Heat exchange system, humidifying method thereof and air conditioner

Abstract

The invention discloses a heat exchange system, a humidifying method thereof and an air conditioner, and relates to the technical field of life electric appliances, the heat exchange system comprises a refrigerant circulation pipeline and a humidifying pipeline, and the refrigerant circulation pipeline is used for refrigerant circulation; the humidifying pipeline is used for circulating humidifying water, the humidifying pipeline comprises a heat exchange part and a vaporization part which are sequentially arranged in the circulating direction of the humidifying water, the heat exchange part is in heat exchange connection with at least part of the refrigerant circulating pipeline so as to preheat the humidifying water, and the vaporization part is used for secondarily heating the humidifying water so as to heat and vaporize the humidifying water. According to the technical scheme, the energy consumption of the humidifying module can be reduced, and the energy-saving effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a heat exchange system and its humidification method, and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In air conditioners, such as ducted air conditioners, the humidification piping is typically installed separately outside the indoor unit and is independent of the refrigerant circulation piping. This humidification piping includes a heating module that electrically heats the water for humidification, converting it into steam. The steam is then transported to the indoor unit via a steam delivery pipe and distributed into the room through the unit's air outlet. Because the humidification piping uses a separate heating module for vaporization, it requires a high-power heating module, and the module's energy conversion efficiency is relatively low, resulting in high energy consumption for the humidification module. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this invention is to propose a heat exchange system and its humidification method, as well as an air conditioner, which aims to preheat the humidification water in the humidification pipeline through a refrigerant circulation pipeline to achieve energy-saving effects.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the heat exchange system proposed in this invention includes:

[0005] Refrigerant circulation piping is used for refrigerant circulation; and

[0006] A humidification pipeline is used for the circulation of humidification water. The humidification pipeline includes a heat exchange section and a vaporization section arranged sequentially along the circulation direction of the humidification water. The heat exchange section is at least partially heat-exchange connected to the refrigerant circulation pipeline to preheat the humidification water. The vaporization section is used to reheat the humidification water to heat and vaporize the humidification water.

[0007] In one embodiment, the refrigerant circulation pipeline includes a heat-conducting pipe for circulating the refrigerant;

[0008] The heat exchange section includes a heat exchange tube, which is sleeved on at least a portion of the heat-conducting tube and forms a liquid passage with the heat-conducting tube for circulating the humidifying water so that the humidifying water absorbs heat from the refrigerant.

[0009] In one embodiment, the heat pipe includes a plurality of first sub-pipes arranged side by side, the plurality of first sub-pipes arranged at intervals in sequence, and the plurality of first sub-pipes arranged in series end to end in sequence.

[0010] The heat exchange tube includes several second sub-pipes arranged side by side, each second sub-pipe being sleeved on a first sub-pipe, and the several second sub-pipes being connected in series end to end.

[0011] In one embodiment, the refrigerant circulation pipeline includes a compressor and a four-way valve connected in sequence, at least a portion of the refrigerant circulation pipeline is connected in series between the compressor and the four-way valve, and is heat exchanged with the heat exchange section.

[0012] In one embodiment, a temperature detection module is provided at one end of the vaporization section facing the heat exchange section for detecting the liquid temperature of the humidification water.

[0013] In one embodiment, the humidification pipeline further includes a liquid inlet section, which is connected in series upstream of the heat exchange section;

[0014] The liquid inlet section includes a control pump, which can be turned on and off to control the opening or closing of the humidification pipeline.

[0015] In one embodiment, the liquid inlet section further includes a liquid inlet module, which is connected in series upstream of the control pump;

[0016] The liquid inlet module includes a water supply pipe, which is connected to the control pump via a purifier; or, the liquid inlet module includes a water supply tank, which is connected to the control pump, and the water supply tank is equipped with a water level detection mechanism and a water quality detection mechanism for detecting the water level and water quality of the humidification water, respectively.

[0017] The present invention also proposes an air conditioner including a heat exchange system as described above, the heat exchange system including an indoor heat exchange section and an outdoor heat exchange section, wherein the vaporization section of the heat exchange system is disposed in the indoor heat exchange section.

[0018] In one embodiment, the indoor heat exchange section includes:

[0019] Housing, the housing being provided with an air outlet; and

[0020] A fan is disposed inside the housing and spaced apart from the air outlet, for blowing air toward the air outlet;

[0021] The vaporization section includes a heating module located inside the housing and has a steam outlet located between the air outlet and the fan, for outputting steam to the air delivery path of the fan.

[0022] The present invention also proposes a humidification method based on the heat exchange system described above, comprising the following steps:

[0023] Control the humidification pipeline to obtain the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet end of the vaporization section;

[0024] The liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range.

[0025] In one embodiment, the step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes:

[0026] When the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled to be the first flow rate L1;

[0027] When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, and less than the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled to be the second flow rate L2, and the second flow rate L2 is greater than the first flow rate L1.

[0028] When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the humidification pipeline is shut off, and the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is zero.

[0029] In one embodiment, the heat exchange system is defined to have a target humidification capacity h, and the first flow rate L1 satisfies the relationship: h / 2 ≤ L1 < h;

[0030] The second flow rate L2 satisfies the relationship: L2 = h.

[0031] In one embodiment, the step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes:

[0032] When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve of the refrigerant circulation pipeline is controlled to be the preset opening degree.

[0033] When the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve is reduced compared to the preset opening degree.

[0034] The heat exchange system proposed in this invention includes a refrigerant circulation pipeline for circulating refrigerant and a humidification pipeline for circulating humidification water. The humidification pipeline includes a heat exchange section and a vaporization section arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the humidification water. At least a portion of the heat exchange section and the refrigerant circulation pipeline are heat-exchange connected, thereby enabling heat exchange between the refrigerant circulation pipeline and the humidification pipeline. In this way, heat transfer between the refrigerant and the humidification water can be achieved first through the heat exchange section to preheat the humidification water, and then the humidification water is further heated and vaporized through the vaporization section. Since the energy conversion efficiency of the refrigerant circulation pipeline is higher than that of the humidification module, the method of using the heat energy in the refrigerant circulation pipeline to heat the humidification water has lower energy consumption, realizing the rational use of heat energy in the heat exchange system, thus helping to reduce the overall energy consumption of the heat exchange system and achieving energy saving. Attached Figure Description

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

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

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the heat exchange system provided by the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 A flowchart of an embodiment of the heat exchange system provided by the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 A flowchart of another embodiment of the air conditioner indoor unit provided by the present invention.

[0040] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0041] 100. Heat exchange system; 10. Refrigerant circulation pipeline; 11. Heat transfer pipe; 12. Compressor; 13. Four-way valve; 14. Indoor heat exchanger; 15. Outdoor heat exchanger; 20. Humidification pipeline; 21. Heat exchange section; 22. Vaporization section; 221. Temperature detection module; 23. Liquid inlet section; 231. Control pump; 232. Liquid inlet module.

[0042] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0044] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0045] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0046] In air conditioners, such as ducted air conditioners, the humidification piping is typically installed separately outside the indoor unit and is independent of the refrigerant circulation piping. This humidification piping includes a heating module that electrically heats the water for humidification, converting it into steam. The steam is then transported to the indoor unit via a steam delivery pipe and distributed into the room through the unit's air outlet. Because the humidification piping uses a separate heating module for vaporization, it requires a high-power heating module, and the module's energy conversion efficiency is relatively low, resulting in high energy consumption for the humidification module.

[0047] Based on the above problems, this invention proposes a heat exchange system for air conditioners, which aims to preheat the humidification water in the humidification pipeline through the refrigerant circulation pipeline to achieve energy-saving effect.

[0048] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In one embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange system 100 includes a refrigerant circulation pipe 10 and a humidification pipe 20. The refrigerant circulation pipe 10 is used for refrigerant circulation; the humidification pipe 20 is used for humidification water circulation. The humidification pipe 20 includes a heat exchange section 21 and a vaporization section 22 arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the humidification water. The heat exchange section 21 and the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 are at least partially heat-exchange connected to preheat the humidification water. The vaporization section 22 is used to reheat the humidification water to vaporize it.

[0049] It is understood that the heat exchange system 100 proposed in the technical solution of the present invention includes a refrigerant circulation pipe 10 for circulating refrigerant and a humidification pipe 20 for circulating humidification water. The humidification pipe 20 includes a heat exchange section 21 and a vaporization section 22 arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the humidification water. The heat exchange section 21 and the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 are at least partially heat-exchange connected, thereby enabling heat exchange between the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 and the humidification pipe 20. In this way, heat transfer between the refrigerant and the humidification water can be achieved first through the heat exchange section 21 to preheat the humidification water, and then the humidification water can be further heated and vaporized through the vaporization section 22. Since the energy conversion efficiency of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 is higher than that of the humidification module, the method of using the heat energy in the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 to heat the humidification water has lower energy consumption, realizing the rational use of heat energy in the heat exchange system 100, thereby helping to reduce the overall energy consumption of the heat exchange system 100 and achieving energy saving.

[0050] In this embodiment, the heat exchange section 21 includes a heat exchange module for achieving heat exchange connection between the heat exchange section 21 and at least a portion of the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10. In practical applications, the heat exchange module can specifically be a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, such as a coaxial heat exchanger. The coaxial heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel formed inside, which are spaced apart to allow humidification water and refrigerant to flow through them respectively. This allows the refrigerant and humidification water to flow through the coaxial heat exchanger simultaneously. When the temperature of the refrigerant is higher than the temperature of the humidification water, the refrigerant can exchange heat with the humidification water, thereby raising the temperature of the humidification water and achieving a preheating effect.

[0051] In practical applications, the heat exchange module can also be a regenerative heat exchanger. The heat storage material in the regenerative heat exchanger can absorb the heat from the high-temperature refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 to store energy, and use the stored heat to preheat the humidification water. In practical applications, the heat exchanger can also be a fluid-connected indirect heat exchanger, etc., without specific limitations.

[0052] In this embodiment, the vaporization unit 22 includes a heating module. In practical applications, the heating module can be an electric heating humidifier, which can heat the humidification water by converting electrical energy into heat energy, thereby causing the water to boil and turn into water vapor.

[0053] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 includes a heat-conducting pipe 11 for circulating refrigerant; the heat exchange section 21 includes a heat exchange pipe, which is sleeved on at least part of the heat-conducting pipe 11 and forms a liquid passage with the heat-conducting pipe 11 for circulating humidifying water so that the humidifying water absorbs heat from the refrigerant.

[0054] In this embodiment, the shell-and-tube heat exchanger includes a heat-conducting tube 11 and a heat exchange tube sleeved on the heat-conducting tube 11. A first flow channel is formed inside the heat-conducting tube 11, and a second flow channel is formed between the heat exchange tube and the heat-conducting tube 11. The first and second flow channels are spaced apart and used for the flow of humidifying water and refrigerant, respectively. Furthermore, by sleeved on the heat-conducting tube 11, the humidifying water can be enveloped around the refrigerant during the heat absorption process of heat exchange. This helps to prevent heat from the high-temperature refrigerant from escaping to the external environment and ensures the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the humidifying water.

[0055] It should be noted that, under the regulation of using high-temperature refrigerant in refrigerant circulation pipe 10 to preheat humidifying water in humidifying pipe 20, by limiting the amount of humidifying water used for heat exchange per unit time to be less than the amount of refrigerant, excessive heat loss of high-temperature refrigerant due to heat exchange can be avoided. This can reduce the impact of the heat exchange process between refrigerant circulation pipe 10 and humidifying pipe 20 on the heat exchange process of refrigerant circulation pipe 10 itself, so that refrigerant circulation pipe 10 of heat exchange system 100 can normally realize heating and / or cooling functions.

[0056] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present invention, the heat pipe 11 includes a plurality of first sub-pipes arranged side by side, the plurality of first sub-pipes being arranged at intervals in sequence, and the plurality of first sub-pipes being arranged in series end to end in sequence; the heat exchange pipe includes a plurality of second sub-pipes arranged side by side, each second sub-pipe being sleeved on a first sub-pipe, and the plurality of second sub-pipes being arranged in series end to end in sequence.

[0057] This configuration allows for heat exchange connections between several first sub-pipes and several second sub-pipes, enabling sufficient heat exchange between the refrigerant and the humidifying water, thus ensuring the preheating effect of the high-temperature refrigerant on the humidifying water.

[0058] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 includes a compressor 12 and a four-way valve 13 connected in sequence. At least a portion of the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 is connected in series between the compressor 12 and the four-way valve 13 and is connected to the heat exchange section 21 for heat exchange.

[0059] In this embodiment, the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 includes a compressor 12 and a four-way valve 13. The exhaust port of the compressor 12 is connected to the first end of the four-way valve 13, and the return port of the compressor 12 is connected to the second end of the four-way valve 13.

[0060] In this embodiment, the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 also includes an indoor heat exchanger and an outdoor heat exchanger. One end of the indoor heat exchanger 14 is connected to the third end of the four-way valve 13, and the other end is connected to a throttling device. One end of the outdoor heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve 13, and the other end is connected to a throttling device. In this way, the compressor 12, the four-way valve 13, the indoor heat exchanger, and the outdoor heat exchanger can be connected to form the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10, so that the refrigerant can circulate in the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10.

[0061] Optionally, the air conditioner has a heating mode and a cooling mode. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flows from the exhaust port of the compressor 12 in the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 to the four-way valve 13, and then flows sequentially through the outdoor heat exchanger 15, the throttling device, and the indoor heat exchanger 14, so that it successively condenses and releases heat and absorbs heat through the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and the indoor heat exchanger 14, and finally flows back to the return port of the compressor 12 through the four-way valve 13.

[0062] In heating mode, the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 can be reversed by the four-way valve 13. After the four-way valve 13 is reversed, the refrigerant flows from the exhaust port of the compressor 12 to the four-way valve 13, and then flows through the indoor heat exchanger 14, the throttling device and the outdoor heat exchanger 15 in sequence, so as to condense and release heat and evaporate and absorb heat in sequence through the indoor heat exchanger 14 and the outdoor heat exchanger 15, and finally flows back to the return port of the compressor 12 through the four-way valve 13.

[0063] It should be noted that, since the refrigerant circulation pipe 10, which is connected to the heat exchange section 21, is connected in series between the compressor 12 and the four-way valve 13, in both heating and cooling modes, this part of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 is used to circulate high-temperature refrigerant to exchange heat with the humidifying water in the humidifying pipe 20. This allows the air conditioner to preheat the humidifying water through the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 in both heating and cooling modes, thereby achieving energy-saving effects.

[0064] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature detection module 221 is provided at one end of the vaporization section 22 facing the heat exchange section 21 for detecting the liquid temperature of the humidification water.

[0065] This configuration allows for real-time monitoring of the humidifying water temperature entering the vaporization section 22, preventing damage to components such as the heating module of the vaporization section 22 due to excessively high water temperature. Furthermore, by monitoring the humidifying water temperature in real time, the heating efficiency of the humidifying water in the humidification pipeline 20 can be increased when the water temperature is low, thus achieving a better preheating effect.

[0066] As examples, when the temperature of the humidifying water is low, the flow rate of the humidifying water in the humidifying pipe 20 can be reduced to ensure that the humidifying water in the humidifying pipe 20 is fully heated, thereby increasing the heating rate of the humidifying water. Conversely, when the temperature of the humidifying water is high, the flow rate of the humidifying water in the humidifying pipe 20 can be increased to slow down the heating rate of the humidifying water.

[0067] As examples, when the liquid temperature of the humidifying water is low, the heating efficiency of the humidifying water can be improved by increasing the refrigerant flow rate of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10; correspondingly, when the liquid temperature of the humidifying water is low, the heating rate of the humidifying water can be slowed down by reducing the refrigerant flow rate of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10.

[0068] As examples, when the liquid temperature of the humidifying water is low, the temperature of the refrigerant used for heat exchange can be increased by increasing the exhaust temperature of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the humidifying water; correspondingly, when the liquid temperature of the humidifying water is low, the temperature of the refrigerant used for heat exchange can be reduced by decreasing the exhaust temperature of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10, thereby slowing down the heating rate of the humidifying water.

[0069] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present invention, the humidification pipeline 20 further includes a liquid inlet section 23, which is connected in series upstream of the heat exchange section 21; the liquid inlet section 23 includes a control pump 231, which can be turned on and off to control the humidification pipeline 20 to be open or closed.

[0070] With this configuration, humidifying water can be pumped by the control pump 231, and the on / off state of the humidifying pipeline 20 can be controlled by turning the control pump 231 on and off. Specifically, when the control pump 231 is turned on, the humidifying pipeline 20 is in a conductive state, and the humidifying water flows sequentially in the heat exchange section 21 and the vaporization section 22; when the control pump 231 is turned off, the humidifying pipeline 20 is in an isolated state.

[0071] Optionally, the humidification water flow rate in the humidification pipeline 20 can be controlled by controlling the ratio of the time the pump 231 is turned on and off within a unit of time.

[0072] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid inlet section 23 further includes a liquid inlet module 232, which is connected in series upstream of the control pump 231. The liquid inlet module 232 includes a water supply tank, which is connected to the control pump 231. The water supply tank is equipped with a water level detection mechanism and a water quality detection mechanism for detecting the water level and water quality of the humidification water, respectively.

[0073] This setup allows for monitoring of the water level in the supply tank via a water level detection device, ensuring sufficient humidification water is available to enable the air conditioner's humidification function. Additionally, a water quality testing agency can monitor the water quality in the supply tank to prevent excessive levels of calcium and magnesium ions in the humidification water.

[0074] Please see Figure 2 In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid inlet module 232 includes a water supply pipe, which is connected to a purifier and a control pump 231.

[0075] This setup allows the purifier to clean the humidification water supplied by the water supply pipe, thus preventing the calcium and magnesium ion content in the humidification water from exceeding the standard.

[0076] As examples, the water supply pipe can be directly connected to an external water source, thereby continuously supplying water to the humidification pipeline through the external water source.

[0077] The present invention also proposes an air conditioner, which includes a heat exchange system 100. The specific structure of the heat exchange system 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the air conditioner adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here. The heat exchange system 100 includes an indoor heat exchange part and an outdoor heat exchange part, and the vaporization part 22 of the heat exchange system 100 is disposed in the indoor heat exchange part.

[0078] Alternatively, the air conditioner can be a ducted air conditioner, a wall-mounted air conditioner, or a floor-standing air conditioner.

[0079] In an embodiment of the present invention, the indoor heat exchange section includes a housing (not shown) and a fan (not shown). The housing is provided with an air outlet. The fan is located inside the housing and is spaced apart from the air outlet for blowing air toward the air outlet. The vaporization section 22 includes a heating module located inside the housing and is provided with a steam outlet located between the air outlet and the fan for outputting steam to the air delivery path of the fan.

[0080] In this embodiment, the housing is the housing of the indoor unit of the air conditioner, and the fan and heating module are both integrated inside the housing of the indoor unit. With this configuration, the heating module can generate steam after reheating the humidifying water, and the steam can be output through the steam outlet of the heating module in the direction of the fan's airflow path. In this way, the steam can be delivered to the indoor environment where the indoor unit is located by the fan to achieve the function of humidifying the indoor environment.

[0081] Furthermore, compared to the technical solution of placing the heating module of the humidification pipe 20 outside the casing of the air conditioner indoor unit, first transporting steam to the air conditioner indoor unit through the steam delivery pipe, and then sending it into the indoor environment through the air outlet of the indoor unit, the technical solution of the present invention adopts the method of integrating the heating module inside the air conditioner indoor unit, which can effectively shorten the transport path between the steam and the air outlet, thereby helping to reduce the risk of steam condensation during the transport process, thus ensuring the humidification effect of the air conditioner.

[0082] Optionally, the indoor heat exchange section also includes a drip tray, located below the steam outlet of the heating module. This design allows condensate generated at the heating module to accumulate in the drip tray, preventing direct dripping and potential safety hazards.

[0083] Please see Figure 3 Furthermore, this invention also proposes a humidification method for a heat exchange system 100. The specific structure of the heat exchange system 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the humidification method of this heat exchange system 100 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0084] The humidification method of the heat exchange system 100 includes the following steps:

[0085] S10. Control the humidification pipeline 20 to open and obtain the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet end of the vaporization section 22.

[0086] Optionally, a control pump 231 may be installed on the humidification pipeline 20, and the control pump 231 may be located upstream of the heat exchange section 21. By switching the on and off states of the control pump 231, the conduction or disconnection of the humidification pipeline 20 can be controlled accordingly.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present invention, the working modes of the air conditioner include manual humidification mode, automatic humidification mode, etc., and the heat exchange system 100 can control the humidification pipeline 20 to be opened or closed according to the corresponding working mode.

[0088] In manual humidification mode, the steps for "controlling the humidification pipe 20 to be turned on" include:

[0089] When the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 is turned on, the humidification pipeline 20 is connected, and the humidification water flows through the heat exchange section 21 and the vaporization section 22 of the humidification pipeline 20 in sequence, so as to preheat and reheat the humidification water through the heat exchange section 21 and the vaporization section 22.

[0090] In automatic humidification mode, the steps for "controlling the humidification pipe 20 to be turned on" include:

[0091] The preset humidity range is determined based on the preset humidity, and the ambient humidity of the indoor environment is obtained at preset intervals.

[0092] As some examples, the preset humidity is defined as X, the minimum threshold value of the preset humidity range is X1, and the maximum threshold value of the preset temperature range is X2, satisfying: X1 = X - 5%, X2 = X + 5%.

[0093] When the indoor ambient humidity is less than the minimum threshold of the preset humidity range, the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 is turned on. At this time, the humidification pipeline 20 is open, and the humidification water flows through the heat exchange section 21 and the vaporization section 22 of the humidification pipeline 20 in sequence. The heat exchange section 21 and the vaporization section 22 preheat and reheat the humidification water in sequence, so as to realize the heating and vaporization function of the humidification water and improve the indoor ambient humidity.

[0094] When the ambient humidity of the indoor environment is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset humidity range, the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 is turned off. At this time, the humidification pipeline 20 is disconnected, and the heat exchange system 100 stops outputting moisture to the indoor environment.

[0095] With this setting, the heat exchange system 100 can be controlled to perform corresponding humidity adjustment operations in the automatic humidification mode, so that the indoor humidity can be kept within the preset humidity range, thereby avoiding excessively high or low air humidity, which could cause discomfort to users.

[0096] S20. Control the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range.

[0097] This configuration allows for control of the liquid flow rate in the humidification pipeline 20 based on the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet of the vaporization section 22. This can be achieved by increasing the liquid flow rate when the humidification water temperature is too high, thus reducing the heating efficiency and preventing damage to components in the humidification pipeline 20 due to excessively high water temperature; conversely, by reducing the liquid flow rate when the humidification water temperature is too low, thus improving the heating efficiency and ensuring proper preheating. This dynamic control of the liquid temperature in the humidification pipeline 20 better guarantees its normal operation and humidification effect.

[0098] In another embodiment of the present invention, the step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes:

[0099] When the liquid temperature is lower than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 is controlled to a first flow rate L1. With this setting, when the liquid temperature is lower than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, it means that the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet of the vaporization section 22 is too low. The vaporization section 22 of the heating pipeline needs to operate at a higher power to reheat and vaporize the humidification water to achieve the humidification function of the humidification pipeline 20. In this case, controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 to the first flow rate L1 allows the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 to be configured to a lower value. This allows the humidification water in the humidification pipeline 20 to fully exchange heat with at least part of the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 at the heat exchange section 21, thereby improving the preheating effect of the humidification water and shortening the vaporization time required for the humidification water at the heating module of the vaporization section 22.

[0100] In practical applications, the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 can be continuously turned on to keep the humidification pipeline 20 continuously open and maintain the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 at the first flow rate L1. Alternatively, the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 can be turned on intermittently to keep the humidification pipeline 20 intermittently open and maintain the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 at the first flow rate L1. The specific choice depends on the actual usage and is not specifically limited here.

[0101] When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, but less than the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 is controlled to a second flow rate L2, which is greater than the first flow rate L1. With this setting, when the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, but less than the maximum critical value, it means that the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet of the vaporization section 22 is already within the preset temperature range and close to the maximum critical value. The vaporization section 22 of the heating pipeline only needs to operate at a lower power setting to complete the secondary heating and vaporization of the humidification water, achieving energy savings. At this time, controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 to the second flow rate L2, and making the second flow rate L2 greater than the first flow rate L1, can to some extent reduce the heating efficiency of the humidification water and lower the risk of the humidification water temperature exceeding the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range.

[0102] In practical applications, the control pump 231 on the humidification pipeline 20 can be intermittently turned on to make the humidification pipeline 20 intermittently conductive and to make the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 the second flow rate L2. Specifically, the specific value of the second flow rate L2 can be adjusted by controlling the proportion of the conductive time of the humidification pipeline 20 per unit time.

[0103] When the liquid temperature exceeds or equals the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the humidification pipeline 20 is shut off, and the liquid flow rate in the humidification pipeline 20 becomes zero. This setting means that when the liquid temperature exceeds or equals the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid temperature at the inlet of the vaporization section 22 is too high, posing a risk of damage to components such as the heating module in the humidification pipeline 20. In this situation, shutting off the humidification pipeline 20 and reducing the liquid flow rate to zero prevents the high-temperature humidification water from flowing into components such as the heating module, thus extending the service life of the humidification pipeline 20.

[0104] In one embodiment of the present invention, the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range is defined as T1, and the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range is defined as T2. Specifically, the minimum critical value T1 of the preset temperature range can be 30°C, and the maximum critical value T2 of the preset temperature range satisfies: 70°C ≤ T2 ≤ 80°C.

[0105] This configuration, by controlling the minimum liquid temperature of the humidifying water to be equal to or close to 30°C, avoids the humidifying water temperature after preheating being too low, which would increase the power demand of the heating module of the vaporization section 22. By controlling the maximum liquid temperature of the humidifying water between 70°C and 80°C, it avoids the humidifying water temperature after preheating being too high, which could lead to the risk of damage to the components of the humidifying pipeline 20 due to overheating of the humidifying water.

[0106] As some examples, the maximum critical value T2 of the preset temperature range can be 70℃, 72℃, 74℃, 76℃, 78℃, 80℃, etc.

[0107] In another embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange system 100 is defined to have a target humidification amount h, the first flow rate L1 satisfies the relationship: h / 2≤L1<h; the second flow rate L2 satisfies the relationship: L2=h.

[0108] In this embodiment, when the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, and less than the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the first flow rate L1 of the humidification pipeline 20 is controlled to satisfy: h / 2 ≤ L1 < h. This setting prevents the first flow rate from being too high, which would affect the heat exchange effect between the humidification water and at least part of the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10. Simultaneously, it prevents the first flow rate from being too low, which would result in insufficient humidification of the heat exchange system 100 and affect the humidification effect.

[0109] When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, and less than the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the second flow rate L2 of the humidification pipeline 20 is controlled to satisfy: L2 = h. This setting ensures that the humidification capacity of the heat exchange system 100 meets the target requirements while mitigating the heating efficiency of the humidification water and reducing the risk of the humidification water temperature exceeding the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, thus guaranteeing the humidification effect of the heat exchange system 100.

[0110] Please see Figure 4 In another embodiment of the present invention, the step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline 20 according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes:

[0111] S30. When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve of the refrigerant circulation pipeline 10 is controlled to be the preset opening degree.

[0112] This setting allows the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 to have a preset exhaust temperature Tp, at which point the temperature of the refrigerant used for heat exchange with the humidification pipe 20 in the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 meets the target requirements.

[0113] As some examples, the refrigerant circulation line 10 has a preset exhaust temperature Tp that satisfies: Tp≤105℃, and the preset exhaust temperature Tp can be 95℃, 97℃, 99℃, 101℃, 103℃, 105℃, etc.

[0114] S40. When the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve is reduced compared to the preset opening degree.

[0115] With this setting, when the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the exhaust temperature Tp of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 can be increased by reducing the opening of the electronic valve. At this time, the temperature of the refrigerant used for heat exchange with the humidification pipe 20 in the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 will increase accordingly, which is beneficial to improving the preheating effect of the refrigerant circulation pipe 10 on the humidification water.

[0116] As some examples, when the electronic expansion valve decreases compared to the preset opening, the maximum increase in the exhaust temperature Tp of the refrigerant circulation line 10 is defined as Tx, and the maximum increase in temperature Tx satisfies: Tp = 10℃.

[0117] The above are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the technical concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A heat exchange system applied to an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: Refrigerant circulation piping is used for refrigerant circulation; and A humidification pipeline is used for the circulation of humidification water. The humidification pipeline includes a heat exchange section and a vaporization section arranged sequentially along the circulation direction of the humidification water. The heat exchange section is at least partially heat-exchange connected to the refrigerant circulation pipeline to preheat the humidification water. The vaporization section is used to reheat the humidification water to heat and vaporize the humidification water.

2. The heat exchange system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant circulation pipeline includes a heat-conducting pipe for circulating the refrigerant; The heat exchange section includes a heat exchange tube, which is sleeved on at least a portion of the heat-conducting tube and forms a liquid passage with the heat-conducting tube for circulating the humidifying water so that the humidifying water absorbs heat from the refrigerant.

3. The heat exchange system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The heat pipe includes a plurality of first sub-pipes arranged side by side, the plurality of first sub-pipes arranged at intervals in sequence, and the plurality of first sub-pipes arranged in series end to end in sequence. The heat exchange tube includes several second sub-pipes arranged side by side, each second sub-pipe being sleeved on a first sub-pipe, and the several second sub-pipes being connected in series end to end.

4. The heat exchange system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The refrigerant circulation pipeline includes a compressor and a four-way valve connected in sequence. At least a portion of the refrigerant circulation pipeline is connected in series between the compressor and the four-way valve, and is connected to the heat exchange section for heat exchange.

5. The heat exchange system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The vaporization section is equipped with a temperature detection module at one end facing the heat exchange section, which is used to detect the liquid temperature of the humidification water.

6. The heat exchange system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The humidification pipeline also includes a liquid inlet section, which is connected in series upstream of the heat exchange section; The liquid inlet section includes a control pump, which can be turned on and off to control the opening or closing of the humidification pipeline.

7. The heat exchange system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The liquid inlet section further includes a liquid inlet module, which is connected in series upstream of the control pump; The liquid inlet module includes a water supply pipe, which is connected to the control pump via a purifier; or, the liquid inlet module includes a water supply tank, which is connected to the control pump, and the water supply tank is equipped with a water level detection mechanism and a water quality detection mechanism for detecting the water level and water quality of the humidification water, respectively.

8. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The heat exchange system includes any one of claims 1 to 7, the heat exchange system comprising an indoor heat exchange section and an outdoor heat exchange section, wherein the vaporization section of the heat exchange system is disposed in the indoor heat exchange section.

9. The air conditioner as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The indoor heat exchange section includes: Housing, the housing being provided with an air outlet; and A fan is disposed inside the housing and spaced apart from the air outlet, for blowing air toward the air outlet; The vaporization section includes a heating module located inside the housing and has a steam outlet located between the air outlet and the fan, for outputting steam to the air delivery path of the fan.

10. A humidification method for a heat exchange system as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The steps of the humidification method include: Control the humidification pipeline to obtain the liquid temperature of the humidification water at the inlet end of the vaporization section; The liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range.

11. The humidification method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes: When the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled to be the first flow rate L1; When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range and less than the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is controlled to be the second flow rate L2, which is greater than the first flow rate L1. When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the maximum critical value of the preset temperature range, the humidification pipeline is shut off, and the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline is zero.

12. The humidification method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The heat exchange system is defined to have a target humidification capacity h, and the first flow rate L1 satisfies the relationship: h / 2≤L1<h; The second flow rate L2 satisfies the relationship: L2 = h.

13. The humidification method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The step of "controlling the liquid flow rate of the humidification pipeline according to the relationship between the liquid temperature and the preset temperature range" includes: When the liquid temperature is greater than or equal to the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve of the refrigerant circulation pipeline is controlled to be the preset opening degree. When the liquid temperature is less than the minimum critical value of the preset temperature range, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve is reduced compared to the preset opening degree.

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