Dual duct air conditioning system and control method and control device thereof

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of electrical appliances, providing a dual-pipe air conditioning system and its control method and device. The dual-pipe air conditioning system includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The indoor unit includes a first indoor heat exchanger and a second indoor heat exchanger. A first pipe and a second pipe are respectively provided with the first and second indoor heat exchangers. The first end of the first pipe can be selectively connected to either the outdoor heat exchanger or the second pipe, and the second end can be selectively connected to either the compressor's suction port or discharge port. The first end of the second pipe can be selectively connected to either the outdoor heat exchanger or the first pipe, and the second end is connected to the first interface of the four-way valve. A throttling element is disposed inside the outdoor unit. The system of this invention can simultaneously achieve heating and dehumidification functions within the same operating cycle, effectively maintaining stable indoor temperature while eliminating indoor refrigerant noise, thus improving operational quietness and the accuracy of thermal and humidity environment control.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical technology, and in particular to a dual-pipe air conditioning system and its control method and control device. Background Technology

[0002] Current air conditioning systems generally employ a single-pipe circulation structure, with each indoor unit equipped with a single heat exchanger. A four-way valve switches the refrigerant flow to achieve cooling or heating. During dehumidification, the system continues the cooling cycle, lowering the surface temperature of the indoor heat exchanger below the air dew point, causing water vapor to condense. While this process reduces air humidity, it also leads to a significant drop in supply air temperature, causing fluctuations in indoor temperature and affecting thermal comfort. To mitigate the drop in room temperature, some products incorporate electric heating devices in the air duct to reheat the dehumidified, low-temperature air. However, the power of these electric heaters is limited by safety and energy efficiency regulations, making it difficult to meet the heat compensation requirements under high humidity loads and significantly increasing overall energy consumption.

[0003] Furthermore, under normal dehumidification or cooling conditions, the refrigerant needs to be depressurized by a throttling element before entering the indoor heat exchanger. This throttling element is typically an electronic expansion valve, installed inside the indoor unit or on the piping near the indoor heat exchanger. When the refrigerant flows through the throttling element, high-frequency flow noise is easily generated due to the sudden pressure drop and two-phase flow instability, especially under low opening and low flow conditions. This noise is more pronounced. Such noise is conducted to the indoor space through the piping and casing, reducing the user experience. Simultaneously, the single-pipe architecture means that the entire system has only one main refrigerant path, and all operating modes rely on the same heat exchange path, making it impossible to physically isolate or independently control different thermodynamic processes. Therefore, in scenarios requiring simultaneous temperature and humidity control, the system struggles to balance dehumidification depth and temperature stability, exhibiting inherent performance limitations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a dual-pipe air conditioning system and its control method and device to overcome the defects in the prior art and achieve the following technical effects: Through the dual-pipe structure, selectable pipeline connection structure and outdoor centralized throttling design, this invention enables the system to simultaneously achieve heating and dehumidification functions within the same operating cycle, effectively maintaining stable indoor temperature, while eliminating indoor refrigerant noise and improving the quietness of operation and the accuracy of thermal and humidity environment control.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a dual-pipe air conditioning system, comprising: The unit comprises an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The second, third, and fourth ports of the four-way valve are respectively connected to the second end of the outdoor heat exchanger, the air intake port of the compressor, and the air exhaust port. The indoor unit includes a first indoor heat exchanger and a second indoor heat exchanger. The first pipeline and the second pipeline are respectively equipped with the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger. The first end of the first pipeline can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger or the first end of the second pipeline, and the second end can be selectively connected to the suction port or the exhaust port of the compressor. The first end of the second pipeline can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger or the first end of the first pipeline, and the second end is connected to the first interface of the four-way valve. A throttling element is disposed inside the outdoor unit, and the throttling element is located on the first pipeline and / or the second pipeline.

[0006] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a solenoid valve is provided at the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger. When the solenoid valve is open, the first pipeline and the second pipeline are both connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger and are connected in parallel with each other; when the solenoid valve is closed, the first pipeline and the second pipeline are connected in series.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the throttling element includes a first expansion valve and a second expansion valve; the first expansion valve is disposed on the first pipeline; and the second expansion valve is disposed on the second pipeline.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outdoor unit further includes a three-way valve, wherein the first port of the three-way valve is connected to the second end of the first pipeline, and the second port and the third port of the three-way valve are respectively connected to the suction port and the exhaust port of the compressor.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a cooling mode and a cooling dehumidification mode; In the cooling mode and the cooling dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve is in the open state, the first port and the second port of the three-way valve are connected, and the first port and the third port of the four-way valve are connected, and the second port and the fourth port are connected.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating mode; In the heating mode, the solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and third ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and fourth ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and third ports.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating and dehumidification mode; In the heating and dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve is in the closed state, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and fourth ports.

[0012] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system, applied to the dual-pipe air conditioning system described in the first aspect of the present invention, the control method comprising: Obtain the pending operating modes required by the dual-pipe air conditioning system; According to the control mode to be executed, the connection status between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve, are controlled and adjusted.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the step of controlling and adjusting the connection state between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, and the conduction state of the four-way valve, according to the control mode to be executed, specifically includes: In cooling mode and cooling dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected and the second and fourth ports are connected. In heating mode, the control solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and third ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and fourth ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and third ports. In heating and dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve is closed, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected, while the second and fourth ports are connected.

[0014] Thirdly, the present invention also protects a control device for a dual-pipe air conditioning system, applied to the dual-pipe air conditioning system described in the first aspect of the present invention, the control device comprising: The acquisition module is used to acquire the pending operating modes required by the dual-pipe air conditioning system; The control module is used to control and adjust the connection status between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve, according to the control mode to be executed.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dual-pipe air conditioning system, by setting up a first pipe and a second pipe, and respectively configuring a first indoor heat exchanger and a second indoor heat exchanger, enables the refrigerant flow path to have a reconfigurable connection mode. This connection structure allows the two pipes to form a parallel or series connection relationship under different operating requirements, thereby supporting multiple thermal circulation paths and breaking through the limitation of a single-pipe system that can only perform a single heat exchange process.

[0016] Secondly, the throttling element is located inside the outdoor unit and on the first and / or second pipelines, meaning all throttling and pressure reduction operations are performed outdoors. Since the throttling process involves drastic pressure changes and two-phase flow disturbances, audible flow noise can easily be generated if it occurs on the indoor side. Centralizing the throttling element in the outdoor unit effectively avoids noise generated indoors due to its operation, thus improving operational quietness.

[0017] Furthermore, by switching the pipeline connection status, the system can enable different indoor heat exchangers to perform differentiated thermodynamic tasks without relying on electric heating. For example, in a specific mode, one heat exchanger can be in a heat-releasing state while the other is in a heat-absorbing state, thereby compensating for heat during dehumidification and reducing room temperature fluctuations.

[0018] In summary, the system of the present invention maintains a compact structure while improving the ability to coordinate temperature and humidity control, reducing operating noise, and enhancing adaptability to multiple operating conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this 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 some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow path of the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention in either cooling mode or cooling-dehumidification mode.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow path in the heating mode of the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow path of the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention in heating and dehumidification mode.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the control device for the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided by the present invention.

[0027] Figure label: 10. Outdoor unit; 20. Indoor unit; 1. Compressor; 2. Outdoor heat exchanger; 3. Four-way valve; 41. First indoor heat exchanger; 42. Second indoor heat exchanger; 5. First pipeline; 6. Second pipeline; 7. Solenoid valve; 8. Three-way valve; 91. First expansion valve; 92. Second expansion valve. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0029] The dual-pipe air conditioning system and its control method and control device of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, a dual-pipe air conditioning system according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention includes an indoor unit 20, an outdoor unit 10, a first pipe 5, a second pipe 6, and a throttling element.

[0031] The outdoor unit 10 includes a compressor 1, an outdoor heat exchanger 2, and a four-way valve 3. The second port, the third port, and the fourth port of the four-way valve 3 are respectively connected to the second end of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, the air intake port of the compressor 1, and the air exhaust port. The indoor unit 20 includes a first indoor heat exchanger 41 and a second indoor heat exchanger 42. The first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 are respectively equipped with a first indoor heat exchanger 41 and a second indoor heat exchanger 42. The first end of the first pipe 5 can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 or the first end of the second pipe 6, and the second end can be selectively connected to the suction port or the discharge port of the compressor 1. The first end of the second pipe 6 can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 or the first end of the first pipe 5, and the second end is connected to the first interface of the four-way valve 3. A throttling element is installed inside the outdoor unit 10, and the throttling element is located on the first pipe 5 and / or the second pipe 6.

[0032] It should be explained that the selective connection structure of the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 allows them to be connected in parallel or in series under different operating modes. For example, when the first ends of both the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 are connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, the two pipes are connected in parallel, each independently completing the refrigerant transport from the outside to the inside. In this case, the connection structure is suitable for simple heating, cooling, or dehumidification modes. When the first end of the first pipe 5 is reconnected to the first end of the second pipe 6, the refrigerant flows sequentially through the heat exchanger contained in the second pipe 6 and then into the heat exchanger contained in the first pipe 5, forming a series structure. In this case, the connection structure is suitable for a combined functional mode of heating and dehumidification simultaneously. Therefore, the above design enables the system to support multiple thermodynamic circulation paths on the same hardware platform, thus providing the necessary flow path foundation for combined functional modes (such as heating and dehumidification).

[0033] It should also be noted that the throttling element is located inside the outdoor unit 10, specifically on the first pipe 5 and / or the second pipe 6, in the refrigerant flow channel between the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and the indoor heat exchanger. The function of the throttling element is to throttle and reduce the pressure of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger 2, transforming it into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase state, thus providing sufficient heat absorption capacity for cooling or dehumidification when it subsequently flows through the indoor heat exchanger. Since the throttling process is accompanied by drastic pressure changes and two-phase flow disturbances, if the throttling element is placed inside the indoor unit 20, the high-frequency vibration and flow noise it generates will be transmitted to the indoor space through the pipe wall. This method centrally configures all throttling elements in the outdoor unit 10, ensuring that only stable two-phase flow or single-phase flow that has completed throttling exists in the indoor pipes, fundamentally eliminating the throttling noise source and improving indoor noise reduction performance.

[0034] In related technologies, existing air conditioning systems typically use a single indoor heat exchanger as an evaporator to absorb heat at low temperatures when performing dehumidification, causing water vapor in the air to condense and precipitate. However, this method leads to a significant decrease in the supply air temperature, causing fluctuations in indoor ambient temperature and affecting thermal comfort. To alleviate this problem, some solutions introduce electric heating elements to reheat the supply air, but the dehumidification capacity is difficult to improve due to limitations in electric heating power, and energy consumption is high. Another technology uses a dual heat exchanger structure, with one heat exchanger handling cooling and the other heating, but the throttling element is still located on the indoor side, generating noticeable flow noise when the refrigerant flows through the electronic expansion valve, which is more pronounced during low-load operation, impairing the user experience.

[0035] Therefore, to address the technical deficiencies in the aforementioned related technologies, this invention proposes a dual-pipe air conditioning system. This system utilizes two independent refrigerant pipelines, each configured with a first indoor heat exchanger 41 and a second indoor heat exchanger 42. Combined with a reconfigurable pipeline connection method and a throttling element centrally located in the outdoor unit 10, it achieves dynamic allocation of heat exchanger functions under different operating modes. Without relying on electric auxiliary heating, the system supports one heat exchanger for heating and the other for dehumidification, while ensuring that all throttling and pressure reduction processes are completed outdoors, fundamentally avoiding indoor noise generation.

[0036] Specifically, this invention achieves low-noise heating and dehumidification through selective pipe connections and optimized throttling location layout. The first ends of the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 can be connected separately or together to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, or they can be connected in series, thus constructing parallel or series paths at the hardware level. When the two pipes are connected in parallel, the system performs conventional cooling or heating; when connected in series, a composite thermodynamic circulation path is formed, allowing the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant to first release heat through one indoor heat exchanger, and then, after throttling, enter the other path for heat absorption and dehumidification. Simultaneously, since the throttling element is only located on the first pipe 5 and / or the second pipe 6 within the outdoor unit 10, and there are no throttling elements on the indoor side, the refrigerant flows in a single-phase or stable two-phase state in the indoor heat exchanger, significantly reducing flow noise. Furthermore, the fixed interface connection of the four-way valve 3, in conjunction with the pipe structure, ensures that the refrigerant flow direction meets the requirements of each mode, achieving function switching without additional complex control logic.

[0037] In summary, this invention, through its dual-pipe structure, selectable pipe connection structure, and outdoor centralized throttling design, enables the system to simultaneously achieve heating and dehumidification functions within the same operating cycle, effectively maintaining stable indoor temperature while eliminating indoor refrigerant noise and improving operational quietness and the accuracy of thermal and humidity environment control.

[0038] Furthermore, in the dual-pipe air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention, the working process exhibits different pipe connection states and refrigerant flow paths depending on the operating mode. The specific implementation methods in cooling mode, heating mode, and heating-dehumidification mode are described below.

[0039] like Figure 2As shown, in cooling mode, the first end of the first pipe 5 and the first end of the second pipe 6 are both connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, forming a parallel structure; the second end of the first pipe 5 is connected to the suction port of the compressor 1. At this time, high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is discharged from the exhaust port of the compressor 1, enters the second port through the fourth port of the four-way valve 3, and becomes high-pressure liquid refrigerant after being cooled by the outdoor heat exchanger 2. This refrigerant is split from the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and enters the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 respectively. Throttling elements installed on each pipe throttle and reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, forming low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant, which then enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 and the second indoor heat exchanger 42 respectively to absorb heat and evaporate. The gaseous refrigerant after heat exchange merges and returns to the suction port of the compressor 1 through the second end of the first pipe 5, completing the cycle.

[0040] like Figure 3 As shown, in heating mode, the first end of the first pipe 5 and the first end of the second pipe 6 are both connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and operate in parallel; the second end of the first pipe 5 is connected to the suction port of the compressor 1. High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is discharged from the exhaust port of the compressor 1, enters the first port through the fourth port of the four-way valve 3, and then simultaneously enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 and the second indoor heat exchanger 42, releasing heat to heat the indoor air and condensing into a high-pressure liquid. The two liquid refrigerants flow out through the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 respectively, merge and enter the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, absorb ambient heat in the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and evaporate into a gaseous state, and then return to the suction port of the compressor 1 through the second and third ports of the four-way valve 3, completing the heating cycle.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, in heating and dehumidification mode, the first end of the first pipe 5 is no longer connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 2, but is connected to the first end of the second pipe 6, forming a series structure; the second end of the first pipe 5 is still connected to the suction port of the compressor 1. High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is discharged from the exhaust port of the compressor 1, enters the first port through the fourth port of the four-way valve 3, first enters the second indoor heat exchanger 42 to release heat, and then flows into the first pipe 5 in liquid form. Under the action of the throttling element on the first pipe 5, the refrigerant is throttled and depressurized, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure state, and enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 to absorb heat and dehumidify, causing water vapor in the air to condense and precipitate. After dehumidification, the gaseous refrigerant returns to the suction port of the compressor 1 through the second end of the first pipe 5. During this process, the second pipe 6 does not undergo throttling and mainly undertakes the heating function, while the first pipe 5 undertakes the dehumidification function; the two work together to achieve a constant temperature and dehumidification effect.

[0042] In all the above modes, the throttling element is always located on the first pipe 5 and / or the second pipe 6 inside the outdoor unit 10, thereby ensuring that all throttling and pressure reduction operations are completed outdoors, with no throttling element on the indoor side, effectively avoiding refrigerant flow noise.

[0043] Furthermore, the dual-pipe air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following advantages compared to related technologies: First, the system, by setting up a first pipe 5 and a second pipe 6, and configuring a first indoor heat exchanger 41 and a second indoor heat exchanger 42 respectively, enables the reconfigurable connection of the refrigerant flow path. This connection structure allows the two pipes to form a parallel or series connection relationship under different operating requirements, thereby supporting multiple thermodynamic circulation paths and breaking through the limitation of a single-pipe system that can only perform a single heat exchange process.

[0044] Secondly, the throttling element is located inside the outdoor unit 10 and on the first pipeline 5 and / or the second pipeline 6, meaning all throttling and pressure reduction operations are performed outdoors. Since the throttling process involves drastic pressure changes and two-phase flow disturbances, audible flow noise can easily be generated if it occurs on the indoor side. Centralizing the throttling element in the outdoor unit 10 effectively avoids noise generated indoors due to the operation of the throttling element, thus improving operational quietness.

[0045] Furthermore, by switching the pipeline connection status, the system can enable different indoor heat exchangers to perform differentiated thermodynamic tasks without relying on electric heating. For example, in a specific mode, one heat exchanger can be in a heat-releasing state while the other is in a heat-absorbing state, thereby compensating for heat during dehumidification and reducing room temperature fluctuations.

[0046] In summary, the system of the present invention maintains a compact structure while improving the ability to coordinate temperature and humidity control, reducing operating noise, and enhancing adaptability to multiple operating conditions.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a solenoid valve 7 is provided at the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2. When the solenoid valve 7 is open, the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 are both connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and are connected in parallel with each other; when the solenoid valve 7 is closed, the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 are connected in series.

[0048] In this embodiment, a solenoid valve 7 is installed at the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2, providing a clear flow path switching mechanism for the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6.

[0049] When solenoid valve 7 is opened, the first port of outdoor heat exchanger 2 is simultaneously connected to both pipes. Refrigerant can enter the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 from this port, forming two independent and parallel flow paths, i.e., a parallel structure. For example, during normal cooling or heating operation, high-temperature and high-pressure or high-pressure liquid refrigerant is diverted to the two indoor heat exchangers through this port to achieve synchronous heat exchange.

[0050] When solenoid valve 7 is closed, the first port of outdoor heat exchanger 2 is cut off, and the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 are connected to each other. The refrigerant must flow through one of the pipes in sequence before entering the other, forming a series structure. For example, in the case of a combined heat exchange function, the refrigerant can first release heat through one indoor heat exchanger and then enter the other to absorb heat.

[0051] Thus, this embodiment can reliably switch the system flow path between parallel and series connections using only the on / off state of a single solenoid valve 7, without the need for additional complex valve assemblies. Therefore, while ensuring control simplicity, the system can flexibly construct different refrigerant circulation paths according to operational requirements.

[0052] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the throttling element includes a first expansion valve 91 and a second expansion valve 92; the first expansion valve 91 is disposed on the first pipeline 5; and the second expansion valve 92 is disposed on the second pipeline 6.

[0053] It is understandable that the above arrangement enables each of the two refrigerant channels to have independent flow regulation capabilities. During system operation, the opening of the two expansion valves can be controlled separately according to the differences in refrigerant flow requirements of each branch under different modes, thereby precisely regulating the refrigerant state entering the corresponding indoor heat exchanger.

[0054] For example, when enhanced dehumidification is required, the opening of one of the expansion valves can be reduced, resulting in a lower surface temperature of the corresponding heat exchanger and improved condensation efficiency. Conversely, during heating operation, the openings of both valves can be appropriately increased to ensure sufficient condensation heat release. Since both expansion valves are located within the outdoor unit 10, the flow disturbances generated during the throttling process are confined to the outdoor side, preventing indoor noise generation. This structure not only improves the system's adaptability to various operating conditions but also enhances the precision of temperature and humidity coordinated control.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the outdoor unit 10 further includes a three-way valve 8, the first port of the three-way valve 8 is connected to the second end of the first pipeline 5, and the second port and the third port of the three-way valve 8 are respectively connected to the suction port and the exhaust port of the compressor 1.

[0056] In this embodiment, by switching the conduction state of the three-way valve 8, the compressor 1 side connected to the outlet of the first pipeline 5, i.e., the low-pressure suction side or the high-pressure discharge side, can be dynamically determined, thereby changing the pressure level and flow direction of the branch in the circulation. For example, in cooling or dehumidifying mode, the three-way valve 8 can guide the outlet of the first pipeline 5 to the suction port of the compressor 1, so that the refrigerant completes the low-pressure return process; while in a specific combined operation mode, if it is necessary to introduce high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant into the first pipeline 5, it can be connected to the discharge port of the compressor 1 through the three-way valve 8 to achieve direct heating of the indoor heat exchanger.

[0057] In this way, the above structure provides the first pipe 5 with bidirectional pressure access capability, enabling it to participate in the conventional evaporation and heat absorption process as well as to undertake the condensation and heat release function when needed, significantly expanding the functional flexibility of a single branch. At the same time, since the three-way valve 8 is integrated into the outdoor unit 10, it avoids the introduction of additional valves on the indoor side, which helps to maintain indoor quietness and structural simplicity.

[0058] It should be noted that the above embodiments are only a few of the many embodiments of the present invention and do not constitute a specific limitation on the present invention. The structures such as the solenoid valve 7, expansion valve, and three-way valve 8 described above can also be replaced by other structures with similar functions. For example, the solenoid valve 7 can be replaced by an electric ball valve, a step-type shut-off valve, or a pilot-operated control valve; the expansion valve can be a thermostatic expansion valve, a capillary tube, a throttling orifice plate, or an electronic throttling element, etc., which have throttling and pressure-reducing functions; the three-way valve 8 can also be implemented by combining two cooperating two-position two-way solenoid valves 7, or by using a multi-path switching valve, a rotary distribution valve, or other fluid control components with three-way flow path selection capabilities. As long as the adopted alternative structure can achieve the corresponding flow path on / off, flow regulation, or direction switching functions, and meets the refrigerant path control requirements of the system under different operating modes, it should be considered to fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a cooling mode and a cooling dehumidification mode; in the cooling mode and the cooling dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve 7 is in the open state, the first port of the three-way valve 8 is connected to the second port, and the first port of the four-way valve 3 is connected to the third port and the second port is connected to the fourth port.

[0060] In both modes, the solenoid valve 7 is in the open state, connecting the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 to both the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6, forming a parallel structure. The three-way valve 8 connects its first and second interfaces, connecting the outlet of the first pipe 5 to the suction port of the compressor 1, ensuring that the refrigerant flows back in a low-pressure gaseous state. The four-way valve 3 is configured according to the refrigeration cycle standard, connecting its first and third interfaces and its second and fourth interfaces, guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the exhaust port of the compressor 1 through the four-way valve 3 into the outdoor heat exchanger 2 for heat dissipation, and then flowing to the indoor side.

[0061] In this state, the refrigerant, after being cooled by the outdoor heat exchanger 2, is split into two parallel pipelines. Each pipeline is throttled by its respective expansion valve and enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 and the second indoor heat exchanger 42 for heat absorption and evaporation. In cooling mode, the openings of the two expansion valves are similar, achieving balanced cooling. In cooling-dehumidification mode, the difference in the openings of the two expansion valves can be adjusted; for example, reducing the opening of one valve lowers the surface temperature of its corresponding heat exchanger, thereby enhancing local dehumidification capacity. The other valve maintains a higher supply air temperature to mitigate the drop in room temperature. Because all throttling elements are located in the outdoor unit 10 and the pipeline connections are stable, the system maintains quiet operation and reliable control while meeting different cooling needs.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating mode; in the heating mode, the solenoid valve 7 is in the open state, the first port and the third port of the three-way valve 8 are connected, and the first port and the fourth port of the four-way valve 3 are connected and the second port and the third port are connected.

[0063] In this mode, the solenoid valve 7 remains open, connecting the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 to both the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6, forming a parallel flow path structure; the three-way valve 8 connects its first and third interfaces, connecting the outlet of the first pipe 5 to the exhaust port of the compressor 1; the four-way valve 3 switches to the heating position, connecting its first and fourth interfaces and its second and third interfaces, thereby guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant from the exhaust port of the compressor 1 through the first interface of the four-way valve 3 into the indoor side.

[0064] Specifically, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant first enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 and the second indoor heat exchanger 42, where it releases heat to heat the indoor air and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The two liquid refrigerants flow out through the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 respectively, then converge at the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2. In the outdoor heat exchanger 2, they absorb ambient heat and evaporate into a gaseous state, then return to the compressor 1's suction port via the second and third ports of the four-way valve 3, completing the heating cycle. Since the three-way valve 8 directs the outlet of the first pipe 5 to the compressor 1's exhaust side, this connection is mainly used for pressure balancing or auxiliary control during specific start-up phases. During steady-state heating, the first pipe 5 primarily serves as a condensate return channel, and its outlet pressure is determined by the overall system circulation.

[0065] In this way, the above structure ensures that the two indoor heat exchangers participate in the heat release process simultaneously, improving heating capacity and uniformity of outlet air temperature. At the same time, since the throttling element is located on the outdoor unit 10 and does not participate in the main heat release path of this mode, there is no throttling element working on the indoor side, effectively avoiding operating noise and ensuring quietness and comfort during the heating process.

[0066] like Figure 4As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating and dehumidification mode; in the heating and dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve 7 is in the closed state, the first port of the three-way valve 8 is connected to the second port, and the first port of the four-way valve 3 is connected to the third port and the second port is connected to the fourth port.

[0067] In this mode, the solenoid valve 7 is in the closed state, cutting off the connection between the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and the external pipeline, forcing the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 to be connected end to end on the indoor side, forming a series flow path; the three-way valve 8 connects its first interface and second interface, connecting the outlet of the first pipeline 5 to the suction port of the compressor 1; the four-way valve 3 is configured to connect the first interface and the third interface, and the second interface and the fourth interface, so that the refrigerant flow direction is different from the conventional heating or cooling cycle.

[0068] In this state, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is discharged from the compressor 1 exhaust port, enters the second port through the fourth port of the four-way valve 3, flows through the outdoor heat exchanger 2 to release heat and condense into a high-pressure liquid. Subsequently, this liquid refrigerant does not directly enter the indoor unit; instead, due to the closure of the solenoid valve 7, it cannot be diverted from the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and instead enters the second indoor heat exchanger 42 through the second pipe 6. Since the first and third ports of the four-way valve 3 are connected at this time, the second indoor heat exchanger 42 is actually in a high-pressure heat release state, releasing heat to achieve the heating function. After heat release, the refrigerant flows into the first pipe 5 in liquid form, becomes a low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase flow after being throttled by the first expansion valve 91, enters the first indoor heat exchanger 41 to absorb heat and evaporate, causing water vapor in the air to condense and precipitate, thereby achieving dehumidification. Finally, the gaseous refrigerant returns to the compressor 1 suction port through the three-way valve 8, completing the cycle.

[0069] It is understandable that the above operating mode allows the two indoor heat exchangers to perform different functions in a single cycle, that is, one circuit releases heat for heating while the other absorbs heat for dehumidification. Since all throttling processes occur on the first pipe 5 inside the outdoor unit 10, no throttling element operates on the indoor side, effectively avoiding refrigerant flow noise. At the same time, the supply air temperature can be maintained relatively stably without the need for electric heating compensation, improving thermal comfort in high humidity environments.

[0070] The control method and control device for the dual-pipe air conditioning system proposed in this invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before providing a detailed description of the embodiments of this invention, the overall application scenario is first described. The control method, control device, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium for the dual-pipe air conditioning system of this invention can be applied locally to the dual-pipe air conditioning system, or to cloud platforms in the Internet field, or to other types of cloud platforms in the Internet field, or to third-party devices. These third-party devices may include various types such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, in-vehicle computers, and other smart terminals.

[0071] The following description uses only the control method applicable to a dual-pipe air conditioning system as an example. It should be understood that the control method of this embodiment can also be applied to cloud platforms and third-party devices.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, a control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes: Step S1: Obtain the required operating modes for the dual-pipe air conditioning system. Step S2: According to the control mode to be executed, control and adjust the connection status between the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve 3.

[0073] The control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention can achieve precise control of the system's operating mode through explicit logical steps. The method first executes step S1, which involves obtaining the operating mode to be executed by the system. This operating mode can be determined by user settings, environmental sensor feedback, or a system adaptive algorithm, and may include, for example, a cooling mode, a cooling-dehumidification mode, a heating mode, or a heating-dehumidification mode.

[0074] Then, step S2 is executed. Based on the acquired operating mode to be executed, the connection status between the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6, and between the first pipe 5 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, is controlled and adjusted, and the conduction status of the four-way valve 3 is adjusted simultaneously. The connection status here refers to the selective connection of the first end of the first pipe 5 to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 or to the first end of the second pipe 6 through flow path switching components such as the solenoid valve 7 and the three-way valve 8, thereby constructing parallel or series refrigerant passages; while the conduction status of the four-way valve 3 determines the connection relationship between the compressor 1's exhaust port, intake port, and indoor and outdoor heat exchangers to match the needs of different modes.

[0075] In summary, the control method of this invention establishes a clear correspondence between the operating mode to be executed and the pipeline connection status and the conduction status of the four-way valve 3, thereby achieving reliable switching of the operating modes of a dual-pipe air conditioning system. In different modes, the system can automatically construct corresponding refrigerant circulation paths to ensure that the connection relationships meet functional requirements. For example, in heating and dehumidification mode, a series flow path can be accurately formed and the four-way valve 3 can be configured to a specific conduction state, allowing one indoor heat exchanger to release heat while the other absorbs heat, thus simultaneously achieving heating and dehumidification; in cooling or heating mode, a parallel path is constructed to leverage the synergistic effect of the two heat exchangers.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the steps of controlling and adjusting the connection state between the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, and the conduction state of the four-way valve 3, according to the control mode to be executed, specifically include: In cooling mode and cooling dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve 7 is in the open state, the first and second interfaces of the three-way valve 8 are connected, and the first and third interfaces of the four-way valve 3 are connected and the second and fourth interfaces are connected. In heating mode, the control solenoid valve 7 is in the open state, the first and third ports of the three-way valve 8 are connected, and the first and fourth ports of the four-way valve 3 are connected, as are the second and third ports. In heating and dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve 7 is closed, the first and second ports of the three-way valve 8 are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve 3 are connected, as are the second and fourth ports.

[0077] The refrigerant flow paths under the different modes described above have been detailed in the text above, so they will not be repeated here.

[0078] The control device for the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the present invention is described below. The control device for the dual-pipe air conditioning system described below can be referred to in correspondence with the control method for the dual-pipe air conditioning system described above.

[0079] like Figure 6 As shown, the control device for a dual-pipe air conditioning system according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes: The acquisition module 110 is used to acquire the pending working modes required by the dual-pipe air conditioning system; The control module 120 is used to control and adjust the connection status between the first pipeline 5 and the second pipeline 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve 3, according to the control mode to be executed.

[0080] Figure 7 An example is a schematic diagram of the physical structure of an electronic device, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the electronic device may include a processor 810, a communication interface 820, a memory 830, and a communication bus 840. The processor 810, communication interface 820, and memory 830 communicate with each other via the communication bus 840. The processor 810 can call logic instructions from the memory 830 to execute a control method for the dual-pipe air conditioning system, including: acquiring the required operating mode of the dual-pipe air conditioning system; and, according to the required control mode, controlling and adjusting the connection status between the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve 3.

[0081] Furthermore, the logical instructions in the aforementioned memory 830 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present invention, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of the present invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0082] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions. When the program instructions are executed by the computer, the computer can execute the control method for the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided by the above methods, including: obtaining the operating mode to be executed for the dual-pipe air conditioning system; and controlling and adjusting the connection state between the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, and the conduction state of the four-way valve 3, according to the control mode to be executed.

[0083] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon. When executed by a processor, the computer program implements the control methods for the dual-pipe air conditioning system provided above, including: acquiring the operating mode to be executed for the dual-pipe air conditioning system; and controlling and adjusting the connection state between the first pipe 5 and the second pipe 6 and the outdoor heat exchanger 2, and the conduction state of the four-way valve 3, according to the control mode to be executed.

[0084] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without any creative effort.

[0085] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that each embodiment can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms, and of course, it can also be implemented by hardware. Based on this understanding, the above technical solutions, in essence or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc., including several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods of various embodiments or some parts of embodiments.

[0086] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A dual-pipe air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: The unit comprises an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The second, third, and fourth ports of the four-way valve are respectively connected to the second end of the outdoor heat exchanger, the air intake port of the compressor, and the air exhaust port. The indoor unit includes a first indoor heat exchanger and a second indoor heat exchanger. The first pipeline and the second pipeline are respectively provided with the first indoor heat exchanger and the second indoor heat exchanger. The first end of the first pipeline can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger or the first end of the second pipeline, and the second end can be selectively connected to the suction port or the exhaust port of the compressor. The first end of the second pipeline can be selectively connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger or the first end of the first pipeline, and the second end is connected to the first port of the four-way valve. A throttling element is disposed inside the outdoor unit, and the throttling element is located on the first pipeline and / or the second pipeline.

2. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, An electromagnetic valve is installed at the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger. When the electromagnetic valve is open, the first pipeline and the second pipeline are both connected to the first port of the outdoor heat exchanger and are connected in parallel. When the electromagnetic valve is closed, the first pipeline and the second pipeline are connected in series.

3. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The throttling element includes a first expansion valve and a second expansion valve; the first expansion valve is disposed on the first pipeline; the second expansion valve is disposed on the second pipeline.

4. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The outdoor unit also includes a three-way valve, the first port of which is connected to the second end of the first pipeline, and the second and third ports of which are connected to the suction port and discharge port of the compressor, respectively.

5. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dual-pipe air conditioning system has a cooling mode and a cooling dehumidification mode; In the cooling mode and the cooling dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve is in the open state, the first port and the second port of the three-way valve are connected, and the first port and the third port of the four-way valve are connected, and the second port and the fourth port are connected.

6. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating mode; In the heating mode, the solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and third ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and fourth ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and third ports.

7. The dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dual-pipe air conditioning system has a heating and dehumidification mode; In the heating and dehumidification mode, the solenoid valve is in the closed state, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and fourth ports.

8. A control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system, characterized in that, The control method, applied to the dual-pipe air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprises: Obtain the pending operating modes required by the dual-pipe air conditioning system; According to the control mode to be executed, the connection status between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve, are controlled and adjusted.

9. The control method for a dual-pipe air conditioning system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of controlling and adjusting the connection status between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, and the conduction status of the four-way valve, according to the control mode to be executed, specifically includes: In cooling mode and cooling dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected and the second and fourth ports are connected. In heating mode, the control solenoid valve is in the open state, the first and third ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and fourth ports of the four-way valve are connected, as are the second and third ports. In heating and dehumidification mode, the control solenoid valve is closed, the first and second ports of the three-way valve are connected, and the first and third ports of the four-way valve are connected, while the second and fourth ports are connected.

10. A control device for a dual-pipe air conditioning system, characterized in that, The control device, applied to the dual-pipe air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprises: The acquisition module is used to acquire the pending operating modes required by the dual-pipe air conditioning system; The control module is used to control and adjust the connection status between the first pipeline and the second pipeline and the outdoor heat exchanger, as well as the conduction status of the four-way valve, according to the control mode to be executed.

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