Refrigerant flow adjusting method and device for air conditioner distributor, air conditioner and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of air conditioners, and discloses a refrigerant flow adjusting method for an air conditioner distributor, a plurality of throttle valves are arranged in the air conditioner distributor, and each throttle valve corresponds to a liquid outlet branch pipe of the distributor; the method comprises the steps that under the condition that an air conditioner runs in a target mode, all temperature differences between inlet temperatures of all liquid outlet branch pipes of an air conditioner distributor and the temperature of an indoor coil pipe and the air speed of an indoor fan are obtained; according to the air speed of the indoor draught fan and all the temperature differences, correction parameter values of the opening degrees of the corresponding throttling valves are determined; and correcting the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the correction parameter value. According to the method, refrigerant flow adjustment is more convenient, and uniform distribution of refrigerants of all the liquid outlet branch pipes of the distributor with the multiple branches is better achieved. The invention further discloses a refrigerant flow adjusting device for the air conditioner distributor, the air conditioner and a computer readable storage medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, such as a method and apparatus for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor, an air conditioner, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Existing air conditioner distributors generally only function as refrigerant dispensers. For air conditioner heat exchangers employing multi-channel distribution, uneven distribution is a common problem during actual operation. This uneven distribution directly leads to uneven temperatures in the hairpin loops of each channel, causing hot and cold air to converge inside the heat exchanger, resulting in condensation. Furthermore, it directly affects the heat exchange efficiency of the aluminum foil fins in each channel, thus reducing the air conditioner's energy efficiency. It can even indirectly lead to refrigerant waste and increased costs.

[0003] The related technology discloses a method for controlling the refrigerant flow distribution in an evaporator, wherein the evaporator includes multiple refrigerant flow paths. The method includes: detecting the refrigerant outlet temperature of each of the multiple refrigerant flow paths under the current operating conditions; calculating the outlet superheat of each refrigerant flow path based on the refrigerant outlet temperature and the refrigerant saturation temperature; and adjusting the refrigerant flow rate of each of the multiple refrigerant flow paths based on the outlet superheat of each refrigerant flow path.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] The relevant technology involves installing a flow regulating valve at the outlet of the first refrigerant flow path to adjust the refrigerant quantity in both the first and second refrigerant flow paths. However, this adjustment method is not suitable for distributors with more than two flow paths. Furthermore, when both the first and second refrigerant flow paths have large deviations, it is impossible to adjust both flow paths.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides a method and apparatus for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor, an air conditioner, and a computer-readable storage medium, to achieve uniform distribution of refrigerant in each liquid outlet branch of a multi-branch distributor.

[0009] In some embodiments, the air conditioning distributor has multiple built-in throttling valves, each corresponding to a liquid outlet branch pipe of the distributor; the method includes:

[0010] Under the target air conditioning operating mode, obtain the temperature differences between the inlet temperatures of each liquid outlet branch pipe of the air conditioning distributor and the indoor coil temperature, as well as the indoor fan speed; determine the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening based on the indoor fan speed and the temperature differences; and correct the opening of the corresponding throttle valve based on the correction parameter value.

[0011] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to, when executing the program instructions, perform the refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioning distributor as described above.

[0012] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes: a refrigerant circulation system; an air conditioner distributor disposed in the refrigerant circulation system; the air conditioner distributor has multiple built-in throttling valves, each throttling valve corresponding to a liquid outlet branch pipe of the distributor.

[0013] In some embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium stores program instructions that, when executed, cause a computer to perform the aforementioned refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioning distributor.

[0014] The refrigerant flow regulation method and apparatus for an air conditioner distributor, the air conditioner, and the computer-readable storage medium provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0015] The air conditioning distributor of this embodiment is equipped with a corresponding throttling valve for each outlet branch pipe. During air conditioning operation, the opening degree of each throttling valve is adjusted based on the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature, as well as the indoor fan speed. This allows for simultaneous adjustment of the opening degree of multiple throttling valves, and each throttling valve can have a different adjustment degree. This makes refrigerant flow regulation more convenient and better achieves uniform refrigerant distribution across the outlet branches of the multi-branch distributor.

[0016] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0017] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0018] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of a distributor for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2 This is an overall schematic diagram of another distributor for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a distributor for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow direction of a distributor for an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of refrigerant flow in a distributor for an air conditioner provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioner distributor provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioner distributor provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioner distributor provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerant flow regulating device for an air conditioner distributor provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 10: Housing; 20: Throttling valve; 30: Liquid outlet branch pipe; 40: Temperature sensor; 11: Liquid inlet; 12: Liquid outlet; 13: Mixing chamber; 14: Liquid distribution chamber; 21: Valve body; 22: Coil; 23: Rotor; 24: Valve stem; 25: Valve seat; 26: Fixing column; 27: Positioning block; 101: Compressor; 102: Four-way valve; 103: Condenser; 104: Throttling device; 105: Evaporator; 106: Distributor;

[0031] 800: Air conditioner; 900: Refrigerant flow regulating device for air conditioner distributor; 904: Bus; 901: Processor; 903: Communication interface; 902: Memory. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0033] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0034] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0035] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0036] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0037] The term "correspondence" can refer to an association or binding relationship. The correspondence between A and B means that there is an association or binding relationship between A and B.

[0038] Combination Figure 1 , 2 As shown, this embodiment of the disclosure provides a distributor for an air conditioner, including a housing 10, a throttle valve 20, and an outlet branch pipe 30. The housing 10 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12; there are multiple outlets 12, and each outlet 12 is connected to an outlet branch pipe 30. Multiple throttle valves 20 are disposed within the housing 10, and centered on the central axis of the housing 10 (e.g., ...). Figure 4 , 5 The dashed lines in the diagram are evenly distributed in a ring. Each throttle valve 20 has a corresponding outlet port 12 at its outlet end, which is connected to an outlet branch pipe 30 to adjust the refrigerant flow rate of the corresponding outlet branch pipe 30.

[0039] Here, the housing has an inner cavity. On one hand, refrigerant enters the inner cavity through the inlet and then flows to each distributor for distribution. On the other hand, throttling valves are located within the inner cavity. Specifically, the inner cavity includes a mixing chamber, which connects to the inlet on the distributor housing and also to the throttling valves. Thus, refrigerant flows through the mixing chamber into each throttling valve. Each throttling valve has an outlet end and an inlet end. The inlet end connects to the inner cavity, and the outlet end is located at the outlet of the housing and connected to an outlet branch pipe. The inlet end of each throttling valve can be located within the mixing chamber, i.e., directly connected to the mixing chamber. Alternatively, the mixing chamber includes a distribution chamber, and the inlet ends of each throttling valve connect to the mixing chamber through the distribution chamber. The connection between the mixing chamber and the throttling valves depends on the position of the throttling valves within the housing. The number of throttling valves matches the number of outlet branch pipes, allowing for individual adjustment of the refrigerant flow rate in a single outlet branch pipe, or simultaneous adjustment of the refrigerant flow rate in several outlet branch pipes. Multiple throttle valves are evenly distributed in a ring around the centerline of the housing, thus ensuring that the refrigerant is evenly distributed to each throttle valve in the initial state.

[0040] The distributor for an air conditioner provided in this embodiment includes multiple throttling valves in its housing, the number of which corresponds to the number of outlet branches. Since each outlet branch is equipped with a corresponding throttling valve, when refrigerant distribution is uneven across branches, the opening of the matching throttling valve can be adjusted to ensure uniform refrigerant flow across all branches. This allows for simultaneous adjustment of refrigerant flow in multiple branches, improving adjustment efficiency. Furthermore, it solves the problem of uneven refrigerant distribution caused by uneven refrigerant flow in the evaporator branches.

[0041] Combination Figure 3-5 As shown, the throttle valves 20 can be optionally arranged horizontally inside the housing 10, or the throttle valves 20 can be arranged vertically inside the housing 10.

[0042] As mentioned earlier, the throttle valve 20 has two ports: an inlet port a and an outlet port b. Generally, the two ports are positioned at a 90-degree angle. This allows for two different installation methods. Specifically, the throttle valve can be installed vertically within the housing, meaning the valve's body (or its central axis) is parallel to the housing's central axis. Alternatively, the throttle valve can be installed horizontally within the housing, meaning its body is perpendicular to the housing's central axis.

[0043] Understandably, the longitudinal section of a throttle valve is usually larger than its transverse section. Given a fixed throttle valve size, the size of the distributor's internal cavity determines its installation method. Specifically, when the transverse space of the distributor's internal cavity is greater than its longitudinal space, the throttle valve is horizontally installed within the housing. When the transverse space of the distributor's internal cavity is smaller than its longitudinal space, the throttle valve is vertically installed within the housing. This ensures that each throttle valve can be appropriately positioned within the distributor housing.

[0044] Combination Figure 3 , 4 Optionally, when the throttle valve 20 is vertically installed inside the housing 10, the liquid outlet of the throttle valve 20 is located at the bottom of the housing 10, and the liquid inlet of the throttle valve 20 is connected to the mixing chamber 13 of the housing 10.

[0045] Here, as mentioned earlier, the outlet and inlet ends of the throttle valves are positioned at 90°, and multiple throttle valves are evenly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the housing within the distributor. Therefore, when the throttle valves are vertically installed within the housing, the inlet ends of each throttle valve face the central axis of the housing, while the outlet ends are located at the bottom of the distributor housing. Simultaneously, this arrangement allows the inlet ends of each throttle valve to directly communicate with the mixing chamber of the housing. Thus, the internal structure of the distributor is relatively simple, and this configuration is suitable when there is sufficient longitudinal space within the throttle valve housing.

[0046] Optionally, when the throttle valve 20 is horizontally disposed inside the housing 10, the liquid outlet of the throttle valve 20 is disposed on the side wall of the housing 10, and the liquid inlet of the throttle valve 20 is connected to the mixing chamber 13 of the housing through the liquid distribution chamber 14 of the housing 10.

[0047] Here, when the throttle valves are horizontally positioned, the centerline of the inlet end of each throttle valve (the centerline along the inlet direction) is parallel to the central axis of the housing, while the centerline of the outlet end is perpendicular to the central axis of the housing. In this case, the inlet ends of each throttle valve and the inlet of the distributor face the same direction. If the inlet ends of the throttle valves are directly connected to the mixing chamber inside the distributor housing, a large amount of refrigerant will remain in the mixing chamber, hindering refrigerant circulation. To ensure that the refrigerant at the inlet is distributed to each throttle valve and that excessive refrigerant is not stored in the mixing chamber, the mixing chamber and the inlet ends of the throttle valves are connected through distribution chambers. The number of distribution chambers is the same as the number of throttle valves. Furthermore, in this configuration, the outlet ends of each throttle valve are located on the side wall of the housing and are evenly distributed in a ring. This configuration is suitable when there is sufficient lateral space inside the throttle valve housing.

[0048] Optionally, the throttle valve 20 includes: a valve body 21, a coil 22, a rotor 23, a valve stem 24, and a valve seat 25. The coil 22 is located outside the valve body 21. The rotor 23 is located inside the valve body 21, and the valve stem 24 is mounted on the rotor 23. When the coil 22 is energized, the rotor 23 rotates, causing the valve stem 24 to move up and down. The valve seat 25 cooperates with the first end of the valve stem 24 to form different sizes of flow cross-sections when the valve stem 24 moves, thereby regulating the refrigerant flow rate.

[0049] Here, a coil is installed outside the throttle valve body, and the coil can be energized. Inside the valve body, at a position corresponding to the coil, a rotor is installed, which can be threaded onto the inner wall of the valve body. When the coil is energized, the rotor rotates along the inner wall of the valve body under the influence of the magnetic field, thereby achieving vertical displacement of the rotor and driving the valve stem connected to the valve seat to move up and down. In this way, different gaps between the valve stem and the valve seat form different sizes of flow cross sections to achieve the regulation of refrigerant flow. In addition, a component that is threaded onto the rotor can also be installed inside the valve body. This component is fixed to the throttle valve body, and the rotor can be sleeved on the outside of this component or installed inside the component, thereby achieving the rotation of the rotor under the action of the coil.

[0050] Optionally, the first end of the valve stem 24 is a conical structure, and the open end of the valve seat 25 is an external structure that matches the conical structure.

[0051] Thus, when the valve stem moves to its lowest position, the first end of the valve stem and the open end of the valve seat are perfectly matched, resulting in a zero flow cross-section. In other words, the corresponding throttle valve is closed at this point, and no refrigerant flows.

[0052] Optionally, the throttle valve 20 also includes a fixing post 26. The fixing post 26 is disposed inside the valve body 21, and a rotor 23 is sleeved on the fixing post 26, with the fixing post 26 and the rotor 23 being threadedly engaged.

[0053] Here, the throttle valve also includes a fixed column, which is fixed inside the valve body. The rotor is sleeved on the fixed column, and the outer surface of the fixed column has a threaded structure. The rotor is hollow and its inner surface has a threaded structure. The fixed column and rotor cooperate, and when the rotor is rotated in a controlled manner, it can rotate along the fixed column, thereby producing vertical displacement. Thus, the rotor being sleeved on the outer surface of the fixed column makes it easier for the rotor to be controlled by the coil outside the valve body.

[0054] Understandably, if a threaded structure is installed on the inner wall of the valve body, there are certain requirements for the valve body wall thickness. On one hand, the valve body needs to withstand the weight of the rotor; on the other hand, it needs to withstand the frictional force of the rotor's rotation. Therefore, the valve body wall needs to have a certain thickness. However, a thicker valve body wall can make the rotor less sensitive to control, or require a sufficiently large magnetic field to drive the rotor to rotate. Similarly, if the rotor is placed inside a fixed post, the wall of the fixed post will affect the rotor's control sensitivity and the required magnetic field size. Based on these issues, a fixed post is installed, and the rotor is fitted onto the fixed post. In this way, the rotor's weight is lighter and there is less obstruction between it and the signal generated by the coil, which is beneficial for control.

[0055] Optionally, the valve stem 24 passes through the fixed post 26, and the second end of the valve stem 24 is provided with a positioning block 27 to limit the valve stem 24 when it moves up and down.

[0056] Here, the valve stem is mounted on the rotor, and the rotor is fitted onto the fixed post. Therefore, the valve stem passes through the fixed post, with a gap between them, thereby reducing resistance and friction during the valve stem's up-and-down movement. In some embodiments, the hollow structure of the rotor is a hollow structure that does not penetrate both ends of the rotor, with only one end penetrating, so that the rotor is fitted onto the fixed post. In this case, the valve stem is fixed to the other end of the rotor. In another embodiment, the rotor is a hollow structure that penetrates both ends. In this case, the valve stem is mounted to one end of the rotor by a fastener; this mounting structure facilitates the installation and maintenance of the throttle valve.

[0057] Additionally, a positioning block is provided at the second end of the valve stem to limit the valve stem's movement (and similarly, the rotor's movement). As mentioned earlier, the valve stem and valve seat work together to control the refrigerant flow, ensuring that the throttle valve is closed when the valve stem is at its extreme position. If the valve stem continues to move at this point, it may damage the valve seat or rotor. Therefore, a positioning block is provided to prevent the valve stem from continuing to move. The thickness of the positioning block and the internal space formed by the rotor and the positioning post determine the valve stem's stroke. With a fixed internal space and stroke, the valve stem's position can be adjusted by controlling the thickness after positioning.

[0058] Optionally, the distributor also includes a temperature sensor 40, which is located at the inlet of each liquid outlet branch pipe 30 to detect the refrigerant temperature at the inlet of each liquid outlet branch pipe 30.

[0059] Combination Figure 6 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, a method for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor is provided, comprising:

[0060] S101, under the target mode of air conditioner operation, the processor obtains the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe of the air conditioner distributor and the temperature of the indoor coil, as well as the air speed of the indoor fan.

[0061] S102, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences.

[0062] S103, the processor corrects the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the correction parameter value.

[0063] Here, the air conditioning distributor is located on the piping between the throttling device and the evaporator (the evaporator refers to the indoor heat exchanger in cooling mode). The target modes mainly include cooling and heating modes. In cooling mode, if the refrigerant flow rate in each outlet branch of the air conditioning distributor is uneven, condensation is likely to occur on the evaporator, causing the air conditioner to blow water. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the refrigerant flow rate in each outlet branch to avoid uneven heating and cooling in the evaporator branches. In heating mode, the indoor evaporator acts as the condenser side, and high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the evaporator. The evaporator's flow distribution uniformity is relatively good, but the flow distribution is still affected by the airflow and pressure loss along the branch. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the refrigerant flow rate in each outlet branch to improve heating efficiency and meet the user's heating needs.

[0064] Specifically, during air conditioner operation, the inlet temperature Ti of each liquid outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature Tc0 are monitored in real time; the difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature is obtained as ΔTi = Ti - Tc0, where i is the i-th liquid outlet branch pipe, i ≥ 2. Simultaneously, the indoor fan speed is acquired during air conditioner operation. Based on the obtained temperature differences and indoor fan speeds, the correction parameter values ​​for the throttling valve corresponding to each temperature difference are determined. Generally, the larger the absolute value of the temperature difference, the larger the correction parameter value of the throttling valve. In cooling mode, the lower the indoor fan speed, the greater the risk of condensation, and the larger the correction parameter value of the throttling valve. In heating mode, the higher the indoor fan speed, the higher the heating demand, and the larger the correction parameter value of the throttling valve.

[0065] Then, based on the correction parameter value, the corresponding throttle valve opening is adjusted. The correction parameter value can be the correction amplitude of the throttle valve, the correction amplitude value with a correction direction, or the correction coefficient value. As an example, in cooling mode, if the difference ΔTi is negative, the correction parameter value is negative. The negative sign indicates that the throttle valve is reduced, and the magnitude of the value indicates the adjustment amplitude.

[0066] The refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioning distributor provided in this disclosure involves configuring a corresponding throttling valve for each outlet branch pipe. During air conditioning operation, the opening degree of each throttling valve is adjusted based on the temperature differences between the inlet temperature of each outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature, as well as the indoor fan speed. This allows for simultaneous adjustment of the opening degree of multiple throttling valves, and each valve can have a different adjustment degree. This makes refrigerant flow regulation more convenient and better achieves uniform refrigerant distribution across the outlet branches of a multi-branch distributor.

[0067] Optionally, when the target mode is cooling mode, in step S102, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, including:

[0068] When the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed, the processor obtains the relative humidity of the indoor environment.

[0069] When the relative humidity of the indoor environment is greater than or equal to the relative humidity threshold, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the throttle valve opening to be a first range value.

[0070] Based on each temperature difference, the processor determines the target correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening within the first range.

[0071] Here, the air conditioner distributor is adjusted to address the high risk of condensation in cooling mode. Understandably, when the indoor fan speed is low, if the indoor relative humidity is high, the slow airflow increases the contact time with the heat exchanger, making condensation more likely. Therefore, in cooling mode, when the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to a first fan speed, the relative humidity of the indoor environment is obtained. If the relative humidity is high (greater than or equal to a relative humidity threshold), the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is determined to be within a first range. Then, based on the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature, a target correction parameter value is determined within the first range.

[0072] In the above scenarios, the risk of condensation from the air conditioner is relatively high. Therefore, the first range value is larger than in other scenarios. Furthermore, the first wind speed can be a specific wind speed value such as 1 m / s, or it can be a fan speed setting. In this embodiment, the first wind speed is a low wind speed or a medium-low wind speed. The relative humidity threshold ranges from 60% to 75%, such as 70%.

[0073] Therefore, in cooling mode, if the risk of condensation is high, the overall adjustment range of the expansion valve will be larger. Specifically, when the inlet temperature of the liquid outlet branch pipe is greater than the indoor coil temperature (the temperature in the middle of the coil), and the absolute value of the difference is large, it indicates that the refrigerant quantity in the corresponding heat exchanger is low, so the opening of the corresponding expansion valve is increased. When the inlet temperature of the liquid outlet branch pipe is lower than the indoor coil temperature, and the absolute value of the difference is large, it indicates that the refrigerant quantity is high, so the opening of the corresponding expansion valve is decreased. In this way, the uniformity of refrigerant flow in each liquid outlet branch pipe is strictly controlled, avoiding condensation and water blowing caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0074] Combination Figure 7 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another method for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor is provided, including:

[0075] S101, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the processor obtains the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe of the air conditioner distributor and the temperature of the indoor coil, as well as the fan speed of the indoor fan.

[0076] S121, when the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed, the processor obtains the relative humidity of the indoor environment.

[0077] S122, when the relative humidity of the indoor environment is greater than or equal to the relative humidity threshold, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the throttle valve opening to be a first range value.

[0078] S123, the processor determines the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening within the first range value based on each temperature difference.

[0079] S124, when the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed and the relative humidity is less than the relative humidity threshold, or when the indoor fan speed is greater than the first fan speed, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the throttle valve opening to be the second range value.

[0080] S125, the processor determines the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening within the second range value based on each temperature difference.

[0081] S103, the processor corrects the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the target correction parameter value.

[0082] Here, the expansion valve is adjusted when the risk of condensation is low in cooling mode. When the indoor fan speed is high and / or the indoor humidity is low, uneven refrigerant distribution can cause hot and cold air to converge in the duct, leading to condensation, although the risk is relatively low. Therefore, in this case, the correction parameter for the expansion valve opening is set to a value within the second range. The maximum value of the second range is less than the maximum value of the first range, and the minimum value of the second range is also less than the minimum value of the first range. As an example, the correction parameter is a correction coefficient; the first range is [0.5, 0.9], and the second range is [0.3, 0.7]. Thus, in cooling mode with a low risk of condensation, the adjustment range of the expansion valve can be reduced. With only a small adjustment, uniform refrigerant distribution in each branch of the evaporator can be achieved.

[0083] Optionally, in steps S123 / S125, the processor determines the target correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening based on each temperature difference within the first range value / second range value, including:

[0084] By using the mapping relationship between the absolute value of the difference and the correction parameter value, the processor determines the target correction parameter value corresponding to the difference.

[0085] Specifically, the absolute value of the difference is divided into multiple intervals, each corresponding to a correction parameter value. As an example, the first range is [0.5, 0.9]. When 3℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 4℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.5. When 4℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 6℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.7. When 6℃ ≤ |ΔTi|, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.9. The second range is [0.3, 0.7]. When 3℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 4℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.3. When 4℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 6℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.5. When 6℃ < ΔTi|, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.7. Thus, the larger the absolute value of the difference, the larger the adjustment amplitude of the throttle valve opening.

[0086] Optionally, when the target mode is heating mode, in step S102, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, including:

[0087] When the indoor fan speed is greater than or equal to the second speed, the processor determines the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening to be the third range value; and, based on each temperature difference, the processor determines the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening within the third range value.

[0088] When the indoor fan speed is less than the second speed, the processor determines to keep each throttle valve at its current opening.

[0089] This section focuses on the regulation of the expansion valve in heating mode. Specifically, when the indoor fan speed is greater than or equal to the second fan speed, it indicates a higher indoor heating demand. Therefore, if the refrigerant distribution is uneven, the correction parameter value for the expansion valve opening is set to the third range value. Then, based on the temperature difference corresponding to each outlet branch pipe, a target correction parameter is matched within the third range value. The method for matching the target correction parameter is the same as described above, and the minimum value of the third range is less than the minimum value of the second range, while the maximum value of the third range is less than the minimum value of the second range. As an example, when 3℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 4℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.1. When 4℃ < ΔTi| ≤ 6℃, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.2. When 6℃ < ΔTi|, the target correction parameter value is determined to be 0.3.

[0090] When the indoor fan speed is less than the second fan speed, it indicates that the indoor heating demand is low, and the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is zero, meaning the throttle valve is not adjusted. Even if the temperature differences between the inlet temperatures of each liquid outlet branch pipe and the indoor coil temperature exceed the minimum allowable temperature difference when the heating demand is low, the throttle valve will not be adjusted. The second fan speed can be a specific speed value such as 0.5 m / s, or it can be a fan speed setting. In this embodiment, the second fan speed is a low fan speed or a medium-low fan speed. The second fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed.

[0091] In heating mode, the opening range of the throttle valve is smaller because the refrigerant at the distributor inlet is completely liquid. In cooling mode, however, the dryness ratio at the distributor inlet is lower, meaning the proportion of gas-liquid two-phase states is smaller; therefore, the distributor opening range is larger in cooling mode.

[0092] Optionally, in step S103, the processor corrects the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the target correction parameter value, including:

[0093] The processor determines the correction magnitude based on the correction parameter values ​​and the temperature difference.

[0094] The processor adjusts the opening of the corresponding throttle valve according to the correction range.

[0095] As mentioned earlier, the correction parameter value is the correction coefficient value. The correction range is then determined based on the correction coefficient value and the temperature difference. Specifically, the product of the correction coefficient value and the temperature difference can be used as the correction range. When the temperature at the inlet of the outlet branch pipe is greater than the indoor coil temperature, the temperature difference is positive. If the correction range is positive, the opening of the throttle valve is increased accordingly. When the temperature at the inlet of the outlet branch pipe is less than the indoor coil temperature, the temperature difference is negative. If the correction range is negative, the opening of the throttle valve is decreased accordingly. In this way, the adjustment direction and range of the throttle valve can be determined based on the correction range.

[0096] Combination Figure 8 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another method for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor is provided, including:

[0097] S201, when the air conditioner is running, the processor obtains the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe of the air conditioner distributor and the temperature of the indoor coil, as well as the air speed of the indoor fan.

[0098] S202, the processor determines whether the target operating mode of the air conditioner is cooling mode or heating mode; if it is cooling mode, then execute S203; otherwise, execute S210.

[0099] S203, the processor determines whether the indoor fan speed is less than the first speed. If so, it executes S204; otherwise, it executes S208.

[0100] S204, the processor obtains the relative humidity of the indoor environment.

[0101] S205, the processor determines whether the relative humidity is greater than or equal to the relative humidity threshold. If so, proceed to step S206; otherwise, proceed to S208.

[0102] S206, the processor determines that the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is a first range value.

[0103] S207, the processor determines the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening within the first range value based on each temperature difference; then executes S214.

[0104] S208, the processor determines that the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is the second range value.

[0105] S209, based on each temperature difference, determine the target correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening within the second range value; then execute S214.

[0106] S210, the processor determines whether the indoor fan speed is greater than or equal to the second fan speed. If so, it executes S211; otherwise, it executes S213.

[0107] S211, the processor determines that the correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening is the third range value.

[0108] S212, the processor determines the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening in the third range value according to each temperature difference; then executes S214.

[0109] S213, the processor determines to keep each throttle valve at its current opening.

[0110] S214, determine whether the number of liquid outlet branches of the air conditioner distributor is greater than the quantity threshold. If yes, execute S215; otherwise, execute S216.

[0111] S215, the processor reduces the target correction parameter value to obtain the final target correction parameter value; and adjusts the opening of the throttle valve according to the final target correction parameter value.

[0112] S216, the processor corrects the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the target correction parameter value.

[0113] Typically, distributors have 2 to 4 liquid outlet branches. When the refrigerant flow rate in an air conditioning refrigerant circulation system is constant, the more liquid outlet branches there are, the less refrigerant is distributed to each branch. In this case, a slight adjustment of the throttle valve opening can change the refrigerant flow rate. Therefore, a threshold for the number of liquid outlet branches can be set, such as a threshold of 4. If the number of liquid outlet branches exceeds the threshold, the target correction parameter value is reduced. As an example, corresponding reduction coefficients can be set for different operating conditions. For example, the reduction coefficient is A1 for high condensation conditions, A2 for low condensation conditions, and A3 for heating conditions. Thus, the corrected target correction parameter value is equal to the product of the target correction parameter value and the reduction coefficient. As another example, the reduction coefficient can be set based on the number of liquid outlet branches, where the more branches there are, the smaller the reduction coefficient. This allows for reasonable adjustment of the throttle valve opening.

[0114] Optionally, in step S214, the processor reduces the target correction parameter value, including:

[0115] When the target correction parameter value is determined based on the first range value, the processor corrects the target correction parameter value according to the first coefficient.

[0116] When the target correction parameter value is determined based on a second range value or a third range value, the processor corrects the target correction parameter value according to the second coefficient.

[0117] The second coefficient is determined based on the quantity threshold and the number of outlet branches.

[0118] Here, when there are many refrigerant outlet branches in the air conditioning distributor, the refrigerant flow rate allocated to each branch is relatively small. In this case, the opening adjustment of each throttle valve needs to be gradual, meaning the adjustment range should not be large. As mentioned earlier, under conditions with a high risk of condensation in air conditioning cooling mode, the target correction parameter value is large, and to avoid condensation, the correction range is positively correlated with the absolute value of the difference. When there are many refrigerant outlet branches, although the refrigerant flow rate allocated to each branch is small, the correction range still needs to be large under this condition. Therefore, correction is based on the first coefficient, which is a fixed value, such as 0.8.

[0119] Under other operating conditions, the target correction parameters are adjusted based on a second coefficient determined by the quantity threshold and the number of outlet branches. Generally, the more outlet branches there are, the smaller the second coefficient becomes. This results in a smaller adjustment range for the throttle valve; because the refrigerant quantity is small, a small adjustment is sufficient to regulate the refrigerant quantity and achieve a uniform flow distribution effect.

[0120] Optionally, the second coefficient is determined based on a quantity threshold and the number of outflow branches, including:

[0121] K2 = (M / N) × K;

[0122] Where K2 is the second coefficient, K is the target correction parameter value, M is the quantity threshold, and N is the number of outlet branches. M is set to 4.

[0123] Here, for throttle valve control under conditions other than high condensation risk, a second coefficient is determined based on a quantity threshold and the number of outlet branches. Then, the throttle valve opening is adjusted based on this second coefficient and the temperature difference. The more outlet branches there are, the smaller the second coefficient, and the smaller the adjustment range. In this way, the adjustment range is matched to the refrigerant flow rate of each outlet branch, avoiding large adjustments that could cause system instability when the flow rate is low.

[0124] Combination Figure 9 As shown, this disclosure provides a refrigerant flow regulation device 900 for an air conditioner distributor, including a processor 901 and a memory 902. Optionally, the device 900 may further include a communication interface 102 and a bus 904. The processor 901, communication interface 102, and memory 902 can communicate with each other via the bus 904. The communication interface 903 can be used for information transmission. The processor 901 can call logical instructions in the memory 902 to execute the refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioner distributor described in the above embodiment.

[0125] Furthermore, the logic instructions in the aforementioned memory 902 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0126] The memory 902, as a computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure. The processor 901 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 902, that is, it implements the refrigerant flow regulation method for the air conditioner distributor in the above embodiments.

[0127] The memory 902 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and application programs required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 902 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0128] Combination Figure 10As shown, this disclosure provides an air conditioner 800, including a refrigerant circulation system and the aforementioned refrigerant flow regulating device 900 for an air conditioner distributor. The refrigeration circulation loop includes a compressor 101, a four-way valve 102, a condenser 103, a throttling device 104, a distributor 106, and an evaporator 105 connected in sequence. The refrigerant flow regulating device 900 for the air conditioner distributor is installed on the refrigerant circulation system. The installation relationship described herein is not limited to placement inside the air conditioner body, but also includes installation connections with other components of the air conditioner 100, including but not limited to physical connections, electrical connections, or signal transmission connections. Those skilled in the art will understand that the refrigerant flow regulating device 900 for the air conditioner distributor can be adapted to any feasible air conditioner body, thereby realizing other feasible embodiments.

[0129] Combination Figure 11 As shown, this disclosure provides another air conditioner, including a refrigerant circulation system and the aforementioned distributor 106. The refrigeration cycle circuit includes a compressor 101, a four-way valve 102, a condenser 103, a throttling device 104, and an evaporator 105 connected in sequence. The distributor 106 is disposed on the pipeline between the throttling device 104 and the evaporator 105 to regulate the uniformity of refrigerant flow in each path of the evaporator 105.

[0130] This disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions configured to perform the above-described refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioner distributor.

[0131] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes one or more instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, such as a USB flash drive, external hard drive, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk, or optical disk, etc., and other media capable of storing program code.

[0132] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of this disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is for describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit the claims. As used in the description of embodiments and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used in this application means including one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations thereof. Additionally, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variations "comprises" and / or "comprising" refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0133] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0134] The methods and products (including but not limited to devices and equipment) disclosed in the embodiments herein can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units may be merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the shown or discussed units may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected to implement this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, the functional units in the embodiments of this disclosure may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0135] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. In the descriptions corresponding to the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings, the operations or steps corresponding to different blocks may also occur in a different order than disclosed in the description, and sometimes there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. Each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram and / or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A method for regulating refrigerant flow in an air conditioning distributor, characterized in that, The air conditioning distributor has multiple built-in throttling valves, each corresponding to a liquid outlet branch pipe of the distributor; the method includes: Under the target operating mode of the air conditioner, obtain the temperature difference between the inlet temperature of each liquid outlet branch pipe of the air conditioner distributor and the temperature of the indoor coil, as well as the air speed of the indoor fan. Based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, determine the corresponding correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening; Adjust the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the corrected parameter value.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the target mode is cooling mode, the correction parameter values ​​for the corresponding throttle valve opening are determined based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, including: The relative humidity of the indoor environment is obtained when the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed; When the relative humidity of the indoor environment is greater than or equal to the relative humidity threshold, the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is determined to be within the first range; and, Based on each temperature difference, determine the target correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening within the first range.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, the correction parameter values ​​for the corresponding throttle valve opening are determined, including: When the indoor fan speed is less than or equal to the first fan speed and the relative humidity is less than the relative humidity threshold, or when the indoor fan speed is greater than the first fan speed, the correction parameter value for the throttle valve opening is determined to be the second range value; and, Based on each temperature difference, the target correction parameter value for the corresponding throttle valve opening is determined within the second range.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the target mode is heating mode, the correction parameter values ​​for the corresponding throttle valve opening are determined based on the indoor fan speed and various temperature differences, including: When the indoor fan speed is greater than or equal to the second speed, the correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening is determined to be the third range value; and, based on each temperature difference, the target correction parameter value of the corresponding throttle valve opening is determined within the third range value. If the indoor fan speed is less than the second speed, ensure that each throttle valve remains at its current opening.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, Also includes: If the number of liquid outlet branches of the air conditioning distributor exceeds the quantity threshold, reduce the target correction parameter value to obtain the final target correction parameter value.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Reducing the target correction parameter value includes: When the target correction parameter value is determined based on the first range value, the target correction parameter value is corrected according to the first coefficient. When the target correction parameter value is determined based on the second range value or the third range value, the target correction parameter value is corrected according to the second coefficient. The second coefficient is determined based on the quantity threshold and the number of outlet branches.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Based on the corrected parameter values, adjust the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve, including: The correction range is determined based on the correction parameter value and the temperature difference; Adjust the opening degree of the corresponding throttle valve according to the correction range.

8. A refrigerant flow regulating device for an air conditioner distributor, comprising a processor and a memory storing program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to, when running the program instructions, execute the refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioning distributor as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: Refrigerant circulation system; An air conditioning distributor is installed in the refrigerant circulation system; the air conditioning distributor has multiple built-in throttling valves, each of which corresponds to a liquid outlet branch pipe of the distributor.

10. A computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions, characterized in that, When the program instructions are executed, they cause the computer to perform the refrigerant flow regulation method for an air conditioning distributor as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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