Air conditioner

Abstract

The application provides an air conditioner, which comprises a refrigerant circulation loop, a refrigerant heat exchange unit, a control valve branch and a controller, wherein the refrigerant heat exchange unit is located between a throttling assembly and an outdoor heat exchanger of the refrigerant circulation loop, the refrigerant heat exchange unit comprises a radiator, a capillary tube and a solenoid valve, the solenoid valve is connected in parallel to two ends of the capillary tube, the control valve branch comprises a control valve which is connected in parallel to the refrigerant heat exchange unit and is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling assembly and is used for adjusting the flow of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit, and the controller is configured to control the on-off of the solenoid valve and the control valve according to the outdoor environment temperature, the outdoor coil temperature and the temperature of the power semiconductor device when the air conditioner is in a refrigeration mode, so as to reasonably control the refrigerant flow through the radiator, dissipate heat for the controller, effectively avoid the generation of condensate water, improve the heat dissipation efficiency, avoid the problems of excessive heat dissipation or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments and improve the reliability of the air conditioner.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In air conditioning technology, when the ambient temperature is high, the air conditioner needs to output a higher cooling capacity, and the electronic control components need to output higher power, which will cause their temperature to rise significantly. However, the temperature of the electronic control components has a maximum limit. If it is too high, it will easily cause abnormal damage to the controller. The only way to ensure the safe operation of the air conditioner is to reduce the output power and temperature of the electronic control components by reducing the compressor frequency.

[0003] In existing technologies, the refrigerant in the air conditioning system is usually used to dissipate heat from the electronic control components. This involves connecting the radiator to the refrigerant circulation pipeline and using the refrigerant's ability to absorb a large amount of heat to cool the electronic control components. However, the above solutions have limited adjustment capabilities under extreme high-temperature conditions and are difficult to cope with high heat loads. Furthermore, at normal temperatures or during heating operation, they may lead to excessive heat dissipation or even refrigerant condensation, posing safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] Therefore, one objective of this invention is to provide an air conditioner that, by installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, avoids the problem of condensation caused by the low-temperature refrigerant after throttling. Furthermore, by incorporating a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel within the refrigerant heat exchange unit, and a control valve branch between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under various operating conditions. This allows for precise heat dissipation, enabling the refrigerant heat exchange unit to accurately match the heat dissipation amount according to actual needs. By using the minimum heat exchange load to dissipate heat from the controller, the heat dissipation effect is ensured while improving efficiency, avoiding overheating or underheating in extreme environments, thereby enhancing the reliability of the air conditioner.

[0006] Therefore, a second objective of this invention is to provide a control method for an air conditioner.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention provides an air conditioner including a refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the refrigerant circulates in a heat exchange loop formed by sequentially connecting a compressor, a condenser, a throttling assembly, an evaporator and a four-way valve, wherein the condenser and the evaporator correspond to an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor heat exchanger, respectively. A refrigerant heat exchange unit, one end of which is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger and the other end of which is connected to the throttling device, the refrigerant heat exchange unit includes a radiator, a capillary tube and a solenoid valve, the radiator is used to dissipate heat from the controller, one end of the capillary tube is connected to the output end of the outdoor heat exchanger and the other end of the capillary tube is connected to one end of the throttling device through the radiator, and the solenoid valve is connected in parallel to both ends of the capillary tube; A control valve branch is connected in parallel with the refrigerant heat exchange unit. The control valve branch is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling assembly. The control valve branch consists of a control valve and a pipeline and is used to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit. Outdoor ambient temperature sensor, used to detect outdoor ambient temperature; Outdoor coil temperature sensor, used to detect the temperature of outdoor coil; A device temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the power semiconductor device integrated inside the controller; The controller is configured to: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the outdoor ambient temperature, the outdoor coil temperature, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device are obtained, as well as the operating frequency of the compressor is obtained. When the outdoor ambient temperature reaches a first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, and / or the outdoor coil temperature reaches a preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and / or the power semiconductor device temperature reaches a preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the solenoid valve is controlled to open, so that the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flows to the radiator, thereby increasing the heat dissipation effect on the controller. And / or, control the operating state of the control valve according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant heat exchange unit can avoid the problem of condensation caused by the low-temperature refrigerant after throttling. Simultaneously, by arranging a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel within the refrigerant heat exchange unit, and by setting a control valve branch between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under different operating conditions, thereby achieving precise heat dissipation. This allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit to accurately match the heat dissipation amount according to actual needs, ensuring that the refrigerant heat exchange unit uses the minimum heat exchange load to dissipate heat to the controller, guaranteeing the heat dissipation effect while improving heat dissipation efficiency, avoiding problems of excessive or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments, and thus improving the reliability of the air conditioner.

[0009] In some embodiments, during the process of the refrigerant flowing to the radiator after being throttled through the capillary tube to dissipate heat from the controller, the controller is further configured to: when the outdoor ambient temperature is less than the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the outdoor coil temperature is less than the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device is less than the preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, control the solenoid valve to close, so that the refrigerant flows to the radiator through the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller.

[0010] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: by controlling the closing of the solenoid valve, the refrigerant flows to the radiator through the solenoid valve, avoiding the energy loss and pressure drop caused by the refrigerant throttling through the capillary tube. This can reduce unnecessary throttling links, reduce the energy consumption of the air conditioner, and achieve the purpose of energy saving. At the same time, it can accurately provide appropriate heat dissipation support for the controller, ensuring that the temperature of the controller is within a safe range, and preventing excessive heat dissipation from affecting the overall performance and energy efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0011] In some embodiments, when controlling the operating state of the control valve according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature, the controller is configured to: control the control valve to be in a closed state when the operating frequency of the compressor is less than a preset frequency threshold and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a second preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, so as to reduce the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

[0012] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: it can avoid the problem of condensation or even condensation caused by the surface temperature of the heat sink being too low due to excessive heat absorption, while meeting the basic heat dissipation requirements of the controller, thereby protecting the electrical safety of the electronic control components.

[0013] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: when the air conditioner is in heating mode, control the solenoid valve to be closed, so that the refrigerant flows through the radiator to the solenoid valve, thereby realizing heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit in heating mode.

[0014] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: it allows the refrigerant to flow through the radiator with a smaller temperature drop, keeping the radiator at a suitable temperature to avoid excessive cooling of the refrigerant, thereby achieving effective heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit in heating mode.

[0015] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: when the air conditioner is in heating mode, control the control valve to be closed, so that the refrigerant flows through the control valve to the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby reducing the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

[0016] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: it allows the refrigerant to flow through the radiator with a smaller temperature drop, keeping the radiator at a suitable temperature to control heat dissipation, avoid ineffective heat dissipation, and improve the overall energy efficiency of the machine.

[0017] In some embodiments, the refrigerant heat exchange unit further includes: a refrigerant pipeline wrapped inside the radiator, one end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to the throttling component, and the other end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to the outdoor heat exchanger via the capillary tube and the solenoid valve.

[0018] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: In cooling mode, it can receive refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger, dissipate heat through the radiator, flow into the throttling component, and then enter the indoor heat exchanger to complete the cooling cycle.

[0019] In some embodiments, the heat sink and the refrigerant piping are filled with thermally conductive silicone grease.

[0020] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: filling the heat sink and refrigerant pipeline with thermally conductive silicone grease can expel the air in the gaps. At the same time, it can ensure that the heat generated by the power device can be transferred to the refrigerant pipeline through the heat sink without any loss, and finally carried away by the flowing refrigerant.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heat sink abuts against the power semiconductor device.

[0022] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: the heat sink is in contact with the power semiconductor device, that is, the heat source and the heat dissipation medium are physically connected together, which can ensure that heat can flow from the former to the latter efficiently.

[0023] In some embodiments, the controller further integrates an internal ambient temperature sensor for acquiring the internal ambient temperature; the controller is configured to: receive the internal ambient temperature; and control the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner according to the internal ambient temperature to adjust the internal ambient temperature. The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: by controlling the frequency of the compressor and the output voltage of the active PFC circuit, the internal temperature of the controller can be adjusted to avoid damage to the components caused by excessive internal temperature.

[0024] In some embodiments, when controlling the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, the controller is configured to: when the ambient temperature inside the controller reaches a preset ambient temperature threshold, control the frequency of the compressor to decrease to a target frequency, and control the output voltage of the active PFC circuit to decrease to a target voltage, so as to reduce the ambient temperature inside the controller.

[0025] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects: by controlling the compressor frequency to be reduced to the target frequency, the load on the power semiconductor device can be reduced, the heat generation can be reduced, and the internal temperature of the controller can be reduced. At the same time, controlling the output voltage of the active PFC circuit to be reduced to the target voltage can reduce the voltage stress on the power semiconductor device, thereby reducing switching losses and conduction losses, and further reducing the internal temperature of the controller.

[0026] To achieve the above objectives, a second aspect of the present invention provides a control method for an air conditioner, the method comprising the following steps: when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, acquiring the outdoor ambient temperature, the outdoor coil temperature, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device, and acquiring the operating frequency of the compressor; when the outdoor ambient temperature reaches a first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, and / or the outdoor coil temperature reaches a preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and / or the temperature of the power semiconductor device reaches a preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, controlling the solenoid valve to open, so that the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flows to the radiator, thereby increasing the heat dissipation effect on the controller; and / or, controlling the operating state of the control valve according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0027] According to the air conditioner control method of the present invention, by adopting a scheme of installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant heat exchange unit can avoid the problem of condensation caused by the low temperature refrigerant after throttling. At the same time, by adopting a scheme of setting a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel in the refrigerant heat exchange unit, and setting a control valve branch between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under different operating conditions, so as to achieve precise heat dissipation. This allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit to accurately match the heat dissipation according to actual needs, so that the refrigerant heat exchange unit uses the minimum heat exchange load to dissipate heat to the controller, ensuring the heat dissipation effect while improving the heat dissipation efficiency, avoiding the problems of excessive heat dissipation or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments, thereby improving the reliability of the air conditioner.

[0028] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration cycle system of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the controller according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating how the operating state of a control valve is controlled according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0030] 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 some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0032] 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. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0033] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, in this invention, the air conditioner 1 performs a refrigeration cycle by using a compressor, condenser, evaporator, throttling device, and four-way valve. The refrigeration cycle includes a series of processes involving compression, condensation, and evaporation, and supplies refrigerant to the conditioned and heat-exchanged air.

[0035] The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas, which is in a high-temperature, high-pressure state and enters through the return pipe, and then discharges the compressed refrigerant gas through the exhaust pipe. The discharged refrigerant gas flows into the condenser through the condenser inlet pipe. The condenser condenses the compressed refrigerant into a liquid phase, and the heat is released to the surrounding environment through the condensation process.

[0036] The evaporator evaporates the refrigerant that expands in the throttling device and returns the refrigerant gas, now at a low temperature and low pressure, to the compressor. The evaporator achieves its cooling effect by utilizing the latent heat of refrigerant evaporation to exchange heat with the material being cooled. Throughout the cycle, air conditioner 1 regulates the temperature of the indoor space.

[0037] Combination Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioner 1 in this application includes an indoor unit 13 and an outdoor unit 12, which can be configured as split-type units. The indoor unit 13 can be configured as a wall-mounted unit, a ceiling-mounted unit, a ducted unit, etc., and the indoor unit 13 is installed on the top or ceiling of the indoor room.

[0038] Taking indoor wall-mounted units as an example, indoor wall-mounted units are usually installed on indoor walls or other locations. For example, indoor cabinet units (not shown in the figure) are also a type of indoor unit 13.

[0039] Taking a split-type air conditioner as an example, the air conditioner 1 includes an indoor unit 13 and an outdoor unit 12. The outdoor unit 12 is usually installed outdoors and is used for heat exchange in the indoor environment.

[0040] Furthermore, the air conditioner 1 includes a controller 71 to control the operation of various components within the air conditioner 1, enabling each component to perform its predetermined functions. The air conditioner 1 also includes a control device 200, which, exemplarily, is a remote control. This remote control has the capability to communicate with the controller 71, for example, using infrared or other communication methods. The remote control allows the user to perform various controls on the air conditioner 1, enabling interaction between the user and the air conditioner 1.

[0041] In this embodiment of the application, the indoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 1 is located at the top or upper part of the room. Generally, the installation height of the indoor unit 13 is higher than the user's activity area. The indoor unit 13 includes a return air vent 17 and an air outlet 16 that communicate with the room. Indoor air flows back into the room through the return air vent 17 and the indoor unit 13, and then through the air outlet 16.

[0042] An air guide plate 2 is installed at the air outlet 16. By changing its relative rotation angle with the air outlet 16, the air guide plate 2 adjusts the outflow direction of the air flowing through the air outlet 12, thereby affecting the stratification of indoor air temperature.

[0043] This application embodiment also provides a hardware structure diagram of the controller 71, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the controller 71 includes a processor 83, and optionally, a memory 82 and a communication interface 84 connected to the processor 83. The processor 83, memory 82, and communication interface 84 are connected via a bus 81.

[0044] Processor 83 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor (NP), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor (Microcontroller), a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. Processor 83 can also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. Processor 83 can also include multiple CPUs, and processor 83 can be a single-core (single-CPU) processor or a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor. Here, processor 83 can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used for processing data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0045] The memory 82 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, a random access memory (RAM) or other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions, or an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), a magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The memory 82 can exist independently or be integrated with the processor 83. The memory 82 may contain computer program code. The processor 83 is used to execute the computer program code stored in the memory 82, thereby implementing the control method of the air conditioner 1 provided in this application embodiment.

[0046] The communication interface 84 can be used to communicate with other devices or communication networks (such as Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area networks (WLAN), etc.). The communication interface 84 can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of communication.

[0047] Bus 81 can be a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus 81 or an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus 81, etc. Bus 81 can be divided into address bus 81, data bus 81, control bus 81, etc.

[0048] The following is combined Figures 4-10 An air conditioner 1 and its control method according to an embodiment of the present invention are described.

[0049] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the air conditioner 1 includes a refrigerant circulation loop 10, which allows the refrigerant to circulate in a loop consisting of a compressor, a condenser (i.e., an outdoor heat exchanger), a throttling component (i.e., a throttling device), an evaporator (i.e., an indoor heat exchanger), and a four-way valve. One of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger (i.e., an outdoor condenser), and the other is an indoor heat exchanger (i.e., an indoor evaporator).

[0050] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include: a refrigerant heat exchange unit 11, one end of which is connected to an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other end of which is connected to a throttling device. The refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 includes a radiator, a capillary tube, and a solenoid valve. The radiator is used to dissipate heat from the controller 71. One end of the capillary tube is connected to the output end of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the other end of the capillary tube is connected to one end of the throttling device through the radiator. The solenoid valve is connected in parallel to both ends of the capillary tube.

[0051] Specifically, placing the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 between the throttling component and the outdoor heat exchanger allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to be located at the rear end of the evaporator, achieving a stage before refrigerant throttling and after evaporation. In principle, this ensures that no condensation will occur and that the heat dissipation effect is good. At the same time, to increase the heat dissipation effect at high temperatures, a capillary micro-throttling device is connected in series at the front end of the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11. On the one hand, this can appropriately reduce the temperature of the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 at high temperatures. On the other hand, since the heat exchange efficiency adjustment is mainly completed by the throttling component at the rear end, the above settings have almost no impact on the energy efficiency of the air conditioner 1.

[0052] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include: a control valve branch 19, which is connected in parallel with the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11. The control valve branch 19 is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling assembly. The control valve branch 19 consists of a control valve and a pipeline and is used to regulate the flow rate of the refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11.

[0053] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include an outdoor ambient temperature sensor 14 for detecting the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0054] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include: an outdoor coil temperature sensor 15, used to detect the outdoor coil temperature.

[0055] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the device temperature sensor 18 is used to detect the temperature of the power semiconductor device integrated inside the controller 71.

[0056] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner 1 may include: a controller 71, which is configured to: acquire the outdoor ambient temperature, the outdoor coil temperature and the temperature of the power semiconductor device, and acquire the operating frequency of the compressor when the air conditioner 1 is in cooling mode; When the outdoor ambient temperature reaches the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, and / or the outdoor coil temperature reaches the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and / or the power semiconductor device temperature reaches the preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the control solenoid valve is opened, so that the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flows to the radiator to dissipate heat from the controller 71. And / or, control the operating status of the control valve according to the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0057] Specifically, during the operation of the air conditioner 1, when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is switched to cooling operation, the controller 71 can obtain the outdoor ambient temperature through the outdoor ambient temperature sensor 14 installed on the air conditioner 1 (usually installed near the outdoor unit). At the same time, it can obtain the outdoor coil temperature through the outdoor coil temperature sensor 15 installed on the coil of the outdoor heat exchanger. In addition, it can obtain the temperature of the power semiconductor device (such as insulated gate bipolar transistor, metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor, etc.) integrated inside the controller 71 through the device temperature sensor 18 built into the controller 71. At the same time, it can obtain the operating frequency of the compressor through the corresponding sensors.

[0058] Furthermore, when the outdoor ambient temperature reaches the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, it indicates that the heat exchange conditions of the outdoor heat exchanger of air conditioner 1 are very poor, and the heat exchange effect is deteriorated. Alternatively, when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, it indicates that the compressor's operating load is increased, and the outdoor heat exchange capacity is deteriorated. At this time, it is necessary to increase the output power of the power devices that provide power for the operation of controller 71 so that the outdoor heat exchanger can transfer heat to the outside environment. However, this will inevitably cause the temperature of the power components in controller 71 to rise, thereby causing the temperature of the power semiconductor device to reach the preset temperature threshold of the power semiconductor device. Consequently, the heat generated by the power dissipation of the power device is difficult to dissipate. Therefore, at this time, a high-temperature heat dissipation mode can be entered, the solenoid valve is controlled to open, and the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control before flowing to the radiator to increase the heat dissipation effect on controller 71.

[0059] Furthermore, to further control the heat dissipation effect on the controller, the operating status of the control valve can be adjusted according to the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature. Specifically, the air conditioner 1 is also provided with a control valve branch 19, which is connected in parallel with the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 (including radiator, capillary tube, solenoid valve, etc.) through an independent branch. The control valve branch 19 consists of a control valve and a pipeline, which can regulate the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to control the heat dissipation effect on the controller and improve the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner 1.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner 1, by installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, can avoid the problem of condensation caused by the low-temperature refrigerant after throttling. At the same time, by setting a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel in the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11, and setting a control valve branch 19 between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under different operating conditions to achieve precise heat dissipation. This allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to accurately match the heat dissipation amount according to actual needs, so that the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 uses the minimum heat exchange load to dissipate heat to the controller, ensuring the heat dissipation effect while improving the heat dissipation efficiency, avoiding the problems of excessive or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments, thereby improving the reliability of the air conditioner 1.

[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, during the process of refrigerant flowing to the radiator after being throttled through the capillary tube to dissipate heat from the controller 71, the controller 71 is further configured to: control the solenoid valve to close when the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the outdoor coil temperature is less than a preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device is less than a preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, so as to allow the refrigerant to flow to the radiator through the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller 71.

[0062] Specifically, during the process of refrigerant flowing through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flowing to the radiator to dissipate heat from the controller 71, if the controller 71 detects that the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the outdoor coil temperature is lower than the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device is lower than the preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, it indicates that under the current conditions, the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner 1 is high, the operating load of the compressor is small, the outdoor heat exchange capacity is strong, and there is no accumulation of heat generated by the power dissipation of the power device. At this time, the solenoid valve can be closed to allow the refrigerant to bypass the capillary tube and flow directly to the radiator through the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller 71. Understandably, by controlling the solenoid valve to close, the refrigerant flows to the radiator through the solenoid valve, avoiding the energy loss and pressure drop caused by the refrigerant throttling through the capillary tube. This method can reduce unnecessary throttling when the heat load of the air conditioner 1 is low, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 and achieving the purpose of energy saving. At the same time, since the heat dissipation demand of the air conditioner 1 is relatively low at this time, the refrigerant flows to the radiator in a normal state, which can accurately provide the controller 71 with appropriate heat dissipation support, ensuring that the temperature of the controller 71 is within a safe range, and not affecting the overall performance and energy efficiency of the air conditioner 1 due to excessive heat dissipation.

[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the operating state of the control valve is controlled according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature, the controller 71 is configured to: when the operating frequency of the compressor is less than a preset frequency threshold and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a second preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, control the control valve to be in a closed state to reduce the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11.

[0064] Specifically, when controlling the operating state of the control valve based on the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature, if the compressor's operating frequency is less than a preset frequency threshold, it indicates that the compressor is in a low-output state with a small cooling load and a small amount of heat accumulation in the corresponding electronic control components. At the same time, if the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a second preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, it indicates that the outdoor heat exchanger has excellent heat exchange conditions under the current environment, the refrigerant is in an environment of efficient heat dissipation, and the heat load of the air conditioner 1 is relatively low. At this time, it is determined that the air conditioner 1 is currently in a "light load, low heat load" operating state, and the control valve can be controlled to be in a closed state to reduce the flow of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11. This can avoid the problem of condensation or even condensation caused by the radiator's excessive heat absorption and low surface temperature, while meeting the basic heat dissipation requirements of the controller 71, thereby protecting the electrical safety of the electronic control components.

[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, the controller 71 is further configured to: when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, control the solenoid valve to be in a closed state, so that the refrigerant flows through the radiator to the solenoid valve, thereby realizing the heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 in heating mode.

[0066] Specifically, when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, since the refrigerant flow direction is completely different between heating and cooling modes, if the heat dissipation logic of cooling mode is used, condensation problems are likely to occur. Therefore, during heating mode, the solenoid valve can be controlled to be in a closed state (conducting), so that the refrigerant can quickly enter the solenoid valve from the radiator, and the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 can use the heat exchange load to dissipate heat from the controller 71. This achieves effective heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 in heating mode, thereby avoiding excessive cooling of the refrigerant and the problem of condensation at low temperatures.

[0067] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, the control valve is closed, so that the refrigerant flows to the outdoor heat exchanger through the control valve, thereby reducing the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

[0068] Specifically, when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, the control valve can be kept closed, allowing some refrigerant to flow directly to the outdoor heat exchanger through the control valve. This reduces the flow of refrigerant into the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11, enabling the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to dissipate heat from the controller 71 using the minimum heat exchange load. This controls heat dissipation, ensuring that the temperature of the controller 71 remains within a safe range, while avoiding the problem of excessive heat dissipation affecting the overall performance and energy efficiency of the air conditioner 1.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 further includes: a refrigerant pipeline wrapped inside the radiator, one end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to a throttling component, and the other end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to an outdoor heat exchanger via a capillary tube and a solenoid valve.

[0070] Specifically, the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 also includes a refrigerant pipeline wrapped inside the radiator. One end of the refrigerant pipeline is connected to a throttling component, and the other end is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger via a capillary tube and a solenoid valve. In cooling mode, it can receive refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger, dissipate heat through the radiator, flow into the throttling component, and then enter the indoor heat exchanger to complete the cooling cycle (or participate in the heating cycle in reverse). Furthermore, the outer wall of the refrigerant pipeline is in direct contact with the radiator shell, and the high thermal conductivity of the metal can quickly transfer the cold energy of the refrigerant in the pipeline to the entire radiator. In one embodiment of the present invention, the heat sink and refrigerant piping are filled with thermally conductive silicone grease.

[0071] Specifically, in the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11, the radiator and the refrigerant pipeline are two independent components. Although they are tightly connected by mechanical pressing or snap-fit ​​during installation, due to manufacturing process issues, there will inevitably be a small air gap between them. When the refrigerant in the refrigerant pipeline transfers cooling energy to the radiator through the pipe wall, if there is an air gap, the heat must first be conducted through the pipe wall to the interface of the air gap, and then pass through the air layer to the surface of the radiator. This will significantly hinder the heat transfer efficiency, resulting in the cooling energy not being effectively diffused to the entire radiator, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller 71. Therefore, thermal grease can be filled between the radiator and the refrigerant pipeline to remove the air in the gap. At the same time, it can ensure that the heat generated by the power device can be transferred to the refrigerant pipeline through the radiator without any loss, and finally carried away by the flowing refrigerant. Understandably, thermal grease, with its high thermal conductivity, low thermal resistance, and fluidity, can ensure that the cooling capacity carried by the refrigerant can be quickly and evenly diffused to the entire heat sink, ultimately achieving effective cooling of the controller 71 (especially power semiconductor devices).

[0072] In one embodiment of the invention, the heat sink abuts against the power semiconductor device.

[0073] Specifically, in air conditioner 1, the radiator is in contact with the power semiconductor device, that is, the heat source (power semiconductor device) and the heat dissipation medium (radiator) are physically connected together to ensure that heat can flow from the former to the latter efficiently. The specific contact method includes, but is not limited to, using screws, clips or spring plates to press the substrate of the power semiconductor device onto the surface of the radiator and applying appropriate preload to ensure that the contact surfaces are tightly fitted.

[0074] In one embodiment of the present invention, the controller 71 also integrates an internal ambient temperature sensor for acquiring the internal ambient temperature of the controller 71; the controller is configured to: receive the internal ambient temperature of the controller; and control the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner 1 according to the internal ambient temperature of the controller, so as to adjust the internal ambient temperature of the controller.

[0075] Specifically, the controller 71 also integrates an internal ambient temperature sensor to collect the ambient temperature inside the controller 71 (especially around the power semiconductor devices) in real time. Furthermore, the controller can control the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner 1 according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, so as to adjust the ambient temperature inside the controller in real time. This avoids the problems of increased power output of power devices, further temperature rise, and increased switching and conduction losses caused by high ambient temperature inside the controller, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner 1.

[0076] In one embodiment of the present invention, when controlling the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner 1 according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, the controller 71 is configured to: when the ambient temperature inside the controller 71 reaches a preset ambient temperature threshold, control the frequency of the compressor to decrease to the target frequency, and control the output voltage of the active PFC circuit to decrease to the target voltage, so as to reduce the ambient temperature inside the controller 71.

[0077] Specifically, when the ambient temperature inside the controller 71 reaches the preset ambient temperature threshold, it indicates that the current environment inside the controller 71 is a high temperature environment. Under this environment, the on-resistance of the power semiconductor device will increase, further increasing heat generation. This leads to the continuous accumulation of heat inside the controller 71, causing overheating and damage to the device. At this time, the frequency of the compressor can be reduced to the target frequency, thereby reducing the load on the power semiconductor device and reducing heat generation, thus lowering the temperature inside the controller 71. At the same time, the output voltage of the active PFC (Power Factor Correction) circuit can be reduced to the target voltage to reduce the voltage stress on the power semiconductor device, thereby reducing switching losses and conduction losses, and further reducing the temperature inside the controller 71.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner 1, by installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, can avoid the problem of condensation caused by the low-temperature refrigerant after throttling. Simultaneously, by providing a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel in the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11, and by providing a control valve branch between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under different operating conditions, thereby achieving precise heat dissipation. This allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to accurately match the heat dissipation amount according to actual needs, enabling the refrigerant heat exchange unit 11 to dissipate heat to the controller using the minimum heat exchange load, ensuring heat dissipation effect while improving heat dissipation efficiency, avoiding problems of excessive or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments, and thus improving the reliability of the air conditioner 1.

[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, the present invention proposes a control method for an air conditioner, which includes at least steps S1-S2: Step S1: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, obtain the outdoor ambient temperature, outdoor coil temperature, and temperature of the power semiconductor device, as well as the compressor operating frequency.

[0080] Step S2: When the outdoor ambient temperature reaches the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, and / or the outdoor coil temperature reaches the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and / or the temperature of the power semiconductor device reaches the preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the control solenoid valve is disconnected, so that the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flows to the radiator to increase the heat dissipation effect on the controller; and / or, the operating state of the control valve is controlled according to the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0081] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 8 As shown, during the process of refrigerant flowing to the radiator after being throttled through the capillary tube to dissipate heat from the controller, the process also includes: when the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than a first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the outdoor coil temperature is lower than a preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device is lower than a preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the solenoid valve is closed to allow the refrigerant to flow to the radiator through the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller.

[0082] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 9 As shown, the operating state of the control valve is controlled according to the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature, including: when the compressor's operating frequency is less than a preset frequency threshold and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a second preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the control valve is closed to reduce the flow of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

[0083] In some embodiments, the control method for an air conditioner further includes: when the air conditioner is in heating mode, controlling the solenoid valve to be in a closed state, so that the refrigerant flows through the radiator to the solenoid valve, thereby realizing the heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit in heating mode.

[0084] In some embodiments, the control method for an air conditioner further includes: when the air conditioner is in heating mode, controlling the control valve to be closed, so that the refrigerant flows through the control valve to the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby reducing the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

[0085] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 10 As shown, the control method for the air conditioner also includes: acquiring the ambient temperature inside the controller; and controlling the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, so as to adjust the ambient temperature inside the controller.

[0086] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 10 As shown, the controller controls the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, including: when the ambient temperature inside the controller reaches the preset ambient temperature threshold, controlling the compressor frequency to decrease to the target frequency, and controlling the output voltage of the active PFC circuit to decrease to the target voltage, so as to reduce the ambient temperature inside the controller.

[0087] It should be noted that the specific implementation method of controlling the air conditioner is similar to that of the air conditioner in any of the above embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, for a detailed exemplary description of the control process of the air conditioner, please refer to the relevant description of the air conditioner mentioned above. To reduce redundancy, it will not be repeated here.

[0088] According to the air conditioner control method of the present invention, by adopting a scheme of installing a refrigerant heat exchange unit between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant heat exchange unit can avoid the problem of condensation caused by the low temperature refrigerant after throttling. At the same time, by setting a capillary tube and a solenoid valve connected in parallel in the refrigerant heat exchange unit, and setting a control valve branch between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling component, the refrigerant flow rate and / or heat exchange efficiency entering the radiator can be precisely adjusted according to different temperature conditions under different operating conditions to achieve precise heat dissipation. This allows the refrigerant heat exchange unit to accurately match the heat dissipation amount according to actual needs, so that the refrigerant heat exchange unit uses the minimum heat exchange load to dissipate heat to the controller, ensuring the heat dissipation effect while improving the heat dissipation efficiency, avoiding the problems of excessive or insufficient heat dissipation in extreme environments, thereby improving the reliability of the air conditioner.

[0089] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0090] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air conditioner comprising a refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the refrigerant circulates in a heat exchange loop formed by a compressor, a condenser, a throttling assembly, an evaporator, and a four-way valve connected in sequence, wherein the condenser and the evaporator respectively correspond to an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor heat exchanger, characterized in that, include: A refrigerant heat exchange unit, one end of which is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger and the other end of which is connected to the throttling component. The refrigerant heat exchange unit includes a radiator, a capillary tube, and a solenoid valve. The radiator is used to dissipate heat from the controller. One end of the capillary tube is connected to the output end of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the other end of the capillary tube is connected to one end of the throttling component through the radiator. The solenoid valve is connected in parallel to both ends of the capillary tube. A control valve branch is connected in parallel with the refrigerant heat exchange unit. The control valve branch is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling assembly. The control valve branch consists of a control valve and a pipeline and is used to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit. Outdoor ambient temperature sensor, used to detect outdoor ambient temperature; Outdoor coil temperature sensor, used to detect the temperature of outdoor coil; A device temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the power semiconductor device integrated inside the controller; The controller is configured to: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the outdoor ambient temperature, the outdoor coil temperature, and the temperature of the power semiconductor device are obtained, as well as the operating frequency of the compressor is obtained. When the outdoor ambient temperature reaches a first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, and / or the outdoor coil temperature reaches a preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and / or the power semiconductor device temperature reaches a preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the solenoid valve is controlled to open, so that the refrigerant flows through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flows to the radiator, thereby increasing the heat dissipation effect on the controller. And / or, control the operating state of the control valve according to the operating frequency of the compressor and the outdoor ambient temperature.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the process of the refrigerant flowing through the capillary tube for throttling control and then flowing to the radiator to dissipate heat from the controller, the controller is further configured to: When the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than the first preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the outdoor coil temperature is lower than the preset outdoor coil temperature threshold, and the power semiconductor device temperature is lower than the preset power semiconductor device temperature threshold, the solenoid valve is controlled to close, so that the refrigerant flows to the radiator through the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the heat dissipation effect on the controller.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, When controlling the operating state of the control valve based on the compressor's operating frequency and the outdoor ambient temperature, the controller is configured to: When the operating frequency of the compressor is less than a preset frequency threshold and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than a second preset outdoor ambient temperature threshold, the control valve is controlled to be in a closed state to reduce the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the solenoid valve is closed, allowing the refrigerant to flow through the radiator to the solenoid valve, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the refrigerant heat exchange unit in heating mode.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the control valve is closed, allowing the refrigerant to flow through the control valve to the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby reducing the flow rate of refrigerant entering the refrigerant heat exchange unit.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant heat exchange unit further includes: a refrigerant pipeline wrapped inside the radiator, one end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to the throttling component, and the other end of the refrigerant pipeline being connected to the outdoor heat exchanger via the capillary tube and the solenoid valve.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radiator and the refrigerant piping are filled with thermally conductive silicone grease.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat sink abuts against the power semiconductor device.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller also integrates an internal ambient temperature sensor to obtain the internal ambient temperature of the controller. The controller is configured to: Receive the ambient temperature inside the controller; The controller controls the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner according to the ambient temperature inside the controller, so as to adjust the ambient temperature inside the controller.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, When controlling the state of the compressor and the active PFC circuit of the air conditioner based on the ambient temperature inside the controller, the controller is configured to: When the ambient temperature inside the controller reaches a preset ambient temperature threshold, the frequency of the compressor is reduced to the target frequency, and the output voltage of the active PFC circuit is reduced to the target voltage, so as to reduce the ambient temperature inside the controller.

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