Air energy equipment refrigerant leakage detection method, system, device and medium thereof
By using continuous wavelength infrared light detection, the composition of the refrigerant is determined by analyzing the infrared absorption peaks and classifying the leakage risk level. This solves the problem of limited sensitivity and specificity in existing technologies, and realizes highly sensitive early warning and intelligent hierarchical decision-making for refrigerant leaks, thereby improving detection accuracy and safe operation and maintenance efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGDONG LUCKINGSTAR NEW ENERGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing infrared-based refrigerant leak detection technologies are insufficient for early and accurate warnings of various types of leaks involving small quantities and high determinism. Their sensitivity and specificity are limited, and they are susceptible to environmental interference, leading to false alarms or missed alarms.
The continuous wavelength infrared light detection method is adopted. The infrared light of the target is emitted and received by an infrared emitter. The infrared absorption peak is analyzed to determine the composition of the refrigerant and classify the leakage risk level. The concentration change is calculated by combining Lambert-Beer law to achieve full-spectrum scanning and analysis.
It improves the detection sensitivity and specificity of unknown refrigerant or complex gas mixture leaks, realizes highly sensitive early warning, and promotes the upgrade of the response mechanism from concentration exceedance alarm to intelligent hierarchical decision-making, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of safe operation and maintenance.
Smart Images

Figure CN122149784A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of air source heat pumps, and more particularly to a method, system, equipment, and medium for detecting refrigerant leakage in air source heat pump devices. Background Technology
[0002] Current infrared-based refrigerant leak detection technologies primarily rely on non-dispersive infrared sensors to measure infrared light intensity. While this technology can achieve quantitative detection of known refrigerants, its principle essentially involves determining gas concentration by measuring light intensity at one or two preset wavelengths representing the strongest absorption of the target gas. This method is limited by its indirectness and inherent incompleteness: it does not directly resolve the complete infrared wavelength of refrigerant molecules, but rather uses one or a few data points to represent the entire complex spectral characteristics. Therefore, its sensitivity and specificity are severely limited—for early, minute leaks with extremely low concentrations, the signal changes are weak and easily drowned out by noise; for different refrigerants detected at specific wavelengths, or when the leaking gas is an unknown mixture, it cannot accurately distinguish them based on limited light intensity data, and is easily affected by fluctuations in ambient temperature and humidity and cross-interference from background gases, leading to false alarms or missed alarms. Therefore, existing technologies struggle to simultaneously meet the demand for early and accurate warnings of various types of small-scale, highly deterministic leaks. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The main objective of this application is to propose a method, system, equipment, and medium for detecting refrigerant leaks in air source heat pumps, which enables precise type and quantity analysis and intelligent graded early warning of refrigerant gas, thereby improving detection sensitivity and decision-making efficiency.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application proposes a refrigerant leakage detection method for an air source heat pump device, applied to a server. The server is communicatively connected to an infrared transmitter and an infrared detector. The infrared transmitter is located at one end of the detection space within the air source heat pump device, and the infrared detector is located at the other end of the detection space. The method includes: Control the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space; The infrared emitter continuously receives the target infrared light, which is the infrared light formed by the initial infrared light being attenuated by the coolant in the detection space. Based on the continuous signal values within the target infrared light, at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to energy absorption by the coolant is determined, and the continuous signal values within each wavelength range form the corresponding infrared absorption peak. The composition of the refrigerant is determined based on each infrared absorption peak, and the leakage risk level of the refrigerant is determined based on the composition.
[0005] Furthermore, in some embodiments, determining at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to energy absorption by the cooler, based on continuous signal values within the target infrared light, includes: Use the continuous signal values within the initial infrared light as the reference values; Calculate the continuous difference between the target infrared light signal value and the reference value to obtain the continuous signal attenuation value; At least one continuous band whose signal attenuation value exceeds a preset attenuation threshold is defined as at least one wavelength range.
[0006] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the components include multiple gas types, the corresponding concentration of each gas, and the rate of concentration change. The composition of the refrigerant is determined based on each infrared absorption peak, including: The wavelength range corresponding to each infrared absorption peak is matched with a preset interference wavelength range library to determine the types of gases contained in the refrigerant; wherein, the interference wavelength range library includes the mapping relationship between different gas types and their corresponding wavelength ranges. For each gas whose gas type has been identified, the concentration of each gas is determined based on the peak intensity of its corresponding infrared absorption peak, and the concentration change rate of each gas is determined based on the rate of change of the peak intensity of its corresponding infrared absorption peak.
[0007] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the refrigerant leakage risk level is determined based on its composition, including: The amount of refrigerant leakage is determined based on the concentration of each gas and its rate of change. When the leakage amount is greater than or equal to the first leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be dangerous. When the leakage amount is less than the first leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the second leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be mild. When the leakage amount is less than the second leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the third leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be the warning level.
[0008] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the server also communicates with the main controller of the air source heat pump, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild, a control command representing reduced frequency operation is sent to the main controller so that the main controller reduces the operating frequency of the air source heat pump's compressor to the first frequency according to the control command. If the leakage risk level is hazardous, a control command indicating a shutdown is sent to the main controller, so that the main controller can stop the compressor of the air source heat pump according to the control command.
[0009] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the server also communicates with multiple clients, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild, the device identifier of the air source heat pump is determined, and the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump is determined based on the device identifier. The target client is determined among multiple clients based on the target client identifier, and a first notification is pushed to the target client. The first notification is used to indicate that there is a mild refrigerant leak and the air source heat pump has been controlled to operate at a first frequency. If the leakage risk level is hazardous, the device identifier of the air source heat pump is determined, and the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump is determined based on the device identifier. The target client is then identified among multiple clients based on the target client identifier, and a second notification is pushed to the target client. The second notification is used to indicate that there is a severe refrigerant leak and the air source heat pump has been controlled to stop working.
[0010] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the server also communicates with the maintenance platform, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild or dangerous, the equipment identification and operating location of the air source heat pump are determined, and a third notification is sent to the maintenance platform to guide the maintenance of the air source heat pump. The third notification includes the equipment identification and operating location.
[0011] To achieve the above objectives, a second aspect of this application provides a refrigerant leakage detection system for air source heat pump equipment, comprising: An infrared transmitter is located at one end of the detection space within the air-source heat pump equipment. An infrared detector is located at the other end of the detection space. The main controller of an air source heat pump; Multiple clients; Repair platform; The server communicates with the infrared transmitter, infrared detector, main controller, multiple clients, and maintenance platform. The server is configured to control the infrared transmitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space, continuously receive target infrared light through the infrared transmitter, and determine at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to the energy absorption of the refrigerant based on the continuous signal values in the target infrared light. The continuous signal values in each wavelength range form a corresponding infrared absorption peak. The composition of the refrigerant is determined based on each infrared absorption peak, and the leakage risk level of the refrigerant is determined based on the composition. Among them, the target infrared light is the infrared light formed by the attenuation of the initial infrared light after the energy is absorbed by the coolant in the detection space.
[0012] To achieve the above objectives, a third aspect of this application provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the refrigerant leakage detection method for the air source heat pump device described in the first aspect.
[0013] To achieve the above objectives, a fourth aspect of the present application provides a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the refrigerant leakage detection method for the air source heat pump device described in the first aspect.
[0014] The embodiments of this application have the following beneficial effects: By controlling the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths and receiving the target infrared light absorbed by the refrigerant, and determining the composition of the refrigerant based on the infrared absorption peaks within the target infrared light, a full-spectrum, continuous scanning and analysis of the infrared absorption characteristics within the detection space is achieved. This method can capture the complete infrared absorption spectrum (i.e., multiple absorption peaks) formed by refrigerant absorption without pre-setting, thereby directly obtaining the infrared fingerprint information of the refrigerant molecules. This greatly enhances the detection sensitivity and specificity for leaks of unknown refrigerants or complex gas mixtures. Even for trace leaks at extremely low concentrations, weak characteristic signals can be effectively extracted from the continuous spectral signal, achieving highly sensitive early warning of early leaks. Secondly, by introducing the transformation of the refrigerant composition into an intuitive leak risk level, the response mechanism is upgraded from a simple concentration exceedance alarm to an intelligent hierarchical decision-making based on the type, concentration, and hazard of the leaked substance, greatly improving the accuracy and efficiency of safety operation and maintenance. Attached Figure Description
[0015] Figure 1 This is an optional flowchart of the refrigerant leakage detection method for air source heat pump equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is an optional schematic diagram of an infrared transmitter receiving infrared light from a target, provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is an optional schematic diagram showing the components corresponding to multiple infrared absorption peaks provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is an optional flowchart provided in an embodiment of this application for determining a wavelength range based on target infrared light; Figure 5 This is an optional flowchart provided in an embodiment of the present application for determining the composition of the refrigerant based on each infrared absorption peak; Figure 6 This is an optional flowchart provided in an embodiment of the present application for determining the leakage risk level of refrigerant based on its composition; Figure 7 This is an optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application after determining the leakage risk level of the refrigerant based on its composition; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0016] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.
[0017] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application 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 application.
[0018] It should also be noted that in the description of this application, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. If the terms "first" and "second" are used, they are only for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.
[0019] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.
[0020] In the description of this application, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0021] Current infrared-based refrigerant leak detection technologies primarily rely on non-dispersive infrared sensors to measure infrared light intensity. While this technology can achieve quantitative detection of known refrigerants, its principle essentially involves determining gas concentration by measuring light intensity at one or two preset wavelengths representing the strongest absorption of the target gas. This method is limited by its indirectness and inherent incompleteness: it does not directly resolve the complete infrared wavelength of refrigerant molecules, but rather uses one or a few data points to represent the entire complex spectral characteristics. Therefore, its sensitivity and specificity are severely limited—for early, minute leaks with extremely low concentrations, the signal changes are weak and easily drowned out by noise; for different refrigerants detected at specific wavelengths, or when the leaking gas is an unknown mixture, it cannot accurately distinguish them based on limited light intensity data, and is easily affected by fluctuations in ambient temperature and humidity and cross-interference from background gases, leading to false alarms or missed alarms. Therefore, existing technologies struggle to simultaneously meet the demand for early and accurate warnings of various types of small-scale, highly deterministic leaks.
[0022] To address these issues, this application proposes a method, system, equipment, and medium for detecting refrigerant leaks in air source heat pumps. This method enables precise identification and quantitative analysis of refrigerant gases and intelligent graded early warning, thereby improving detection sensitivity and decision-making efficiency.
[0023] This application provides a method, system, equipment, and medium for detecting refrigerant leakage in air source heat pumps, which are specifically illustrated through the following embodiments.
[0024] Firstly, referring to Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 This is an optional flowchart of a refrigerant leakage detection method for air source heat pumps provided in this application embodiment. The method may include, but is not limited to, steps S101 to S104.
[0025] Step S101: Control the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space.
[0026] Step S102: Continuously receive infrared light from the target via an infrared transmitter.
[0027] Among them, the target infrared light is the infrared light formed by the attenuation of the initial infrared light after the energy is absorbed by the coolant in the detection space.
[0028] In one embodiment, reference is made to Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2This is an optional schematic diagram of an infrared emitter receiving target infrared light according to an embodiment of this application. When the initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths emitted by the infrared emitter passes through the detection space, the initial infrared light interacts with the refrigerant gas molecules in the search space. The refrigerant molecules do not absorb all wavelengths of light, but only those specific wavelengths of infrared light whose photon energy precisely matches the vibrational energy difference of specific chemical bonds (such as CF and CH bonds) within the molecule. When the energy of a photon of a certain wavelength is exactly equal to the energy required for a chemical bond to transition from the ground state to the excited state, the photon is "captured," and its energy is absorbed by the chemical bond and converted into the vibrational energy of the molecule. This causes selective attenuation of the signal amount of these specific wavelengths in the initial infrared light. Other wavelengths of light that are not absorbed pass through with essentially no attenuation. Therefore, the target infrared light ultimately received by the infrared detector will exhibit a series of "wave dips" in its spectral profile, meaning that the signal in a specific wavelength range is significantly lower than the initial value. These dip bands are the characteristic infrared absorption bands of the refrigerant molecules. The position (wavelength / wavenumber) of this band is determined by the molecular structure, and the signal value is related to the concentration of the gas.
[0029] It should be noted that the wavelength of infrared light refers to the band of the electromagnetic spectrum between visible light and microwaves. The wavelength is not a single value but a spectral region, which can be represented by a wavenumber range (cm²) in spectral analysis. -1 Infrared light typically has a wavelength of 12800 cm. -1 Up to 10 cm -1 When a sample is irradiated with infrared light, the molecules absorb light of a specific wavelength and transition from the ground state to an excited state.
[0030] Step S103: Based on the continuous signal values within the target infrared light, determine at least one wavelength range where the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to energy absorption by the cooler, and the continuous signal values within each wavelength range form a corresponding infrared absorption peak.
[0031] It should be noted that signal values can be expressed as absorbance or transmittance. Infrared absorption peaks refer to absorption peaks appearing on an infrared spectrum (the horizontal axis represents wavenumber / wavelength, and the vertical axis represents absorbance or transmittance). These peaks indicate that the refrigerant has absorbed infrared light within that specific wavelength range. Each infrared absorption peak corresponds to a vibrational mode of a specific chemical bond or functional group in the refrigerant molecule. Simply put, when a continuous range of infrared wavelengths (light) illuminates the refrigerant, the molecules in the refrigerant will selectively absorb certain specific wavelengths, thus forming corresponding infrared absorption peaks on the infrared spectrum.
[0032] Step S104: Determine the composition of the refrigerant based on each infrared absorption peak, and determine the refrigerant leakage risk level based on the composition.
[0033] The components include multiple gas types, the concentration of each gas, and the rate of change of its concentration.
[0034] In one embodiment, reference is made to Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is an optional schematic diagram of the components corresponding to multiple infrared absorption peaks provided in the embodiments of this application. It can be seen that the components corresponding to the infrared absorption peaks in different wavelength ranges include carbon dioxide gas (CO2), carbon monoxide gas (CO), water vapor (H2O), methane gas (CH4), hydrogen chloride gas (HCl), formaldehyde gas (CH2O), etc.
[0035] In steps S101 to S104, by controlling the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths and receiving the target infrared light absorbed by the refrigerant, the composition of the refrigerant is determined based on the infrared absorption peaks within the target infrared light. This achieves full-spectrum, continuous scanning and analysis of infrared absorption characteristics within the detection space. This method can capture the complete infrared absorption spectrum (i.e., multiple absorption peaks) formed by refrigerant absorption without pre-setting, thereby directly obtaining the infrared fingerprint information of the refrigerant molecules. This greatly enhances the detection sensitivity and specificity for leaks of unknown refrigerants or complex gas mixtures. Even for trace leaks at extremely low concentrations, weak characteristic signals can be effectively extracted from the continuous spectral signal, achieving highly sensitive early warning of leaks. Furthermore, by introducing a method that transforms the refrigerant's composition into an intuitive leak risk level, the response mechanism is upgraded from a simple concentration exceedance alarm to an intelligent hierarchical decision-making system based on the type, concentration, and hazard of the leaked substance, greatly improving the accuracy and efficiency of safe operation and maintenance.
[0036] In a refrigerant leak monitoring scenario in an air conditioning room, the server controls an infrared transmitter installed on one side of the pipe compartment to emit continuous initial wavelength infrared light in the 2.5-14 μm band into the enclosed detection space. An infrared detector on the other side receives the target infrared light after it penetrates the gas and converts it into a continuous optical signal for uploading. The server processes the optical signal and detects a leak at a wavelength of 1150 cm⁻¹. - A significant signal attenuation range was observed near the peak, with the attenuation depth (absorbance) increasing over time. This wavelength range was thus identified as a characteristic infrared absorption peak. Based on this absorption peak, the substance matching the absorption peak was determined to be refrigerant R32 (difluoromethane CH2F2). The server further calculated, based on Lambert-Beer's law and real-time monitoring of the absorption peak intensity data, that the current R32 concentration had reached 800 ppm and was increasing at a rate of 150 ppm / minute. Based on the concentration of refrigerant R32 and the rate of concentration change, the risk level of this leak was determined to be hazardous.
[0037] Furthermore, refer to Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is an optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for determining a wavelength range based on target infrared light. The method may include, but is not limited to, steps S201 to S203. Step S201: Use the continuous signal values within the initial infrared light as the reference values.
[0038] Step S202: Calculate the continuous difference between the target infrared light signal value and the reference value to obtain the continuous signal attenuation value.
[0039] Step S203: Select at least one continuous band whose signal attenuation value exceeds a preset attenuation threshold as at least one wavelength interval.
[0040] Specifically, in steps S201 to S203, the initial full-spectrum infrared signal is used as a reference value, which is equivalent to establishing a reference line with a clean background. When a suspected leak is detected, the target infrared signal acquired in real time is notified, and the difference between it and the corresponding reference value is calculated for each wavelength point (or wavenumber point). This difference is the signal attenuation value, and the curve it forms clearly reflects which wavelengths of light are significantly absorbed—the larger the attenuation value, the stronger the absorption. Finally, the server does not identify all attenuations, but uses a preset attenuation threshold to exclude interference from instrument noise and minor environmental fluctuations. Only continuous bands where the attenuation value continuously exceeds this threshold are determined to be valid "wavelength intervals." This process essentially transforms the complex spectral signal into one or more distinct characteristic absorption bands directly corresponding to the refrigerant molecular structure through differential and threshold filtering, laying a reliable data foundation for subsequent peak matching and component characterization.
[0041] Furthermore, refer to Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 This is an optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for determining the composition of the refrigerant based on each infrared absorption peak. The method may include, but is not limited to, steps S301 to S302.
[0042] Step S301: Match the wavelength range corresponding to each infrared absorption peak with a preset interference wavelength range library to determine the types of gases contained in the refrigerant.
[0043] The interference wavelength range library includes the mapping relationship between different gas types and their corresponding wavelength ranges.
[0044] It should be noted that the interference wavelength range library is essentially a filtering database for spectral identification. This library does not directly store the characteristic peaks of the target refrigerant, but rather pre-stores the characteristic absorption wavelength ranges of common environmental interfering gases (such as H2O and CO2) and other potentially coexisting but non-target gases. When the server obtains infrared absorption peaks of an unknown spectrum, it first matches the wavelength ranges of these peaks with this library. If a certain infrared absorption peak matches a certain range in the library (e.g., CO2 at 2350 cm⁻¹), then the database will be used to identify the interference wavelength range. - If the peaks in the vicinity of the strong absorption region (¹) highly overlap, the server will mark the peak as the gas of the target refrigerant.
[0045] Step S302: For each gas of a known gas type, determine the concentration of each gas based on the peak intensity of the infrared absorption peak corresponding to each gas, and determine the concentration change rate of each gas based on the rate of change of the peak intensity of the infrared absorption peak corresponding to each gas.
[0046] Among them, the peak intensity of the infrared absorption peak is essentially the signal value of the target infrared light, which is the value of the vertical axis in the spectrum (absorbance value), directly quantifying the degree of absorption of infrared light of a specific wavelength by the gas being measured.
[0047] In steps S301 and S302, for each identified gas, the peak intensity (absorbance value) of its specific infrared absorption peak is directly proportional to the gas concentration. The server can directly convert the measured peak intensity value into an accurate concentration value by querying a pre-stored concentration-absorbance standard curve or substituting it into a calculation model. To determine the dynamic rate of concentration change, the server continuously monitors the change in peak intensity of the infrared absorption peak over time. By calculating the change in peak intensity per unit time (i.e., the rate of peak intensity change), and based on the same quantitative relationship, the real-time rate of change in gas concentration is synchronously derived. Therefore, this method not only achieves synchronous quantification of multi-component gases but also captures their dynamic leakage trends, providing both concentration and trend as key parameters for risk assessment.
[0048] Furthermore, refer to Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 This is an optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for determining the leakage risk level of refrigerant based on its composition. The process of this method may include, but is not limited to, steps S401 to S402.
[0049] Step S401: Determine the refrigerant leakage amount based on the concentration of each gas and its rate of change.
[0050] Specifically, the rate of concentration change reflects the instantaneous intensity of the leak, while the concentration gradient at different locations indicates the leak source and the direction of diffusion. By integrating the rate of concentration change over a specific time period (e.g., from the start of the leak to the present) and considering the gas transport process in space, the cumulative amount of refrigerant leaked into the environment can be dynamically estimated. This method transforms discrete concentration signals into intuitive indicators of leakage volume, providing direct and quantitative decision-making basis for assessing the severity of leak accidents, environmental impacts, and developing precise recovery and disposal plans.
[0051] In one embodiment, the server, through the above-described concentration and concentration change rate analysis, measured the R32 gas concentration in the detection space to be 1200 ppm and rising at a rate of 200 ppm / minute. Based on the detection space volume (50 cubic meters) and the airflow model of the ventilation system, the system integrated the concentration change rate over the past 30 minutes and calculated that the cumulative leakage amount was approximately 180 grams.
[0052] Step S402: When the leakage amount is greater than or equal to the first leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be dangerous.
[0053] Step S403: When the leakage amount is less than the first leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the second leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be mild.
[0054] Step S404: When the leakage amount is less than the second leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the third leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be the warning level.
[0055] In steps S401 to S404, continuous leakage data is transformed into discrete risk levels through preset quantitative leakage thresholds, achieving standardization and grading of leakage response. The first leakage threshold is typically set based on the lower limit of the hazardous concentration of flammable or toxic gases in safety regulations. Exceeding this value triggers the highest level "hazard level" alarm, and the server controls the air source heat pump equipment to execute emergency plans such as immediate shutdown and forced ventilation. The second leakage threshold corresponds to a significant leakage level requiring planned maintenance, triggering a "mild level" alarm and prompting maintenance scheduling. The third leakage threshold is set for early, minor leaks; reaching this value triggers a "warning level," initiating enhanced monitoring and manual inspection. This grading mechanism based on clearly defined thresholds allows the server to automatically match differentiated response strategies according to the objective severity of the leakage, thereby optimizing the allocation of operational resources and improving the accuracy of safety assurance.
[0056] In one embodiment, the third leakage threshold is 1% of the refrigerant (e.g., 10000PPM * 0.01 = 100ppM for R32 refrigerant), the second leakage threshold is 5% of the refrigerant (e.g., 10000PPM * 0.05 = 500ppM for R32 refrigerant), and the first leakage threshold is 25% of the refrigerant (e.g., 10000PPM * 0.25 = 2500ppM for R32 refrigerant).
[0057] Furthermore, the server also communicates with the main controller of the air source heat pump, referring to... Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 This is an optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application after determining the leakage risk level of the refrigerant based on its composition. The method may include, but is not limited to, steps S501 to S502.
[0058] Step S501: If the leakage risk level is mild, a control command representing frequency reduction operation is sent to the main controller so that the main controller reduces the operating frequency of the air source heat pump's compressor to the first frequency according to the control command.
[0059] Step S502: If the leakage risk level is hazardous, a control command indicating a shutdown is sent to the main controller so that the main controller stops the compressor of the air source heat pump according to the control command.
[0060] It should be noted that steps S501 to S502 embody a differentiated safety response strategy based on risk level, directly linking detection and early warning with equipment control. When the server determines the leakage risk to be mild, it indicates a manageable slow leak, and immediate shutdown may not be the optimal choice. At this time, the server sends a "reduced frequency operation" command to the main controller, which then reduces the compressor's operating frequency to a preset first frequency (e.g., 50% of the rated frequency). This operation aims to significantly reduce the system's high-pressure side pressure, thereby slowing the refrigerant leakage rate, buying time for planned maintenance, and maintaining some equipment operating capacity to avoid unnecessary downtime losses. If the leak worsens to a dangerous level, it indicates that the leakage amount or concentration has exceeded the safety boundary, posing an imminent risk of combustion, explosion, severe toxicity, or equipment damage. The server will immediately send a "stop operation" command, and the main controller will force the compressor to stop and cut off the relevant power supply, fundamentally terminating the refrigerant circulation and the leak source. This "reduced frequency - shutdown" tiered response achieves an optimized balance between safety and operational continuity, and is the core embodiment of the intelligent safety control system.
[0061] Furthermore, the server also communicates with multiple clients, as shown in the following example. Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7This is another optional flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application after determining the leakage risk level of the refrigerant based on its composition. The method may include, but is not limited to, steps S601 to S603.
[0062] Step S601: If the leakage risk level is mild, determine the device identifier of the air source heat pump, determine the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump based on the device identifier, determine the target client among multiple clients based on the target client identifier, and push the first notification to the target client.
[0063] The first notification is used to indicate a minor refrigerant leak and to control the air source heat pump equipment to operate at a first frequency.
[0064] Step S602: If the leakage risk level is dangerous, determine the device identifier of the air source heat pump, determine the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump based on the device identifier, determine the target client among multiple clients based on the target client identifier, and push a second notification to the target client.
[0065] The second notification indicates a severe refrigerant leak and that the air source heat pump has been shut down.
[0066] In steps S601 and S602, when the server determines a minor leakage risk, it first extracts the unique device identifier of the leaking device and automatically associates it with a preset target client identifier (such as the application account of the device owner or regional maintenance personnel) by querying the binding relationship database in the background. Subsequently, the server pushes a first notification to the target client, which typically includes specific parameters such as the leak location, refrigerant type, current concentration, and a "recommended planned maintenance" prompt, allowing relevant personnel to handle non-emergency situations. When the risk escalates to a dangerous level, the server uses the same logic to lock the device and the responsible person, but pushes a second notification with a higher degree of urgency. This notification is presented as a strong alert, clearly marked "dangerous leak," and may automatically trigger escalation actions such as dialing a preset safety phone number and activating on-site audible and visual alarms, ensuring that the emergency is immediately confirmed and responded to. This mechanism achieves an automated link from risk detection to precise notification of the responsible person, ensuring a precise match between the timeliness and intensity of response under different risk levels.
[0067] Furthermore, the server is also connected to the maintenance platform. After determining the refrigerant leakage risk level based on its composition, the refrigerant leakage detection method may include, but is not limited to, step S701.
[0068] Step S701: If the leakage risk level is mild or dangerous, determine the equipment identification and operating location of the air source heat pump, and send a third notification to the maintenance platform to guide the maintenance of the air source heat pump.
[0069] The third notification includes the equipment identification and operating location.
[0070] Specifically, when the server determines that the leakage risk reaches a mild or dangerous level requiring external intervention, it will automatically initiate a maintenance work order process. The server first extracts the unique device identifier of the leaking air source heat pump and retrieves pre-stored operating location information (such as installation address, room number, and device location number) from its file. Subsequently, the server sends a third notification to the maintenance platform. This notification not only includes the aforementioned identifier and operating location but also integrates key diagnostic information, such as the type of leaked refrigerant, current concentration, historical trends, and preliminary control measures already implemented (such as frequency reduction). This allows the maintenance platform to generate a work order with complete technical background and location information with a single click, directly guiding maintenance personnel to the accurate location with the correct tools and spare parts for efficient handling. This achieves a seamless closed loop from intelligent early warning to offline maintenance, significantly improving incident response speed and processing accuracy.
[0071] This application also provides a refrigerant leakage detection system for air source heat pump equipment, including: An infrared transmitter is located at one end of the detection space within the air-source heat pump equipment. An infrared detector is located at the other end of the detection space. The main controller of an air source heat pump; Multiple clients; Repair platform; The server communicates with the infrared transmitter, infrared detector, main controller, multiple clients, and maintenance platform. The server is configured to control the infrared transmitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space, continuously receive target infrared light through the infrared transmitter, and determine at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to the energy absorption of the refrigerant based on the continuous signal values in the target infrared light. The continuous signal values in each wavelength range form a corresponding infrared absorption peak. The composition of the refrigerant is determined based on each infrared absorption peak, and the leakage risk level of the refrigerant is determined based on the composition. Among them, the target infrared light is the infrared light formed by the attenuation of the initial infrared light after the energy is absorbed by the coolant in the detection space.
[0072] The aforementioned refrigerant leak detection system and method are based on the same inventive concept. By controlling an infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths and receiving target infrared light absorbed by the refrigerant, the system determines the composition of the refrigerant based on the infrared absorption peaks within the target infrared light. This achieves full-spectrum, continuous scanning and analysis of infrared absorption characteristics within the detection space. This method can capture the complete infrared absorption spectrum (i.e., multiple absorption peaks) formed by refrigerant absorption without pre-setting, thereby directly obtaining the infrared fingerprint information of the refrigerant molecules. This significantly enhances the detection sensitivity and specificity for leaks of unknown refrigerants or complex gas mixtures. Even for trace leaks at extremely low concentrations, it can effectively extract weak characteristic signals from the continuous spectral signal, achieving highly sensitive early warning of leaks. Furthermore, by introducing a method that transforms the refrigerant's composition into an intuitive leak risk level, the response mechanism is upgraded from a simple concentration exceedance alarm to an intelligent hierarchical decision-making system based on the type, concentration, and hazard of the leaked substance, greatly improving the accuracy and efficiency of safe operation and maintenance.
[0073] This application also provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the aforementioned refrigerant leakage detection method for air source heat pumps. This electronic device can be any smart terminal, including mobile phones, tablets, and in-vehicle computers.
[0074] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application. The electronic device includes: The processor 801 can be implemented using a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits, and is used to execute relevant programs to implement the refrigerant leakage detection method for air source heat pump equipment provided in the embodiments of this application. The memory 802 can be implemented as a read-only memory (ROM), static storage device, dynamic storage device, or random access memory (RAM). The memory 802 can store the operating system and other application programs. When the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this specification are implemented through software or firmware, the relevant program code is stored in the memory 802 and called and executed by the processor 801 using the refrigerant leakage detection method for air source heat pumps provided in the embodiments of this application. The 803 input / output interface is used to implement information input and output. The communication interface 804 is used to enable communication and interaction between this device and other devices. Communication can be achieved through wired means (such as USB, Ethernet cable, etc.) or wireless means (such as mobile network, WIFI, Bluetooth, etc.). Bus 805 transmits information between various components of the device (e.g., processor 801, memory 802, input / output interface 803, and communication interface 804); The processor 801, memory 802, input / output interface 803, and communication interface 804 are connected to each other within the device via bus 805.
[0075] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, provides a method for detecting refrigerant leakage in an air-source heat pump device.
[0076] Memory, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, memory may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor, and these remote memories can be connected to the processor via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.
[0077] The embodiments described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of technology and the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.
[0078] Those skilled in the art will understand that the technical solutions shown in the figures do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application, and may include more or fewer steps than shown, or combine certain steps, or different steps.
[0079] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; 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.
[0080] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps in the methods disclosed above, as well as the functional modules / units in the systems and devices, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof.
[0081] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.
[0082] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, and "more than" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.
[0083] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the system embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of the units described above is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be an indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, devices, or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.
[0084] The units described above as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.
[0085] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.
[0086] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-accessible storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or 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 multiple 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 this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing programs, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.
[0087] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this does not limit the scope of the claims of the present application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and substance of the embodiments of the present application shall be within the scope of the claims of the present application.
Claims
1. A method for detecting refrigerant leakage in an air source heat pump, characterized in that, The method is applied to a server-side application, wherein the server is communicatively connected to an infrared transmitter and an infrared detector, the infrared transmitter is located at one end of the detection space within the air-source heat pump, and the infrared detector is located at the other end of the detection space. The method includes: Control the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space; The infrared emitter continuously receives target infrared light, which is the infrared light formed by the initial infrared light being attenuated by the energy absorption of the coolant in the detection space. Based on the continuous signal values within the target infrared light, at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to the energy absorption of the coolant is determined, and the continuous signal values within each wavelength range form a corresponding infrared absorption peak. The composition of the refrigerant is determined based on each infrared absorption peak, and the leakage risk level of the refrigerant is determined based on the composition.
2. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to energy absorption by the coolant, based on continuous signal values within the target infrared light, includes: The continuous signal values within the initial infrared light are used as reference values; Calculate the continuous difference between the signal value of the target infrared light and the reference value to obtain the continuous signal attenuation value; The at least one continuous band in which the signal attenuation value exceeds a preset attenuation threshold is defined as the at least one wavelength range.
3. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The components include multiple gas types, the corresponding concentration of each gas, and the rate of concentration change. Determining the composition of the refrigerant based on each infrared absorption peak includes: The wavelength range corresponding to each infrared absorption peak is matched with a preset interference wavelength range library to determine the types of gases contained in the refrigerant; wherein, the interference wavelength range library includes the mapping relationship between different gas types and their corresponding wavelength ranges. For each gas whose gas type has been identified, the concentration of each gas is determined based on the peak intensity of its corresponding infrared absorption peak, and the concentration change rate of each gas is determined based on the rate of change of the peak intensity of its corresponding infrared absorption peak.
4. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Determining the leakage risk level of the refrigerant based on its components includes: The leakage amount of the refrigerant is determined based on the concentration of each gas and its rate of change. When the leakage amount is greater than or equal to the first leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be dangerous. When the leakage amount is less than the first leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the second leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be mild. When the leakage amount is less than the second leakage threshold and greater than or equal to the third leakage threshold, the leakage risk level is determined to be a warning level.
5. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The server is also communicatively connected to the main controller of the air source heat pump device, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild, a control command representing reduced frequency operation is sent to the main controller so that the main controller reduces the operating frequency of the compressor of the air source heat pump to a first frequency according to the control command. If the leakage risk level is hazardous, a control command indicating a shutdown is sent to the main controller, so that the main controller stops the compressor of the air source heat pump according to the control command.
6. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The server also communicates with multiple clients, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild, then the device identifier of the air source heat pump is determined, and the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump is determined according to the device identifier. The target client is determined from among the multiple clients according to the target client identifier, and a first notification is pushed to the target client. The first notification is used to indicate that the refrigerant has a mild leakage and the air source heat pump has been controlled to operate at a first frequency. If the leakage risk level is hazardous, then the device identifier of the air source heat pump is determined, and the target client identifier bound to the air source heat pump is determined based on the device identifier. The target client is determined among the multiple clients based on the target client identifier, and a second notification is pushed to the target client. The second notification is used to indicate that the refrigerant has leaked severely and the air source heat pump has been controlled to stop working.
7. The refrigerant leakage detection method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The server is also connected to the maintenance platform, and the method further includes: If the leakage risk level is mild or dangerous, the equipment identification and operating location of the air source heat pump are determined, and a third notification is sent to the maintenance platform to guide the maintenance of the air source heat pump. The third notification includes the equipment identification and the operating location.
8. A refrigerant leakage detection system for an air source heat pump, characterized in that, include: An infrared emitter is located at one end of the detection space within the air-source heat pump device; An infrared detector is located at the other end of the detection space; The main controller of an air source heat pump; Multiple clients; Repair platform; The server is communicatively connected to the infrared transmitter, the infrared detector, the main controller, the multiple clients, and the maintenance platform. The server is configured to control the infrared emitter to emit initial infrared light of continuous wavelengths into the detection space, continuously receive target infrared light through the infrared emitter, determine at least one wavelength range in which the signal deviates from the initial infrared light due to the energy absorption of the refrigerant based on the continuous signal values in the target infrared light, form a corresponding infrared absorption peak for the continuous signal values in each wavelength range, determine the composition of the refrigerant based on each infrared absorption peak, and determine the leakage risk level of the refrigerant based on the composition. The target infrared light is the infrared light formed by the attenuation of the initial infrared light after it passes through the coolant in the detection space.
9. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the refrigerant leakage detection method for the air source heat pump device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a processor-executable program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to implement the refrigerant leakage detection method for an air source heat pump device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.