Air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

The application discloses an air conditioner and a control method thereof, and relates to the technical field of air conditioners. In the process that the air conditioner needs to heat and defrost at the same time, a compressor, at least two first heat exchange modules can constitute a refrigerant circulation loop, a part of the first heat exchange modules condense and release heat for heating, and another part of the first heat exchange modules evaporate and absorb heat for realizing defrosting of the part of the first heat exchange modules; the compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a second heat exchange module and another part of the first heat exchange modules can constitute a refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the indoor heat exchanger condenses and releases heat for heating, and another part of the first heat exchange modules evaporate and absorb heat for realizing indoor heating. In this way, the air conditioner can defrost and heat at the same time, and the fluctuation of indoor temperature is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] During the heating process of an air conditioner, the evaporation temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger must be lower than the ambient temperature for heat exchange to occur. When this temperature drops below the ambient dew point, condensation will form on the surface of the heat exchanger fins. If the heat exchanger temperature falls below 0°C, the condensation will turn into frost and adhere to the heat exchanger surface. This phenomenon deteriorates heat exchange performance.

[0003] In conventional air conditioning systems, the four-way valve is switched during defrosting, causing the refrigerant to flow in reverse to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger. During defrosting, the system loses its heating function, resulting in large fluctuations in indoor temperature and affecting user comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to propose an air conditioner and its control method, which aims to achieve segmented defrosting of the heat exchanger, with the system continuously providing heating during defrosting to reduce fluctuations in indoor temperature.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention proposes an air conditioner comprising an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, wherein the outdoor unit comprises a compressor, a first reversing valve, at least two second reversing valves and an outdoor heat exchanger, and the indoor unit comprises an indoor heat exchanger.

[0006] The first reversing valve includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, the second port is connected to the indoor heat exchanger, and the third port is connected to the intake port of the compressor.

[0007] The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least two first heat exchange modules, at least two first expansion valves, and a second heat exchange module. The second reversing valve includes a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port. The fourth port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, the fifth port is connected to the first heat exchange module, and the sixth port is connected to the intake port of the compressor. The end of the first heat exchange module away from the fifth port is connected to the first expansion valve. The two ends of the second heat exchange module are respectively connected to the indoor heat exchanger and the first expansion valve.

[0008] Optionally, the air conditioner further includes a second expansion valve disposed between the second heat exchange module and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0009] Optionally, the first directional valve is a three-way valve or a four-way valve, and the second directional valve is a three-way valve or a four-way valve.

[0010] This application also provides a control method for an air conditioner, as described above, the control method comprising:

[0011] When the air conditioner is in heating mode and receives a segmented defrost control command, it controls a portion of the first heat exchange modules to condense and release heat, adjusts the opening of a portion of the first expansion valves to a preset opening, and controls another portion of the first heat exchange modules to evaporate and absorb heat. Specifically, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger condenses and releases heat, and the first heat exchange modules evaporate and absorb heat. A portion of the first expansion valves is connected to a corresponding portion of the first heat exchange modules.

[0012] Obtain the first temperature of a portion of the first heat exchange module;

[0013] When the first temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature, reduce the opening degree of a portion of the first expansion valve.

[0014] Optionally, the outdoor unit further includes an outdoor fan for supplying air to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the control method further includes:

[0015] Obtain the second temperature of another portion of the first heat exchange module and the outdoor ambient temperature;

[0016] The speed of the outdoor fan is adjusted according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature.

[0017] Optionally, the step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature includes:

[0018] Obtain the temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature;

[0019] When the temperature difference is less than the preset temperature difference, the speed of the outdoor fan is reduced.

[0020] Optionally, the step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference includes:

[0021] Obtain a portion of the first temperature and the time of condensation and heat release from the first heat exchange module;

[0022] When the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, and the condensation and heat release time is greater than or equal to the preset time:

[0023] Control a portion of the first heat exchange module to stop condensing and releasing heat;

[0024] Alternatively, control another part of the first heat exchange module to condense and release heat.

[0025] Optionally, in the step of reducing the opening of a portion of the first expansion valve when the first temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature, the range of the first preset temperature is 8°C to 12°C, and the opening of the first expansion valve is not less than 50 steps.

[0026] Optionally, in the step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature, the speed of the outdoor fan is not less than 100 r / min.

[0027] Optionally, in the step of obtaining the second temperature of another portion of the first heat exchange modules and the outdoor ambient temperature, when the number of the other portion of the first heat exchange modules is two or more, the second temperature is the average temperature of the other portion of the first heat exchange modules.

[0028] Optionally, in the step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference, the preset temperature difference ranges from 11°C to 15°C.

[0029] Optionally, in the step of when the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature and the condensation heat release time is greater than or equal to the preset time, the range of the second preset temperature is 10°C to 15°C and the range of the preset time is 12 min to 18 min.

[0030] The air conditioner of this application includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor and a first reversing valve. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger. The first reversing valve includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, the second port is connected to the indoor heat exchanger, and the third port is connected to the suction port of the compressor. By adjusting the connection of different ports of the first reversing valve, the indoor heat exchanger is connected to the exhaust port or suction port of the compressor to achieve the heating or cooling purpose of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0031] The outdoor unit also includes at least two second reversing valves and an outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least two first heat exchange modules, at least two first expansion valves, and a second heat exchange module. The second reversing valve includes a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port. The fourth port is connected to the compressor's exhaust port, the fifth port is connected to the first heat exchange module, and the sixth port is connected to the compressor's suction port. By adjusting the connection of different ports of the second reversing valve, the first heat exchange module is connected to the compressor's exhaust port or suction port to achieve the heating or cooling purpose of the first heat exchange module. At the same time, the end of the first heat exchange module away from the fifth port is connected to the first expansion valve to adjust the opening of the first expansion valve during the heating and defrosting process of the first heat exchange module to achieve the purpose of rapid defrosting.

[0032] Meanwhile, the two ends of the second heat exchange module are connected to the indoor heat exchanger and the first expansion valve, respectively. That is, the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, the second heat exchange module, and the first heat exchange module can form a refrigerant circulation loop to achieve the cooling or heating purpose of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0033] Meanwhile, the compressor and at least two first heat exchange modules can form a refrigerant circulation loop, in which a portion of the first heat exchange modules condense and release heat for heating, and another portion of the first heat exchange modules evaporate and absorb heat to achieve defrosting of at least a portion of the first heat exchange modules.

[0034] When an air conditioner needs to both heat and defrost, the compressor and at least two first heat exchange modules can form a refrigerant circulation loop. A portion of the first heat exchange modules condenses and releases heat for heating, while another portion evaporates and absorbs heat to defrost a portion of the first heat exchange modules. Similarly, the compressor, indoor heat exchanger, second heat exchange module, and another portion of the first heat exchange modules can form a refrigerant circulation loop, where the indoor heat exchanger condenses and releases heat for heating, while another portion of the first heat exchange modules evaporates and absorbs heat to heat the room. In this way, the air conditioner can defrost and heat simultaneously, reducing fluctuations in indoor temperature. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the segmented defrosting refrigerant flow path of another embodiment of the air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the heating refrigerant flow path in another embodiment of the air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow path for complete defrosting in another embodiment of the air conditioner provided by the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the air conditioner control method provided by the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the segmented defrosting operation principle of an embodiment of the air conditioner control method provided by the present invention.

[0042] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0043] 10. Compressor; 11. Exhaust port; 13. Intake port; 20. First reversing valve; 21. First port; 22. Second port; 23. Third port; 30. Indoor heat exchanger; 31. First indoor interface; 33. Second indoor interface; 40. Second reversing valve; 41. Fourth port; 42. Fifth port; 43. Sixth port; 50. First heat exchange module; 50A. Part of the first heat exchange module; 50B. Another part of the first heat exchange module; 50C. Another part of the first heat exchange module; 50D. Another part of the first heat exchange module; 51. First outdoor interface; 53. Second outdoor interface; 60. First expansion valve; 70. Outdoor fan; 80. Second expansion valve; 90. Second heat exchange module.

[0044] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0046] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0047] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0048] During the heating process, frost easily forms on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger in air conditioners. Traditional air conditioners use reverse refrigerant flow during defrosting to heat the outdoor heat exchanger for defrosting. During defrosting, the indoor heat exchanger loses its heating function, resulting in large fluctuations in indoor temperature.

[0049] To solve the above problems, such as Figure 1 As shown, to achieve the above objectives, the present invention proposes an air conditioner comprising an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, a first reversing valve 20, at least two second reversing valves 40, and an outdoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger 30. The first reversing valve 20 includes a first port 21, a second port 22, and a third port 23. The first port 21 is connected to the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 10, the second port 22 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 30, and the third port 23 is connected to the intake port 13 of the compressor 10. The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least two... The first heat exchange module 50, at least two first expansion valves 60 and a second heat exchange module 90, the second reversing valve 40 includes a fourth port 41, a fifth port 42 and a sixth port 43, the fourth port 41 is connected to the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 10, the fifth port 42 is connected to the first heat exchange module 50, the sixth port 43 is connected to the suction port 13 of the compressor 10, the end of the first heat exchange module 50 away from the fifth port 42 is connected to the first expansion valve 60, and the two ends of the second heat exchange module 90 are connected to the indoor heat exchanger 30 and the first expansion valve 60 respectively.

[0050] Specifically, the air conditioner of this application includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor and a first reversing valve 20. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger 30. The first reversing valve 20 includes a first port 21, a second port 22, and a third port 23. The first port 21 is connected to the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 10, the second port 22 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 30, and the third port 23 is connected to the suction port 13 of the compressor 10. By adjusting the connection of different ports of the first reversing valve 20, the indoor heat exchanger 30 is connected to the exhaust port 11 or the suction port 13 of the compressor 10 to achieve the heating or cooling purpose of the indoor heat exchanger 30.

[0051] The outdoor unit also includes at least two second reversing valves 40 and an outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least two first heat exchange modules 50, at least two first expansion valves 60, and a second heat exchange module 90. The second reversing valve 40 includes a fourth port 41, a fifth port 42, and a sixth port 43. The fourth port 41 is connected to the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 10, the fifth port 42 is connected to the first heat exchange module 50, and the sixth port 43 is connected to the suction port 13 of the compressor 10. By adjusting the connection of different ports of the second reversing valve 40, the first heat exchange module 50 is connected to the exhaust port 11 or the suction port 13 of the compressor 10 to achieve the heating or cooling purpose of the first heat exchange module 50. At the same time, the end of the first heat exchange module 50 away from the fifth port 42 is connected to the first expansion valve 60 to adjust the opening of the first expansion valve 60 during the heating and defrosting process of the first heat exchange module 50 to achieve the purpose of rapid defrosting.

[0052] Meanwhile, the two ends of the second heat exchange module 90 are connected to the indoor heat exchanger 30 and the first expansion valve 60 respectively. That is, the compressor 10, the indoor heat exchanger 30, the second heat exchange module 90 and the first heat exchange module 50 can form a refrigerant circulation loop to achieve the cooling or heating purpose of the indoor heat exchanger 30.

[0053] Meanwhile, the compressor 10 and at least two first heat exchange modules 50 can form a refrigerant circulation loop, in which a part of the first heat exchange modules 50 condenses and releases heat for heating, and another part of the first heat exchange modules 50 evaporates and absorbs heat to achieve defrosting of a part of the first heat exchange modules 50.

[0054] When an air conditioner needs to both heat and defrost, the compressor 10 and at least two first heat exchange modules 50 can form a refrigerant circulation loop. A portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 condenses and releases heat for heating, while another portion evaporates and absorbs heat to defrost a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50. Similarly, the compressor 10, indoor heat exchanger 30, second heat exchange module 90, and another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 can form a refrigerant circulation loop, where the indoor heat exchanger 30 condenses and releases heat for heating, and the other portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 evaporates and absorbs heat to achieve indoor heating. In this way, the air conditioner can defrost and heat simultaneously, reducing fluctuations in indoor temperature.

[0055] Understandably, setting up both the first heat exchange module 50 and the second heat exchange module 90 simultaneously helps improve the heat exchange effect of the air conditioner. Specifically, when the air conditioner needs to heat and defrost at the same time, after the refrigerant condenses and releases heat from the indoor heat exchanger 30, it needs to exchange heat with the environment. After a portion of the refrigerant enters the first heat exchange module 50 and condenses and releases heat, it also needs to exchange heat with the environment. At this time, using the second heat exchange module 90 and another portion of the first heat exchange module 50 to exchange heat with the environment through evaporation and heat absorption can improve the heat exchange efficiency, thus ensuring a better indoor heating and defrosting effect.

[0056] In one embodiment, the air conditioner further includes a second expansion valve 80, which is disposed between the second heat exchange module 90 and the indoor heat exchanger 30.

[0057] A second expansion valve 80 is provided between the second heat exchange module 90 and the indoor heat exchanger 30. This valve can regulate the flow rate and pressure of the pipeline at the outlet end of the indoor heat exchanger 30, which helps to allow the refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 30 to enter another part of the first heat exchange module 50 during the heating and defrosting process of the air conditioner.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first directional valve 20 is a three-way valve or a four-way valve, and the second directional valve 40 is a three-way valve or a four-way valve.

[0059] In this application, the first reversing valve 20 is a three-way valve or a four-way valve, and the second reversing valve 40 is also a three-way valve or a four-way valve. By adjusting the connection of different ports of the first reversing valve 20 using the three-way or four-way valve, the indoor heat exchanger 30 is connected to the exhaust port 11 or the suction port 13 of the compressor 10, thereby achieving the heating or cooling purpose of the indoor heat exchanger 30. Similarly, by adjusting the connection of different ports of the second reversing valve 40, the first heat exchange module 50 is connected to the exhaust port 11 or the suction port 13 of the compressor 10, thereby achieving the heating or cooling purpose of the first heat exchange module 50.

[0060] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, this application also provides a control method for an air conditioner. The control method includes: when the air conditioner is in heating mode and receives a segmented defrost control command, controlling a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to condense and release heat, adjusting the opening of a portion of the first expansion valves 60 to a preset opening, and controlling another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to evaporate and absorb heat; wherein, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger condenses and releases heat, and the first heat exchange modules evaporate and absorb heat, and a portion of the first expansion valves are correspondingly connected to a portion of the first heat exchange modules; obtaining a first temperature of a portion of the first heat exchange modules; and when the first temperature T1 is less than or equal to a first preset temperature, reducing the opening of a portion of the first expansion valves.

[0061] It is understandable that when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger 30 condenses and releases heat, and the first heat exchange module 50 evaporates and absorbs heat. That is, the indoor heat exchanger 30 condenses and releases heat, and at least two first heat exchange modules 50 and the second heat exchange module 90 evaporate and absorb heat. Specifically, the first port 21 is connected to the second port 22, and the fifth port 42 of at least two first heat exchange modules 50 is connected to the corresponding sixth port 43. The compressor 10, the indoor heat exchanger 30, the second heat exchange module 90, and at least two first heat exchange modules 50 constitute a refrigerant circuit to realize the condensation and heat release of the indoor heat exchanger 30.

[0062] After a period of time in heating mode, frost will form on the surfaces of at least two first heat exchange modules 50. At this point, it is necessary to defrost at least two first heat exchange modules 50.

[0063] When the air conditioner is in heating mode and receives a segmented defrost control command, it controls one part of the first heat exchange module 50 to condense and release heat, adjusts the opening of one part of the first expansion valve 60 to a preset opening, and controls the other part of the first heat exchange module 50 to evaporate and absorb heat. During this process, the outdoor fan 70 runs at a preset speed. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger 30 can act as a condenser to condense and release heat, or as an evaporator to evaporate and absorb heat, or it can be turned off.

[0064] Specifically, when the indoor heat exchanger 30 is used as a condenser, the first port 21 and the second port 22 are connected. In one embodiment, the compressor 10, the indoor heat exchanger 30, the second heat exchange module 90, and another part of the first heat exchange module 50 constitute a refrigerant circuit, and the indoor heat exchanger 30 is used for heating. When the indoor heat exchanger 30 is used as an evaporator, the second port 22 and the third port 23 are connected. In one embodiment, the compressor 10, a part of the first heat exchange module 50, the second heat exchange module 90, and the indoor heat exchanger 30 constitute a refrigerant circuit, and the indoor heat exchanger 30 absorbs heat through evaporation.

[0065] When the air conditioner's control system receives a segmented defrosting control command, it controls one part of the first heat exchange module 50 to condense and release heat, adjusts the opening of one part of the first expansion valve 60 to a preset opening, and controls another part of the first heat exchange module 50 to evaporate and absorb heat. At this time, by controlling the fourth port 41 and the fifth port 42 of the second reversing valve 40 corresponding to one part of the first heat exchange module 50 to be connected, and the fifth port 42 and the sixth port 43 of the other part of the second reversing valve 40 to be connected, the system achieves "one part of the first heat exchange module 50 condenses and releases heat, and controls another part of the first heat exchange module 50 to evaporate and absorb heat". In this way, the purpose of segmented defrosting is achieved, that is, at least two first heat exchange modules 50 are heated to defrost a portion of the first heat exchange module 50.

[0066] A portion of the first expansion valves 60 is connected to a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50. The control system acquires a first temperature T1 of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50. When the first temperature T1 is less than or equal to a first preset temperature a, the opening of a portion of the first expansion valves 60 is reduced. As the opening of the first expansion valves 60 decreases, the pressure of the first heat exchange modules 50 increases. This process helps to raise the condensing temperature of the first heat exchange modules 50, thus facilitating rapid defrosting. Therefore, during segmented defrosting of the air conditioner, rapid defrosting is achieved by reducing the opening of the first expansion valves 60.

[0067] In one embodiment, the outdoor unit further includes an outdoor fan 70 for supplying air to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the control method further includes: obtaining a second temperature T2 of another part of the first heat exchange module 50 and an outdoor ambient temperature T3; and adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan 70 according to the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2.

[0068] It is understandable that the outdoor fan 70 can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the first heat exchange module 50. During the segmented defrosting process, the control method also includes: obtaining the second temperature T2 of another portion of the first heat exchange module 50 and the outdoor ambient temperature T3; adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan 70 based on the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2. After obtaining the control command for segmented defrosting, the speed of the outdoor fan 70 of the first heat exchange module 50 can be reduced according to the control command. That is, during the segmented defrosting process, the speed of the outdoor fan 70 of the first heat exchange module 50 is also reduced, thus preventing the condensing temperature of one portion of the first heat exchange module 50 from becoming too low. It is understandable that if the condensing heat exchange increases significantly, the pressure increase of the refrigerant passing through the compressor will be insufficient, i.e., the operating pressure ratio will be too small, easily leading to overloading of the compressor or even damage to the compressor. Therefore, during defrosting, reducing the speed of the outdoor fan 70 reduces the risk of compressor damage.

[0069] In one embodiment, the step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan 70 according to the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2 includes: obtaining the temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2; when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference value b, reducing the speed of the outdoor fan 70.

[0070] Each first heat exchange module 50 is equipped with a temperature sensor on its surface. During the segmented defrosting process, the air conditioner adjusts the speed of the outdoor fan 70 according to the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2 of another part of the first heat exchange module 50. When the temperature difference is less than the preset temperature difference value b, the speed of the outdoor fan 70 is reduced to prevent the evaporation temperature from being too low and reducing the heating effect.

[0071] In one embodiment, when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference value b, the step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan 70 includes: obtaining a first temperature T1 and a condensation and heat release time t of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50; when the first temperature T1 is greater than or equal to a second preset temperature c and the condensation and heat release time t is greater than or equal to a preset time d: controlling a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to stop condensation and heat release; or, controlling another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to condense and release heat.

[0072] That is, when the first temperature T1 of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature c and the condensation and heat release time t is greater than or equal to the preset time d, that is, when certain conditions are met, it indicates that the defrosting effect of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 has reached the preset requirements. At this time, defrosting of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 can be stopped. At this time, the air conditioning defrosting control system can exit defrosting, or control the air conditioner to perform defrosting operation on another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50.

[0073] In one embodiment, when the first temperature T1 is less than or equal to the first preset temperature a, in the step of reducing the opening of a portion of the first expansion valve 60, the first preset temperature a ranges from 8°C to 12°C, and the opening of the first expansion valve 60 is not less than 50 steps.

[0074] It is understandable that when the first temperature T1 is less than or equal to the first preset temperature a, and 8℃≤a≤12℃, the opening of a portion of the first expansion valve 60 is reduced, and the opening of the first expansion valve 60 is not less than 50 steps, which is beneficial for rapid defrosting.

[0075] It is understandable that during the process of controlling the air conditioner to reduce the opening of a portion of the first expansion valve 60, the opening of the first expansion valve 60 should not be less than 50 steps, which is beneficial for energy saving. It is also understandable that if the opening of the first expansion valve 60 is too small, the outlet pressure of the first expansion valve 60 will be too low, and the corresponding evaporation pressure and temperature will also be too low, resulting in a slower evaporation rate and reduced heat exchange efficiency.

[0076] In one embodiment, in the step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan 70 according to the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2, the speed of the outdoor fan 70 is not less than 100 r / min.

[0077] During segmented defrosting, the air conditioning defrosting control system controls the air conditioner to reduce the speed of the outdoor fan 70, ensuring that the speed of the outdoor fan 70 is not lower than 100 r / min, thus preventing the outdoor fan 70 from running too slowly and reducing heat exchange efficiency.

[0078] In one embodiment, in the step of obtaining the second temperature T2 of another part of the first heat exchange module 50 and the outdoor ambient temperature T3, when the number of the other part of the first heat exchange module 50 is two or more, the second temperature T2 is the average temperature of the other part of the first heat exchange module 50.

[0079] In the step of obtaining the second temperature T2 of another part of the first heat exchange module 50 and the outdoor ambient temperature T3, when the number of the other part of the first heat exchange module 50 is two or more, the second temperature T2 is the average temperature of each other part of the first heat exchange module 50. Since each other part of the first heat exchange module 50 is arranged adjacently and there is heat transfer between them, using the average temperature of each other part of the first heat exchange module 50 to compare with the ambient temperature is beneficial to improving the overall heat exchange effect of each other part of the first heat exchange module 50.

[0080] In one embodiment, in the step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan 70 when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference value b, the preset temperature difference value b is in the range of 11°C to 15°C.

[0081] When the temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2 is obtained, if the temperature difference is less than the preset temperature difference value b, and the preset temperature difference value b is in the range of 11℃ to 15℃, the speed of the outdoor fan 70 is reduced. This can prevent the evaporation temperature of another part of the first heat exchange module 50 from being too low and reducing the heating effect.

[0082] In one embodiment, in the step where the first temperature T1 is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature c and the condensation and heat release time t is greater than or equal to the preset time d, the second preset temperature c ranges from 10°C to 15°C, and the preset time d ranges from 12 min to 18 min.

[0083] It is understandable that when the first temperature T1 is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature c, 10℃ < c < 15℃, and the condensation and heat release time t is greater than or equal to the preset time d, 12min < d < 18min, if the above conditions are met, it means that the defrosting effect of a part of the first heat exchange modules 50 has reached the preset requirements. At this time, defrosting of a part of the first heat exchange modules 50 can be stopped. At this time, the air conditioning defrosting control system can exit defrosting, or control the air conditioner to perform defrosting operation on another part of the first heat exchange modules 50.

[0084] In one embodiment, such as Figures 1 to 6As shown, the air conditioner includes a compressor 10, which includes a compressor discharge port 11 and a compressor suction port 13; an indoor heat exchanger 30, which includes a first indoor interface 31 and a second indoor interface 33, wherein a first reversing valve 20 is provided on the pipeline where the first indoor interface 31 is located, for connecting the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor discharge port 11 or the compressor suction port 13; and an outdoor heat exchanger, which includes at least two first heat exchange modules 50 and an outdoor fan 70, wherein each first heat exchange module 50 includes a first... An outdoor interface 51 and a second outdoor interface 53 are provided. Each pipe of the first outdoor interface 51 is equipped with a second reversing valve 40 to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor exhaust port 11 or the compressor suction port 13. The pipes of each second outdoor interface 53 are connected to the second indoor interface 33 after they merge. Each pipe of the second outdoor interface 53 is equipped with a first expansion valve 60. When the air conditioner is defrosting in stages, the air conditioner is controlled to reduce the opening of the first expansion valve 60 of the first heat exchange module 50 used for defrosting.

[0085] The outdoor heat exchanger in this application employs at least two first heat exchange modules 50, such that during heating and defrosting, the indoor heat exchanger 30 condenses and releases heat for heating, while a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 condenses and releases heat for defrosting. That is, during segmented defrosting, of the at least two first heat exchange modules 50, a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 are defrosted, while the other portion is not defrosted. Figure 2 As shown, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor exhaust port 11 of the compressor 10 enters the indoor heat exchanger 30 through the first reversing valve 20, and then enters a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 through the second reversing valve 40. The refrigerant condenses and releases heat in the indoor heat exchanger 30 and a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 (e.g., 50A). After passing through the indoor heat exchanger 30, the refrigerant flows into another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 (e.g., 50B, 50C, 50D) to evaporate and absorb heat. At the same time, after passing through a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50, the refrigerant flows into other first heat exchange modules 50 to evaporate and absorb heat. This allows for simultaneous heating of the room during the defrosting process.

[0086] Furthermore, to improve defrosting efficiency, during segmented defrosting, the air conditioner controls the reduction of the opening of the first expansion valve 60 of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50. Specifically, during defrosting, the opening of the first expansion valve 60 of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 can be reduced, thereby increasing the condensing pressure of that portion of the first heat exchange modules 50, thus increasing the condensing temperature and achieving rapid defrosting.

[0087] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, the first reversing valve 20 is a first three-way valve, and the three connection terminals of the first three-way valve are respectively connected to the first indoor interface 31, the compressor exhaust port 11, and the compressor suction port 13. Specifically, the ES terminal of the first three-way valve connects the first indoor interface 31 and the compressor suction port 13, and the ED terminal of the first three-way valve connects the first indoor interface 31 and the compressor exhaust port 11.

[0088] The second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, and its three connection terminals are respectively connected to the first outdoor interface 51, the compressor discharge port 11, and the compressor suction port 13. Specifically, the DE terminal of the second three-way valve connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor discharge port 11, and the ES terminal of the second three-way valve connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13.

[0089] In one embodiment, during segmented defrosting, the air conditioner controls the first reversing valve 20 to connect the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor exhaust port 11, thereby enabling the indoor heat exchanger 30 to heat; it also controls the second reversing valve 40 of a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor exhaust port 11; and controls the second reversing valve 40 of another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13; or, during heating, the air conditioner defrosting control system controls the first reversing valve 20 to connect the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor... The exhaust port 11 is connected, enabling the indoor heat exchanger 30 to heat; the first expansion valve 60 is fully opened; the second reversing valve 40 of all first heat exchange modules 50 is controlled to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13; or, when the air conditioning defrost control system is fully defrosting, the first reversing valve 20 is controlled to connect the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor suction port 13; the second reversing valve 40 of all first heat exchange modules 50 is controlled to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor exhaust port 11, enabling the first heat exchange module 50 to heat; and the first expansion valve 60 is fully opened.

[0090] In one implementation, such as Figure 2 As shown, when the air conditioner is defrosting in stages, the first reversing valve 20 is controlled to connect the first indoor interface 31 with the compressor exhaust port 11, so that the indoor heat exchanger 30 can heat. Specifically, the first reversing valve 20 is a first three-way valve, and the DE end of the first three-way valve connects the first indoor interface 31 and the compressor exhaust port 11, so that the indoor heat exchanger 30 can heat.

[0091] The second reversing valve 40 controls a portion of the first heat exchange module 50A to connect the first outdoor interface 51 with the compressor exhaust port 11; specifically, the second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, and the DE end of the second three-way valve connects the first outdoor interface 51 and the compressor exhaust port 11, so that a portion of the first heat exchange module 50A can generate heat.

[0092] The second reversing valve 40 of another part of the first heat exchange modules 50B, 50C, and 50D connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13. Specifically, the second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, and its ES end connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13. This allows the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 30 and a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50A to enter the other part of the first heat exchange modules 50B, 50C, and 50D, and then flow back to the compressor suction port 13 through the first outdoor interface 51 of the other part of the first heat exchange modules 50B, 50C, and 50D, returning to the compressor 10. This process achieves segmented defrosting of the air conditioner.

[0093] In another embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the first reversing valve 20 is controlled to connect the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor discharge port 11, thereby enabling the indoor heat exchanger 30 to heat. Specifically, the first reversing valve 20 is a first three-way valve, and its DE end connects the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor discharge port 11, thus enabling the indoor heat exchanger 30 to heat. Simultaneously, the first expansion valve 60 is fully opened. The second reversing valve 40 of all the first heat exchange modules 50 is controlled to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13. Specifically, the second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, and its ES end connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13, allowing the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 30 to pass through the throttling expansion valve and reach all the first heat exchange modules 50 for heat exchange. Finally, the refrigerant returns to the compressor 10 through the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor suction port 13.

[0094] In another implementation, such as Figure 4 As shown, if the first heat exchange module is severely frosted, the system needs to perform a complete defrost. During the complete defrost, the air conditioner controls the first reversing valve 20 to connect the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor suction port 13. Specifically, the first reversing valve 20 is a first three-way valve, and its ES terminal connects the first indoor interface 31 to the compressor suction port 13. The second reversing valve 40 of all the first heat exchange modules 50 is controlled to connect the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor discharge port 11, enabling the first heat exchange modules 50 to heat. Specifically, the second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, and its DE terminal connects the first outdoor interface 51 to the compressor discharge port 11. The first expansion valve 60 is fully opened. During the cooling process, the high-temperature refrigerant is discharged from the compressor discharge port 11 of the compressor 10, enters all the first heat exchange modules 50 to condense and release heat, then passes through the first expansion valve 60 for throttling, enters the indoor heat exchanger 30 to evaporate and absorb heat, and finally flows back to the compressor 10 to complete the cycle.

[0095] In another embodiment, such as Figure 6As shown in the schematic diagram, during segmented defrosting, the first reversing valve 20 is a first three-way valve, with its DE port switched on and off. The second reversing valve 40 is a second three-way valve, with the DE port of one portion of the second three-way valve corresponding to the first heat exchange module 50 switched on and off, while the ES port of the second three-way valve corresponding to another portion of the first heat exchange module 50 is switched on. The high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor discharge port 11 of the compressor 10 enters the indoor heat exchanger 30 and a portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 for condensation and heat release. After throttling, it flows into another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 for evaporation and heat absorption. This allows for simultaneous indoor heating during defrosting.

[0096] During the segmented defrosting process, the opening of the first expansion valve 60 corresponding to one portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 is adjusted according to the first temperature T1 of one portion of the first heat exchange modules 50. When T1 < a, 8℃ ≤ a ≤ 12℃, the first expansion valve 60 corresponding to one portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 is gradually closed. The purpose is to increase the condensing pressure of one portion of the first heat exchange modules 50, thereby increasing the condensing temperature and achieving rapid defrosting. At the same time, the outdoor fan 70 also reduces its speed to prevent the condensing temperature of one portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 from being too low. During the process of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan 70, if the temperature difference between the ambient temperature T3 and the second temperature T2 of another portion of the first heat exchange modules 50 is detected to be less than the preset temperature difference value b, 11℃ < b < 15℃, then the speed of the outdoor fan 70 is reduced to prevent the evaporation temperature from being too low and reducing the heating effect. When the first temperature T1 of one part of the first heat exchange module 50 is greater than c, and the condensation and heat release time t is greater than d, 10℃ < c < 15℃, 12min < d < 18min, then defrosting is stopped, or another part of the first heat exchange module 50 is switched to defrost.

[0097] The above are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the technical concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, a first reversing valve, at least two second reversing valves, and an outdoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger. The first reversing valve includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, the second port is connected to the indoor heat exchanger, and the third port is connected to the intake port of the compressor. The outdoor heat exchanger includes at least two first heat exchange modules, at least two first expansion valves, and a second heat exchange module. The second reversing valve includes a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port. The fourth port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, the fifth port is connected to the first heat exchange module, and the sixth port is connected to the intake port of the compressor. The end of the first heat exchange module away from the fifth port is connected to the first expansion valve. The two ends of the second heat exchange module are respectively connected to the indoor heat exchanger and the first expansion valve.

2. The air conditioner as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes a second expansion valve, which is disposed between the second heat exchange module and the indoor heat exchanger.

3. The air conditioner as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first directional valve is a three-way valve or a four-way valve, and the second directional valve is a three-way valve or a four-way valve.

4. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the control method comprises: When the air conditioner is in heating mode and receives a segmented defrost control command, it controls a portion of the first heat exchange modules to condense and release heat, adjusts the opening of a portion of the first expansion valves to a preset opening, and controls another portion of the first heat exchange modules to evaporate and absorb heat. Specifically, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger condenses and releases heat, and the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates and absorbs heat. A portion of the first expansion valves is connected to a corresponding portion of the first heat exchange modules. Obtain the first temperature of a portion of the first heat exchange module; When the first temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature, reduce the opening degree of a portion of the first expansion valve.

5. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The outdoor unit also includes an outdoor fan for supplying air to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the control method further includes: Obtain the second temperature of another portion of the first heat exchange module and the outdoor ambient temperature; The speed of the outdoor fan is adjusted according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature.

6. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature includes: Obtain the temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature; When the temperature difference is less than the preset temperature difference, the speed of the outdoor fan is reduced.

7. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan when the temperature difference is less than a preset temperature difference includes: Obtain a portion of the first temperature and the time of condensation and heat release from the first heat exchange module; When the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, and the condensation and heat release time is greater than or equal to the preset time: Control a portion of the first heat exchange module to stop condensing and releasing heat; Alternatively, control another part of the first heat exchange module to condense and release heat.

8. The control method for an air conditioner as described in any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, In the step of reducing the opening degree of a portion of the first expansion valve when the first temperature is less than or equal to the first preset temperature, the range of the first preset temperature is 8°C to 12°C, and the opening degree of the first expansion valve is not less than 50 steps.

9. The control method for an air conditioner as described in any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, In the step of adjusting the speed of the outdoor fan according to the outdoor ambient temperature and the second temperature, the speed of the outdoor fan shall not be less than 100 r / min.

10. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 5, characterized in that, In the step of obtaining the second temperature of another part of the first heat exchange modules and the outdoor ambient temperature, when the number of the other part of the first heat exchange modules is two or more, the second temperature is the average temperature of the other part of the first heat exchange modules.

11. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 6, characterized in that, In the step of reducing the speed of the outdoor fan when the temperature difference is less than the preset temperature difference, the preset temperature difference ranges from 11°C to 15°C.

12. The control method for an air conditioner as described in claim 7, characterized in that, In the step where the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature and the condensation and heat release time is greater than or equal to the preset time, the range of the second preset temperature is 10°C to 15°C and the range of the preset time is 12 min to 18 min.

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