Air conditioner control method and device, air conditioner equipment and storage medium

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application relate to an air conditioner control method and device, air conditioner equipment and storage medium. In the case where the air conditioner operates in a natural cooling mode, environmental temperature change data in a future first time period is predicted according to future weather data, and load demand change data in the first time period is predicted according to historical load data of the air conditioner. It is determined whether the environmental temperature change data meets a first preset condition. If the first preset condition is met, it is determined whether the load demand change data meets a second preset condition. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode in the first time period. Thus, the energy-saving air conditioner equipment is prevented from frequently switching to a compressor refrigeration mode due to short-term temperature fluctuations. The natural cooling operation time is prolonged, the number of compressor start-stop times is reduced, the compressor wear and failure rate are reduced, water temperature fluctuations are avoided, indoor comfort is improved, and the overall energy consumption of the air conditioning system is significantly reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of smart home technology, and in particular to an air conditioning control method, device, air conditioning equipment and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the deepening of global energy structure transformation and dual-carbon goals, building energy conservation has become an important path to sustainable development. In commercial buildings, air conditioning systems account for more than 40% of total building energy consumption, with chiller units being particularly energy-intensive. Natural cooling technology, as an efficient and low-carbon energy-saving operating mode, is gradually becoming a key strategy in the design and operation of commercial air conditioning systems. However, existing natural cooling control methods mostly rely on static thresholds (such as fixed outdoor temperature limits) for mode switching. When the outdoor ambient temperature fluctuates around the threshold, the unit tends to frequently switch between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode, which not only increases energy consumption but also causes water temperature fluctuations, affecting indoor comfort.

[0003] To overcome the above problems, some existing technologies have introduced methods such as predicting temperature change curves or adaptively adjusting thresholds. However, a key issue remains unresolved: when it is predicted that the ambient temperature will temporarily exceed the allowable range for natural cooling but subsequently recover, existing systems cannot determine whether the duration of the temperature exceedance can be covered by the unit's current natural cooling capacity, thus failing to proactively maintain natural cooling operation while ensuring cooling demand.

[0004] Therefore, how to avoid frequent switching between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode due to ambient temperature fluctuations in air conditioning units, so as to save energy consumption, has become an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, in order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems or some of the technical problems, the present invention provides an air conditioning control method, device, air conditioning equipment and storage medium.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioning control method, comprising: When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, the ambient temperature change data for the first time period is predicted based on future weather data, and the load demand change data for the first time period is predicted based on the historical load data of the air conditioner. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. If the first preset condition is met, then it is determined whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0007] In one possible implementation, controlling the air conditioner to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period includes: The temperature adjustment step size is calculated based on the difference between the highest ambient temperature in the ambient temperature change data and the original temperature threshold corresponding to the natural cooling mode. The original temperature threshold is added to the temperature adjustment step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold; When the first time period is reached, the original temperature threshold is adjusted to the corrected temperature threshold so that the air conditioner determines whether to exit the natural cooling mode within the first time period based on the corrected temperature threshold.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: If the first time period ends and the ambient temperature is lower than the original temperature threshold in the next first time period, then the corrected temperature threshold will be restored to the original temperature threshold so that the air conditioner can continue to run the natural cooling mode according to the original temperature threshold. If the environmental temperature change data for the next first time period ends and meets the first preset condition, then the step of determining whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition is repeated.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: If the first preset condition is met, and the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner does not meet the load demand during the first time period, or if the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is greater than the temperature threshold, then at the beginning of the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to switch to compressor cooling mode and maintain the compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period. If the ambient temperature is not greater than the temperature threshold at any point during the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0010] In one possible implementation, before determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets a first preset condition, the method further includes: Record and store the temperature difference between the real-time meteorological temperature and the real-time ambient temperature around the air conditioner; Using the stored temperature difference value, the predicted ambient temperature change data is corrected to obtain the corrected ambient temperature change data. Based on the corrected ambient temperature change data, the step of determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition is performed.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: A preset maximum allowable temperature threshold is defined, which is the upper temperature limit during the natural cooling mode operation. If the calculated corrected temperature threshold exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, then the maximum allowable temperature threshold is used as the actual corrected temperature threshold. If the current ambient temperature exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, the air conditioner will exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the air conditioner includes multiple units operating in parallel, each unit having the ability to independently switch between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode, and the method further includes: When the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition and the load demand change data does not meet the second preset condition, the total natural cooling capacity of all multiple units when they are all running in natural cooling mode is obtained, and the predicted total load demand in the first time period is calculated based on the load demand change data. If the predicted total load demand is less than or equal to the total natural cooling capacity, then all units are controlled to maintain natural cooling mode during the first time period. If the predicted total load demand is greater than the total natural cooling capacity, then calculate the number of units that need to be switched to compressor cooling mode; Select the number of units from the multiple units, control the selected unit to exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode, while controlling the remaining units to maintain the natural cooling mode.

[0013] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioning control device, comprising: When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, the ambient temperature change data for the first time period is predicted based on future weather data, and the load demand change data for the first time period is predicted based on the historical load data of the air conditioner. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. If the first preset condition is met, then it is determined whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0014] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioning device, including: a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to execute an air conditioning control program stored in the memory to implement the air conditioning control method described in any one of the first aspects above.

[0015] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a storage medium storing one or more programs, which can be executed by one or more processors to implement the air conditioning control method described in any one of the first aspects.

[0016] The air conditioning control scheme provided in this invention, when the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, predicts the ambient temperature change data within a first time period based on future weather data and the load demand change data within the first time period based on historical load data of the air conditioner; determines whether the ambient temperature change data meets a first preset condition, the first preset condition indicating that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for natural cooling mode operation, and that the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold at at least one moment within the first time period; if the first preset condition is met, then determines whether the load demand change data meets a second preset condition, the second preset condition indicating that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand within the first time period; if the second preset condition is met, then controls the air conditioner to maintain natural cooling mode within the first time period. Therefore, when it is predicted that the ambient temperature will temporarily exceed the standard for a future period but will return to the temperature range required for natural cooling mode operation by the end of the period, and the current natural cooling capacity is sufficient to meet the load demand within that period, the unit can actively maintain natural cooling mode operation, thereby avoiding frequent switching to compressor cooling mode due to short-term temperature fluctuations. This extends the natural cooling operation time, reduces the number of compressor start-stop cycles, and lowers compressor wear and failure rate; at the same time, it avoids repeated fluctuations in water temperature, improves indoor comfort, and significantly reduces the overall energy consumption of the air conditioning system. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 A schematic flowchart of another air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating another air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning control device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0018] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, further explanations and descriptions will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. These embodiments do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the method specifically includes: S11. When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, predict the ambient temperature change data for the first time period based on future weather data, and predict the load demand change data for the first time period based on the historical load data of the air conditioner.

[0021] The air conditioning control method provided in this invention can be applied to energy-saving air conditioning units equipped with natural cooling functions, such as data centers, large commercial buildings, and factories that require year-round cooling. In these scenarios, chiller units operate continuously under frequent outdoor temperature fluctuations, especially during the spring and autumn transition seasons or in areas with large diurnal temperature differences. The activation conditions for natural cooling mode are easily triggered by short-term temperature fluctuations, leading to repeated mode switching, increased energy consumption, and equipment wear. This embodiment is applicable to situations where the unit is in natural cooling operation, predicting future temperature changes and load demands, and dynamically adjusting control thresholds to maintain natural cooling operation.

[0022] This can be executed by the embedded controller integrated into the air conditioning unit. This controller has data storage and computing capabilities, can connect to a high-precision meteorological data interface and local micro-weather station sensors, and acquire unit operating status and historical load data. This controller can also be integrated into building automation systems or energy management platforms as an upper-level optimization algorithm module, distributing data to each unit for execution via standard communication protocols. It is responsible for completing all steps including data acquisition, prediction, condition judgment, dynamic threshold adjustment, and mode switching control.

[0023] In this embodiment, the natural cooling mode refers to the operating mode where the air conditioning unit, when the outdoor ambient temperature is low, does not start or partially stops the compressor, directly utilizing the low-temperature outdoor air (air-side natural cooling) or low-temperature cooling water (water-side natural cooling) as the cold source, and providing cooling capacity to the air conditioning system through the heat exchanger. In this mode, the unit mainly relies on the fan and water pump to drive heat exchange, eliminating or significantly reducing compressor energy consumption, thereby significantly improving the system's energy efficiency ratio. The natural cooling mode in this solution specifically refers to the pure natural cooling state where the unit does not need to start the compressor at all, and its operation requires that the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than the preset start-up temperature threshold.

[0024] The air conditioner controller periodically obtains minute-by-minute or hour-by-hour weather forecast data for the next few hours from a high-precision meteorological service provider (e.g., a meteorological bureau's commercial data interface or a third-party weather API) via a wired or wireless network interface. Simultaneously, a miniature weather station sensor is deployed near the unit (e.g., at the outdoor unit's air inlet) to collect real-time ambient temperature data around the unit. The controller fuses these two types of data: using the high-precision meteorological data as a macro-trend benchmark and the local miniature weather station data as a real-time correction value, it calculates and compensates for the deviation between the two using a pre-trained ambient temperature prediction model. This results in more representative and reliable ambient temperature change data, used to predict the ambient temperature sequence for the first time period in the future (e.g., within the next 1 to 4 hours, the specific duration of which can be configured according to system response requirements). The first time period refers to a continuous time interval starting from the current moment; the length of this interval can be dynamically set by the system based on historical temperature change rates or preset by the user.

[0025] Secondly, the controller reads historical load data of the air conditioner from its internal memory within the same time window over the past few days (e.g., 7 or 30 days). This load data can include cooling capacity demand, return water temperature changes, or actual cooling capacity consumption by the user. The controller then uses a time-series forecasting algorithm (such as linear regression, exponential smoothing, or a lightweight neural network) to perform rolling forecasts of hourly load demand changes within the first time period, combining the current real-time load, outdoor ambient temperature, and building thermal inertia correction factors. The result is a predicted cooling load value for each moment or average unit time within that period, thus obtaining the load demand change data.

[0026] Specifically, a future load forecasting model is pre-trained to predict changes in load demand. This model is a time-series forecasting model pre-trained based on historical operating data of air conditioning units. During training, actual load data of air conditioning units over the past few weeks or months (such as cooling capacity, return water temperature changes, or user-side cooling capacity consumption) are collected and aligned with features such as outdoor ambient temperature and timestamps (hours, seasons, weekdays / holidays) for the corresponding time period to form labeled training samples. Regression algorithms (such as multiple linear regression, random forests, or lightweight recurrent neural networks) are used to iteratively learn the samples, enabling the model to capture the nonlinear mapping relationship between load and changes in ambient temperature and time period. In use, the controller inputs the real-time load at the current moment, the corrected future ambient temperature change data, and time period characteristics (such as whether it is currently a peak period) into the trained model. The model automatically outputs hourly or average load demand change data for the first future time period, serving as a quantitative basis for subsequent judgment of the second preset condition. This model can use incremental learning to periodically fine-tune the weights using newly generated actual load data each day to adapt to seasonal changes and changes in building usage patterns.

[0027] As an example, at 10:00 AM on a certain day in November, the air conditioning unit is operating in natural cooling mode, with a natural cooling activation temperature threshold of 10°C. The actual outdoor temperature is 8°C. The controller first obtains 15-minute weather forecast data for the next 3 hours (10:00 AM to 1:00 PM) via the network. Simultaneously, it reads the real-time measured temperature of 8°C from the local micro-weather station and calculates the deviation between this temperature and the predicted value of 9°C at 10:00 AM, obtaining a correction offset of -1°C. This offset is applied to subsequent forecast times, resulting in the corrected predicted ambient temperature changes: 8°C at 10:00 AM, 11°C at 11:00 AM, 12°C at 12:00 PM, and 9°C at 1:00 PM. The controller sets the first future time period to 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM (3 hours in total), during which the ambient temperature changes are [8, 11, 12, 9]°C. Meanwhile, the controller reads the actual load data from the historical database for each of the past 7 days from 10:00 to 13:00. For example, under similar outdoor temperature variations, the historical load data shows a trend of first slightly increasing and then decreasing: approximately 150 kW from 10:00 to 11:00, approximately 160 kW from 11:00 to 12:00, and approximately 140 kW from 12:00 to 13:00. Combining the current real-time load (150 kW) and the building thermal inertia correction factor, the controller uses exponential smoothing to predict the load demand changes for the first time period in the future as follows: 150 kW from 10:00 to 11:00, 155 kW from 11:00 to 12:00, and 145 kW from 12:00 to 13:00.

[0028] S12. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for natural cooling mode operation, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold.

[0029] In this embodiment, the predicted ambient temperature value corresponding to the end time of the predicted ambient temperature change data sequence within the first predicted time period is first extracted and compared with the temperature threshold required for the system's preset natural cooling mode operation. If the temperature at the end time is less than or equal to the temperature threshold, the first sub-condition is satisfied. Subsequently, the controller iterates through the predicted ambient temperature values ​​at all times (or key sampling points, such as one data point every 5 minutes or every 15 minutes) within the time period, checking whether there is at least one temperature value greater than the temperature threshold. If the temperature is found to be greater than the threshold at any time during the iteration, the second sub-condition is satisfied. The controller determines that the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition if and only if both of the above sub-conditions are met simultaneously; otherwise, it is determined that it does not meet the condition. In actual implementation, to improve computational efficiency, the controller can prioritize judging the temperature condition at the end time, and only perform the iteration judgment after the condition is met, so as to reduce unnecessary computational overhead.

[0030] As an example, suppose an air conditioner's natural cooling mode has a temperature threshold of 10°C. The controller predicts the ambient temperature changes for the first time period (11:00 to 13:00) as follows: 11°C at 11:00, 13°C at 12:00, and 9°C at 13:00. The judgment steps are as follows: First, extract the temperature of 9°C at the end time of 13:00 and compare it with the threshold of 10°C. Since 9°C ≤ 10°C, the first sub-condition is met. Then, iterate through all times between 11:00 and 13:00: 11°C > 10°C at 11:00, and 13°C > 10°C at 12:00. At least one time the temperature is greater than the threshold, thus the second sub-condition is met. Therefore, the controller determines that the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. Conversely, if the temperature at the end time is 11°C (greater than 10°C), or if all temperatures throughout the period are ≤ 10°C, then it is determined that it does not meet the condition.

[0031] S13. If the first preset condition is met, determine whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period.

[0032] In this embodiment, when the controller confirms that the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition, it further determines whether the current natural cooling capacity is sufficient to cope with the load demand in the first future time period. First, the controller calculates how much cooling capacity the air conditioner can provide at most by natural cooling only when the compressor is not started in the current state. The natural cooling capacity depends on three factors: the water flow rate through the heat exchanger, the temperature difference between the outdoor ambient temperature and the return water temperature of the air conditioner, and the operation duration. Among them, the greater the flow rate, the greater the temperature difference, and the longer the operation time, the stronger the natural cooling capacity. The controller obtains the current water flow rate and temperature difference from the real-time operation data of the unit, and combines the duration of the first time period to calculate the upper limit of the total cooling capacity contributed by natural cooling within this time period. At the same time, the controller extracts the maximum load demand within this time period from the previously predicted load demand change data. The natural cooling capacity is compared with the load demand: if the natural cooling capacity is greater than or equal to the load demand, it means that only relying on natural cooling can meet the user's cooling needs without starting the compressor at all, and it is determined to meet the second preset condition at this time; on the contrary, if the natural cooling capacity is less than the load demand, it means that there will be insufficient cooling even if the natural cooling runs at full capacity, and it is determined not to meet the second preset condition at this time.

[0033] Specifically, measure the water flow rate G through the natural cooling heat exchanger, and obtain the temperature difference ΔT = T_amb - T_return between the current ambient temperature T_amb around the unit and the return water temperature T_return of the air conditioner (for air-side natural cooling), or the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet water temperatures of the cooling water (for water-side natural cooling), and then use the energy balance formula Q_cap = 1.163×G×ΔT×Δt to calculate the current natural cooling capacity Q_cap (unit: kW), where Δt is the number of hours. If the data is recorded every 15 minutes, then Δt = 0.25; if it is every 1 hour, then Δt = 1, and 1.163 is the unit conversion coefficient.

[0034] At the same time, extract the peak load demand Q_demand_max within the first time period or the total demand / average demand for the entire time period (depending on the system design, usually taking the peak value) from the previously predicted load demand change data. The controller compares Q_cap with Q_demand_max: if Q_cap ≥ Q_demand_max, it is determined that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner can meet the load demand within the first time period, that is, it meets the second preset condition; if Q_cap < Q_demand_max, it is determined that the capacity is insufficient and does not meet the second preset condition. To cope with prediction uncertainties, a safety factor (such as Q_cap ≥ 1.1×Q_demand_max) can also be introduced during the comparison.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the target time period in which the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold is obtained within the first time period, the target natural cooling capacity within the predicted target time period is obtained, and the target load demand within the target time period is obtained. It is then determined whether the target natural cooling capacity can meet the target load demand. If so, the load demand change data is determined to meet the second preset condition.

[0036] In this embodiment, from the ambient temperature change data of the first time period, all continuous or discrete moments when the ambient temperature is greater than the original temperature threshold are identified. These moments are grouped into one or more sub-time periods, referred to as the target time period. The target time period represents the interval where natural cooling capacity faces actual challenges, i.e., the period when the temperature exceeds the standard. Subsequently, for this target time period, the controller obtains: the target natural cooling capacity, i.e., the total or average cooling capacity that the air conditioner can provide in the current operating state and within the target time period through natural cooling mode. This value can be calculated based on the real-time monitored flow rate and temperature difference, combined with the duration of the target time period; and the target load demand, i.e., the predicted cooling load value (usually the peak value or total demand) corresponding to the target time period is extracted from the load demand change data. The target natural cooling capacity is compared with the target load demand: if the target natural cooling capacity is greater than or equal to the target load demand, it is determined that the natural cooling capacity is sufficient to support the entire period when the temperature exceeds the standard, and the load demand change data is determined to meet the second preset condition; otherwise, if the capacity is insufficient, it is determined that it does not meet the condition. By narrowing the scope of judgment from the entire first time period to the target time period that actually exceeds the standard, this step makes the condition judgment more accurate and avoids the risk of the insufficiency of the capacity during the exceeding period being masked by the capacity redundancy of the non-exceeding period in the first time period.

[0037] S14. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain natural cooling mode for the first time period.

[0038] In this embodiment, when the controller determines that the second preset condition is met, it controls the air conditioner to continuously operate in natural cooling mode for the first time period, so that the air conditioner can continuously operate in natural cooling mode during the period when the temperature is temporarily above the standard but the natural cooling capacity is sufficient, without switching to the compressor, avoiding frequent switching of working modes and reducing the energy consumption of the air conditioner.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the temperature adjustment step size is calculated based on the difference between the highest ambient temperature in the ambient temperature change data and the original temperature threshold corresponding to the natural cooling mode; the original temperature threshold is added to the temperature adjustment step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold; when the first time period is reached, the original temperature threshold is adjusted to the corrected temperature threshold so that the air conditioner determines whether to exit the natural cooling mode based on the corrected temperature threshold during the first time period.

[0040] In this embodiment, the highest ambient temperature value within the predicted future first time period is extracted from the ambient temperature change data. Simultaneously, the controller reads the original temperature threshold corresponding to the current natural cooling mode (i.e., the upper temperature limit allowed to activate the natural cooling mode under normal operating conditions, e.g., 10°C). Then, the controller calculates the difference between the highest ambient temperature and the original temperature threshold; for example, if the highest ambient temperature is 13°C and the original temperature threshold is 10°C, the difference is 3°C. This difference can be directly used as the temperature adjustment step size, or it can be multiplied by a safety factor (e.g., 1.2) as needed. The controller adds the original temperature threshold to the temperature adjustment step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold, for example, 10°C + 3°C = 13°C, or, considering a safety margin, 10°C + 3.5°C = 13.5°C. At the start of the first time period, the controller performs a threshold adjustment operation: temporarily modifying the temperature threshold determined by the natural cooling mode from the original value to the corrected temperature threshold, and maintaining this corrected temperature threshold valid throughout the entire first time period. Subsequently, the air conditioner uses the corrected temperature threshold as the basis for determining whether to exit the natural cooling mode during the first time period: the air conditioning unit switches to compressor cooling mode only when the actual ambient temperature exceeds the corrected temperature threshold; if the actual ambient temperature is between the original temperature threshold and the corrected temperature threshold, the unit continues to operate in natural cooling mode.

[0041] For example: Suppose an air conditioner's initial temperature threshold is 10°C. The controller predicts the ambient temperature changes during the first time period (11:00 to 13:00) as follows: 11°C at 11:00, 13°C at 12:00, and 9°C at 13:00, with the highest ambient temperature being 13°C. The controller calculates a temperature adjustment step of 3°C, resulting in a corrected temperature threshold of 13°C. At 11:00, the controller temporarily adjusts the natural cooling activation condition from "≤10°C" to "≤13°C". When the actual temperature rises to 11°C at 11:00, since 11°C ≤ 13°C, the unit continues to operate in natural cooling mode. At 12:00, the actual temperature reaches 13°C, still equal to the corrected threshold, and natural cooling can still be maintained. At 13:00, the temperature drops to 9°C, far below the corrected threshold. Thus, throughout the first time period, the unit avoids switching to compressor cooling due to the temperature exceeding the initial temperature threshold, successfully maintaining natural cooling mode. After 13:00, the controller will restore the temperature threshold to the original value of 10°C.

[0042] In one possible implementation, if the ambient temperature is lower than the original temperature threshold at the end of the first time period and the ambient temperature is lower than the original temperature threshold in the next first time period, the corrected temperature threshold will be restored to the original temperature threshold so that the air conditioner can continue to operate in natural cooling mode according to the original temperature threshold. If the ambient temperature change data in the next first time period meets the first preset condition at the end of the first time period, the step of judging whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition will be repeated.

[0043] In this embodiment, at the end of the first time period, the ambient temperature change data for the next future time period is acquired again. First, it is determined whether all predicted ambient temperatures for the next time period are less than or equal to the original temperature threshold. If so, it indicates that the subsequent air temperature has fully fallen back to the safe range of natural cooling, and there is no need to maintain a high correction threshold. The controller restores the activation temperature threshold of the natural cooling mode from the correction temperature threshold to the original temperature threshold and controls the air conditioner to continue operating in natural cooling mode according to the original threshold, thereby avoiding the equipment risks that may be caused by a long-term high threshold, and simultaneously returning the control logic to normal. If the ambient temperature change data for the next time period meets the first preset condition, the controller does not restore the threshold but repeats the judgment step for the second preset condition.

[0044] For example: Assume the initial temperature threshold is 10°C. The first time period is 11:00-13:00, with a predicted maximum temperature of 13°C. Natural cooling capacity meets the requirements, and the controller adjusts the temperature threshold to 13°C. After 13:00, the predicted temperatures for the next time period (14:00-16:00) are obtained: 11°C at 14:00, 14°C at 15:00, and 9°C at 16:00. At the end of 16:00, 9°C ≤ 10°C, and there is a point where 14°C > 10°C, meeting the first preset condition. The controller then re-evaluates the second preset condition: calculating the current natural cooling capacity (assuming the flow rate and temperature difference remain unchanged, still sufficient to meet the peak load of the next time period), the highest temperature of the next time period (14°C) is taken and compared with the current temperature threshold of 13°C. The difference is 1°C, and the temperature threshold is further increased from 13°C to 14°C. Between 14:00 and 16:00, even if the temperature rises to 14°C, the unit will continue to cool naturally. After 16:00, the predicted temperature for the next time period, 17:00-19:00, is obtained. If all temperatures are below 10°C, the controller will restore the temperature threshold to the original threshold of 10°C, and the air conditioner will continue to cool naturally according to the original threshold. If a similar temperature rise occurs again later, the above judgment and adjustment process will be repeated.

[0045] In one possible implementation, if the first preset condition is met and the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner does not meet the load demand during the first time period, or if the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is greater than the temperature threshold, then at the beginning of the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to switch to compressor cooling mode and maintain compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period; if the ambient temperature is not greater than the temperature threshold at any time during the first time period, then the air conditioner is controlled to maintain natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0046] In this embodiment, if the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition, but the air conditioner's current natural cooling capacity cannot meet the load demand during that time period (i.e., the second preset condition is not met), or the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is already greater than the original temperature threshold, then at the beginning of the first time period, the controller immediately issues a command to control the air conditioner to exit the natural cooling mode and switch to compressor cooling mode during the first time period, and maintain compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period. Conversely, if the predicted ambient temperature value at all times during the first time period does not exceed the original temperature threshold, the controller directly controls the air conditioner to continue operating in natural cooling mode during the first time period without any switching. Therefore, timely switching when natural cooling capacity is insufficient avoids insufficient cooling leading to uncontrolled room temperature; early switching when the temperature exceeds the threshold at the end ensures system stability and reliability; and maintaining natural cooling maximizes energy savings when there is no temperature exceeding the threshold throughout the entire period.

[0047] Optionally, if the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is greater than the temperature threshold, and the duration of the ambient temperature at the end of the time period being greater than the temperature threshold is greater than the duration threshold, it indicates that the ambient temperature has been above the temperature threshold for a long time, which has affected the cooling capacity provided by the air conditioner. In this case, at the beginning of the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to switch to compressor cooling mode and maintain compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period.

[0048] As an example, suppose the initial temperature threshold is 10°C, and the first time period is 11:00-13:00. The predicted ambient temperature is 11°C at 11:00, 13°C at 12:00, and 9°C at 13:00 (the end temperature is ≤10°C, which meets the first preset condition). However, the natural cooling capacity is only 80kW, and the predicted peak load demand is 150kW. The controller switches to compressor cooling at 11:00 and maintains it until 13:00.

[0049] If the predicted ambient temperature at 13:00 is 11°C (>10°C), the controller will also switch to compressor cooling at 11:00 and maintain it until 13:00.

[0050] If the predicted ambient temperature is 9°C at 11:00, 9.5°C at 12:00, and 8°C at 13:00, and all ambient temperatures are ≤10°C, the controller will maintain natural cooling mode from 11:00 to 13:00 and will not switch to this mode.

[0051] In one possible implementation, before determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets a first preset condition, the method further includes: Record and store the temperature difference between the real-time meteorological temperature and the real-time ambient temperature around the air conditioner; use the stored temperature difference to correct the error of the predicted ambient temperature change data to obtain the corrected ambient temperature change data; based on the corrected ambient temperature change data, perform the step of judging whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition.

[0052] In this embodiment, the local meteorological temperature (i.e., the predicted or measured temperature at the corresponding moment in the public weather forecast data) obtained from a high-precision meteorological interface is recorded simultaneously at a fixed sampling period (e.g., once per minute) as the real-time meteorological temperature, and the real-time ambient temperature around the air conditioning unit is recorded directly by a micro-weather station sensor installed around the unit. The difference between the real-time meteorological temperature and the real-time ambient temperature around the unit at the same moment is calculated, and the difference and its corresponding timestamp are stored in the historical temperature difference database. When it is necessary to predict the ambient temperature change data for the first time period in the future, the difference values ​​similar to the current season, time period (e.g., morning / afternoon) or weather type are retrieved from the historical temperature difference database, and the average or weighted average of these differences is calculated as the prediction deviation compensation amount. Then, the compensation amount is added (or subtracted) to each temperature value in the original ambient temperature change data to obtain the corrected ambient temperature change data. The corrected ambient temperature change data is used as input to perform the step of determining whether it meets the first preset condition. In this way, the system can gradually learn the systematic deviations between the local microclimate and public meteorological data, effectively eliminating prediction errors caused by factors such as the distance of the meteorological station, the local heat island effect, or the heat dissipation of the unit, making the judgment of the first preset condition more accurate, avoiding misjudgment or omission due to prediction deviation, thereby improving the reliability of natural cooling maintenance decisions.

[0053] In one possible implementation, a maximum allowable temperature threshold is preset, which is the upper limit of the temperature when the natural cooling mode is running; if the calculated corrected temperature threshold exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, the maximum allowable temperature threshold is used as the actual corrected temperature threshold; if the current ambient temperature has exceeded the maximum allowable temperature threshold, the air conditioner is controlled to exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode.

[0054] In this embodiment, a fixed maximum allowable temperature threshold is preset, representing the upper limit of the ambient temperature that the unit can withstand during natural cooling mode operation. Continuing to operate in natural cooling mode beyond this limit may lead to excessively low heat exchange efficiency, equipment overload, or insufficient cooling. When the controller calculates the temperature adjustment step size based on the highest ambient temperature and the original temperature threshold from the ambient temperature change data, and adds the original temperature threshold to the step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold, before performing threshold adjustment, it first compares the calculated corrected temperature threshold with the maximum allowable temperature threshold: if the corrected temperature threshold is less than or equal to the maximum allowable temperature threshold, then the corrected temperature threshold is directly used as the actual adjusted temperature threshold; if the corrected temperature threshold is greater than the maximum allowable temperature threshold, then the maximum allowable temperature threshold is used as the actual corrected temperature threshold, meaning the actual adjusted temperature threshold must not exceed the preset maximum allowable temperature limit. Furthermore, during air conditioner operation, the controller continuously monitors the ambient temperature around the unit in real time. Once it detects that the current ambient temperature has exceeded the maximum allowable temperature threshold, regardless of whether threshold adjustment has been performed previously, the controller immediately issues a command to force the air conditioner to exit natural cooling mode and switch to compressor cooling mode to protect the equipment and ensure cooling capacity. By setting a maximum allowable temperature threshold, the system prevents natural cooling from operating at excessively high ambient temperatures due to excessive dynamic adjustments, thus avoiding a sharp drop in heat exchange efficiency or frequent compressor start-stops. At the same time, it immediately switches when the ambient temperature exceeds the safe upper limit, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the system.

[0055] In one possible implementation, the air conditioner includes multiple units operating in parallel, each unit having the ability to independently switch between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode; the method further includes: When the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition and the load demand change data does not meet the second preset condition, the total natural cooling capacity of all units operating in natural cooling mode is obtained, and the predicted total load demand in the first time period is calculated based on the load demand change data. If the predicted total load demand is less than or equal to the total natural cooling capacity, all units are controlled to maintain natural cooling mode in the first time period. If the predicted total load demand is greater than the total natural cooling capacity, the number of units that need to be switched to compressor cooling mode is calculated. The units selected from the multiple units are controlled to exit natural cooling mode and switch to compressor cooling mode, while the remaining units are controlled to maintain natural cooling mode.

[0056] In this embodiment, the air conditioner includes multiple units operating in parallel, each equipped with an independent control module capable of switching between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode. The controller acquires real-time operating parameters of all parallel units via a communication bus, including the water flow rate and inlet / outlet water temperature difference of each unit's natural cooling heat exchanger. It calculates the cooling capacity that each unit can provide under current conditions when operating in natural cooling mode alone, and then sums the natural cooling capacities of all units to obtain the total natural cooling capacity when all units are operating simultaneously in natural cooling mode.

[0057] Simultaneously, the controller extracts the predicted total load demand for the first time period from the previously predicted load demand change data (usually the peak load or total cooling capacity demand for that period). Next, the controller compares the predicted total load demand with the total natural cooling capacity: if the predicted total load demand is less than or equal to the total natural cooling capacity, it means that natural cooling from all units is sufficient to meet user needs, and no compressors need to be started. Therefore, the controller issues a maintenance command to all units, controlling them to maintain natural cooling mode operation for the first time period. If the predicted total load demand is greater than the total natural cooling capacity, it indicates a shortfall in natural cooling capacity, requiring the use of compressor cooling in some units to compensate. In this case, the controller calculates the number of units that need to switch to compressor cooling mode based on the shortfall ratio. The calculation formula is: Number of units to switch = Total number of units × (1 - Total natural cooling capacity / Predicted total load demand), and rounds the result up to ensure that the total cooling capacity after switching is not lower than the demand. Then, the controller selects a preset number of units from multiple units according to a preset selection strategy (e.g., prioritizing the unit with the longest cumulative operating time to even out wear, or prioritizing the unit with the lowest energy efficiency ratio to reduce energy consumption). It sends switching commands to the selected units, causing them to exit natural cooling mode and immediately start operating in compressor cooling mode. Simultaneously, it sends maintenance commands to the remaining units, ensuring they continue in natural cooling mode. During the first time period, the units switched to compressor cooling bear part of the cooling load, while the units maintaining natural cooling continue to provide free cooling. Together, they meet the predicted total load demand. This implementation method, while ensuring sufficient cooling supply, maximizes the energy-saving advantages of natural cooling and avoids a significant increase in energy consumption caused by blindly switching all units to compressor cooling.

[0058] This application integrates high-precision meteorological data with local micro-weather station information and combines it with historical load prediction models to achieve accurate prediction of future ambient temperature change trends and load demand. Based on this, it dynamically determines whether the natural cooling capacity meets the cooling demand during periods of temperature exceeding the standard. When the capacity meets the demand, it actively adjusts the natural cooling start-up temperature threshold, enabling the unit to continuously maintain natural cooling operation even when the temperature temporarily exceeds the standard but subsequently recovers. This significantly extends the natural cooling operation time, reduces the number of compressor start-ups and shutdowns and wear and tear, and lowers the failure rate. At the same time, it avoids frequent switching between natural cooling and compressor cooling modes caused by short-term fluctuations in ambient temperature, effectively stabilizing the air conditioning water supply temperature and indoor environmental comfort, and significantly reducing the overall energy consumption of the system. This achieves adaptive, efficient, and energy-saving control of the air conditioning unit under complex meteorological conditions.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating another air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, when the air conditioning unit operates in natural cooling mode, the controller acquires real-time weather forecast data for the next n hours and simultaneously records the air temperature at each moment in the forecast and the ambient temperature measured by the micro-weather station around the unit. The controller corrects the forecast data by comparing the deviation between the two. Based on the corrected forecast data, the controller determines the trend of ambient temperature changes around the unit over the next n hours, detects whether there is a temperature rise period exceeding the allowable temperature range for natural cooling operation, and records the duration of this temperature rise period as m hours. Subsequently, the controller combines historical user load data and a load forecasting model to calculate whether the cooling capacity provided by the current unit operating in natural cooling mode is sufficient to maintain the user's required cooling load during the m-hour temperature rise period. If the calculation result is yes, the controller dynamically adjusts the natural cooling activation conditions, for example, temporarily raising the originally fixed activation temperature threshold to a higher correction value, so that the unit remains in natural cooling operation during the next m-hour temperature rise period, avoiding switching to compressor cooling mode. If the calculation result is no (i.e., insufficient capacity or inability to recover temperature), the controller switches to compressor cooling mode in advance or promptly to ensure stable cooling supply. Through the above steps, this method achieves intelligent maintenance of the natural cooling operation state, maximizes the natural cooling usage time, reduces frequent mode switching, and improves system energy efficiency and operational stability.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another air conditioning control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3As shown, the air conditioning unit initially operates in natural cooling mode. In this mode, the controller continuously acquires weather forecast data and simultaneously collects ambient temperature data from micro-weather stations around the unit, correcting the prediction model by comparing the differences. Based on the corrected model, the system predicts the trend of ambient temperature changes around the unit over the next n hours and determines whether there are periods exceeding the allowable operating temperature range for natural cooling, recording the duration of these periods. Subsequently, the system introduces a load prediction algorithm, using historical user load data to predict the cooling load demand during these periods and calculating whether the unit can meet the load demand by maintaining natural cooling operation under the current natural cooling capacity. If the calculation result indicates that it can meet the demand, the controller dynamically adjusts the natural cooling activation conditions (e.g., temporarily increasing the activation temperature threshold) so that the unit continues to operate in natural cooling mode during the temperature exceedance period that would normally trigger a switch, without switching to compressor cooling mode. After this period ends, the system restores the original activation conditions, and the unit continues to operate according to the normal natural cooling logic. If the calculation result indicates that it cannot meet the demand, the unit switches to compressor cooling mode at an appropriate time to ensure stable cooling supply. Through the above process, the natural cooling operation is actively maintained, which effectively avoids frequent mode switching caused by short-term temperature fluctuations, extends the natural cooling operation time, and reduces the number of compressor start-stop cycles and system energy consumption.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning control device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the device includes: The prediction module 41 is used to predict the change in ambient temperature in the first time period based on future weather data and the change in load demand in the first time period based on the historical load data of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode. The first judgment module 42 is used to judge whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. The second judgment module 43 is used to determine whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition if the first preset condition is met. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. The control module 44 is used to control the air conditioner to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period if the second preset condition is met.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the control module is specifically used to calculate the temperature adjustment step size based on the difference between the highest ambient temperature in the ambient temperature change data and the original temperature threshold corresponding to the natural cooling mode. The original temperature threshold is added to the temperature adjustment step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold; When the first time period is reached, the original temperature threshold is adjusted to the corrected temperature threshold so that the air conditioner determines whether to exit the natural cooling mode within the first time period based on the corrected temperature threshold.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured to restore the corrected temperature threshold to the original temperature threshold if the first time period ends and the ambient temperature in the next first time period is lower than the original temperature threshold, so as to control the air conditioner to continue to operate the natural cooling mode according to the original temperature threshold. If the environmental temperature change data for the next first time period ends and meets the first preset condition, then the step of determining whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition is repeated.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured to, if the first preset condition is met and the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner does not meet the load demand during the first time period, or if the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is greater than the temperature threshold, then at the beginning of the first time period, control the air conditioner to switch to compressor cooling mode and maintain the compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period. If the ambient temperature is not greater than the temperature threshold at any point during the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the first judgment module is further configured to record and store the temperature difference between the real-time meteorological temperature and the real-time ambient temperature around the air conditioner; Using the stored temperature difference value, the predicted ambient temperature change data is corrected to obtain the corrected ambient temperature change data. Based on the corrected ambient temperature change data, the step of determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition is performed.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured to preset a maximum allowable temperature threshold, which is the upper temperature limit during the natural cooling mode operation; If the calculated corrected temperature threshold exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, then the maximum allowable temperature threshold is used as the actual corrected temperature threshold. If the current ambient temperature exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, the air conditioner will exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured to, when the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition and the load demand change data does not meet the second preset condition, obtain the total natural cooling capacity of all multiple units operating in natural cooling mode, and calculate the predicted total load demand within the first time period based on the load demand change data. If the predicted total load demand is less than or equal to the total natural cooling capacity, then all units are controlled to maintain natural cooling mode during the first time period. If the predicted total load demand is greater than the total natural cooling capacity, then calculate the number of units that need to be switched to compressor cooling mode; Select the number of units from the multiple units, control the selected unit to exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode, while controlling the remaining units to maintain the natural cooling mode.

[0068] The air conditioning control device provided in this embodiment can be as follows: Figure 4 The apparatus shown can perform, as Figure 1 All steps of the central air conditioning control method, thereby achieving Figure 1 For details on the technical effects of the air conditioning control method shown, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 The relevant descriptions are presented concisely and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0069] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 The air conditioning device 500 shown includes at least one processor 501, a memory 502, at least one network interface 504, and other user interfaces 503. The various components in the air conditioning device 500 are coupled together via a bus system 505. It is understood that the bus system 505 is used to implement communication between these components. In addition to a data bus, the bus system 505 also includes a power bus, a control bus, and a status signal bus. However, for clarity, in… Figure 5 The general designated all buses as Bus System 505.

[0070] The user interface 503 may include a display, keyboard, or clicking device (e.g., mouse, trackball, touchpad, or touchscreen).

[0071] It is understood that the memory 502 in the embodiments of the present invention can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate Synchronous DRAM (DDRSDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchronous Link DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). The memory 502 described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0072] In some implementations, memory 502 stores elements, executable units or data structures, or subsets thereof, or extended sets thereof: operating system 5021 and application program 5022.

[0073] The operating system 5021 includes various system programs, such as the framework layer, core library layer, and driver layer, used to implement various basic business functions and handle hardware-based tasks. The application program 5022 includes various applications, such as a media player and a browser, used to implement various application functions. The program implementing the method of this embodiment can be included in the application program 5022.

[0074] In this embodiment of the invention, by calling the program or instructions stored in memory 502, specifically the program or instructions stored in application program 5022, processor 501 executes the method steps provided in each method embodiment, including, for example: When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, the ambient temperature change data for the first time period is predicted based on future weather data, and the load demand change data for the first time period is predicted based on the historical load data of the air conditioner. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. If the first preset condition is met, then it is determined whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0075] The methods disclosed in the above embodiments of the present invention can be applied to or implemented by processor 501. Processor 501 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, each step of the above method can be completed by the integrated logic circuit of the hardware in processor 501 or by instructions in the form of software. The processor 501 may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software units in the decoding processor. The software units may be located in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in memory 502. Processor 501 reads the information in memory 502 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0076] It is understood that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, or a combination thereof. For hardware implementation, the processing unit can be implemented in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), general-purpose processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units for performing the functions described herein, or combinations thereof.

[0077] For software implementation, the techniques described herein can be implemented by units that perform the functions described herein. The software code can be stored in memory and executed by a processor. The memory can be implemented in the processor or external to the processor.

[0078] The air conditioning equipment provided in this embodiment can be as follows: Figure 5 The device shown can perform, for example Figure 1 All steps of the central air conditioning control method, thereby achieving Figure 1 For details on the technical effects of the air conditioning control method shown, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 The relevant descriptions are presented concisely and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0079] This invention also provides a storage medium (computer-readable storage medium). This storage medium stores one or more programs. The storage medium may include volatile memory, such as random access memory; it may also include non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive; and it may also include combinations of the above types of memory.

[0080] One or more programs in the storage medium can be executed by one or more processors to implement the air conditioning control method described above that is executed on the device side.

[0081] The processor is used to execute an air conditioning control program stored in the memory to implement the following steps of an air conditioning control method executed on the device side: When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, the ambient temperature change data for the first time period is predicted based on future weather data, and the load demand change data for the first time period is predicted based on the historical load data of the air conditioner. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. If the first preset condition is met, then it is determined whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

[0082] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the various examples have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of this invention.

[0083] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can be located in random access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0084] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air conditioning control method, characterized in that, include: When the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode, the ambient temperature change data for the first time period is predicted based on future weather data, and the load demand change data for the first time period is predicted based on the historical load data of the air conditioner. Determine whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. If the first preset condition is met, then it is determined whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. If the second preset condition is met, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control of the air conditioner to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period includes: The temperature adjustment step size is calculated based on the difference between the highest ambient temperature in the ambient temperature change data and the original temperature threshold corresponding to the natural cooling mode. The original temperature threshold is added to the temperature adjustment step size to obtain the corrected temperature threshold; When the first time period begins, the original temperature threshold is adjusted to the corrected temperature threshold so that the air conditioner determines whether to exit the natural cooling mode within the first time period based on the corrected temperature threshold.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the first time period ends, and the ambient temperature in the next first time period is lower than the original temperature threshold, the corrected temperature threshold is restored to the original temperature threshold so that the air conditioner continues to operate the natural cooling mode according to the original temperature threshold. If the environmental temperature change data for the next first time period ends and meets the first preset condition, then the step of determining whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition is repeated.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the first preset condition is met, and the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner does not meet the load demand during the first time period, or if the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is greater than the temperature threshold, then at the beginning of the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to switch to compressor cooling mode and maintain the compressor cooling mode until the end of the first time period. If the ambient temperature is not greater than the temperature threshold at any point during the first time period, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition, the method further includes: Record the temperature difference between the real-time meteorological temperature and the real-time ambient temperature around the air conditioner; Using the stored temperature difference value, the predicted ambient temperature change data is corrected to obtain the corrected ambient temperature change data. Based on the corrected ambient temperature change data, the step of determining whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition is performed.

6. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: A preset maximum allowable temperature threshold is defined, which is the upper temperature limit during the natural cooling mode operation. If the calculated corrected temperature threshold exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, then the maximum allowable temperature threshold is used as the actual corrected temperature threshold. If the current ambient temperature exceeds the maximum allowable temperature threshold, the air conditioner will exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode.

7. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes multiple units operating in parallel, each unit having the ability to independently switch between natural cooling mode and compressor cooling mode. The method further includes: When the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition and the load demand change data does not meet the second preset condition, the total natural cooling capacity of all multiple units when they are all running in natural cooling mode is obtained, and the predicted total load demand in the first time period is calculated based on the load demand change data. If the predicted total load demand is less than or equal to the total natural cooling capacity, then all units are controlled to maintain natural cooling mode during the first time period. If the predicted total load demand is greater than the total natural cooling capacity, then calculate the number of units that need to be switched to compressor cooling mode; Select the number of units from the multiple units, control the selected unit to exit the natural cooling mode and switch to the compressor cooling mode, and control the remaining units to maintain the natural cooling mode.

8. An air conditioning control device, characterized in that, include: The prediction module is used to predict the change in ambient temperature in the first time period based on future weather data and the change in load demand in the first time period based on the historical load data of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is operating in natural cooling mode. The first judgment module is used to judge whether the ambient temperature change data meets the first preset condition. The first preset condition indicates that the ambient temperature at the end of the first time period is less than or equal to the temperature threshold required for the natural cooling mode to operate, and that there is at least one moment in the first time period where the ambient temperature is greater than the temperature threshold. The second judgment module is used to determine whether the load demand change data meets the second preset condition if the first preset condition is met. The second preset condition indicates that the current natural cooling capacity of the air conditioner meets the load demand in the first time period. The control module is used to control the air conditioner to maintain the natural cooling mode during the first time period if the second preset condition is met.

9. An air conditioning device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a memory, the processor being configured to execute an air conditioning control program stored in the memory to implement the air conditioning control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores one or more programs, which can be executed by one or more processors to implement the air conditioning control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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