigerant circulation direction can be switched using the four-way valve 2025, which is typically used to switch the refrigerant circulation direction between cooling and heating modes. The solid line portion of the four-way valve 2025 represents the on / off state, and the dashed line portion represents the off state.

[0132] When the air conditioner is operating in normal heating mode, the first throttling device 20232 is open, and the second throttling device 20241 is closed (e.g., Figure 3 The part marked with an "X" indicates that it is not conductive. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the high-temperature refrigerant in compressor 2021 flows out and into indoor heat exchanger A through four-way valve 2025. After flowing through indoor heat exchanger A, it flows into outdoor heat exchanger D. The low-temperature refrigerant flowing out of outdoor heat exchanger D finally flows into the liquid receiver tank of compressor 2021 to enter a new cycle.

[0133] In the embodiments provided in this disclosure, when the air conditioner needs to defrost, different control strategies can be adopted according to different outdoor environmental loads (i.e., different outdoor environmental temperatures). Specifically, as shown in 4, when the first control strategy needs to be adopted, the four-way valve 2025 reverses, and the second throttling device 20241 on the second branch 2024 opens. At the same time, the first throttling device 20232 on the first branch 2023 closes (e.g., Figure 4 The crossed-out portion indicates non-conduction. Specifically, to ensure the reliability of the air conditioner's operation and avoid sudden pressure changes, the opening of the first throttling device 20232 can be closed to OP after the first preset delay time has elapsed during the execution of the first control strategy. During the execution of the first control strategy, the refrigerant circulates only on the outdoor side. That is, after the refrigerant flows out of the compressor 2021, it flows directly into the outdoor heat exchanger D. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger D passes through the second throttling device 20241 and flows into the liquid receiver of the compressor 2021 to enter a new cycle. To maintain the indoor temperature, the indoor auxiliary heating device B can be activated, and the indoor fan C continues to rotate. The heat from the indoor auxiliary heating device B provides continuous heating to the indoor environment.

[0134] like Figure 5As shown, when the second control strategy is required, the four-way valve 2025 does not switch, the second throttling device 20241 on the second branch 2024 opens, and the first throttling device 20232 on the first branch 2023 maintains a certain opening, enabling simultaneous outdoor defrosting and indoor heating. Specifically, to ensure the reliability of the air conditioner's operation and avoid sudden pressure changes, the opening of the first throttling device 20232 can be adjusted to the first preset opening (i.e., reduced opening) after the execution time of the second control strategy reaches the first preset delay time. After the refrigerant flows out of the compressor 2021, it flows into the first branch 2023 and the second branch 2024 respectively. The first branch 2023 dissipates heat from the refrigerant output by the compressor 2021 through the indoor heat exchanger A, absorbing the refrigerant's temperature, and simultaneously provides heating to the room through the indoor fan C. At this time, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger A is lower than the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger A. The refrigerant flowing out of indoor heat exchanger A mixes with the refrigerant flowing out of the second branch 2024 and then flows into outdoor heat exchanger D. Although the temperature of the mixed refrigerant is lower than that of the refrigerant flowing out of compressor 2021, the outdoor ambient temperature is higher at this time, which can assist outdoor unit 2022 in defrosting. Combined with the current refrigerant in outdoor heat exchanger D, it can achieve defrosting of outdoor unit 2022 while meeting indoor heating needs.

[0135] When a third control strategy needs to be implemented, such as Figure 6 As shown, the four-way valve 2025 reverses, and the second throttling device 20241 on the second branch 2024 is closed (as shown). Figure 6 The part marked with an "X" indicates that it is not conductive. The first throttling device 20232 on the first branch 2023 is open. When the third control strategy is executed, the refrigerant flows out of the compressor 2021 and flows directly into the outdoor heat exchanger D. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger D flows into the indoor heat exchanger A through the first throttling device 20232. The indoor heat exchanger A absorbs heat from the indoor environment and then transfers the heat to the compressor 2021 through the circulation system, which is then used for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger D.

[0136] In some embodiments, during the defrosting process of the air conditioner, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit 2022 stops rotating to avoid affecting the defrosting effect of the outdoor unit due to the heat of the refrigerant being dissipated by the outdoor fan.

[0137] In some embodiments, for opening the second throttling device 20241 on the second branch 2024, specifically after the air conditioner enters defrost control (i.e., executes the first control strategy or the second control strategy), the opening degree of the second throttling device 20241 can be adjusted to a second preset opening degree, maintained for a second preset delay time, then adjusted to a third preset opening degree, maintained for a third preset delay time, and then adjusted to a fourth preset opening degree. The second preset opening degree is greater than the third preset opening degree, and the third preset opening degree is greater than the fourth preset opening degree. That is, at the beginning of defrost, at the instant the valve of the second throttling device 20241 is fully opened, the refrigerant is allowed to quickly enter the outdoor heat exchanger D. By adjusting the large opening degree, the refrigerant enters first, increasing the flow rate and achieving a defrosting effect. However, during defrosting, the entire outdoor heat exchanger D functions as a condenser. The refrigerant exits from the compressor 2021 and enters the outdoor heat exchanger D. Defrosting is an exothermic process, changing from a gaseous state to a liquid state. In other words, this process is actually a process of continuously increasing liquid refrigerant. If the second throttling device 20241 remains at a large opening, the refrigerant liquefaction rate will accelerate, potentially leading to an increasing amount of liquid refrigerant throughout the cycle. The compressor 2021 theoretically cannot operate with liquid refrigerant; excessive liquid refrigerant will cause compressor malfunction. Therefore, to ensure the overall reliability of the defrosting operation, the opening of the second throttling device 20241 is gradually reduced during operation, thereby slowing down the refrigerant liquefaction rate and ensuring the air conditioner's operational reliability.

[0138] The system described above takes into full account the varying defrosting pressures under different outdoor environments, achieving dynamic adaptation between operating conditions and control strategies. This differentiated control precisely matches the frost characteristics under different outdoor temperatures, preventing issues such as insufficient defrosting leading to reduced heating efficiency or excessive defrosting wasting energy, thereby improving energy utilization and extending equipment lifespan. Simultaneously, matching different defrosting control strategies to varying defrosting needs effectively mitigates indoor temperature fluctuations and enhances user comfort.

[0139] Regarding the system in the above embodiments, the specific manner in which each component performs its operation has been described in detail in the embodiments related to the method, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0140] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the defrosting control method provided in this disclosure.

[0141] Figure 7This is a block diagram illustrating an air conditioner 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. For example, the air conditioner 300 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness equipment, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0142] Reference Figure 7 The air conditioner 300 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 302, memory 304, power supply component 306, multimedia component 308, audio component 310, input / output interface 312, sensor component 314, and communication component 316.

[0143] Processing component 302 typically controls the overall operation of air conditioner 300, including operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording. Processing component 302 may include one or more processors 320 to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the defrosting control method described above. Furthermore, processing component 302 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 302 and other components. For example, processing component 302 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 308 and processing component 302.

[0144] Memory 304 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of air conditioner 300. Examples of this data include instructions for any application or method operating on air conditioner 300, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 304 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0145] The power supply assembly 306 provides power to the various components of the air conditioner 300. The power supply assembly 306 may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to the air conditioner 300.

[0146] Multimedia component 308 includes a screen that provides an output interface between the air conditioner 300 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of the touch or swipe action but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, multimedia component 308 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When the air conditioner 300 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or the rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0147] Audio component 310 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 310 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when the air conditioner 300 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 304 or transmitted via communication component 316. In some embodiments, audio component 310 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0148] Input / output interface 312 provides an interface between processing component 302 and peripheral interface modules, which may be keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, start buttons, and lock buttons.

[0149] Sensor assembly 314 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of the air conditioner 300. For example, sensor assembly 314 can detect the on / off state of the air conditioner 300, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of the air conditioner 300, changes in the position of the air conditioner 300 or a component of the air conditioner 300, the presence or absence of user contact with the air conditioner 300, the orientation or acceleration / deceleration of the air conditioner 300, and temperature changes of the air conditioner 300. Sensor assembly 314 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 314 may also include an optical sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 314 may also include an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a pressure sensor, or a temperature sensor.

[0150] Communication component 316 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between air conditioner 300 and other devices. Air conditioner 300 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as WiFi, 2G, or 3G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 316 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 316 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0151] In an exemplary embodiment, the air conditioner 300 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the defrosting control method described above.

[0152] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 304 including instructions, which can be executed by the processor 320 of the air conditioner 300 to complete the defrosting control method described above. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0153] In some embodiments, the air conditioner 300 further includes the above-mentioned Figures 2 to 6 The defrosting control system 200 provided in the middle.

[0154] In another exemplary embodiment, a computer program product is also provided, the computer program product comprising a computer program executable by a programmable device, the computer program having a code portion for performing the defrosting control method described above when executed by the programmable device.

[0155] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the various illustrative logical blocks and steps listed in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Whether such functionality is implemented through hardware or software depends on the specific application and the overall system design requirements. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality using various methods for each specific application, but such implementation should not be construed as exceeding the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0156] In the above detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific aspects of this disclosure by way of illustration. In this regard, terms indicating direction or positional relationship, such as “center,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “length,” “width,” “thickness,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” “outer,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “axial,” “radial,” and “circumferential,” are used with reference to the orientation of the described figures. Since components of the described device can be positioned in multiple different orientations, directional terms are used for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. It should be understood that other aspects can be utilized and structural or logical changes can be made without departing from the concept of this disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting.

[0157] It should be understood that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "joining," "attaching," "installing," "connecting," "linking," "fixing," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms herein based on the specific circumstances.

[0158] Similarly, although this disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent variations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. This disclosure includes all such modifications and variations and is limited only by the scope of the claims. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the components described above (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), unless otherwise indicated, the terminology used to describe such components is intended to correspond to any component (functionally equivalent) that performs the specific function of the described component, even if structurally not equivalent to the disclosed structure. Furthermore, although specific features of this disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other implementations, as may be desired and advantageous to any given or particular application. Moreover, with regard to the terms “comprising,” “owning,” “having,” “having,” or variations thereof as used in the detailed description or claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “including.”

[0159] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

[0160] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A defrosting control method, characterized in that, The method includes: Based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner, a target control strategy for the air conditioner is determined from a specified control strategy; the specified control strategy includes a first control strategy and a second control strategy, and under the same environment, the defrosting effect of the first control strategy is greater than that of the second control strategy. The target control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner; The step of determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from a specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner includes: Obtain the temperature of the second outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit; Determine a second temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second outdoor pipeline temperature; If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting time condition, and if the second temperature difference is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature threshold and the second outdoor pipe temperature is greater than or equal to the fifth preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy of the air conditioner is determined from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner. The preset defrosting time conditions include the air conditioner's start-up time being greater than or equal to a fourth preset time; or the time since the last defrosting ended being greater than or equal to a fifth preset time.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the target control strategy for the air conditioner from a specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner includes: When the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the first control strategy; or, When the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset temperature threshold, the target control strategy includes the second control strategy.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting, and the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger to flow into the compressor's liquid receiver tank.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first control strategy also includes controlling the activation of the indoor auxiliary heating device of the air conditioner.

5. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner compressor to flow into the first branch and the second branch respectively. The refrigerant flowing out of the first branch and the second branch mixes and flows into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting. The refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger flows into the liquid receiver of the compressor. The temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the second branch is higher than the temperature of the refrigerant flowing out of the first branch.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first branch includes an indoor unit, one end of which is connected to the compressor and the other end of which is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger; one end of the second branch is connected to the compressor and the other end of the second branch is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: When defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, adjust the frequency of the air conditioner's compressor.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The adjustment of the frequency of the air conditioner's compressor includes: The compressor frequency is controlled to be adjusted to a first target frequency within a first preset time. After the compressor frequency reaches the first target frequency and is maintained for a time greater than or equal to a second preset time, the compressor frequency is controlled to be adjusted from the first target frequency to a second target frequency. The first target frequency is greater than the second target frequency.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: While defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the indoor pipe temperature of the indoor unit of the air conditioner is obtained; Adjust the speed of the indoor fan of the indoor unit according to the indoor duct temperature.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the speed of the indoor fan of the indoor unit according to the indoor duct temperature includes: Determine a first temperature difference between the target pipe temperature and the indoor pipe temperature; The rotational speed of the internal fan is adjusted based on the first temperature difference.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Adjusting the speed of the internal fan based on the first temperature difference includes: If the first temperature difference is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature threshold, the speed of the internal fan is reduced.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: When defrosting the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the outdoor fan of the outdoor unit is controlled to stop operating.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting termination conditions, the target control strategy is stopped to terminate the defrosting of the outdoor unit.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The preset defrosting termination conditions include: The temperature of the first outdoor pipe of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to a third preset temperature threshold; or... The time for executing the target control strategy is greater than or equal to the third preset time.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting control conditions, a third control strategy is executed to defrost the outdoor unit of the air conditioner; the defrosting effect of the third control strategy is better than the defrosting effect of the specified control strategy.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The preset defrost control conditions include any one of the first defrost control conditions, the second defrost control conditions, and the third defrost control conditions; The first defrosting control condition includes the air conditioner not meeting the preset defrosting time condition and the second outdoor pipe temperature being less than the fifth preset temperature threshold. The second defrosting control condition includes the number of times the air conditioner continuously executes the target control strategy in a historical period being greater than or equal to the preset number of executions; The third defrosting control condition includes the following: when the air conditioner stopped executing the target control strategy because the execution time of the target control strategy was greater than or equal to the third preset time, the third outdoor pipe temperature of the outdoor unit was less than or equal to the sixth preset temperature threshold when the target control strategy was last stopped; wherein the sixth preset temperature threshold is less than the third preset temperature threshold.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the target defrosting time is determined to be less than or equal to the sixth preset time, the step of determining the target control strategy of the air conditioner from the specified control strategy based on the outdoor ambient temperature of the air conditioner and the step of executing the target control strategy will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting. The target defrosting time is the time taken from when the air conditioner starts executing the third control strategy to when it stops executing the third control strategy.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the target defrosting time is greater than the sixth preset time, the third control strategy described in step [step 1] will be used as the control strategy for the next outdoor unit defrosting.

19. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The third control strategy includes controlling the refrigerant output from the air conditioner's compressor to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to dissipate heat and achieve defrosting, the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger to flow into the indoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner's indoor unit to absorb heat, and the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger to flow into a liquid receiver connected to the compressor.

20. A defrosting control system, characterized in that, The system includes: a controller and an actuator; the controller is connected to the actuator; the actuator includes a compressor, an outdoor unit, a first branch, and a second branch; the first branch includes an indoor unit, one end of which is connected to the compressor, and the other end of which is connected to the outdoor unit; one end of the second branch is connected to the compressor, and the other end of the second branch is connected to the outdoor unit. The controller is used to control the execution component to perform the defrosting control method according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first branch also includes a first throttling device, which is disposed between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit and is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the first branch.

22. The system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The second branch also includes a second throttling device, which is disposed on the second branch and is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the second branch.

23. The system according to claim 22, characterized in that, The actuator also includes a four-way valve, the first end of which is connected to the output end of the compressor, the second end of which is connected to the indoor unit and the second throttling device, the third end of which is connected to the liquid receiver of the compressor, and the fourth end of which is connected to the outdoor unit.

24. The system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The indoor unit includes an indoor auxiliary heating device and an indoor fan; the indoor auxiliary heating device is located at the air outlet of the indoor fan.

25. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The defrosting control system includes any one of claims 20 to 24 above.

26. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When executed by a processor, the computer program implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

27. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

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