Air conditioning system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention belongs to the technical field of air conditioners, and provides an air conditioning system. A second switch; a third switch; a fourth switch; a first throttling element; a second throttling element; when the third switch is in a first state, the first port is communicated with the third port; when the third switch is in a second state, the first port is communicated with the second port; when the fourth switch is in a fifth state, the fourth port is communicated with the sixth port; and when the fourth switch is in a sixth state, the fourth port is communicated with the fifth port. When the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe are connected in parallel, the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger is increased, the flow speed of refrigerants is reduced, and the pressure drop of the refrigerants is reduced. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe are connected in series, and the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger is reduced. And the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and more particularly to an air conditioning system. Background Technology

[0002] An air conditioning system includes a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a throttling device, and an outdoor heat exchanger. Of the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers, one is the condenser and the other is the evaporator. The refrigerant passes sequentially through the compressor, condenser, throttling device, and evaporator to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0003] In cooling mode, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser, receiving high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor. In heating mode, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, receiving low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant after it has passed through a throttling device.

[0004] In related technologies, outdoor heat exchangers typically employ a fixed number of refrigerant flow paths. In cooling mode, to enhance the heat exchange capacity of the outdoor heat exchanger, it is necessary to reduce the number of refrigerant flow paths to facilitate heat dissipation. In heating mode, it is necessary to reduce the flow resistance of the refrigerant through the outdoor heat exchanger to control refrigerant pressure loss. However, when the number of refrigerant flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger is fixed, it is difficult to simultaneously meet both requirements. A larger number of flow paths results in lower heat exchange capacity, while a smaller number of flow paths leads to greater pressure loss of the refrigerant as it flows through the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, this application proposes an air conditioning system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an air conditioning system that can solve the technical problem that outdoor heat exchangers cannot simultaneously achieve high heat exchange capacity for cooling and low pressure loss for heating.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an air conditioning system, including:

[0007] A four-way valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port;

[0008] The compressor has its inlet and outlet connected to the first valve port and the third valve port, respectively.

[0009] An indoor throttling device, the first end of which is connected to the fourth valve port via an indoor heat exchanger;

[0010] The outdoor heat exchanger includes a first refrigerant pipe and a second refrigerant pipe;

[0011] The first switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0012] The second switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0013] The third switch includes a first port, a second port, and a third port; the second port is connected to the first end of the first refrigerant pipe.

[0014] The fourth switch includes a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port, wherein the fifth port is connected to the first end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0015] The first throttling element is connected between the first port and the second end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0016] The second throttling element is connected between the fourth port and the second end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0017] The third port and the sixth port are respectively connected to the second end of the indoor throttling device;

[0018] When the third switch is in the first state, the first port and the third port are connected; when the third switch is in the second state, the first port and the second port are connected.

[0019] When the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the fourth port and the sixth port are connected; when the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the fourth port and the fifth port are connected.

[0020] By configuring a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, and a fourth switch, and by connecting and disconnecting the first and second switches, as well as changing the states of the third and fourth switches, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series and in parallel. When the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in parallel, increasing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, reducing the refrigerant flow rate, decreasing the refrigerant pressure drop, and lowering the compressor load and power consumption. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series, reducing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increasing the refrigerant flow rate, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger. Furthermore, during low-load cooling and heating conditions, the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger can be changed to keep the compressor's discharge and suction pressures within the normal range, avoiding frequent compressor start-stop cycles.

[0021] According to one embodiment of this application, a first mode is provided;

[0022] When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the third valve port is connected to the second valve port, the first switch is connected, the second switch is disconnected, the second throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the first throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the first state, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port is connected to the first valve port.

[0023] In the first mode, the indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, absorbing heat to cool the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser, releasing heat. The refrigerant first flows through the first refrigerant pipe and then through the second refrigerant pipe, connecting the first and second refrigerant pipes in series. This reduces the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increases the refrigerant flow rate, and improves the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0024] According to one embodiment of this application, a second mode is provided;

[0025] When the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the third valve port is connected to the second valve port, the first switch is open, the second switch is connected, the first throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the second state, the second throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port is connected to the first valve port.

[0026] In the second mode, the indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, absorbing heat to cool the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser, releasing heat. The refrigerant first flows through the second refrigerant pipe and then through the first refrigerant pipe, connecting the first and second refrigerant pipes in series. This reduces the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increases the refrigerant flow rate, and improves the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0027] According to one embodiment of this application, a third mode is provided;

[0028] When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the first state, the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the first throttling device and the second throttling device throttle, the first switch is connected, the second switch is connected, and the second valve port is connected to the first valve port.

[0029] In the third mode, the indoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser, releasing heat to heat the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, absorbing heat. The refrigerant flows through both the first and second refrigerant pipes simultaneously, achieving parallel connection of the first and second refrigerant pipes. This increases the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, reduces the refrigerant flow rate, decreases the refrigerant pressure drop, and lowers the compressor load and power consumption.

[0030] According to one embodiment of this application, the outdoor heat exchanger includes at least one row of refrigerant pipes, each row of refrigerant pipes includes a plurality of refrigerant pipes arranged sequentially at intervals along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger, and in the same row of refrigerant pipes, two adjacent refrigerant pipes are respectively the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe;

[0031] The outdoor heat exchanger has multiple first refrigerant pipes connected in parallel, and multiple second refrigerant pipes connected in parallel.

[0032] With the above configuration, when the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe are connected in series, in any local area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger, when air flows through the outdoor heat exchanger, the air can come into contact with the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe. The temperature of the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe is relatively higher than that of the other, which can eliminate areas with extremely low heat exchange efficiency, significantly improve the average heat exchange temperature difference, improve heat exchange efficiency, and make the outdoor heat exchanger frost evenly throughout during heating, which is conducive to improving the defrosting speed and reducing energy consumption.

[0033] According to one embodiment of this application, when the third switch is in the third state, the second port and the third port are connected;

[0034] When the fourth switch is in the seventh state, the fifth port and the sixth port are connected;

[0035] The air conditioning system also includes:

[0036] The first connecting pipe is connected between the first switch and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0037] The fifth switch is connected between the first connecting pipe and the second port;

[0038] The second connecting pipe is connected between the second switch and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0039] The sixth switch is connected between the second connecting pipe and the fifth port;

[0040] A seventh switch, one end of which is connected between the first port and the first throttling element, and the other end of which is connected between the fourth port and the second throttling element.

[0041] The above configuration enables the first refrigerant pipe to cool while the second refrigerant pipe heats, and vice versa. It also allows the indoor heat exchanger to heat while the outdoor heat exchanger defrosts, ensuring uninterrupted heating and defrosting of the air conditioning system and guaranteeing a continuous supply of hot air indoors, thus improving user experience. By alternating the first and second refrigerant pipes, the system achieves uninterrupted heating and defrosting. This arrangement allows heat-transferring and cold-transferring refrigerant pipes in the same row to alternate, enabling defrosting to begin from multiple points along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger. This simultaneous melting of frost across the entire outdoor heat exchanger results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and an improved user experience.

[0042] According to one embodiment of this application, a fourth mode is provided;

[0043] When the air conditioning system is in the fourth mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the sixth switch is open, the third switch is in the third state, the fifth switch is connected, the second throttling device is fully open, the seventh switch is connected, the first throttling device throttles, the first switch is open, the second switch is connected, and the second valve port is connected to the first valve port.

[0044] The air conditioning system is equipped with a fourth mode, which enables the first refrigerant pipe to transfer heat and the second refrigerant pipe to transfer cooling. The second refrigerant pipe ensures heating of the indoor heat exchanger, while the first refrigerant pipe enables defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger. This allows the air conditioning system to provide uninterrupted heating and defrosting, ensuring a continuous supply of hot air indoors and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first and second refrigerant pipes allows defrosting to begin from multiple locations along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger, enabling the frost layer on the entire outdoor heat exchanger to melt simultaneously. This results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and an improved user experience.

[0045] According to one embodiment of this application, a fifth mode is provided;

[0046] When the air conditioning system is in the fifth mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the second state, the fifth switch is open, the fourth switch is in the seventh state, the sixth switch is connected, the first throttling device is fully open, the seventh switch is connected, the second throttling device throttles, the second switch is open, the first switch is connected, and the second valve port and the first valve port are connected.

[0047] The air conditioning system is equipped with a fifth mode, which enables the second refrigerant pipe to transfer heat while the first refrigerant pipe transfers cooling. The first refrigerant pipe ensures heating of the indoor heat exchanger, while the second refrigerant pipe enables defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger. This allows the air conditioning system to provide uninterrupted heating and defrosting, ensuring a continuous supply of hot air indoors and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first and second refrigerant pipes allows defrosting to begin from multiple points along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger, enabling the frost layer on the entire outdoor heat exchanger to melt simultaneously. This results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and an improved user experience.

[0048] According to one embodiment of this application, it also includes:

[0049] The first check valve has its inlet connected to the fifth switch and its outlet connected to the first connecting pipe.

[0050] The second check valve has its inlet connected to the sixth switch and its outlet connected to the second connecting pipe.

[0051] The first one-way valve restricts the flow of refrigerant between the first connecting pipe and the fifth switch, ensuring that the refrigerant can only flow from the fifth switch into the first connecting pipe. The second one-way valve restricts the flow of refrigerant between the second connecting pipe and the sixth switch, ensuring that the refrigerant can only flow from the sixth switch into the second connecting pipe. This prevents the refrigerant from flowing through the wrong path and ensures the normal operation of the air conditioning system.

[0052] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an air conditioning system, including:

[0053] A four-way valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port;

[0054] The compressor has its inlet and outlet connected to the first valve port and the third valve port, respectively.

[0055] An indoor throttling device, the first end of which is connected to the fourth valve port via an indoor heat exchanger;

[0056] The outdoor heat exchanger includes a first refrigerant pipe and a second refrigerant pipe;

[0057] The first switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0058] The second switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0059] The first throttling element has its first end connected to the second end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0060] The second throttling element has its first end connected to the second end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0061] The fifth switch has its first end connected between the first switch and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe;

[0062] The sixth switch has its first end connected between the second switch and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe;

[0063] The third switch has a first state and a second state; when the third switch is in the first state, the third switch connects the second end of the first throttling device and the second end of the indoor throttling device; when the third switch is in the second state, the third switch connects the second end of the first throttling device and the second end of the fifth switch.

[0064] The fourth switch has a fifth state and a sixth state; when the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the fourth switch connects the second end of the second throttling element and the second end of the indoor throttling element; when the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the fourth switch connects the second end of the second throttling element and the second end of the sixth switch.

[0065] The system is equipped with a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a fifth switch, and a sixth switch. By connecting and disconnecting the first and second switches, the fifth and sixth switches, and the states of the third and fourth switches, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series and in parallel. When the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in parallel, increasing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, reducing the refrigerant flow rate, decreasing the refrigerant pressure drop, and reducing the compressor load and power consumption. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series, reducing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increasing the refrigerant flow rate, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger. Furthermore, during low-load cooling and heating conditions, the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger can be changed to keep the compressor's discharge and suction pressures within the normal range, avoiding frequent compressor start-ups and shutdowns. Attached Figure Description

[0066] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 2 This is another structural schematic diagram of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 3 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in a first mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 4 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the second mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 5 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the third mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 6 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the fourth mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 7 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the fifth mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the third switch in the second state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the fourth switch in the seventh state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the fourth switch in the fifth state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 11 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the sixth mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 12 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the seventh mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 13 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the eighth mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0080] Figure 14 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the ninth mode according to an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 15 This is a refrigerant circulation flow diagram of an air conditioning system in the tenth mode according to an embodiment of this application.

[0082] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0083] 1-Four-way valve; S-First valve port; C-Second valve port; D-Third valve port; E-Fourth valve port;

[0084] 2-Compressor;

[0085] 3-Outdoor heat exchanger; 30-Refrigerant pipe; 31-First refrigerant pipe; 32-Second refrigerant pipe;

[0086] 4-First switch; 5-Second switch;

[0087] 6 - Third switch; A - First port; B - Second port; F - Third port;

[0088] 7 - Fourth switch; G - Fourth port; H - Fifth port; J - Sixth port;

[0089] 81-First throttling element; 82-Second throttling element; 83-Indoor throttling element; 84-Indoor heat exchanger;

[0090] 851 - Ball valve housing; 8511 - Valve core cavity; 852 - Valve core;

[0091] 86-First connecting pipe; 87-Fifth switch; 88-Second connecting pipe; 89-Sixth switch; 90-Seventh switch; 91-First check valve; 92-Second check valve;

[0092] 93 - Subcooler; 931 - Main refrigerant pipe; 932 - Auxiliary refrigerant pipe;

[0093] 94-Gas-liquid separator; 95-First diverter; 96-Second diverter; 97-Third throttling element. Detailed Implementation

[0094] To make the objectives, implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0095] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0096] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0097] As described in the background section, an air conditioning system includes a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a throttling device, and an outdoor heat exchanger. Of the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers, one is a condenser and the other is an evaporator. The refrigerant passes sequentially through the compressor, condenser, throttling device, and evaporator to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0098] In cooling mode, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, compressed by the compressor, flows into the outdoor heat exchanger. Because the refrigerant pressure entering the outdoor heat exchanger is relatively high, the pressure drop of the outdoor heat exchanger for the refrigerant is not significant, so it is necessary to enhance the heat exchange capacity of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0099] In heating mode, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator. Low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows into the outdoor heat exchanger after being throttled by the throttling device. Since the refrigerant pressure entering the outdoor heat exchanger is relatively low and it is in a liquid state, the pressure drop of the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger is significant, and it is necessary to reduce the pressure drop.

[0100] In related technologies, outdoor heat exchangers typically employ a fixed number of refrigerant flow paths. In cooling mode, to enhance the heat exchange capacity of the outdoor heat exchanger, it is necessary to reduce the number of refrigerant flow paths to facilitate heat dissipation. In heating mode, it is necessary to reduce the flow resistance of the refrigerant through the outdoor heat exchanger to control refrigerant pressure loss. However, when the number of refrigerant flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger is fixed, it is difficult to simultaneously meet both requirements. A larger number of flow paths results in lower heat exchange capacity, while a smaller number of flow paths leads to greater pressure loss of the refrigerant as it flows through the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0101] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application proposes an air conditioning system. The air conditioning system includes a four-way valve 1, a compressor 2, an indoor throttling device 83, an indoor heat exchanger 84, an outdoor heat exchanger 3, a first switch 4, a second switch 5, a third switch 6, a fourth switch 7, a first throttling device 81, and a second throttling device 82. The four-way valve 1 includes a first valve port S, a second valve port C, a third valve port D, and a fourth valve port E. The inlet and outlet ports of the compressor 2 are connected to the first valve port S and the third valve port D, respectively. The first end of the indoor throttling device 83 is connected to the fourth valve port E through the indoor heat exchanger 84. The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes a first refrigerant pipe 31 and a second refrigerant pipe 32. The first switch 4 is connected between the second valve port C and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The second switch 5 is connected between the second valve port C and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. The third switch 6 includes a first port A, a second port B, and a third port F. The second port B is connected to the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The fourth switch 7 includes a fourth port G, a fifth port H, and a sixth port J. The fourth port G is connected to the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. A first throttling element 81 is connected between the first port A and the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. A second throttling element 82 is connected between the fourth port G and the second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The third port F and the sixth port J are respectively connected to the second end of the indoor throttling element 83. When the third switch 6 is in the first state, the first port A and the third port F are connected. When the third switch 6 is in the second state, the first port A and the second port B are connected. When the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the fourth port G and the sixth port J are connected. When the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the fourth port G and the fifth port H are connected. When the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in parallel to increase the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, reduce the refrigerant flow rate, decrease the refrigerant pressure drop, and reduce the compressor load and power consumption. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series to reduce the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increase the refrigerant flow rate, and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0102] The air conditioning system is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The arrows in the drawings indicate the direction of refrigerant flow.

[0103] refer to Figure 1 This application provides an air conditioning system. The air conditioning system may include a four-way valve 1. The four-way valve 1 may include a first valve port S. The four-way valve 1 may include a second valve port C. The four-way valve 1 may include a third valve port D. The four-way valve 1 may include a fourth valve port E.

[0104] The four-way valve 1 can have a first connected state. When the four-way valve 1 is in the first connected state, the first valve port S and the second valve port C are connected, and the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected. The four-way valve 1 can also have a second connected state. When the four-way valve 1 is in the second connected state, the first valve port S and the fourth valve port E are connected, and the second valve port C and the third valve port D are connected.

[0105] refer to Figure 1 The air conditioning system includes compressor 2. Compressor 2 is used to compress low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and output high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The inlet of compressor 2 is connected to the first valve port S. The outlet of compressor 2 is connected to the third valve port D.

[0106] refer to Figure 1 The air conditioning system may include an indoor heat exchanger 84. The air conditioning system may include an indoor throttling device 83. The first end of the indoor throttling device 83 is connected to a fourth valve port E through the indoor heat exchanger 84.

[0107] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning system may include an outdoor heat exchanger 3. The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes a first refrigerant pipe 31. A first end and a second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31 are positioned opposite each other along the length of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The first refrigerant pipe 31 extends along the length of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, such that the length of the first refrigerant pipe 31 is parallel to the length of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0108] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The outdoor heat exchanger 3 may include a second refrigerant pipe 32. The first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32 and the second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31 are disposed opposite each other along the length of the second refrigerant pipe 32. The second refrigerant pipe 32 extends along the length of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, such that the length direction of the second refrigerant pipe 32 is parallel to the length direction of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0109] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning system may include a first switch 4. The first switch 4 is connected between the second valve port C and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The first switch 4 is used to connect and disconnect the second valve port C and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The first switch 4 can be a shut-off valve or an electronic expansion valve, capable of connecting and disconnecting the second valve port C and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31.

[0110] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The air conditioning system may include a second switch 5. The second switch 5 is connected between the second valve port C and the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. The second switch 5 is used to connect and disconnect the passage within the second valve port C and the second refrigerant pipe 32.

[0111] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning system may include a third switch 6. The third switch 6 may include a first port A. The third switch 6 may include a second port B. The third switch 6 may include a third port F. The second port B is connected to the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31.

[0112] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning system may include a fourth switch 7. The fourth switch 7 may include a fourth port G. The fourth switch 7 may include a fifth port H. The fourth switch 7 may include a sixth port J. The fifth port H is connected to the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32.

[0113] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning system may include a first throttling element 81, which is connected between the first port A and the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. The air conditioning system may also include a second throttling element 82, which is connected between the fourth port G and the second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The third port F and the sixth port J are respectively connected to the second end of the indoor throttling element 83.

[0114] The third switch 6 has a first state. When the third switch 6 is in the first state, the first port A is connected to the third port F, and the first port A is disconnected from the second port B. The third switch 6 also has a second state. When the third switch 6 is in the second state, the first port A is connected to the second port B, and the first port A is disconnected from the third port F.

[0115] The fourth switch 7 has a fifth state. When the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the fourth port G is connected to the sixth port J, and the fourth port G is disconnected from the fifth port H. The fourth switch 7 also has a sixth state. When the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the fourth port G is connected to the fifth port H, and the fourth port G is disconnected from the sixth port J.

[0116] In this application, a first switch 4, a second switch 5, a third switch 6, and a fourth switch 7 are provided. By connecting and disconnecting the first switch 4 and the second switch 5, and by changing the state of the third switch 6 and the fourth switch 7, the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 can be connected in series and in parallel. When the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is an evaporator, the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 can be connected in parallel, increasing the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger 3, reducing the refrigerant flow rate, reducing the refrigerant pressure drop, and reducing the load and power consumption of the compressor 2. When the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is a condenser, the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 can be connected in series, reducing the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger 3, increasing the refrigerant flow rate, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. Furthermore, when the cooling and heating loads are low, the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger 3 can be changed, so that the discharge pressure and suction pressure of the compressor 2 are within the normal range, avoiding frequent start-stop of the compressor 2.

[0117] In related technologies, the number of refrigerant inlets and outlets on both sides of an outdoor heat exchanger is inconsistent. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, gaseous refrigerant enters from the side with more refrigerant inlets and outlets, while liquid refrigerant exits from the side with fewer. Although there are more inlets and outlets, the incoming refrigerant is high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, so the refrigerant flow rate is not too low, and the heat exchange effect is not too poor. However, due to the larger number of inlets and outlets, the refrigerant flow rate is somewhat reduced, resulting in a certain decrease in heat exchange efficiency. Conversely, when the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, liquid refrigerant enters from the side with fewer refrigerant inlets and outlets, while gaseous refrigerant exits from the side with more. Although there are fewer inlets and outlets, the incoming refrigerant is liquid, so the refrigerant flow rate is not excessively high, and the pressure loss is not too large. However, due to the smaller number of inlets and outlets, the refrigerant flow rate is somewhat increased, resulting in a certain decrease in pressure loss. Compared with related technologies, in this application, when the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is an evaporator, the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 are connected in parallel, which increases the flow path of the refrigerant throughout the entire process of flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger, reduces the refrigerant flow rate, reduces the refrigerant pressure drop, and reduces the load and power consumption of the compressor 2. When the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is a condenser, the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 are connected in series, which reduces the flow path of the refrigerant throughout the entire process of flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger, increases the refrigerant flow rate, and improves the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0118] In some embodiments, reference Figure 3The air conditioning system has a first mode. When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the third valve port D is connected to the second valve port C, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is disconnected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E is connected to the first valve port S.

[0119] refer to Figure 3 When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, the fourth switch 7, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the first throttling device 81 into the third switch 6. At least a portion of the refrigerant flowing out from the third switch 6 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, and the first valve port S. When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 acts as the condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 acts as the evaporator.

[0120] In the first mode, the indoor heat exchanger 84 is an evaporator that can absorb heat and cool the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is a condenser that can release heat. The refrigerant first flows through the first refrigerant pipe 31 and then through the second refrigerant pipe 32, thus connecting the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 in series. This reduces the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger 3, increases the refrigerant flow rate, and improves the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0121] In some embodiments, reference Figure 4 The air conditioning system has a second mode. When the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the third valve port D is connected to the second valve port C, the first switch 4 is open, the second switch 5 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the second state, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E is connected to the first valve port S.

[0122] refer to Figure 4 When the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, the third switch 6, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second throttling device 82 into the fourth switch 7. At least a portion of the refrigerant flowing out from the fourth switch 7 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, and the first valve port S. In the second mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 acts as the condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 acts as the evaporator.

[0123] In the second mode, the indoor heat exchanger 84 is an evaporator that absorbs heat and cools the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is a condenser that releases heat. The refrigerant first flows through the second refrigerant pipe 32 and then through the first refrigerant pipe 31, thus connecting the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 in series. This reduces the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger 3, increases the refrigerant flow rate, and improves the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0124] In some embodiments, reference Figure 5 The air conditioning system has a third mode. When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the third valve port D is connected to the fourth valve port E, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the first throttling device 81 and the second throttling device 82 throttle, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is connected, and the second valve port C is connected to the first valve port S.

[0125] refer to Figure 5 When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. At least a portion of the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths: one path flows sequentially through the third switch 6, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the second switch 5 into the second valve port C; the other path flows sequentially through the fourth switch 7, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the first switch 4 into the second valve port C. The refrigerant flowing out of the second valve port C flows back to the compressor 2 through the first valve port S. When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 acts as the evaporator, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 acts as the condenser.

[0126] In the third mode, the indoor heat exchanger 84 is a condenser that can release heat to heat the room, while the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is an evaporator that can absorb heat. The refrigerant flows through both the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 in parallel, increasing the number of flow paths in the outdoor heat exchanger 3, reducing the refrigerant flow rate, reducing the refrigerant pressure drop, and lowering the load and power consumption of the compressor 2.

[0127] In some embodiments, reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes at least one row of refrigerant pipes 30. Each row of refrigerant pipes 30 includes multiple refrigerant pipes 30 arranged sequentially at intervals along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. In the same row of refrigerant pipes 30, two adjacent refrigerant pipes 30 are respectively a first refrigerant pipe 31 and a second refrigerant pipe 32. The multiple first refrigerant pipes 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel, and the multiple second refrigerant pipes 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel. Specifically, all the first refrigerant pipes 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel, and all the second refrigerant pipes 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel.

[0128] When the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 are respectively set at both ends of the height direction of the indoor heat exchanger 84, and the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 are set in parallel, the temperature difference between the refrigerant that just enters the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the outdoor air is large, and the heat exchange is good. As the refrigerant flows, the temperature of the refrigerant gradually approaches the temperature of the outdoor air, resulting in extremely low heat exchange efficiency in the area where the refrigerant flows out of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0129] The refrigerant pipes 30 are arranged in the same column, with adjacent refrigerant pipes 30 being the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32, respectively. The first refrigerant pipes 31 and the second refrigerant pipes 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged alternately along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The first refrigerant pipes 31 and the second refrigerant pipes 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel. When the first refrigerant pipes 31 and the second refrigerant pipes 32 are connected in series, in any local area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger 3, when air flows through the outdoor heat exchanger 3, the air can come into contact with the first refrigerant pipes and the second refrigerant pipes. The temperature of the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe is relatively higher than that of the other, which can eliminate areas with extremely low heat exchange efficiency, significantly improve the average heat exchange temperature difference, improve heat exchange efficiency, and make the outdoor heat exchanger 3 frost evenly during heating, which is conducive to improving the defrosting speed and reducing energy consumption.

[0130] In the same column of refrigerant pipes 30, the number of first refrigerant pipes 31 and the number of second refrigerant pipes 32 are equal, or the number of first refrigerant pipes 31 and the number of second refrigerant pipes 32 differ by one.

[0131] Specifically, the air conditioning system has a row of refrigerant pipes 30. The first refrigerant pipe 31 can have four pipes. The second refrigerant pipe 32 can have three pipes. Alternatively, the first refrigerant pipe 31 can have three pipes, and the second refrigerant pipe 32 can have four pipes.

[0132] In some embodiments, the third switch 6 has a third state. When the third switch 6 is in the third state, the second port B and the third port F are connected, and the second port B and the first port A are disconnected. The third switch 6 has a fourth state. When the third switch 6 is in the fourth state, the first port A, the second port B, and the third port F are connected. The third switch 6 can be a three-way ball valve.

[0133] refer to Figure 9 The fourth switch 7 has a seventh state. When the fourth switch 7 is in the seventh state, the fifth port H and the sixth port J are connected, and the fifth port H and the fourth port G are disconnected. The fourth switch 7 also has an eighth state. When the fourth switch 7 is in the eighth state, the fourth port G, the fifth port H, and the sixth port J are connected. The fourth switch 7 can be a three-way ball valve.

[0134] A three-way ball valve may include a ball valve housing 851. A valve core cavity 8511 is formed within the ball valve housing 851. The ball valve housing 851 has three ports. The ball valve housing 851 includes a valve core 852. The valve core 852 is rotatably disposed within the valve core cavity 8511.

[0135] refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The air conditioning system may include two three-way ball valves. These two three-way ball valves serve as a third switch (6) and a fourth switch (7), respectively. One of the three-way ball valves has three ports: port A (first port), port B (second port), and port F (third port). The other three-way ball valve has three ports: port G (fourth port), port H (fifth port), and port J (sixth port). When the valve core 852 of one of the three-way ball valves rotates, the three-way ball valve switches between the first, second, third, and fourth states. When the valve core 852 of the other three-way ball valve rotates, the three-way ball valve switches between the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth states, thus enabling the changing of the states of the third and fourth switches.

[0136] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system includes a first connecting pipe 86. The first connecting pipe 86 connects the first switch 4 and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31 to connect the first refrigerant pipe 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to the first switch 4. Specifically, the first end of all the first refrigerant pipes 31 is connected to the first connecting pipe 86.

[0137] The air conditioning system includes a fifth switch 87. The fifth switch 87 is connected between the first connecting pipe 86 and the second port B to connect or disconnect the second port B and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31.

[0138] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The air conditioning system may include a second connecting pipe 88. The second connecting pipe 88 is connected between the second switch 5 and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32, so that the second refrigerant pipe 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is connected to the second switch 5. Specifically, the first end of all the second refrigerant pipes 32 is connected to the second connecting pipe 88.

[0139] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system includes a sixth switch 89. The sixth switch 89 is connected between the second connecting pipe 88 and the fourth port G to connect or disconnect the fourth port G and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32.

[0140] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system includes a seventh switch 90. One end of the seventh switch 90 is connected between the first port A and the first throttling element 81, and the other end of the seventh switch 90 is connected between the fourth port G and the second throttling element 82. The refrigerant pipe 30 between the first throttling element 81 and the first port A is the first pipe, and the refrigerant pipe 30 between the second throttling element 82 and the fourth port G is the second pipe. The seventh switch 90 is used to connect or disconnect the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0141] Based on the configuration of a first switch 4, a second switch 5, a third switch 6, and a fourth switch 7, and the third switch 6 including a first state and a second state, and the fourth switch 7 including a fifth state and a sixth state, the configuration further includes a third state for the third switch 6, a seventh state for the fourth switch 7, and a first connecting pipe 86, a fifth switch 87, a second connecting pipe 88, a sixth switch 89, and a seventh switch 90. This configuration enables the first refrigerant pipe 31 to cool while the second refrigerant pipe 32 heats, and the second refrigerant pipe 32 to cool while the first refrigerant pipe 31 heats. It also enables the indoor heat exchanger 84 to heat while defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger 3. This allows the air conditioning system to continuously heat and defrost, ensuring uninterrupted hot air output from the indoor unit and improving the user experience.

[0142] When an air conditioning system operates in heating mode under low temperature and high humidity conditions, the outdoor heat exchanger is prone to frosting. As the amount of frosting increases, the heat transfer coefficient of the outdoor heat exchanger decreases, and airflow resistance increases, severely affecting heating performance. Therefore, it is necessary to periodically perform forced or manual defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger. Defrosting can be achieved by switching the outdoor heat exchanger from an evaporator to a condenser. If there is only one outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger will act as an evaporator. When the outdoor heat exchanger defrosts, the indoor unit will cool, causing intermittent heating and resulting in fluctuations in indoor ambient temperature.

[0143] In related designs, in order to achieve uninterrupted heating and defrosting of the air conditioning system, the air conditioning system is usually set to have two outdoor heat exchangers 3, with one outdoor heat exchanger 3 being a condenser and the other outdoor heat exchanger 3 being an evaporator. This allows for alternating defrosting of the two outdoor heat exchangers 3 while the air conditioning system can provide uninterrupted heating. However, the number of outdoor heat exchangers 3 is relatively large, which occupies a lot of space in the outdoor section and results in high material costs.

[0144] This application provides an outdoor heat exchanger 3, which enables the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to defrost while the air conditioning system is continuously heating. This reduces the number of outdoor heat exchangers 3, reduces the space occupied by the outdoor heat exchangers 3 in the outdoor part of the air conditioning system, reduces the size of the outdoor part, facilitates the miniaturization of the outdoor part, and saves material and transportation costs.

[0145] In related designs, in order to achieve uninterrupted heating and defrosting of the air conditioning system, an outdoor heat exchanger 3 can be divided into two parts, one above the other. This allows for alternating defrosting of the two parts while the air conditioning system continues to heat. However, regardless of whether the upper or lower part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is defrosted, heat needs to be transferred from one end of the defrosting area to the other end in the same direction. This results in low defrosting efficiency, long defrosting time, and large fluctuations in indoor temperature, which negatively impacts the user experience.

[0146] In this application, refrigerant pipes 30 are arranged in the same column, with adjacent refrigerant pipes 30 being the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32, respectively. The first refrigerant pipes 31 and the second refrigerant pipes 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are arranged in parallel. Based on this, the air conditioning system is configured to achieve uninterrupted heating and defrosting. This allows the refrigerant pipes 30 that transfer heat and the refrigerant pipes 30 that transfer cold energy in the same column to be arranged alternately. This enables defrosting to start from multiple positions along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the frost layer on the entire outdoor heat exchanger 3 can be melted synchronously. This results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and improved user experience.

[0147] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 The air conditioning system has a fourth mode. When the air conditioning system is in the fourth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the sixth switch 89 is open, the third switch 6 is in the third state, the fifth switch 87 is connected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the seventh switch 90 is connected, the first throttling device 81 throttles, the first switch 4 is open, the second switch 5 is connected, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0148] refer to Figure 6When the air conditioning system is in the fourth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. At least a portion of the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows sequentially through the third switch 6, the fifth switch 87, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, the seventh switch 90, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, and the first valve port S back to the compressor 2.

[0149] The air conditioning system is set to a fourth mode, which enables the first refrigerant pipe 31 to transfer heat and the second refrigerant pipe 32 to transfer cooling. The second refrigerant pipe 32 ensures the heating of the indoor heat exchanger 84, while the first refrigerant pipe 31 enables the defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. This allows the air conditioning system to continuously heat and defrost, ensuring a continuous supply of hot air indoors and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 allows defrosting to begin from multiple positions along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, enabling the frost layer on the entire outdoor heat exchanger 3 to melt synchronously. This results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and improved user experience.

[0150] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7 The air conditioning system has a fifth mode. When the air conditioning system is in the fifth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the second state, the fifth switch 87 is open, the fourth switch 7 is in the seventh state, the sixth switch 89 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the seventh switch 90 is connected, the second throttling device 82 is throttled, the second switch 5 is open, the first switch 4 is connected, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0151] refer to Figure 7 When the air conditioning system is in the fifth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. At least a portion of the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows sequentially through the fourth switch 7, the sixth switch 89, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, the seventh switch 90, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, and the first valve port S back to the compressor 2.

[0152] The air conditioning system is set to a fifth mode, which enables the second refrigerant pipe 32 to transfer heat and the first refrigerant pipe 31 to transfer cold. The first refrigerant pipe 31 ensures the heating of the indoor heat exchanger 84, while the second refrigerant pipe 32 enables the defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. This allows the air conditioning system to continuously heat and defrost, ensuring a continuous supply of hot air indoors and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first and second refrigerant pipes 31 and 32 allows defrosting to begin from multiple positions along the height of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, enabling the frost layer on the entire outdoor heat exchanger 3 to melt synchronously. This results in high defrosting efficiency, short defrosting time, reduced indoor temperature fluctuations, and improved user experience.

[0153] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first end of the indoor throttling device 83 is connected to the fourth valve port E via the indoor heat exchanger 84. The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes a first refrigerant pipe 31 and a second refrigerant pipe 32. A first switch 4 is connected between the second valve port C and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. A second switch 5 is connected between the second valve port C and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32.

[0154] The first end of the first throttling element 81 is connected to the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 32. The first end of the second throttling element 82 is connected to the second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31.

[0155] The first end of the fifth switch 87 is connected between the first switch 4 and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The first end of the sixth switch 89 is connected between the second switch 5 and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe 32.

[0156] The third switch 6 has a first state and a second state. When the third switch 6 is in the first state, it connects the second end of the first throttling element 81 and the second end of the indoor throttling element 83. When the third switch 6 is in the second state, it connects the second end of the first throttling element 81 and the second end of the fifth switch 87.

[0157] The fourth switch 7 has a fifth state and a sixth state. When the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, it connects the second end of the second throttling element 82 and the second end of the indoor throttling element 83. When the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, it connects the second end of the second throttling element 82 and the second end of the sixth switch 89.

[0158] The system is equipped with a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a fifth switch, and a sixth switch. By connecting and disconnecting the first and second switches, the fifth and sixth switches, and the states of the third and fourth switches, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series and in parallel. When the outdoor heat exchanger is an evaporator, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in parallel, increasing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, reducing the refrigerant flow rate, decreasing the refrigerant pressure drop, and reducing the compressor load and power consumption. When the outdoor heat exchanger is a condenser, the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected in series, reducing the number of flow paths within the outdoor heat exchanger, increasing the refrigerant flow rate, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger. Furthermore, during low-load cooling and heating conditions, the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger can be changed to keep the compressor's discharge and suction pressures within the normal range, avoiding frequent compressor start-ups and shutdowns.

[0159] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system may include a first one-way valve 91. The inlet of the first one-way valve 91 is connected to a fifth switch 87. The outlet of the first one-way valve 91 is connected to a first connecting pipe 86. The first one-way valve 91 restricts the flow of refrigerant between the first connecting pipe 86 and the fifth switch 87, ensuring that refrigerant can only flow from the fifth switch 87 into the first connecting pipe 86, but not from the first connecting pipe 86 to the fifth switch 87. This prevents incorrect refrigerant flow paths and ensures the normal operation of the air conditioning system.

[0160] The air conditioning system may include a second one-way valve 92. The inlet of the second one-way valve 92 is connected to a sixth switch 89. The outlet of the second one-way valve 92 is connected to a second connecting pipe 88. The second one-way valve 92 restricts the flow of refrigerant between the second connecting pipe 88 and the sixth switch 89, ensuring that refrigerant can only flow from the sixth switch 89 into the second connecting pipe 88, but not from the second connecting pipe 88 to the sixth switch 89. This prevents incorrect refrigerant flow paths and ensures the normal operation of the air conditioning system.

[0161] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system may include a subcooler 93. The subcooler 93 includes a main refrigerant pipe 931, one end of which is connected to the third port F of the third switch 6 and the sixth port J of the fourth switch 7, and the second end of which is connected to the indoor throttling device 83.

[0162] The air conditioning system includes a gas-liquid separator 94. The gas-liquid separator 94 is connected between the first valve port S and the compressor 2. The subcooler 93 includes an auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932. The air conditioning system also includes a third throttling device 97. One end of the third throttling device 97 is connected between the main refrigerant pipe 931 and the indoor throttling device 83, and the other end of the third throttling device 97 is connected to one end of the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932. The other end of the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 is connected to the return port of the gas-liquid separator 94 and the inlet port of the compressor 2.

[0163] In some embodiments, reference Figure 3 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the third valve port D is connected to the second valve port C, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is disconnected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the sixth switch 89 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the seventh switch 90 is disconnected, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fifth switch 87 is disconnected, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port E is connected to the first valve port S.

[0164] refer to Figure 3 When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, the fourth switch 7, the sixth switch 89, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, and the third switch 6 into the main refrigerant pipe 931. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths: one path flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94, and the other path flows into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2 through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932.

[0165] In some embodiments, reference Figure 4 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the third valve port D is connected to the second valve port C, the first switch 4 is open, the second switch 5 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the second state, the fifth switch 87 is connected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the seventh switch 90 is open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the sixth switch 89 is open, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port E is connected to the first valve port S.

[0166] refer to Figure 4When the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, the third switch 6, the fifth switch 87, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, and the fourth switch 7 into the main refrigerant pipe 931. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths: one path flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94, and the other path flows into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2 through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932.

[0167] In some embodiments, reference Figure 5 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the third valve port D is connected to the fourth valve port E, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the fifth switch 87 is open, the sixth switch 89 is open, the seventh switch 90 is open, the first throttling device 81 and the second throttling device 82 throttle, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is connected, and the fourth valve port E is connected to the first valve port S.

[0168] refer to Figure 5When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the refrigerant flowing from compressor 2 passes sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 to the indoor throttling device 83. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing from the indoor throttling device 83 flows into the main refrigerant pipe 931. The refrigerant flowing from the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths: one path passes sequentially through the third switch 6, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the second switch 5 to the second valve port C; the other path passes sequentially through the fourth switch 7, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second switch 5 to the second valve port C. The refrigerant at the second valve port C then flows through the first valve port S and the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths. One path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2. The other path flows into the main refrigerant pipe 931. The refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths. One path flows through the third switch 6, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the second switch 5 to the second valve port C. The other path flows through the fourth switch 7, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second switch 5 to the second valve port C. The refrigerant at the second valve port C flows back to the compressor 2 through the first valve port S and the gas-liquid separator 94.

[0169] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 When the air conditioning system is in the fourth mode, the refrigerant flowing from compressor 2 passes sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing from the indoor throttling device 83 passes sequentially through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the third switch 6, the fifth switch 87, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, the seventh switch 90, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94. The refrigerant flows back to compressor 2. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out from the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths. One path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and compressor 2. The other path flows back to compressor 2 through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the third switch 6, the fifth switch 87, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, the seventh switch 90, the first throttling device 81, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, the first valve port S and the gas-liquid separator 94.

[0170] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7When the air conditioning system is in its fifth mode, the refrigerant flowing from compressor 2 passes sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing from the indoor throttling device 83 passes sequentially through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the fourth switch 7, the sixth switch 89, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, the seventh switch 90, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator. The refrigerant flows back to compressor 2 through the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out from the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths. One path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and compressor 2. The other path flows back to compressor 2 through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the fourth switch 7, the sixth switch 89, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, the seventh switch 90, the second throttling device 82, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, the first valve port S and the gas-liquid separator 94.

[0171] In some embodiments, when the air conditioning system is operating in cooling mode and the indoor load is small, it will reduce the operating frequency of the compressor to meet the needs of the small load. However, when the operating frequency of the compressor is too low, the discharge pressure of the compressor will be too low. The compressor will prohibit the frequency reduction or force the frequency to increase in order to increase the discharge pressure, but this will make the indoor heat exchanger prone to anti-freeze protection, resulting in frequent start-stop of the compressor.

[0172] refer to Figure 11 The air conditioning system has a sixth mode. When the air conditioning system is in the sixth mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is disconnected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the third switch 6 is in the second state, the first throttling device 81 is fully closed, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected.

[0173] refer to Figure 11 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the sixth mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is disconnected, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the fifth switch 87 is disconnected, the sixth switch 89 is disconnected, the seventh switch 90 is disconnected, the third switch 6 is in one of the first, second, third, and fourth states, the first throttling device 81 is fully closed, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected.

[0174] refer to Figure 11When the air conditioning system is in the sixth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second throttling device 82 to the fourth switch 7. At least part of the refrigerant flowing out of the fourth switch 7 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, and the first valve port S.

[0175] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in the sixth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the second throttling device 82, and the fourth switch 7 into the main refrigerant pipe 931. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths: one path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2, and the other path flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94.

[0176] Setting the sixth mode allows refrigerant to flow only through the first refrigerant pipe 31 when the air conditioning system is cooling. This reduces the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger 3, meets the needs of low cooling loads, and keeps the compressor's discharge and suction pressures within the normal range. This prevents the compressor's discharge pressure from being too low and avoids frequent start-stop of the compressor 2.

[0177] In some embodiments, reference Figure 12 The air conditioning system has a seventh mode. When the air conditioning system is in the seventh mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the second switch 5 is connected, the first switch 4 is disconnected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the second throttling device 82 is fully closed, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected.

[0178] refer to Figure 12 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the seventh mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the first switch 4 is open, the second switch 5 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fifth switch 87 is open, the sixth switch 89 is open, the seventh switch 90 is open, the fourth switch 7 is in one of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth states, the second throttling device 82 is fully closed, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected.

[0179] refer to Figure 12When the air conditioning system is in the seventh mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows into the third switch 6 through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the first throttling device 81 in sequence. At least part of the refrigerant flowing out of the third switch 6 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, and the first valve port S.

[0180] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in the seventh mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the second valve port C, the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the first throttling device 81, and the third switch 6 into the main refrigerant pipe 931. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths: one path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2, and the other path flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94.

[0181] Setting the seventh mode allows refrigerant to flow only through the second refrigerant pipe 32 when the air conditioning system is cooling. This reduces the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger 3, meets the needs of low cooling loads, and keeps the compressor's discharge and suction pressures within the normal range. This prevents the compressor's discharge pressure from being too low and avoids frequent start-stops of the compressor 2.

[0182] In some embodiments, when the air conditioning system is operating in heating mode and some indoor units are running, the volume of refrigerant stored in the indoor units will decrease, resulting in excessively high compressor discharge pressure. The compressor will then be prohibited from increasing frequency or forced to decrease frequency to reduce the compressor discharge pressure, which will lead to a decrease in condensing temperature and a decrease in heating capacity.

[0183] refer to Figure 13 The air conditioning system has an eighth mode. When the air conditioning system is in the eighth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the second throttling device 82 is throttled, the third switch 6 is in the second state, the first throttling device 81 is fully closed, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is open, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0184] refer to Figure 13When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the eighth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the second throttling device 82 throttles, the fifth switch 87 is open, the sixth switch 89 is open, the seventh switch 90 is open, the third switch 6 is in one of the first, second, third, and fourth states, the first throttling device 81 is fully closed, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is open, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0185] refer to Figure 13 When the air conditioning system is in the eighth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows into the indoor throttling device 83 through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 in sequence. The refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows back to the compressor 2 through the fourth switch 7, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, and the first valve port S.

[0186] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in the eighth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows sequentially through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the fourth switch 7, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 back to the compressor 2. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths: one path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2, and the other path flows through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the fourth switch 7, the first refrigerant pipe 31, the first switch 4, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 back to the compressor 2.

[0187] When operating in the eighth mode, the third switch 6 is switched to the first state, and the first throttling element 81 is at least partially opened, allowing the refrigerant to enter the second refrigerant pipe 32, increasing the refrigerant storage space and reducing the compressor's discharge pressure.

[0188] The eighth mode is set so that when the air conditioning system is heating, only the first refrigerant pipe 31 can have refrigerant flowing through it. Based on the eighth mode, the third switch 6 is set to switch to the first state, and the first throttling device 81 is at least partially opened, which allows refrigerant to enter the second refrigerant pipe 32, increases the refrigerant storage space, reduces the compressor's discharge pressure, keeps the compressor's discharge pressure within the normal range, avoids excessive discharge pressure of compressor 2, and avoids frequent start-stop of compressor 2.

[0189] In some embodiments, reference Figure 14The air conditioning system has a ninth mode. When the air conditioning system is in the ninth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the first throttling device 81 is throttled, the fourth switch 7 is in the sixth state, the second throttling device 82 is fully closed, the second switch 5 is connected, the first switch 4 is open, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0190] refer to Figure 14 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the ninth mode, the third valve port D and the fourth valve port E are connected, the indoor throttling device 83 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the first throttling device 81 throttles, the fourth switch 7 is in one of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth states, the second throttling device 82 is fully closed, the second switch 5 is connected, the first switch 4 is open, and the second valve port C and the first valve port S are connected.

[0191] refer to Figure 14 When the air conditioning system is in the ninth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows into the indoor throttling device 83 through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 in sequence. The refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows back to the compressor 2 through the third switch 6, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, and the first valve port S.

[0192] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in the ninth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D, the fourth valve port E, and the indoor heat exchanger 84 into the indoor throttling device 83. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 flows sequentially through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the third switch 6, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 back to the compressor 2. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor throttling device 83 is divided into two paths: one path flows through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932 into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2, and the other path flows through the main refrigerant pipe 931, the third switch 6, the second refrigerant pipe 32, the second switch 5, the second valve port C, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 back to the compressor 2.

[0193] When operating in the ninth mode, the fourth switch 7 is switched to the fifth state, and the second throttling device 82 is at least partially opened, allowing refrigerant to enter the first refrigerant pipe 31, increasing the refrigerant storage space and reducing the compressor's discharge pressure.

[0194] The ninth mode is set so that when the air conditioning system is heating, only the second refrigerant pipe 32 can flow through it. Based on the ninth mode, the fourth switch 7 is switched to the fifth state, and the second throttling device 82 is at least partially opened, allowing the refrigerant to enter the first refrigerant pipe 31, increasing the refrigerant storage space, reducing the compressor's discharge pressure, and keeping the compressor's discharge pressure within the normal range. This avoids excessively high compressor discharge pressure and prevents frequent start-stop of the compressor 2.

[0195] In some embodiments, reference Figure 15 The air conditioning system has a tenth mode. In the tenth mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is connected, the first throttling element 81 is fully open, the second throttling element 82 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the indoor throttling element 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected. Setting the tenth mode allows the first refrigerant pipe 31 and the second refrigerant pipe 32 to be connected in parallel during cooling, which reduces the pressure drop of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 84.

[0196] refer to Figure 15 When the air conditioning system includes the fifth switch 87, the sixth switch 89, and the seventh switch 90, and the air conditioning system is in the tenth mode, the third valve port D and the second valve port C are connected, the first switch 4 is connected, the second switch 5 is connected, the first throttling device 81 is fully open, the second throttling device 82 is fully open, the third switch 6 is in the first state, the fourth switch 7 is in the fifth state, the fifth switch 87 is open, the sixth switch 89 is open, the seventh switch 90 is open, the indoor throttling device 83 throttles, and the fourth valve port E and the first valve port S are connected.

[0197] refer to Figure 15 When the air conditioning system is in the tenth mode, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows into the second valve port C through the third valve port D. The refrigerant flowing out of the second valve port C is divided into two paths. One path flows into the fourth switch 7 through the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second throttling device 82. The other path flows into the third switch 6 through the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the first throttling device 81. The refrigerants from the third switch 6 and the fourth switch 7 merge. At least part of the merged refrigerant flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, and the first valve port S.

[0198] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in the tenth mode, the refrigerant flowing from compressor 2 flows sequentially through the third valve port D into the second valve port C. The refrigerant flowing from the second valve port C is divided into two paths: one path flows through the first switch 4, the first refrigerant pipe 31, and the second throttling device 82 into the fourth switch 7; the other path flows through the second switch 5, the second refrigerant pipe 32, and the first throttling device 81 into the third switch 6. The refrigerant from the third switch 6 and the fourth switch 7 flows into the main refrigerant pipe 931. When the third throttling device 97 is fully closed, the refrigerant from the main refrigerant pipe 931... The refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 in sequence. When the third throttling device 97 is throttled or fully open, the refrigerant flowing out of the main refrigerant pipe 931 is divided into two paths. One path flows into the gas-liquid separator 94 and the compressor 2 through the third throttling device 97 and the auxiliary refrigerant pipe 932. The other path flows back to the compressor 2 through the indoor throttling device 83, the indoor heat exchanger 84, the fourth valve port E, the first valve port S, and the gas-liquid separator 94 in sequence.

[0199] In some embodiments, reference Figure 15 The air conditioning system includes a first distributor 95. The first distributor 95 has multiple branch pipes. The branch pipes of the first distributor 95 are connected to the second ends of the second refrigerant pipes 32. The main pipe of the first distributor 95 is connected to a first throttling element 81. The first distributor 95 is configured to collect the refrigerant in the multiple second refrigerant pipes and to distribute the refrigerant in the main pipe of the first distributor 95 into the multiple second refrigerant pipes 32. The number of branch pipes of the first distributor 95 is equal to the number of second refrigerant pipes 32, and there is a one-to-one correspondence between the branch pipes of the first distributor 95 and the second refrigerant pipes 32.

[0200] refer to Figure 15 The air conditioning system includes a second distributor 96. The second distributor 96 has multiple branch pipes. The branch pipes of the second distributor 96 are connected to the second end of the first refrigerant pipe 31. The main pipe of the second distributor 96 is connected to a second throttling element 82. The second distributor 96 is configured to collect the refrigerant in the multiple first refrigerant pipes and to distribute the refrigerant in the main pipe of the second distributor 96 into the multiple first refrigerant pipes 31. The number of branch pipes of the second distributor 96 is equal to the number of first refrigerant pipes 31, and there is a one-to-one correspondence between the branch pipes of the second distributor 96 and the first refrigerant pipes 31.

[0201] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the above embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific application considerations.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: A four-way valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port; The compressor has its inlet and outlet connected to the first valve port and the third valve port, respectively. An indoor throttling device, the first end of which is connected to the fourth valve port via an indoor heat exchanger; The outdoor heat exchanger includes a first refrigerant pipe and a second refrigerant pipe; The first switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe; The second switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe; The third switch includes a first port, a second port, and a third port; The second port is connected to the first end of the first refrigerant pipe; The fourth switch includes a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port, wherein the fifth port is connected to the first end of the second refrigerant pipe; The first throttling element is connected between the first port and the second end of the second refrigerant pipe; The second throttling element is connected between the fourth port and the second end of the first refrigerant pipe; The third port and the sixth port are respectively connected to the second end of the indoor throttling device; When the third switch is in the first state, the first port and the third port are connected; when the third switch is in the second state, the first port and the second port are connected. When the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the fourth port and the sixth port are connected; when the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the fourth port and the fifth port are connected.

2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a first mode; When the air conditioning system is in the first mode, the third valve port is connected to the second valve port, the first switch is connected, the second switch is disconnected, the second throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the first throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the first state, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port is connected to the first valve port.

3. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a second mode; When the air conditioning system is in the second mode, the third valve port is connected to the second valve port, the first switch is open, the second switch is connected, the first throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the second state, the second throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the indoor throttling device throttles, and the fourth valve port is connected to the first valve port.

4. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a third mode; When the air conditioning system is in the third mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the first state, the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the first throttling device and the second throttling device throttle, the first switch is connected, the second switch is connected, and the second valve port is connected to the first valve port.

5. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least one row of refrigerant pipes, and each row of refrigerant pipes includes a plurality of refrigerant pipes arranged sequentially at intervals along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger. In the same row of refrigerant pipes, two adjacent refrigerant pipes are respectively the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe. The outdoor heat exchanger has multiple first refrigerant pipes connected in parallel, and multiple second refrigerant pipes connected in parallel.

6. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, When the third switch is in the third state, the second port and the third port are connected; When the fourth switch is in the seventh state, the fifth port and the sixth port are connected; The air conditioning system also includes: The first connecting pipe is connected between the first switch and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe; The fifth switch is connected between the first connecting pipe and the second port; The second connecting pipe is connected between the second switch and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe; The sixth switch is connected between the second connecting pipe and the fifth port; A seventh switch, one end of which is connected between the first port and the first throttling element, and the other end of which is connected between the fourth port and the second throttling element.

7. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized in that, It has a fourth mode; When the air conditioning system is in the fourth mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the sixth switch is open, the third switch is in the third state, the fifth switch is connected, the second throttling device is fully open, the seventh switch is connected, the first throttling device throttles, the first switch is open, the second switch is connected, and the second valve port is connected to the first valve port.

8. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized in that, It has a fifth mode; When the air conditioning system is in the fifth mode, the third valve port is connected to the fourth valve port, the indoor throttling device is fully open, the third switch is in the second state, the fifth switch is open, the fourth switch is in the seventh state, the sixth switch is connected, the first throttling device is fully open, the seventh switch is connected, the second throttling device throttles, the second switch is open, the first switch is connected, and the second valve port and the first valve port are connected.

9. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The first check valve has its inlet connected to the fifth switch and its outlet connected to the first connecting pipe. The second check valve has its inlet connected to the sixth switch and its outlet connected to the second connecting pipe.

10. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: A four-way valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port; The compressor has its inlet and outlet connected to the first valve port and the third valve port, respectively. An indoor throttling device, the first end of which is connected to the fourth valve port via an indoor heat exchanger; The outdoor heat exchanger includes a first refrigerant pipe and a second refrigerant pipe; The first switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe; The second switch is connected between the second valve port and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe; The first throttling element has its first end connected to the second end of the second refrigerant pipe; The second throttling element has its first end connected to the second end of the first refrigerant pipe; The fifth switch has its first end connected between the first switch and the first end of the first refrigerant pipe; The sixth switch has its first end connected between the second switch and the first end of the second refrigerant pipe; The third switch has a first state and a second state; when the third switch is in the first state, the third switch connects the second end of the first throttling device and the second end of the indoor throttling device; when the third switch is in the second state, the third switch connects the second end of the first throttling device and the second end of the fifth switch. The fourth switch has a fifth state and a sixth state; when the fourth switch is in the fifth state, the fourth switch connects the second end of the second throttling element and the second end of the indoor throttling element; when the fourth switch is in the sixth state, the fourth switch connects the second end of the second throttling element and the second end of the sixth switch.

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