Control method, control device, air conditioner and storage medium

Abstract

The invention discloses a control method, a control device, an air conditioner and a storage medium. The air conditioner comprises a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a control valve, an indoor heat exchanger and an indoor fan, the four-way valve is connected with the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger, and the control valve is located on the refrigerant upstream of the indoor heat exchanger; the control method comprises the steps that under the condition that the air conditioner is started, the indoor fan and the compressor are controlled to operate, and the control valve is controlled to be switched on; and according to the shutdown instruction, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset duration and then is closed, and the control valve is controlled to be switched off to reduce the refrigerant amount on the indoor side. According to the control method of the air conditioner, the refrigerant amount on the indoor side can be reduced to a certain extent through the running compressor, and meanwhile the refrigerant amount on the indoor side is increased by preventing or hindering the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side to a certain extent through the control valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a control method, control device, air conditioner, and computer storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, air conditioners use flammable refrigerant. Over prolonged use, refrigerant leaks may occur on the indoor side. When the air conditioner is running, the leaked refrigerant is dispersed by the indoor fan to prevent it from accumulating beyond the flammable concentration. However, when the air conditioner is in standby mode, the refrigerant on the indoor side may accumulate and exceed the flammable concentration. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides a control method, a control device, an air conditioner, and a computer storage medium to solve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0004] This invention provides a control method for an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a control valve, an indoor heat exchanger, and an indoor fan. The four-way valve is connected to the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, and the outdoor heat exchanger. The control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger.

[0005] The control method includes:

[0006] When the air conditioner is turned on, the indoor fan and the compressor are controlled to operate and the control valve is activated.

[0007] According to the shutdown command, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut down, and the control valve is controlled to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0008] In the above-mentioned air conditioner control method, when the air conditioner is turned on, controlling the operation of the indoor fan and compressor and the opening of the control valve can prevent the refrigerant leaking indoors from accumulating under the action of the indoor fan, thereby reducing the risk of refrigerant flammability to a certain extent. After receiving the shutdown command, according to the shutdown command, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut down, and the control valve is controlled to open. The running compressor can reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side to a certain extent, while the control valve can prevent or hinder the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side to a certain extent, thereby increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0009] In some implementations, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shut down according to a shutdown command, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side, includes:

[0010] According to the shutdown command, the control valve is kept on for a second preset time and then disconnected, or;

[0011] Upon receiving the shutdown command, the control valve is immediately disconnected.

[0012] In some implementations, controlling the control valve to remain on for a second preset time and then disconnect according to the shutdown command includes:

[0013] According to the shutdown command, the control valve is controlled to reduce its opening and remain open for a second preset time before being disconnected.

[0014] In some implementations, the first preset duration is related to the compressor's suction pressure, discharge temperature, and / or operating duration after receiving the shutdown command.

[0015] In some embodiments, the control valve is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger; when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger.

[0016] According to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side include:

[0017] Upon receiving the shutdown command, if the current mode of the air conditioner is heating mode, control the air conditioner to switch to cooling mode, then control the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shut it off, and control the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0018] In some embodiments, the control valve is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the four-way valve; when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger.

[0019] According to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side include:

[0020] Upon receiving a shutdown command, if the current mode of the air conditioner is cooling mode, the air conditioner is switched to heating mode. Then, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off. The control valve is also controlled to immediately disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0021] In some embodiments, the control valve disconnects at a time no later than the compressor shuts off, or the control valve disconnects at a time later than the compressor shuts off.

[0022] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a one-way valve connected to the compressor, the one-way valve being configured to prevent refrigerant backflow to the compressor or the four-way valve.

[0023] In some implementations, the control valve is located on the side closer to the indoor heat exchanger.

[0024] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a low-pressure tank connected to the four-way valve and the compressor.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the disconnection time of the control valve is later than the shutdown time of the compressor, the difference between the second preset duration and the first preset duration is less than or equal to the safe duration, which is determined based on the maximum allowable leakage amount indoors, the total refrigerant amount, the longest time for complete refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient, the internal volume between the control valve (in the reduced opening state) and the check valve, and the internal volume of the air conditioner.

[0026] One embodiment of the control device of the present invention includes:

[0027] Processor, and;

[0028] A memory storing a computer program, which, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0029] In the aforementioned control device, the memory can store a computer program for implementing the aforementioned control method, so that the processor can execute the steps of the aforementioned control method according to the computer program. This allows the refrigerant quantity on the indoor side to be reduced to a certain extent by the operating compressor, while the refrigerant quantity on the indoor side is increased to a certain extent by the control valve preventing or hindering the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side.

[0030] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the control device described in the above embodiment.

[0031] In the aforementioned air conditioner, the control device controls the operation of the air conditioner, enabling the air conditioner to achieve the aforementioned control method. This allows the operating compressor to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side to a certain extent, while simultaneously increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side by controlling the valve to a certain extent to prevent or hinder the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side.

[0032] The present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0033] In the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium, the computer-readable storage medium can store a computer program, thereby enabling the memory to store a computer program for implementing the aforementioned control method, so that the processor can execute the steps of the aforementioned control method according to the computer program, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side to a certain extent by operating the compressor, while increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side by controlling the valve to a certain extent to prevent or hinder the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side.

[0034] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:

[0036] Figures 1 to 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figures 7 to 11 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Explanation of key component reference numerals:

[0039] Air conditioner 100, control device 2, memory 21, processor 22, compressor 101, four-way valve 102, indoor heat exchanger 103, control valve 104, outdoor heat exchanger 105, indoor fan 106, one-way valve 107, low-pressure tank 108, first throttling component 109, on / off valve 110, outdoor fan 111, second throttling component 112. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0041] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0042] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0043] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0044] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0045] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments 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 the embodiments of the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] Please see Figure 1 This invention provides a control method for an air conditioner 100. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 7 The air conditioner 100 includes a compressor 101, a four-way valve 102, an outdoor heat exchanger 105, a control valve 104, an indoor heat exchanger 103, and an indoor fan 106. The four-way valve 102 is connected to the compressor 101, the indoor heat exchanger 103, and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. The control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0048] Control methods include:

[0049] Step S01: When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, control the indoor fan 106 and compressor 101 to run and control valve 104 to open.

[0050] In step S03, according to the shutdown command, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut down, and the control valve 104 is controlled to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0051] Specifically, an air conditioner 100 is a device used to regulate indoor air temperature, humidity, and circulation, typically providing cooling, heating, and / or dehumidification functions. It achieves these functions through refrigerant circulation and heat exchange, making the indoor environment more comfortable. The air conditioner 100 may include a compressor 101, a four-way valve 102, an outdoor heat exchanger 105, a control valve 104, an indoor heat exchanger 103, and an indoor fan 106. Optionally, the air conditioner 100 can be a modular air conditioner or a split-type air conditioner. A split-type air conditioner consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, with the indoor unit installed indoors and the outdoor unit installed outdoors, connected by pipes and wires. A modular air conditioner integrates the indoor and outdoor units into one unit, with one part located indoors and the other outdoors.

[0052] Compressor 101 is a device for increasing gas pressure and temperature, capable of drawing in low-pressure, low-temperature gas and compressing it into high-pressure, high-temperature gas. Optionally, compressor 101 may include, but is not limited to, a positive displacement compressor or a dynamic compressor.

[0053] The four-way valve 102 is a reversing valve used to change the flow direction of refrigerant in the air conditioner 100. When the air conditioner 100 is in different modes, the four-way valve 102 will guide the refrigerant to different circulations to achieve the function of different modes.

[0054] A heat exchanger is a device used to exchange heat, transferring heat from one object (or fluid) to another. Optionally, a heat exchanger may include, but is not limited to, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, plate heat exchangers, spiral plate heat exchangers, tubular heat exchangers, or finned tube heat exchangers.

[0055] The indoor fan 106 can convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, and then drive the air flow through the fan blades, thereby sending the indoor airflow into the indoor heat exchanger 103, so that the airflow flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 103 becomes cold or hot air and is delivered to every corner of the room.

[0056] Control valve 104 is a valve used to control the flow rate of a fluid (gas, liquid, or mixture). Optionally, in one embodiment, control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110 and a first throttling element 109. In one embodiment, control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110. The on / off valve 110 can be used to control the flow and cut-off of the fluid, and the first throttling element 109 can be used to regulate the flow rate of the fluid.

[0057] The four-way valve 102 connects the compressor 101, the indoor heat exchanger 103, and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, the compressor 101 converts the low-pressure, low-temperature gaseous refrigerant into a high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant, and delivers it to the indoor heat exchanger 103 or the outdoor heat exchanger 105 through the four-way valve 102.

[0058] The shutdown command is a command sent to the air conditioner 100 to instruct it to stop operating. Optionally, the user can send the shutdown command to the air conditioner 100 by pressing the "on / off" button on the remote control, pressing the wall switch, using a mobile app, voice assistant, or by pre-setting the shutdown time.

[0059] In one implementation, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. Figure 9In the embodiment described, control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110 and a first throttling component 109. When the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, control valve 104 is open, and four-way valve 102 delivers the high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant output from compressor 101 to outdoor heat exchanger 105 (condenser). Inside the condenser, the gaseous refrigerant exchanges heat with outdoor air, releasing heat and condensing into high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Subsequently, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant is throttled through the first throttling component 109 of control valve 104, causing a sudden pressure drop, becoming low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters indoor heat exchanger 103 (evaporator). Inside the evaporator, the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air and vaporizes into low-pressure, low-temperature gaseous refrigerant. Simultaneously, indoor fan 106 draws in indoor air and forces it through the evaporator surface. The air exchanges heat with the evaporator surface, lowering its temperature and forming cold air. Cool air is delivered into the room through the air outlet of the indoor fan 106 to achieve the purpose of cooling. The low-pressure, low-temperature gaseous refrigerant is drawn back into the compressor 101, and the cycle is repeated to complete the refrigeration cycle. Figure 9 The control valve 104 of the embodiment can be applied to Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the control valve 104 of the embodiment.

[0060] Understandably, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this context, the control valve 104 can be a valve with throttling and on / off functions, or the control valve 104 can include an on / off valve 110 to achieve on / off functions and a first throttling component 109 to achieve throttling functions.

[0061] In one implementation, please refer to Figure 10The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102, and includes an on / off valve 110. Correspondingly, the air conditioner 100 includes a second throttling component 112, which is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. When the air conditioner 100 is in heating mode, the on / off valve 110 is open, and the four-way valve 102 delivers the high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant output from the compressor 101 to the indoor heat exchanger 103 (condenser). Inside the condenser, the gaseous refrigerant exchanges heat with the indoor air, releasing heat and condensing into high-pressure liquid refrigerant. At the same time, the indoor fan 106 draws in indoor air and forces it through the condenser surface. The air exchanges heat with the condenser surface, its temperature rises, and hot air is formed. The hot air is then delivered into the room through the outlet of the indoor fan 106 to achieve the purpose of heating. Subsequently, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant is throttled by the second throttling component 112, causing a sharp drop in pressure and transforming it into a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant. This low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 105 (evaporator). Inside the evaporator, the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air and vaporizes into a low-pressure, low-temperature gaseous refrigerant. This low-pressure, low-temperature gaseous refrigerant is then drawn back into the compressor 101, and the cycle repeats, completing the heating cycle.

[0062] Understandable, Figure 10 The cooling process of the air conditioner 100 shown can be referenced. Figures 7 to 9 The cooling process of the air conditioner 100 shown.

[0063] Understandable, Figures 7 to 9 The heating process of the air conditioner 100 shown can be referenced. Figure 10 The heating process of the air conditioner 100 shown.

[0064] It should be noted that, in Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110, located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102; that is, the on / off valve 110 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. Correspondingly, the air conditioner 100 includes a second throttling component 112, located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. The second throttling component 112 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant flowing to the evaporator (the indoor heat exchanger 103 is the evaporator when the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, and the outdoor heat exchanger 105 is the evaporator when the air conditioner 100 is in heating mode), allowing the refrigerant to evaporate in the evaporator to achieve heat exchange.

[0065] In related technologies, air conditioners use flammable refrigerant. Over prolonged use, refrigerant leaks may occur on the indoor side. When the air conditioner is running, the leaked refrigerant is dispersed by the indoor fan to prevent it from accumulating beyond the flammable concentration. However, when the air conditioner is in standby mode, the refrigerant on the indoor side may accumulate and exceed the flammable concentration.

[0066] In this embodiment of the invention, the air conditioner 100 includes a control valve 104, which is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103. When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, it controls the indoor fan 106 and compressor 101 to operate and the control valve 104 to be open. That is, when the air conditioner 100 is turned on, it operates normally, and the refrigerant circulates within the air conditioner 100 according to the mode of the air conditioner 100 to achieve the functions of different modes. After receiving a shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time and then shuts it off, and controls the control valve 104 to open to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0067] In one implementation, controlling the control valve 104 to disconnect can mean controlling the on / off valve 110 to disconnect.

[0068] It is understandable that, in the actual use of the air conditioner 100, there may be a need for a delayed disconnection of the control valve 104. Therefore, after the air conditioner 100 receives the shutdown command, it enters standby mode and can immediately control the control valve 104 to disconnect, or control the opening of the control valve 104 to decrease and keep it conducting for a period of time before disconnecting.

[0069] In one embodiment, controlling the opening of control valve 104 to decrease and keep it open can mean controlling the first throttling component 109 to limit the flow of refrigerant upstream of indoor heat exchanger 103 while controlling the on / off valve 110 to open.

[0070] It should be noted that the delayed disconnection of control valve 104 can be used to protect the system or prevent problems such as liquid slugging or pipe rupture. When the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, keeping control valve 104 open for a period of time before disconnecting can balance system pressure and prevent condensation.

[0071] It is understandable that disconnecting control valve 104 prevents refrigerant from flowing from the outdoor side to the indoor side. Control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in indoor heat exchanger 103, which means that when air conditioner 100 is turned on, the refrigerant flows from the output port of compressor 101 through control valve 104 before flowing into indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0072] It should be noted that, in order to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side, in one embodiment, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, on the one hand, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off. That is, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, the compressor 101 continues to run and draws refrigerant from the indoor side through the inlet of the compressor 101. On the other hand, the control valve 104 is controlled to be disconnected immediately to cut off the flow of refrigerant from the outlet of the compressor 101 to the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0073] In one embodiment, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, on the one hand, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off. That is, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, the compressor 101 continues to run and draws refrigerant from the indoor side through the inlet of the compressor 101. On the other hand, the opening of the control valve 104 is reduced and it is turned on for a second preset time and then turned off to prevent the refrigerant from flowing from the outlet of the compressor 101 to the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0074] In one example, after receiving a shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode. During the early standby phase, the control valve 104 is depressed and activated for a second preset duration. This depressed valve restricts the refrigerant flow upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 103, preventing most of the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor heat exchanger 103. During the later standby phase, the control valve 104 is depressed, interrupting the refrigerant flow upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 103, thus preventing further refrigerant flow.

[0075] In summary, controlling the immediate disconnection of control valve 104 or reducing the opening degree of control valve 104 and conducting for a second preset time can reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side, so that even if refrigerant leaks on the indoor side, the amount of leaked refrigerant is relatively small.

[0076] It is understood that, in the embodiments of the present invention, the control valve 104 can be any component or combination of components that can isolate the refrigerant passage.

[0077] It is understandable that the air conditioner 100 can be in an on-state or a standby state. For the compressor 101, the standby state includes a first stage and a second stage. In the first standby stage, the compressor 101 is in an operating state, and in the second standby stage, the compressor 101 is in a closed state. For the control valve 104, the standby state includes an early stage and a late stage. In the early stage of standby, the control valve 104 is in a reduced-open and conducting state, and in the late stage of standby, the control valve 104 is in a closed state.

[0078] When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, each component of the air conditioner 100 can operate according to the current mode to achieve the corresponding function.

[0079] When the air conditioner 100 is in the first stage of standby mode, other components of the air conditioner 100 stop working while the compressor 101 continues to run to draw refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side. At this time, the control valve 104 can be in the off state or in the reduced opening and conducting state. When the air conditioner 100 is in the second stage of standby mode, the compressor 101 of the air conditioner 100 is turned off. At this time, the control valve 104 can be in the off state or in the reduced opening and conducting state.

[0080] When the air conditioner 100 is in the early standby phase, the control valve 104 is opened and closed, at which time the compressor 101 can be in either running or closed state. When the air conditioner 100 is in the late standby phase, the control valve 104 is closed, at which time the compressor 101 can be in either running or closed state.

[0081] Optionally, the duration of the initial standby phase can be equal to or unequal to the duration of the first standby stage, and the duration of the initial standby phase and the duration of the first standby stage can be greater than or equal to 0 seconds.

[0082] It should be noted that, in order to prevent refrigerant accumulation exceeding the flammable concentration, air conditioners of related technologies typically require a refrigerant sensor installed on the indoor side. In the air conditioner 100 of this embodiment, the refrigerant sensor can be omitted to reduce costs.

[0083] In the control method of the air conditioner 100 described above, when the air conditioner 100 is turned on, controlling the operation of the indoor fan 106 and the compressor 101 and the opening of the control valve 104 can prevent the refrigerant leaking indoors from accumulating under the action of the indoor fan 106, thereby reducing the risk of refrigerant flammability to a certain extent. Upon receiving a shutdown command, according to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve 104 to open, can reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side to a certain extent by the running compressor 101, while simultaneously increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side by preventing or hindering the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side through the control valve 104.

[0084] Optionally, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, the indoor fan 106 can be controlled to run for a period of time and then be turned off or turned off immediately.

[0085] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 2 Step S03 includes:

[0086] Step S031: According to the shutdown command, control valve 104 is kept on for a second preset time and then disconnected.

[0087] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 3 Step S03 includes:

[0088] In step S033, according to the shutdown command, the control valve 104 is immediately disconnected.

[0089] Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, after the air conditioner 100 receives a shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode. On the one hand, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time, and on the other hand, it controls the control valve 104 to either immediately disconnect or remain on for a second preset time before disconnecting.

[0090] like Figure 2 In one embodiment, in order to accommodate the requirements of the delayed disconnection control valve 104, after the air conditioner 100 receives the shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode. On the one hand, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time to draw refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side. On the other hand, in order to accommodate the requirements of the delayed disconnection control valve 104 and simultaneously prevent refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side, it controls the opening of the control valve 104 to be reduced and conduct for a second preset time to limit the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side.

[0091] like Figure 3 In one embodiment, after the air conditioner 100 receives a shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode. On the one hand, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time to draw refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side, and on the other hand, it immediately disconnects the control valve 104 to cut off the flow of refrigerant to the indoor side.

[0092] In the above embodiments, according to the shutdown command, the control valve 104 is kept on for a second preset time and then disconnected to meet the requirement of delayed disconnection of the control valve 104 and at the same time to block the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side. According to the shutdown command, the control valve 104 is immediately disconnected to cut off the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side, thereby preventing or hindering the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side to a certain extent and increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0093] In one implementation, controlling the control valve 104 to disconnect can mean controlling the on / off valve 110 to disconnect.

[0094] In one embodiment, controlling the opening of control valve 104 to decrease and keep it open can mean controlling the first throttling component 109 to limit the flow of refrigerant upstream of indoor heat exchanger 103 while controlling the on / off valve 110 to open.

[0095] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 4 Step S031 includes:

[0096] Step S0311: According to the shutdown command, control valve 104 is reduced in opening and kept on for a second preset time before being disconnected.

[0097] Specifically, after the air conditioner 100 receives the shutdown command, the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode. On the one hand, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time to draw refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side. On the other hand, in order to meet the requirements of the delayed disconnection control valve 104 and at the same time block the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side, it controls the control valve 104 to reduce its opening and conduct for a second preset time to limit the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side.

[0098] In the above embodiments, according to the shutdown command, the control valve 104 is kept on for a second preset time and then disconnected, which can meet the need for delayed disconnection of the control valve 104 and at the same time block the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side, thereby blocking the refrigerant from flowing to the indoor side to a certain extent and increasing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0099] In one implementation, controlling the control valve 104 to disconnect can mean controlling the on / off valve 110 to disconnect.

[0100] In one embodiment, controlling the opening of control valve 104 to decrease and keep it open can mean controlling the first throttling component 109 to limit the flow of refrigerant upstream of indoor heat exchanger 103 while controlling the on / off valve 110 to open.

[0101] In some implementations, the first preset duration is related to the suction pressure, discharge temperature, and / or duration of operation of the compressor 101 after receiving a shutdown command.

[0102] Specifically, the suction pressure of compressor 101 refers to the gas pressure at the input port of compressor 101, the discharge temperature refers to the gas temperature at the output port of compressor 101, and the duration of operation refers to the duration of operation of compressor 101 after air conditioner 100 enters standby mode.

[0103] In an embodiment of the present invention, after the air conditioner 100 enters standby mode, the compressor 101 is controlled to run until one of the following conditions is met: the suction pressure of the compressor 101 is less than or equal to a first set value, the exhaust temperature is greater than or equal to a second set value, and the duration of operation is greater than or equal to a third set value.

[0104] In one embodiment, during the first standby stage, as the compressor 101 draws refrigerant from the indoor side, the pressure at the inlet of the compressor 101 continuously decreases. When the suction pressure of the compressor 101 is less than or equal to a first set value, the air conditioner 100 is controlled to end the first stage and enter the second stage, whereby the compressor 101 is controlled to stop running.

[0105] In one embodiment, during the first standby stage, as the compressor 101 draws refrigerant from the indoor side, the temperature at the output port of the compressor 101 continues to rise. When the exhaust temperature of the compressor 101 is greater than or equal to a second set value, the air conditioner 100 is controlled to end the first stage and enter the second stage, and the compressor 101 is controlled to stop running.

[0106] In one implementation, during the standby first stage, when the compressor 101 is drawing refrigerant from the indoor side, if the duration of compressor 101's operation is greater than or equal to a third set value, the air conditioner 100 is controlled to end the first stage, and the air conditioner 100 enters the second stage, controlling the compressor 101 to stop running.

[0107] Optionally, the first, second, and third set values ​​are determined by the maximum allowable amount of refrigerant on the indoor side, and the air conditioner 100 can be pre-calibrated and stored through simulation, testing, or other means.

[0108] In the above embodiments, determining the first preset duration based on the suction pressure, exhaust temperature and / or operating duration of the compressor 101 can, to a certain extent, prevent damage to the compressor 101 while reducing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0109] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 5 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. When the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, the control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0110] Step S03 includes:

[0111] In step S03a, when a shutdown command is received, if the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is heating mode, the air conditioner 100 is switched to cooling mode. Then, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off, and the control valve 104 is controlled to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0112] Specifically, in one implementation, please refer to... Figures 7 to 9 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110 and a first throttling component 109. When the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, refrigerant flows from the outdoor heat exchanger 105 to the indoor heat exchanger 103. The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105, that is, in cooling mode, the control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0113] In one embodiment, the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is cooling mode. When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, the indoor fan 106 and the compressor 101 are running. Even if there is refrigerant leakage indoors, the refrigerant leakage indoors will not accumulate to a certain extent and cause flammability problems under the action of the indoor fan 106. After the air conditioner 100 receives the shutdown command, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time and then shuts it off to draw the refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side, and controls the control valve 104 to disconnect to limit or cut off the refrigerant upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 103, thereby reducing the refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0114] In this embodiment of the invention, when the air conditioner 100 is turned on, the indoor fan 106 operates. Even if there is refrigerant leakage indoors, the leaked refrigerant will not accumulate to a certain extent and cause flammability problems due to the action of the indoor fan 106. Upon receiving a shutdown command, when the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is heating mode, the air conditioner 100 is first switched to cooling mode, that is, the four-way valve 102 is controlled to change the flow direction of the refrigerant. Then, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off to draw the refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side. Additionally, the control valve 104 is controlled to open to limit or cut off the upstream refrigerant of the indoor heat exchanger 103, thereby reducing the refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. When the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is the heating mode, the air conditioner 100 is switched to the cooling mode. Then, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off. The control valve 104 is also controlled to disconnect, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant in the room to a certain extent and reducing the risk of refrigerant flammability. In this way, the refrigerant sensor can be omitted to reduce costs, while avoiding the safety risks caused by excessive concentration of leaked refrigerant in the room to a certain extent.

[0116] In one implementation, controlling the control valve 104 to disconnect can mean controlling the on / off valve 110 to disconnect.

[0117] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 10 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. When the air conditioner 100 is in heating mode, the control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0118] Step S03 includes:

[0119] In step S03b, upon receiving a shutdown command, when the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is cooling mode, the air conditioner 100 is switched to heating mode. Then, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off, and the control valve 104 is controlled to immediately disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0120] Specifically, in one implementation, please refer to... Figure 10 The control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110, which is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. In other words, the on / off valve 110 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. When the air conditioner 100 is in heating mode, refrigerant flows from the four-way valve 102 to the indoor heat exchanger 103. The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102; that is, in heating mode, the control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0121] In one embodiment, the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is the heating mode. When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, the indoor fan 106 and the compressor 101 are running. Even if there is refrigerant leakage indoors, the refrigerant leakage indoors will not accumulate to a certain extent and cause flammability problems under the action of the indoor fan 106. After the air conditioner 100 receives the shutdown command, it controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time and then shuts it off, and controls the control valve 104 to disconnect immediately.

[0122] In this embodiment of the invention, when the air conditioner 100 is turned on, the indoor fan 106 operates. Even if there is refrigerant leakage indoors, the leaked refrigerant will not accumulate to a certain extent and cause flammability problems due to the action of the indoor fan 106. Upon receiving a shutdown command, when the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is cooling mode, the air conditioner 100 is first switched to heating mode, that is, the four-way valve 102 is controlled to change the flow direction of the refrigerant. Then, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off to draw the refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side. Additionally, the control valve 104 is immediately disconnected to cut off the upstream refrigerant supply to the indoor heat exchanger 103, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0123] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the invention, the control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. The control valve 104 includes an on / off valve 110. Upon receiving a shutdown command, the control valve 104 immediately disconnects, allowing most of the refrigerant to be located on the outdoor side. Optionally, when the outdoor side has limited space for storing the refrigerant, a container for storing the refrigerant is provided on the outdoor side.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the four-way valve 102. When the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is the cooling mode, the control valve 104 controls the air conditioner 100 to switch to the heating mode, then controls the compressor 101 to run for a first preset time and then shuts it off, and controls the control valve 104 to disconnect immediately. This reduces the amount of refrigerant in the room to a certain extent and reduces the risk of refrigerant flammability. In this way, the refrigerant sensor can be omitted to reduce costs, while avoiding the safety risks caused by excessive concentration of leaked refrigerant in the room to a certain extent.

[0125] In one implementation, controlling the control valve 104 to disconnect can mean controlling the on / off valve 110 to disconnect.

[0126] In some embodiments, the control valve 104 is turned off at a time no later than the compressor 101 is turned off, or the control valve is turned off at a time later than the compressor is turned off.

[0127] Specifically, in order to meet the requirements of the delayed-closing control valve 104, during the early standby phase of the air conditioner 100, the opening degree of the control valve 104 can be reduced and opened. At the same time, in order to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side, during the early standby phase of the air conditioner 100, the compressor 101 is controlled to run to draw refrigerant from the indoor side to the outdoor side.

[0128] Optionally, during the later stage of standby mode of the air conditioner 100, the compressor 101 may run or stop running. In one embodiment, the opening time of the control valve 104 is equal to the closing time of the compressor 101, and during the later stage of standby mode of the air conditioner 100, the compressor 101 stops running and the control valve 104 is opened. In another embodiment, the opening time of the control valve 104 is earlier than the closing time of the compressor 101, and during the later stage of standby mode of the air conditioner 100, the compressor 101 runs until the air conditioner 100 enters the second stage of standby mode and the control valve 104 is opened. In yet another embodiment, the opening time of the control valve 104 is later than the closing time of the compressor 101, and during the later stage of standby mode of the air conditioner 100, the compressor 101 stops running and the control valve 104 is opened.

[0129] In the above embodiments, the disconnection time of the control valve 104 is no later than the closing time of the compressor 101, or the disconnection time of the control valve is later than the closing time of the compressor, which can meet the requirements of delayed closing of the control valve 104, while ensuring to a certain extent that the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side is effectively reduced.

[0130] In some implementations, please refer to Figures 7 to 10 The air conditioner 100 includes a one-way valve 107 connected to the compressor 101. The one-way valve 107 is configured to prevent refrigerant from flowing back to the compressor 101 or the four-way valve 102.

[0131] Specifically, the one-way valve 107 refers to a valve that allows fluid to flow in one direction while preventing it from flowing in the opposite direction.

[0132] Understandably, the four-way valve 102 connects the output port of the compressor 101, the indoor heat exchanger 103, and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. Depending on the current mode of the air conditioner 100, refrigerant can flow from the output port of the compressor 101 through the four-way valve 102 to either the indoor heat exchanger 103 or the outdoor heat exchanger 105.

[0133] In one implementation, such as Figures 7 to 9 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. When the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is cooling mode, the refrigerant flows from the output port of the compressor 101 to the outdoor heat exchanger 105, then to the indoor heat exchanger 103, and finally to the input port of the compressor 101. When the current mode of the air conditioner 100 is heating mode, the refrigerant flows from the output port of the compressor 101 to the indoor heat exchanger 103, then to the outdoor heat exchanger 105, and finally to the input port of the compressor 101.

[0134] In one embodiment, a one-way valve 107 is provided between the four-way valve 102 and the inlet of the compressor 101, and the one-way valve 107 can prevent refrigerant from flowing back from the inlet of the compressor 101 to the four-way valve 102. In another embodiment, a one-way valve 107 is provided between the four-way valve 102 and the outlet of the compressor 101, and the one-way valve 107 can prevent refrigerant from flowing back from the four-way valve 102 to the outlet of the compressor 101.

[0135] When the air conditioner 100 is in standby mode, the control valve 104 can prevent or cut off the flow of refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger 105 to the indoor heat exchanger 103. On the other hand, the one-way valve 107 can prevent the refrigerant from flowing back to the compressor 101 or the four-way valve 102, that is, prevent the refrigerant from flowing back from the four-way valve 102 to the output port of the compressor 101, or prevent the refrigerant from flowing back from the input port of the compressor 101 to the four-way valve 102, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side to a certain extent. Figure 7 The one-way valve 107 is located outside the compressor 101. Figures 8 to 10 The one-way valve 107 is integrated into the compressor 101.

[0136] It is understood that, in the embodiments of the present invention, the one-way valve 107 can be any component or combination of components that can prevent refrigerant from flowing back to the compressor 101 or the four-way valve 102.

[0137] Understandably, in Figures 8 to 10 In the compressor 101, the one-way valve 107 is located inside the compressor 101 (not shown) and can also be used to prevent refrigerant from flowing from the output port of the compressor 101 to the input port of the compressor 101 inside the compressor 101.

[0138] Optionally, the check valve 107 is located between the inlet of the compressor 101 and the four-way valve 102. The check valve 107 may be located between the inlet of the compressor 101 and the low-pressure tank 108 (not shown), or it may be located between the low-pressure tank 108 and the four-way valve 102 (not shown).

[0139] It is understood that the air conditioner 100 may include at least one one-way valve 107.

[0140] In the above embodiments, when the control valve 104 restricts or cuts off the flow of refrigerant to the indoor heat exchanger 103, the one-way valve 107 can prevent the refrigerant from flowing back to the compressor 101 or the four-way valve 102, thereby ensuring that the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side is relatively small to a certain extent, thereby reducing the possibility of excessively high refrigerant concentration in the indoor area and reducing the flammability risk of refrigerant leakage.

[0141] In some embodiments, when the disconnection time of the control valve 104 is later than the closing time of the compressor 101, the difference between the second preset duration and the first preset duration is less than or equal to the safe duration, which is determined based on the maximum allowable leakage amount indoors, the total refrigerant amount, the longest time for complete refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient, the internal volume between the control valve 104 and the check valve 107, and the internal volume of the air conditioner 100.

[0142] Specifically, when the opening time of control valve 104 is later than the closing time of compressor 101, that is, when the second preset time is longer than the first preset time, the difference between the second preset time and the first preset time is less than or equal to the safe time. The safe time is a safety upper limit based on the worst-case scenario of refrigerant leakage. If control valve 104 opens within the safe time, even if the maximum refrigerant leakage occurs, the concentration of leaked refrigerant can be guaranteed to be lower than the safety requirements to a certain extent. The safe time is determined based on the maximum allowable leakage amount indoors, the total refrigerant amount, the maximum time for complete refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient, the internal volume between control valve 104 (in the reduced opening state) and check valve 107, and the internal volume of air conditioner 100, as shown below:

[0143]

[0144] Among them, t s Indicates the duration of safety; m max Indicates the maximum permissible leakage rate indoors; m unit Indicates the total refrigerant volume; t max_leak α represents the longest time for complete refrigerant leakage; α represents the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient; IRV_e represents the internal volume between control valve 104 (opening reduced state) and check valve 107; IRV_total represents the internal volume of air conditioner 100.

[0145] In the above embodiments, the disconnection time of the control valve 104 is later than the closing time of the compressor 101, which can adapt to more scenario requirements. At the same time, by controlling the difference between the second preset duration and the first preset duration to be less than or equal to the safe duration, the concentration of refrigerant leaked on the indoor side can be controlled within a safe range, thereby reducing the risk of refrigerant flammability.

[0146] Optionally, if the disconnection time of the control valve 104 is later than the closing time of the compressor 101, the difference between the second preset duration and the first preset duration is less than or equal to the safe duration, which is determined based on the maximum allowable leakage amount indoors, the total refrigerant amount, the shortest time for complete refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient, the internal volume between the control valve 104 and the one-way valve 107, and the internal volume of the air conditioner 100.

[0147] In some implementations, the control valve 104 is located on the side close to the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0148] Specifically, the control valve 104 is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 103 and is positioned close to the indoor heat exchanger 103. Since the refrigerant can still flow to the indoor heat exchanger 103 between the control valve 104 and the indoor heat exchanger 103 after the refrigerant flow to the indoor heat exchanger 103 is cut off by the control valve 104, positioning the control valve 104 close to the indoor heat exchanger 103 can further reduce the amount of refrigerant that can flow to the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0149] In one implementation, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 The control valve 104 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 103 and the outdoor heat exchanger 105. The control valve 104 is located on the side of the indoor heat exchanger 103 facing the outdoor heat exchanger 105 and is positioned close to the indoor heat exchanger 103. In one embodiment, please refer to... Figure 10 The control valve 104 is located between the four-way valve 102 and the indoor heat exchanger 103, and is positioned close to the indoor heat exchanger 103.

[0150] In the above embodiments, the control valve 104 is located on the side close to the indoor heat exchanger 103, which can further reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side. This can reduce costs by omitting the refrigerant sensor and further avoid the safety risks caused by excessive concentration of leaked refrigerant indoors to a certain extent.

[0151] In some implementations, please refer to Figures 7 to 10 The air conditioner 100 includes a low-pressure tank 108, which is connected to a four-way valve 102 and a compressor 101.

[0152] Specifically, the low-pressure tank 108 refers to a gas storage container with a low internal pressure, which can be used to store excess low-pressure gaseous refrigerant to prevent excessive pressure from occurring in the air conditioner 100 to a certain extent.

[0153] In this embodiment of the invention, the low-pressure tank 108 is connected to the four-way valve 102 and the inlet of the compressor 101. Refrigerant can flow from the four-way valve 102 into the low-pressure tank 108 and then into the inlet of the compressor 101. The main function of the low-pressure tank 108 is to stabilize the pressure of the air conditioner 100, preventing it from becoming too high or too low. When the air conditioner 100 pressure is too high, excess refrigerant can flow into the low-pressure tank 108, thereby reducing the air conditioner 100 pressure. When the air conditioner 100 pressure is too low, the refrigerant in the low-pressure tank 108 can be added to the air conditioner 100 to maintain its normal operation.

[0154] In the above embodiments, the low-pressure tank 108 can be used to stabilize the pressure of the air conditioner 100 and improve the stability of the air conditioner 100.

[0155] Optionally, such as Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the air conditioner 100 may include an outdoor fan 111, which is used to accelerate the flow of outdoor air and improve the heat exchange efficiency between the outdoor air and the outdoor heat exchanger 105, thereby speeding up the cooling or heating speed.

[0156] Please refer to Figure 11 One embodiment of the present invention provides a control device 2, which includes a processor 22 and a memory 21. The memory 21 stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by the processor 22, it implements the steps of the control method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0157] Please refer to Figure 11 An air conditioner 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention includes the control device 2 described in the above embodiment.

[0158] Specifically, the control device 2 can be electrically connected to components such as the indoor fan 106, the outdoor fan 111, the compressor 101, the control valve 104, and the four-way valve 102. The control device 2 can be used to control the operation of the air conditioner 100.

[0159] The present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor 22, implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0160] In some implementations, when the computer program is executed by the processor 22, the control method includes:

[0161] Step S01: When the air conditioner 100 is turned on, control the compressor 101 and the indoor fan 106 to run and control the valve 104 to open.

[0162] In step S03, according to the shutdown command, the compressor 101 is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut down, and the control valve 104 is controlled to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

[0163] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., 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 the present invention. 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.

[0164] 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 steps for implementing a particular logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of the invention includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order depending on the functions involved, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of the invention pertain.

[0165] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, combinations, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a control valve, an indoor heat exchanger, and an indoor fan. The four-way valve is connected to the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, and the outdoor heat exchanger. The control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger. The control method includes: When the air conditioner is turned on, the indoor fan and the compressor are controlled to operate and the control valve is activated. According to the shutdown command, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut down, and the control valve is controlled to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, According to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side include: According to the shutdown command, the control valve is kept on for a second preset time and then disconnected, or; Upon receiving the shutdown command, the control valve is immediately disconnected.

3. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, According to the shutdown command, controlling the control valve to remain on for a second preset time and then disconnect includes: According to the shutdown command, the control valve is controlled to reduce its opening and remain open for a second preset time before being disconnected.

4. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first preset duration is related to the compressor's suction pressure, discharge temperature, and / or operating duration after receiving the shutdown command.

5. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger. According to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side include: Upon receiving the shutdown command, if the current mode of the air conditioner is heating mode, control the air conditioner to switch to cooling mode, then control the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shut it off, and control the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

6. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the four-way valve. When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the control valve is located upstream of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger. According to the shutdown command, controlling the compressor to run for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the control valve to disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side include: Upon receiving a shutdown command, if the current mode of the air conditioner is cooling mode, the air conditioner is switched to heating mode. Then, the compressor is controlled to run for a first preset time and then shut off. The control valve is also controlled to immediately disconnect to reduce the amount of refrigerant on the indoor side.

7. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve disconnects at a time no later than the compressor shuts off, or the control valve disconnects at a time later than the compressor shuts off.

8. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a one-way valve connected to the compressor, the one-way valve being configured to prevent refrigerant from flowing back to the compressor or the four-way valve.

9. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve is located on the side close to the indoor heat exchanger.

10. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a low-pressure tank, which is connected to the four-way valve and the compressor.

11. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the disconnection time of the control valve is later than the shutdown time of the compressor, the difference between the second preset duration and the first preset duration is less than or equal to the safe duration. The safe duration is determined based on the maximum allowable leakage in the room, the total refrigerant amount, the longest time for complete refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant leakage acceleration coefficient, the internal volume between the control valve and the check valve, and the internal volume of the air conditioner.

12. A control device, characterized in that, include: Processor, and; A memory storing a computer program, which, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 1-11.

13. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the control device as described in claim 12.

14. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 1-11.

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