Self-cleaning control method and air conditioning system

Abstract

The invention discloses a self-cleaning control method and an air conditioning system, and is applied to the technical field of air conditioners. The method is applied to the air conditioning system, the air conditioning system comprises an outdoor unit and at least one indoor unit, and the method comprises the steps that first target values corresponding to all the indoor units are calculated on the basis of operation parameters of all the indoor units, and the first target values are used for representing the idle degrees of the indoor units; second target values corresponding to all the indoor units are calculated based on the first target values, the operation parameters of the outdoor units and the average operation duration of all the indoor units, and the second target values are used for representing the self-cleaning priorities of the indoor units; and based on the second target values corresponding to all the indoor units, the target indoor unit is determined, and the target indoor unit is controlled to conduct self-cleaning operation. Therefore, self-cleaning of the indoor unit can be efficiently carried out under the condition that normal operation of the outdoor unit and user experience are not affected, so that the maintenance efficiency of the air conditioning system is improved, and the service life of the air conditioning system is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular relates to a self-cleaning control method and an air conditioning system. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioning systems, with their flexible temperature control capabilities, are widely used in various scenarios such as homes, commercial offices, and large venues, serving as core equipment for regulating indoor environmental comfort. During the long-term operation of an air conditioning system, the indoor unit, as the core component directly in contact with indoor air, is prone to accumulating dust, lint, and moisture condensation due to the heat exchanger and fan. These contaminants not only clog the gaps between the heat exchanger fins, hindering heat exchange and directly leading to decreased cooling and heating efficiency and increased energy consumption, but also easily breed bacteria and mold in humid environments, which can then spread into the room with the airflow, reducing indoor air quality and impacting user health.

[0003] Therefore, it is very important to perform self-cleaning of the indoor unit to ensure the stable operation of the air conditioning system and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a self-cleaning control method and air conditioning system that can ensure efficient self-cleaning of the indoor unit without affecting the normal operation of the outdoor unit and user experience, thereby improving the maintenance efficiency and service life of the air conditioning system.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a self-cleaning control method applied to an air conditioning system, the air conditioning system including an outdoor unit and at least one indoor unit, the method comprising: Based on the operating parameters of each indoor unit, a first target value is calculated for each indoor unit, and the first target value is used to characterize the idle degree of the indoor unit; Based on the first target value, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, and the average operating time of each indoor unit, a second target value is calculated for each indoor unit. The second target value is used to characterize the priority of the self-cleaning of the indoor unit. Based on the second target value corresponding to each of the indoor units, a target indoor unit is determined and the target indoor unit is controlled to perform a self-cleaning operation.

[0006] Secondly, this application provides an air conditioning system including an outdoor unit, at least one indoor unit, a memory, and a processor; the memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the above-mentioned self-cleaning control method.

[0007] The self-cleaning control method and air conditioning system provided in this application embodiment quantify the idle degree of the indoor unit through the motion parameters of the indoor unit, and then quantify the self-cleaning priority of each indoor unit according to the quantified idle degree of the indoor unit, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit and the average running time of the indoor unit; finally, the target indoor unit for self-cleaning operation is determined according to the priority.

[0008] Higher-priority indoor units will be given priority for self-cleaning, while lower-priority indoor units will not be given priority for self-cleaning. Avoid self-cleaning of indoor units operating under high load. Instead, prioritize self-cleaning of indoor units with low load and minimal impact on overall cooling and heating. Clean high-priority indoor units in a timely manner to prevent dirt buildup from affecting cooling and heating efficiency or breeding bacteria, thus maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

[0009] In this way, the indoor unit can be self-cleaned efficiently while ensuring the stable operation of the air conditioning system, thereby improving the maintenance efficiency and service life of the air conditioning system.

[0010] Additional aspects and advantages of embodiments of this application 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 embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application 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 an application scenario diagram of the self-cleaning control method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first process of the self-cleaning control method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the second process of the self-cleaning control method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the third process of the self-cleaning control method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth process of the self-cleaning control method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the self-cleaning control device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0012] Appendix Figure 1 Explanation of the marking: Air conditioning system 100, outdoor unit 10, compressor 11, oil separator 12, one-way valve 13, four-way valve 14, outdoor heat exchanger 15, refrigeration one-way valve 16, refrigeration electronic expansion valve 17, gas-liquid separator 18, temperature sensor 19, high pressure sensor 20, indoor unit 30, indoor heat exchanger 31, indoor fan 32, integrated temperature and pressure sensor 33, controller 40, gas pipe 50, liquid pipe 60. Detailed Implementation

[0013] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments of this application are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0014] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0015] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joint" 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 communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0016] Based on the problems existing in the background art, this application provides a self-cleaning control method and an air conditioning system.

[0017] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is an application scenario diagram of a self-cleaning control method provided in an embodiment of this application. The application scenario provided in this application includes an air conditioning system 100, which includes an outdoor unit 10, at least one indoor unit 30 (two are exemplarily shown in the figure), a controller 40, a gas pipe 50, and a liquid pipe 60. The self-cleaning control method provided in this application can be executed by the controller 40.

[0018] The gas pipe 50 connects the indoor unit 30 and the outdoor unit 10, and is used to transport refrigerant gas. The liquid pipe 60 connects the indoor unit 30 and the outdoor unit 10, and is used to transport high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Refrigerant is a chemical substance that undergoes a rapid phase change (quick conversion between liquid and gaseous states), and is the core medium for heat transfer in the air conditioning system 100. Refrigerant achieves heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments by circulating and undergoing phase change within the air conditioning system 100, absorbing or releasing heat. Both the gas pipe 50 and the liquid pipe 60 connect to the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 30 respectively, together forming the refrigerant circulation channel to ensure normal heat exchange.

[0019] Optionally, the gas tube 50 and the liquid tube 60 may be, but are not limited to, copper tubes, aluminum tubes, copper-aluminum composite tubes, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0020] The outdoor unit 10 is responsible for compressing and condensing the refrigerant to release heat, transferring heat from the indoor unit to the indoor unit or absorbing heat from the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit 10 is connected to one or more indoor units 30 via a gas pipe 50 and a liquid pipe 60. In the case of only one outdoor unit 10, it is connected to all the indoor units 30.

[0021] In one optional embodiment, the outdoor unit 10 includes a compressor 11, an oil separator 12, an outdoor heat exchanger 15, and a gas-liquid separator 18. The compressor 11 is connected to the oil separator 12 and the gas-liquid separator 18. The oil separator 12 is connected to the gas pipe 50, the outdoor heat exchanger 15, and the gas-liquid separator 18 through corresponding components. The outdoor heat exchanger 15 is connected to the gas pipe 50 and the gas-liquid separator 18 through corresponding components.

[0022] The compressor 11 is a mechanical device that drives a piston or rotor via an electric motor. The compressor 11 provides power for the refrigerant cycle, compressing the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant from the gas-liquid separator 18 into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0023] The oil separator 12 is a component used to filter lubricating oil mixed in with the refrigerant. The oil separator 12 is used to filter out the lubricating oil mixed in with the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11, so as to prevent the lubricating oil from entering the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and affecting the heat exchange efficiency, while sending the separated lubricating oil back to the compressor 11.

[0024] The outdoor heat exchanger 15 is a component that exchanges heat with outdoor air. In cooling mode, it dissipates the heat of the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and in heating mode, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air to achieve a phase change of the refrigerant.

[0025] The gas-liquid separator 18 is a component that allows only gaseous refrigerant to enter the compressor 11, while intercepting and storing liquid refrigerant in the return gas. The gas-liquid separator 18 prevents liquid refrigerant from entering and damaging the compressor 11.

[0026] Optionally, the compressor 11 may include, but is not limited to, a rotary compressor, a scroll compressor, a reciprocating compressor, etc.; the oil separator 12 may include, but is not limited to, a centrifugal oil separator, a filter oil separator, etc.; the outdoor heat exchanger 15 may include, but is not limited to, a finned tube heat exchanger, a microchannel heat exchanger, etc.; and the gas-liquid separator 18 may include, but is not limited to, a vertical gas-liquid separator, a horizontal gas-liquid separator, etc. The embodiments of this application are not limited here.

[0027] In one alternative embodiment, the outdoor unit 10 also includes a one-way valve 13, a four-way valve 14, a cooling one-way valve 16, a cooling electronic expansion valve 17, a temperature sensor 19, a high-pressure sensor 20, and multiple valves (valve A, valve B).

[0028] One-way valve 13 connects oil separator 12 and four-way valve 14. Refrigeration one-way valve 16 connects to outdoor heat exchanger 15, refrigeration electronic expansion valve 17, and valve B. Refrigeration electronic expansion valve 17 connects to liquid line 60, refrigeration one-way valve 16, and valve B. Valve A connects to oil separator 12, gas-liquid separator 18, four-way valve 14, and valve B. Valve B connects to gas-liquid separator 18, valve A, four-way valve 14, refrigeration one-way valve 16, and refrigeration electronic expansion valve 17.

[0029] The four-way valve 14 is a valve with four ports. Three ports of the four-way valve 14 are connected to the one-way valve 13, the gas pipe 50, and the outdoor heat exchanger 15, respectively, while the other port is connected to the gas-liquid separator 18, valve A, and valve B. By controlling the connection between the four ports, the flow path of the refrigerant between the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 30 can be changed, thus enabling the switching between cooling and heating modes.

[0030] Among them, the refrigeration one-way valve 16 is a valve that restricts the one-way flow of refrigerant. When the cooling mode is allowed, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger 15 flows towards the refrigeration electronic expansion valve 17 to prevent refrigerant from flowing backward during heating and to avoid malfunction of the air conditioning system 100.

[0031] The electronic expansion valve 17 is a component that precisely controls the refrigerant flow. Based on electronic signals from the controller 40, the electronic expansion valve 17 adjusts the valve opening, reducing the pressure of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant into a low-pressure gas-liquid mixture. Simultaneously, it adapts to load changes in the indoor unit 30 connected to the outdoor unit 10, adjusting the flow rate to ensure heat exchange efficiency.

[0032] Temperature sensor 19 is located on the connection line between compressor 11 and oil separator 12, and is used to detect the discharge temperature of compressor 11. High-pressure sensor 20 is located on the connection line between check valve 13 and four-way valve 14, and is used to detect the gas pressure value of the gas discharged from compressor 11 flowing from check valve 13 to four-way valve 14. If the discharge temperature detected by temperature sensor 19 is abnormal, or the gas pressure value detected by high-pressure sensor 20 is abnormal, a protection mechanism is triggered (such as shutting down outdoor unit 10).

[0033] In cooling mode: In outdoor unit 10, compressor 11 compresses low-pressure gaseous refrigerant into high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant passes through oil separator 12 to separate lubricating oil (the lubricating oil flows back to compressor 11), and then sequentially passes through one-way valve 13 and four-way valve 14 into outdoor heat exchanger 15. Outdoor heat exchanger 15 exchanges heat with outdoor air, and the refrigerant releases heat and condenses into high-pressure liquid. Then, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant sequentially passes through cooling one-way valve 16 and cooling electronic expansion valve 17 to leave outdoor unit 10, and is sent to the connected indoor unit 30 through liquid pipe 60.

[0034] In the indoor unit 30, the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant, after absorbing heat, leaves the indoor unit 30 and enters the gas-liquid separator 18 through the gas pipe 50 and the four-way valve 14 to filter out the liquid. The gaseous refrigerant eventually returns to the compressor 11, completing one cycle.

[0035] In heating mode: In outdoor unit 10, four-way valve 14 switches the direction of refrigerant flow, and the high-temperature and high-pressure gas discharged by compressor 11 passes through oil separator 12, one-way valve 13 and four-way valve 14 in sequence and enters indoor unit 30 directly to provide heating for indoor environment.

[0036] In the indoor unit 30, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant, after releasing heat, leaves the indoor unit 30 and sequentially passes through the liquid pipe 60, the electronic expansion valve 17, and the one-way valve 16 before entering the outdoor heat exchanger 15. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor environment and evaporates into a low-pressure gaseous state. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant then sequentially passes through the four-way valve 14 and the gas-liquid separator 18 before returning to the compressor 11, completing one cycle.

[0037] The indoor unit 30 is an indoor air handling terminal. The indoor unit 30 works in conjunction with the connected outdoor unit 10, receives refrigerant from the outdoor unit 10, cools, heats, or dehumidifies the indoor air, and sends the treated air into the room. It is also equipped with sensors and a controller 40 to achieve precise temperature control.

[0038] In one alternative embodiment, the indoor unit 30 includes an indoor heat exchanger 31, an indoor fan 32, and an integrated temperature and pressure sensor 33.

[0039] The indoor heat exchanger 31 serves as the medium for heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air. In cooling mode, the refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat in the indoor heat exchanger 31, lowering its temperature and thus cooling the indoor environment. In heating mode, the refrigerant condenses and releases heat in the indoor heat exchanger 31, raising its temperature and thus heating the indoor air.

[0040] The indoor fan 32 is the power source for indoor air circulation and transportation. The indoor fan 32 is used to draw in indoor air, allowing the indoor air to enter the indoor heat exchanger 31 to complete heat exchange, and then blow the heat-exchanged air into the room to achieve air circulation.

[0041] The integrated temperature and pressure sensor 33 is installed near the outlet of the indoor heat exchanger 31 to detect the outlet temperature and outlet gas pressure of the indoor heat exchanger 31. If the outlet temperature or pressure detected by the integrated temperature and pressure sensor 33 is abnormal, a protection mechanism is triggered (such as shutting down the indoor unit 30). Optionally, the integrated temperature and pressure sensor 33 can be replaced by a combination of a temperature sensor and a low-pressure sensor.

[0042] The controller 40 is used to control the operating status of various components of the air conditioning system 100. The controller 40 is connected to each outdoor unit 10 and indoor unit 30. The controller 40 controls the start / stop or adjusts the operating status of its components by sending electrical signals to the outdoor unit 10 and indoor unit 30. Simultaneously, it receives detection parameters from sensors (such as a voltage regulator sensor, temperature sensor 19, and high-pressure sensor 20) and dynamically adjusts commands to ensure the indoor environment meets the required values. Optionally, the controller 40 may include, but is not limited to, electronic controllers, mechanical controllers, etc., as described in this embodiment.

[0043] Based on the above description of the relevant scenarios, this application provides a self-cleaning control method, which will be described in detail below: Please see Figure 2 The self-cleaning control method provided in this application embodiment is implemented by steps 011, 012 and 013, which are described in detail below.

[0044] Step 011: Based on the operating parameters of each indoor unit, calculate the first target value for each indoor unit; The first target value is a numerical value used to characterize the idle level of the indoor unit.

[0045] Specifically, the load level of the indoor unit is reflected in its operating parameters. By comprehensively considering these parameters and integrating them into a primary target value, the idle level of the indoor units is determined. Quantifying the idle level of the indoor units helps identify which units can handle a greater load and initiate self-cleaning operations.

[0046] Optionally, when the air conditioning system is in different operating modes (such as cooling mode, heating mode, air supply mode, dehumidification mode, etc.), a uniform calculation method can be used, or different calculation methods can be used for each mode, or the same calculation method can be used for some operating modes and different calculation methods can be used for the remaining operating modes to calculate the first target value. In different operating modes, the first target value of the indoor unit can be directly proportional to or inversely proportional to the idle level (for example, in cooling mode, the larger the first target value of the indoor unit, the higher the idle level), and this is not limited here.

[0047] Step 012: Based on the first target value, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, and the average running time of each indoor unit, calculate the second target value corresponding to each indoor unit; The average runtime refers to the ratio of the total time the indoor unit is in working mode within a set period to the total runtime of the set period. For example, the set period can be 15 days, 30 days, etc., from the current date.

[0048] The second target value is a numerical value used to characterize the priority of the indoor unit's self-cleaning function. The larger the second target value, the higher the priority of the indoor unit's self-cleaning function.

[0049] It's understandable that the outdoor unit connected to the indoor unit can assist the indoor unit in self-cleaning. The longer the average running time of the indoor unit, the higher the probability of dust and scale buildup on the indoor heat exchanger, and the more urgent the need for cleaning becomes.

[0050] For example, if two indoor units have the same first target value (i.e., the same level of idle time) and correspond to different outdoor units, the load levels of the corresponding outdoor units are different. The outdoor unit with a lower load level has more redundancy to assist the corresponding indoor unit in self-cleaning. The outdoor unit with a lower load level will have a higher priority for self-cleaning and a larger second target value.

[0051] Therefore, the idle time of the indoor unit cannot fully represent the self-cleaning priority of the indoor unit. The load level of the outdoor unit can be determined based on its operating parameters. By considering the idle time of the indoor unit, the load level of the outdoor unit, and the average running time of the indoor unit, the self-cleaning priority of the indoor unit can be determined more comprehensively.

[0052] Step 013: Based on the second target value corresponding to each indoor unit, determine the target indoor unit and control the target indoor unit to perform self-cleaning operation.

[0053] The target indoor unit is the one that will undergo self-cleaning. Self-cleaning refers to the process by which the air conditioning system automatically removes dust, condensation, and other debris from the indoor evaporator of the indoor unit using its built-in function, without manual intervention.

[0054] Specifically, the second target values ​​corresponding to each indoor unit are sorted in descending order, and the target indoor unit for self-cleaning operation is determined according to its priority. The target indoor unit with higher priority will perform self-cleaning operation first, while the indoor unit with lower priority will not perform self-cleaning operation for the time being; avoid self-cleaning of indoor units operating under high load, so that indoor units with low load and minimal impact on overall cooling and heating will start self-cleaning first, and clean the high-priority target indoor units in a timely manner to prevent dirt accumulation from affecting cooling and heating efficiency or breeding bacteria, and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

[0055] In this way, the indoor unit can be self-cleaned efficiently while ensuring the stable operation of the air conditioning system, thereby improving the maintenance efficiency and service life of the air conditioning system.

[0056] In one alternative embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 Step 011 includes: Step 0111: Based on the load volume ratio of each indoor unit, the outlet temperature and outlet air pressure of the indoor heat exchanger, and the operating current of the indoor fan, calculate the first target value for each indoor unit.

[0057] The load capacity ratio represents the proportion of the indoor unit's cooling / heating capacity to the total cooling / heating capacity of the entire air conditioning system. It is the ratio of the indoor unit's rated cooling (or heating, etc.) capacity (which can be obtained by real-time monitoring of refrigerant flow) to the air conditioning system's rated cooling (or heating, etc.) capacity.

[0058] It's understandable that a lower load capacity ratio for the indoor unit indicates a lower load and a higher idle rate. The outlet temperature and outlet pressure of the indoor heat exchanger directly reflect the cooling / heating efficiency of the indoor unit, and thus its load level. Similarly, a lower operating current for the indoor fan indicates a lower load and a higher idle rate.

[0059] Specifically, the load capacity ratio of the indoor unit, the outlet temperature and outlet air pressure of the indoor heat exchanger, and the operating current of the indoor fan are the four main external indicators of the indoor unit's load level. These four operating parameters allow for the rapid calculation of an accurate and reasonable primary target value.

[0060] In an optional embodiment, when the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the first target value of the indoor unit is obtained based on the following formula: = × + × + ×(1-L)+ ×

[0061] in, This indicates the first target value for the indoor unit. This represents the first preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the outlet temperature value of the indoor heat exchanger. This indicates the first preset temperature value. This indicates the second preset temperature value. This represents the second preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the outlet air pressure value of the indoor heat exchanger. This indicates the first preset air pressure value. This indicates the second preset air pressure value. This represents the third preset weighting coefficient, and L represents the load capacity ratio of the indoor unit. This represents the fourth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the operating current of the indoor fan. This indicates the rated current of the indoor fan (which can be obtained by referring to the product manual, etc.).

[0062] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the higher the first target value of the indoor unit, the higher the idle level. The first, second, third, and fourth preset weighting coefficients are all pre-set values. For example, they may be default values ​​based on experience or user-defined values.

[0063] The first preset temperature value and the second preset temperature value are both preset temperature values. For example, they can be default temperature values ​​set based on experience or user-defined temperature values. The first preset temperature value is lower than the second preset temperature value. Similarly, the first preset air pressure value and the second preset air pressure value are both preset air pressure values. For example, they can be default air pressure values ​​set based on experience or user-defined air pressure values. The first preset air pressure value is lower than the second preset air pressure value.

[0064] In one alternative embodiment, please continue to refer to Figure 3 Step 012 includes steps 0121 and 0122, which are explained in detail below.

[0065] Step 0121: Calculate the third target value based on the outdoor unit's operating parameters; The third target value is used to characterize the load level of the outdoor unit. The load level of the outdoor unit is reflected in its operating parameters. By comprehensively considering the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, the load level of the outdoor unit is determined by integrating them into the third target value.

[0066] Optionally, when the air conditioning system is in different operating modes (such as cooling mode, heating mode, air supply mode, dehumidification mode, etc.), a uniform calculation method can be used, or different calculation methods can be used for each mode, or the same calculation method can be used for some operating modes and different calculation methods can be used for the remaining operating modes to calculate the third target value. In different operating modes, the third target value of the outdoor unit may be directly proportional to or inversely proportional to the load level (for example, in cooling mode, the larger the third target value of the outdoor unit, the higher the load level), which is not limited here.

[0067] In an alternative embodiment, the third target value is obtained based on the following formula: = × + × + ×

[0068] in, This represents the third target value. This represents the fifth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the compressor's discharge temperature. This indicates the third preset temperature value. This indicates the fourth preset temperature value. This represents the sixth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the air pressure value of the high-pressure sensor. This indicates the third preset air pressure value. This indicates the fourth preset air pressure value. This represents the seventh preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the operating current of the compressor. This indicates the compressor's rated current (which can be obtained by consulting the product manual, etc.).

[0069] Specifically, the higher the third target value, the higher the load on the outdoor unit. The fifth, sixth, and seventh preset weighting coefficients are all pre-set values. For example, they may be default values ​​based on experience or user-defined values.

[0070] The third and fourth preset temperature values ​​are both pre-set temperature values. For example, they may be default temperature values ​​set based on experience or user-defined temperature values. The third preset temperature value is lower than the fourth preset temperature value. Similarly, the third and fourth preset air pressure values ​​are both pre-set air pressure values. For example, they may be default air pressure values ​​set based on experience or user-defined air pressure values. The third preset air pressure value is lower than the fourth preset air pressure value.

[0071] Step 0122: Based on the third target value, the first target value corresponding to each indoor unit, and the average running time, calculate the second target value corresponding to each indoor unit.

[0072] Specifically, by considering the idle level of the indoor unit (i.e., the first target value), the load level of the corresponding outdoor unit (i.e., the third target value), and the average operating time of the indoor unit, the self-cleaning priority of the indoor unit can be determined more comprehensively. This, in turn, improves the overall stability of the air conditioner.

[0073] In an optional embodiment, when the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the second target value of the indoor unit is obtained based on the following formula: = ×(1+ ×X+ × - ×P)×(1- ) in, This indicates the second target value for the indoor unit. This indicates the first target value for the indoor unit. X represents the first preset adjustment coefficient, and X represents the demand factor. This represents the second preset adjustment coefficient. This indicates the average running time of the indoor unit. This represents the maximum value among the average runtimes of all indoor units. This represents the third preset adjustment coefficient, and P represents the balance factor. This represents the third target value.

[0074] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the higher the second target value of the indoor unit, the higher the self-cleaning priority of the indoor unit. The first, second, and third preset adjustment coefficients are all pre-set values. For example, they may be default values ​​set based on experience or user-defined values.

[0075] The demand factor is an identifier used to characterize the trigger source for the indoor unit's self-cleaning. When the user actively initiates the self-cleaning of the indoor unit, the demand factor is 1; when the air conditioning system automatically initiates the self-cleaning of the indoor unit when it meets preset conditions (such as the cooling efficiency of an indoor unit being lower than the preset cooling efficiency), the demand factor is 0.

[0076] The balance factor is an indicator used to characterize the fault state of the air conditioning system. When a fault exists in the air conditioning system, the balance factor is 1; when the air conditioning system is functioning correctly, the balance factor is 0.

[0077] In one alternative embodiment, please continue to refer to Figure 3 Step 013 includes: Step 0131: Based on the number of indoor units with a first target value greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the operating parameters of the outdoor units, the sum of the load capacity ratios of each indoor unit, and the capacity coefficient of the outdoor unit, determine the maximum number of units N that can be cleaned. The first preset threshold is either a default value set based on experience or a user-defined value. For example, the first preset threshold is 0.6. The maximum number of cleanable units (N) refers to the maximum number of indoor units that the air conditioning system can effectively perform self-cleaning operations at the same time.

[0078] The capacity factor of the outdoor unit is used to measure the degree of matching between the actual capacity and the rated capacity of the outdoor unit. The capacity factor of the outdoor unit is the ratio of the cooling (or heating, etc.) capacity of each outdoor unit under actual operating conditions to the rated cooling (or heating, etc.) capacity under standard operating conditions.

[0079] Specifically, by setting a first preset threshold, indoor units with sufficient idle capacity are selected for self-cleaning operations. Based on the operating parameters of the outdoor units, a third target value for each outdoor unit is calculated to determine the load capacity of the outdoor units in the entire air conditioning system, thereby determining the capacity available for self-cleaning of indoor units and the maximum number that can be cleaned.

[0080] When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the maximum number of units that can be cleaned is calculated using the following formula: N= ×(1- )×K×(1- ) Where N represents the maximum number that can be cleaned. This indicates the number of indoor units whose first target value is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold. This represents the sum of the load capacity ratios of all indoor units, and K represents the capacity factor of the outdoor unit. This represents the sum of the third target values ​​for all outdoor units in the air conditioning system.

[0081] In this way, by setting the maximum number of indoor units that can be cleaned, the stability and cleaning efficiency of the air conditioning system can be ensured.

[0082] Step 0132: Sort the second target values ​​corresponding to the indoor units whose first target value is greater than the first preset threshold in descending order, determine the indoor units corresponding to the second target values ​​whose sorting is less than or equal to N as the target indoor units, and control the target indoor units to perform self-cleaning operations.

[0083] It's understandable that the second target value represents the priority of the indoor unit's self-cleaning; the larger the second target value, the higher the priority of self-cleaning. Given that the maximum number of units the air conditioning system can clean is N, naturally the top N indoor units with the highest priority are selected for self-cleaning.

[0084] This ensures stable operation of the air conditioning system, avoids reducing user experience, and prevents excessive cleaning from spreading resources and causing incomplete self-cleaning, thereby improving cleaning efficiency.

[0085] In one alternative embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 Step 0131 includes: Step 01311: If the exhaust temperature of the compressor of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature value, or if the air pressure value of the high pressure sensor of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to the fourth preset air pressure value, determine that the maximum number of items N that can be cleaned is 1. Specifically, if the exhaust temperature of the outdoor unit's compressor is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature value, or if the pressure value of the outdoor unit's high-pressure sensor is greater than or equal to the fourth preset pressure value, but the operating parameters of other outdoor units and indoor units remain within the normal range, this indicates that the outdoor unit in the air conditioning system is overloaded, possibly because too many indoor units are simultaneously performing self-cleaning. Therefore, by forcing N to be 1, the self-cleaning process of the excess indoor units is shut down, ensuring that self-cleaning continues and its efficiency is maintained.

[0086] Optionally, after forcing N to be 1 and performing self-cleaning on a target indoor unit for a certain preset time, if the exhaust temperature of the outdoor unit's compressor is greater than or equal to a fourth preset temperature value, or if the air pressure value of the outdoor unit's high-pressure sensor is greater than or equal to a fourth preset air pressure value, then the self-cleaning operation stops; if the compressor's exhaust temperature returns to the normal range (e.g., at the third preset temperature value), then the self-cleaning operation stops. and the fourth preset temperature value Within the range of (e.g., between), and the air pressure value of the high-pressure sensor also returns to the normal range (e.g., at the third preset air pressure value). and the fourth preset air pressure value Between these points, the maximum number of cleanable items N can remain at 1 or the value of N can be appropriately increased (e.g., by increasing by 1 in sequence).

[0087] Step 01312: When the operating current of the outdoor unit's compressor is less than the corresponding rated current and the exhaust temperature is less than the fourth preset temperature value, or when the operating current of the outdoor unit's compressor is less than the corresponding rated current and the air pressure value of the high pressure sensor is less than the fourth preset air pressure value, determine the maximum number of cleanable units N based on the minimum value between the number of indoor units whose first target value is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold and the capacity coefficient of the outdoor unit of a preset multiple.

[0088] The preset multiplier refers to a default value set based on experience or a user-defined value. For example, the preset multiplier is 1.2.

[0089] Specifically, if the operating current of the outdoor unit's compressor is less than the corresponding rated current and the exhaust temperature is less than the fourth preset temperature value, or if the operating current of the outdoor unit's compressor is less than the corresponding rated current and the air pressure value of the high-pressure sensor is less than the fourth preset air pressure value, it indicates that the outdoor unit's compressor is under low load and the outdoor unit still has a large idle capacity, which can support more indoor units to perform self-cleaning operations.

[0090] Therefore, by appropriately increasing the maximum number of cleanable units N, the efficiency of self-cleaning operation can be improved while ensuring the stable operation of the air conditioning system.

[0091] In one alternative embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 The self-cleaning control method also includes step 014, which is explained in detail below.

[0092] Step 014: When the operating parameters of the air conditioning system meet the first preset condition, control each target indoor unit to stop the self-cleaning operation; The first preset condition includes at least one of the following conditions: The sum of the load capacity ratios of all indoor units is greater than the second preset threshold. The operating current of the outdoor unit's compressor is greater than the compressor's rated current.

[0093] The second preset threshold is either a default value set based on experience or a user-defined value. For example, 0.7.

[0094] Specifically, when the sum of the indoor unit load volume ratios exceeds the second preset threshold, it indicates that the overall cooling or heating demand of the air conditioning system is high, and the self-cleaning operation needs to be stopped so that the air conditioning system can fully engage in core heat exchange, thus avoiding the self-cleaning operation occupying resources and reducing the user experience.

[0095] If the outdoor unit's compressor operates at a current exceeding its rated current, continuing self-cleaning will further burden the compressor, potentially triggering overload protection, shutdown, or even equipment damage. Therefore, stopping the self-cleaning operation can promptly reduce the compressor's load and protect its safety.

[0096] In one alternative embodiment, please continue to refer to Figure 5 The self-cleaning control method includes step 015, which is explained in detail below.

[0097] Step 015: If the operating parameters of any target indoor unit meet the second preset condition, control the target indoor unit to stop the self-cleaning operation; The second preset condition includes at least one of the following conditions: The outlet air pressure of the indoor heat exchanger of the target indoor unit is outside the preset air pressure range; The outlet temperature of the indoor heat exchanger of the target indoor unit is outside the preset temperature range; The first target value of the target indoor unit is less than the first preset threshold; The operating current of the indoor fan of the target indoor unit is greater than the corresponding rated current.

[0098] The preset pressure range refers to the pressure range within the first preset pressure value. With the second preset air pressure value Between (first preset air pressure value) Less than the second preset air pressure value The preset temperature range refers to the temperature range within the first preset temperature value. With the second preset temperature value Between (first preset temperature value) Less than the second preset temperature value ).

[0099] Thus, if the target indoor unit meets any of the second preset conditions, its self-cleaning operation will stop. This avoids the risk of abnormalities (such as blockage or overload) caused by continued self-cleaning, prevents damage to components in the target indoor unit, and ensures the safety of the indoor unit. Furthermore, timely termination of self-cleaning under abnormal conditions also prevents the spread of problems from a single indoor unit, maintaining the stable operation of the entire air conditioning system.

[0100] Based on the method described in the above embodiments, this application also provides a self-cleaning control device for performing the steps in the above self-cleaning control method. Please refer to... Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a self-cleaning control device 200 provided in an embodiment of this application. The self-cleaning control device 200 includes: The first calculation module 201 is used to calculate the first target value corresponding to each indoor unit based on the operating parameters of each indoor unit. The first target value is used to characterize the idle degree of the indoor unit. The second calculation module 202 is used to calculate the second target value for each indoor unit based on the first target value, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit and the average running time of each indoor unit. The second target value is used to characterize the priority of the self-cleaning of the indoor unit. The control module 203 is used to determine the target indoor unit based on the second target value corresponding to each indoor unit and control the target indoor unit to perform self-cleaning operation.

[0101] It should be noted that the specific details of each module unit in the above-mentioned self-cleaning control device have been described in detail in the embodiments of the above-mentioned self-cleaning control method, and will not be repeated here.

[0102] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "module" or "unit" refer to a computer program or part of a computer program that has a predetermined function and works with other related parts to achieve a predetermined goal, and can be implemented wholly or partially using software, hardware (such as processing circuitry or memory), or a combination thereof. Similarly, a processor (or multiple processors or memory) can be used to implement one or more modules or units. Furthermore, each module or unit can be part of an overall module or unit that includes the functionality of that module or unit.

[0103] In one optional embodiment, the self-cleaning control device in this application embodiment can be implemented in hardware, such as an air conditioning system or a component in the air conditioning system, such as an integrated circuit or a chip; the self-cleaning control device can also be implemented in software, such as as an application installed in an air conditioning system.

[0104] This application also provides an air conditioning system, characterized in that it includes an outdoor unit, at least one indoor unit, a memory, and a processor. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit are interconnected and work together to regulate the indoor air environment. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the various processes of the above-described self-cleaning control method embodiments. Optionally, the air conditioning system may include, but is not limited to, multi-split air conditioning systems, central air conditioning systems, split air conditioning systems, etc., and this application does not limit this.

[0105] In one alternative embodiment, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this application. The air conditioning system 300 includes an outdoor unit 301, an indoor unit 302, a processor 303, and a memory 304. The outdoor unit 301 and the indoor unit 302 are interconnected and work together to regulate the indoor air environment. The memory 304 stores a computer program 305 that can run on the processor 303. When the processor 303 executes the computer program 305, it implements the various processes of the above-described self-cleaning control method embodiment and achieves the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0106] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the various processes of the above-described self-cleaning control method embodiments and achieves the same technical effects. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0107] The processor can be the processor in the air conditioning system described in the above embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be a computer read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk, or optical disk, etc.

[0108] Computer-readable media can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media include RAM, ROM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other solid-state storage technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic tape cassettes, magnetic tape, disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that computer storage media are not limited to the above-mentioned types.

[0109] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the aforementioned self-cleaning control method. The processor may be the processor in the air conditioning system described in the above embodiments. When executed by the processor, the computer program implements the various processes of the embodiments of the self-cleaning control method and achieves the same technical effects; therefore, to avoid repetition, further details are omitted here.

[0110] It is understood that in the specific implementation of this application, data related to user identity or characteristics is involved. When the above embodiments of this application are applied to specific products or technologies, user permission or consent is required, and the collection, use and processing of related data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions.

[0111] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "certain embodiments," "an alternative embodiment," and "exemplarily" indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0112] Any process or method description in the flowchart or otherwise herein can be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing a particular logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of this application includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order according to the functions involved, as should be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of this application pertain.

[0113] Although embodiments of this application 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 this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning control method, characterized in that, Applied to an air conditioning system, the air conditioning system including an outdoor unit and at least one indoor unit, the method includes: Based on the operating parameters of each indoor unit, a first target value is calculated for each indoor unit, and the first target value is used to characterize the idle degree of the indoor unit; Based on the first target value, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, and the average operating time of each indoor unit, a second target value is calculated for each indoor unit. The second target value is used to characterize the priority of the self-cleaning of the indoor unit. Based on the second target value corresponding to each of the indoor units, a target indoor unit is determined and the target indoor unit is controlled to perform a self-cleaning operation.

2. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the target indoor unit and controlling the target indoor unit to perform a self-cleaning operation based on the second target value corresponding to each of the indoor units includes: Based on the number of indoor units whose first target value is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, the operating parameters of the outdoor units, the sum of the load capacity ratios of each indoor unit, and the capacity coefficient of the outdoor unit, the maximum number of units N that can be cleaned is determined. The indoor units whose first target value is greater than the first preset threshold are sorted in descending order according to the second target value. The indoor units whose second target value is less than or equal to N are determined as the target indoor units, and the target indoor units are controlled to perform self-cleaning operation.

3. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The determination of the maximum cleanable quantity N based on the number of indoor units whose first target value is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the operating parameters of the outdoor units, the sum of the load capacity ratios of all the indoor units, and the capacity coefficient of the outdoor units includes: If the exhaust temperature of the compressor of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature value, or if the air pressure value of the high pressure sensor of the outdoor unit is greater than or equal to the fourth preset air pressure value, the maximum number of cleanable items N is determined to be 1. If the operating current of the compressor of the outdoor unit is less than the corresponding rated current and the exhaust temperature is less than the fourth preset temperature value, or if the operating current of the compressor of the outdoor unit is less than the corresponding rated current and the air pressure value of the high pressure sensor is less than the fourth preset air pressure value, the maximum number of cleanable units N is determined based on the minimum value between the number of indoor units whose first target value is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold and the capacity coefficient of the outdoor unit of a preset multiple.

4. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger and an indoor fan. The step of calculating a first target value for each indoor unit based on its operating parameters includes: Based on the load volume ratio of each indoor unit, the outlet temperature and outlet pressure of the indoor heat exchanger, and the operating current of the indoor fan, the first target value for each indoor unit is calculated.

5. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the first target value of the indoor unit is obtained based on the following formula: = × + × + ×(1-L)+ × in, This represents the first target value of the indoor unit. This represents the first preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the outlet temperature value of the indoor heat exchanger. This indicates the first preset temperature value. This indicates the second preset temperature value. This represents the second preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the outlet air pressure value of the indoor heat exchanger. This indicates the first preset air pressure value. This indicates the second preset air pressure value. This represents the third preset weighting coefficient, and L represents the load capacity ratio of the indoor unit. This represents the fourth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the operating current of the indoor fan. This indicates the rated current of the indoor fan.

6. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of calculating the second target value for each indoor unit based on the first target value, the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, and the average operating time of each indoor unit includes: Based on the operating parameters of the outdoor unit, calculate the third target value; Based on the third target value, the first target value corresponding to each indoor unit, and the average running time, the second target value corresponding to each indoor unit is calculated respectively.

7. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outdoor unit includes a compressor and a high-pressure sensor, and the third target value is obtained based on the following formula: = × + × + × in, This represents the third target value. This represents the fifth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the exhaust temperature of the compressor. This indicates the third preset temperature value. This indicates the fourth preset temperature value. This represents the sixth preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the air pressure value of the high-pressure sensor. This indicates the third preset air pressure value. This indicates the fourth preset air pressure value. This represents the seventh preset weighting coefficient. This indicates the operating current of the compressor. This indicates the rated current of the compressor.

8. The self-cleaning control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the second target value of the indoor unit is obtained based on the following formula: = ×(1+ ×X+ × - ×P)×(1- ) in, This represents the second target value of the indoor unit. This represents the first target value of the indoor unit. X represents the first preset adjustment coefficient, and X represents the demand factor. This represents the second preset adjustment coefficient. This indicates the average operating time of the indoor unit. This represents the maximum value among the average operating times of all the indoor units. This represents the third preset adjustment coefficient, and P represents the balance factor. This represents the third target value.

9. The self-cleaning control method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Also includes: When the operating parameters of the air conditioning system meet a first preset condition, the target indoor units are controlled to stop self-cleaning operations; wherein, the first preset condition includes at least one of the following conditions: The sum of the load capacity ratios of all the indoor units is greater than the second preset threshold. The operating current of the compressor in the outdoor unit is greater than the rated current of the compressor.

10. The self-cleaning control method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Also includes: If any of the operating parameters of the target indoor unit meets the second preset condition, the target indoor unit is controlled to stop the self-cleaning operation; wherein, the second preset condition includes at least one of the following conditions: The outlet air pressure value of the indoor heat exchanger of the target indoor unit is outside the preset air pressure range; The outlet temperature of the indoor heat exchanger of the target indoor unit is outside the preset temperature range; The first target value of the target indoor unit is less than a first preset threshold; The operating current of the indoor fan of the target indoor unit is greater than the corresponding rated current.

11. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, Includes an outdoor unit, at least one indoor unit, a memory, and a processor; The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the self-cleaning control method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

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