Multi-functional air conditioner and method of using the same

Abstract

The application discloses a multifunctional air conditioner and a use method thereof, and belongs to the technical field of air conditioners. The multifunctional air conditioner comprises a first heat exchange mechanism, a first water tank, a first upper water pipe, a second heat exchange piece and a first circulating pump. The second heat exchange piece is arranged in the first water tank, the first heat exchange piece is located above the first water tank, the first circulating pump is installed on the first upper water pipe, and the first heat exchange piece is communicated with the first water tank through the first upper water pipe. The first heat exchange mechanism comprises a first heat exchange working medium pipeline, a compressor, a throttling element and a third heat exchange piece. The second heat exchange piece, the compressor, the throttling element and the third heat exchange piece are connected in series through the first heat exchange working medium pipeline. Heat exchange is formed between the second heat exchange piece and the first heat exchange piece, and heat exchange is formed between the second heat exchange piece and the third heat exchange piece. By opening or closing the compressor, the multifunctional air conditioner has a cold air mode and a refrigeration mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of air conditioning, and in particular to a multi-functional air conditioner and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of ventilation and cooling, the most common equipment is divided into two main categories: evaporative air coolers (commonly known as water air conditioners or environmentally friendly air conditioners) and vapor compression air conditioners.

[0003] Evaporative air coolers use paper fiber packing (such as water curtains) as the evaporation medium. A circulating water pump sprays water onto the packing surface, while a fan forces air to flow over the moistened packing. The air is cooled isenthalpically through the heat absorption effect of water evaporation. The significant advantages of this type of equipment are its simple structure, lack of compressor and refrigerant requirements, low power consumption, and low manufacturing cost, making it suitable for large open or semi-open spaces. However, its inherent drawbacks are also prominent: because the cooling process relies on water evaporation, the moisture content of the treated air increases significantly, leading to a substantial rise in relative humidity. It can only lower the dry-bulb temperature, not the wet-bulb temperature. In high-temperature and high-humidity environments, the cooling effect diminishes sharply, and excessive humidity can easily cause equipment corrosion, bacterial growth, and decreased human comfort.

[0004] Traditional air conditioners (represented by indoor units of household split-type air conditioners) employ a complete vapor compression refrigeration cycle. A compressor drives the refrigerant to evaporate and absorb heat in the second indoor heat exchanger (finned-tube heat exchanger), resulting in forced convection heat exchange with the indoor air. This achieves simultaneous reduction of both the dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures, thus simultaneously achieving sensible heat cooling and dehumidification. While these devices offer high temperature and humidity control precision, wide applicability, and excellent comfort, their complex systems, including compressors, condensers, throttling devices, and associated electrical control systems, lead to significantly higher overall energy consumption. The initial investment and operating maintenance costs are far higher than those of evaporative air coolers.

[0005] Currently, these two types of equipment are typically designed and manufactured independently in the industry, forming their own complete product systems. For large public buildings, industrial plants, transportation hubs, and convention centers, the temperature and humidity requirements vary across different functional areas or seasons—for example, during transitional seasons or in sparsely populated areas, only moderate ventilation and cooling may be needed, while during hot summer months or in densely populated areas, deep dehumidification and cooling are required. Operators are often forced to purchase both evaporative coolers and air conditioners, installing them separately in different areas or using them alternately. This practice not only results in duplicate equipment purchases, occupied installation space, and increased initial investment, but also increases the complexity of daily management, maintenance, and energy allocation, making it impossible to achieve flexible and economical coordinated operation based on real-time load changes. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an integrated composite equipment that can accommodate both cooling modes and switch operating modes according to working conditions, in order to reduce user procurement costs, improve equipment utilization, and simplify operation and maintenance management. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to improve the problem of repeated equipment purchases caused by the need to purchase both evaporative coolers and air conditioners for cooling large public areas, and to provide a multi-functional air conditioner and its usage method.

[0007] The technical solutions for achieving the above objectives include the following:

[0008] A multi-functional air conditioner includes: a first heat exchange mechanism including a first heat exchange element, a first water tank, a first water inlet pipe, a second heat exchange element, and a first circulation pump; the second heat exchange element is disposed in the first water tank, the first heat exchange element is located above the first water tank, the first circulation pump is installed on the first water inlet pipe, and the first heat exchange element is connected to the first water tank through the first water inlet pipe.

[0009] The second heat exchange mechanism includes a first heat exchange medium pipeline, a compressor, a throttling element, and a third heat exchange component, wherein the second heat exchange component, the compressor, the throttling element, and the third heat exchange component are connected in series through the first heat exchange medium pipeline.

[0010] The second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the third heat exchanger.

[0011] In one embodiment, the multi-functional air conditioner further includes a third heat exchange mechanism, which includes a fourth heat exchange element, a heat exchange passage, and a second circulation pump. The second circulation pump is installed on the heat exchange passage, and the heat exchange passage and the fourth heat exchange element form a first heat exchange structure.

[0012] The third heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange chamber and a second heat exchange chamber, the first heat exchange chamber and the second heat exchange chamber are spaced apart, the first heat exchange chamber is connected to a first heat exchange medium pipeline, and the second heat exchange chamber is connected to a heat exchange passage.

[0013] The third heat exchange mechanism also includes a return water pipe, the first water tank is connected to the first end of the return water pipe, and the second end of the return water pipe is connected to the heat exchange passage.

[0014] In one embodiment, the third heat exchange mechanism further includes a first heat exchange pipeline and a second heat exchange pipeline, wherein the first heat exchange pipeline and the second heat exchange pipeline form a second heat exchange structure;

[0015] The return water pipeline includes a first return water branch pipe and a second return water branch pipe. The first end of the first heat exchange pipeline is connected to the first water tank through the first return water branch pipe, and the second end of the first heat exchange pipeline is connected to the heat exchange passage through the second return water branch pipe. The two ends of the second heat exchange pipeline are respectively connected to the first heat exchange chamber and the compressor.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger has a U-shaped cross-section and has a first heat exchange end, a second heat exchange end, and a first cavity. The first heat exchange end is located on the peripheral wall of the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchange end is located at the opening of the first heat exchanger.

[0017] The first heat exchanger has multiple first air ducts, which extend from the outside of the first heat exchanger to its inside. The first heat exchange end is connected to the first cavity through the first air duct, and the first cavity is connected to the second heat exchange end.

[0018] The first heat exchange mechanism further includes a first fan and a first water spray plate. The first fan is located at the second heat exchange end, and the air intake surface of the first fan faces the first cavity.

[0019] The first sprinkler disc is installed on the top of the first heat exchanger. The first sprinkler disc has multiple sprinkler nozzles, which are distributed along the periphery of the first heat exchanger. The first sprinkler disc is connected to the first water supply pipe.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange perforated plate, a second heat exchange perforated plate, and a third heat exchange perforated plate. The first heat exchange perforated plate is disposed at a first end near the second heat exchange perforated plate, and the third heat exchange perforated plate is disposed at a second end near the second heat exchange perforated plate. The first heat exchange perforated plate, the second heat exchange perforated plate, and the third heat exchange perforated plate form a semi-enclosed U-shaped structure.

[0021] In one embodiment, the second heat exchanger has a spiral structure, the first water tank has an agitator located at the bottom of the first water tank, the agitator is located near the central axis of the second heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger is located above the agitator.

[0022] In one embodiment, the fourth heat exchanger has an enclosed structure and includes a third heat exchange end, a fourth heat exchange end, a second cavity, and multiple second air ducts. Each second air duct extends from the inside of the fourth heat exchanger to its outside. The third heat exchange end is located on the peripheral wall of the fourth heat exchanger and is disposed at the top of the fourth heat exchanger. The third heat exchange end is connected to the second cavity through the second air ducts, and the second cavity is connected to the fourth heat exchange end.

[0023] The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second fan, which is located at the fourth heat exchange end, with the suction surface of the second fan facing the second cavity.

[0024] In one embodiment, the third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second water spraying plate and a water receiving plate. The second water spraying plate is installed on the top of the fourth heat exchange element, and the water receiving plate is installed on the bottom of the fourth heat exchange element. The outer diameter of the water receiving plate is larger than the outer diameter of the fourth heat exchange element. The second water spraying plate is connected to the water receiving plate through a heat exchange passage, and the water receiving plate is connected to the return water pipe.

[0025] In one embodiment, the fourth heat exchanger is formed by multiple independent fourth heat exchange perforated plates, each of which is a rectangular flat plate with a number of second air ducts that penetrate the plate thickness evenly distributed on it.

[0026] The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second water supply pipe, which is disposed in the second cavity;

[0027] The second water supply pipe includes a first main water supply pipe and multiple second branch water supply pipes. The first end of the first main water supply pipe is connected to the heat exchange passage, and the second end of the first main water supply pipe is connected in parallel with the multiple second branch water supply pipes. The multiple second branch water supply pipes are all connected to the second sprinkler plate, and the number of the multiple second branch water supply pipes corresponds to the number of the fourth heat exchange orifice plate.

[0028] This invention also proposes a method for using a multi-functional air conditioner, comprising the following steps:

[0029] In the first heat exchange mechanism, water from the first water tank flows into the first heat exchanger through the first water supply pipe. The water exchanges heat with the air through the first heat exchanger, and the water evaporates and absorbs heat to achieve the cold air mode.

[0030] When the compressor is turned on, the refrigerant completes the first heat exchange with the second heat exchange element of the first heat exchange mechanism through the first heat exchange medium pipe. The refrigerant then flows into the third heat exchange element through the first heat exchange medium pipe, and the third heat exchange element completes the second heat exchange with the external environment, thus realizing the cooling mode.

[0031] The technical solution provided by this invention has the following advantages and effects:

[0032] During the transition to summer or under low-load conditions, the first heat exchange mechanism can be activated independently. The first circulating pump transports water from the first water tank to the first heat exchanger via the first water inlet pipe. The first heat exchanger then exchanges heat with the air flowing over its surface through evaporation, achieving low-energy cooling. During hot and humid seasons or under high-load conditions, the compressor is activated. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the water as it flows through the second heat exchanger, completing the first heat exchange. It then flows through the first heat exchange medium pipe to the third heat exchanger to release heat, achieving a complete vapor compression refrigeration cycle for deep cooling and dehumidification of the air. These two modes can be switched on demand within the same device, retaining the outstanding advantage of low energy consumption of the evaporative cooler while overcoming its fatal flaw of failure under high humidity, and avoiding the energy waste caused by the air conditioner operating under all conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific examples of the technical solutions described in this invention and, together with the detailed embodiments, form part of the specification, serving to explain the technical solutions, principles, and effects of this invention.

[0034] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the same reference numerals in different figures represent the same or similar technical features, and different reference numerals may be used to represent the same or similar technical features.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a system of a multi-functional air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a system of a multi-functional air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the first heat exchange mechanism inside the outer casing in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second heat exchange mechanism inside the outer casing in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 5 This is one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A--A sectional view;

[0040] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the second heat exchange structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the third heat exchange structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the first condenser in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0044] 100. First heat exchange mechanism; 110. First sprinkler plate; 120. First heat exchange component; 1201. First heat exchange perforated plate; 1202. Second heat exchange perforated plate; 1203. Third heat exchange perforated plate; 1204. First heat exchange end; 1205. Second heat exchange end; 1206. First cavity; 130. Second heat exchange component; 140. First water tank; 141. First overflow port; 142. First water inlet; 150. First fan; 160. First water supply pipe fitting; 170. First circulating pump; 180. Agitator; 1110. Outer shell; 1111. First mounting cavity; 1112. Second mounting cavity; 1113. Third mounting cavity; 1114. Support plate;

[0045] 200. Third heat exchange mechanism; 210. Second fan; 220. Fourth heat exchange component; 221. Third heat exchange end; 222. Fourth heat exchange end; 223. Fourth heat exchange orifice plate; 224. Second cavity; 230. Water receiving tray; 2301. Second overflow port; 2302. Second water supply port; 2303. Return water port; 240. Second sprinkler tray; 250. Second water supply pipe fitting; 2501. First main water supply pipe; 2502. Second branch water supply pipe; 260. Heat exchange passage; 270. Second circulating pump; 280. Drain pipe;

[0046] 300, Second heat exchange mechanism; 310, Compressor; 320, First condenser; 3201, First heat exchange chamber; 3202, Second heat exchange chamber; 330, Throttling element; 340, First heat exchange medium pipeline; 350, Second heat exchange structure; 3501, First heat exchange pipeline; 3502, Second heat exchange pipeline;

[0047] 400, return water pipe; 500, first return water branch pipe; 600, second return water branch pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0048] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this document are for distinguishing names only and do not represent a specific number or order.

[0050] Unless otherwise stated or defined, the term “and / or” as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0051] It should be noted that when a component is considered "fixed" to another component, it can be directly fixed to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "mounted" on another component, it can be directly mounted on the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "placed" on another component, it can be directly placed on the other component or there can be an intervening component.

[0052] This invention proposes a multi-functional air conditioner 100, such as... Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the system includes a first heat exchange mechanism 100 and a second heat exchange mechanism 300. The first heat exchange mechanism 100 includes a first heat exchange element 120, a first water tank 140, a first water inlet pipe 160, a second heat exchange element 130, and a first circulating pump 170. The second heat exchange element 130 is disposed inside the first water tank 140, and the first heat exchange element 120 is located above the first water tank 140. The first circulating pump 170 is installed on the first water inlet pipe 160. The first heat exchange element 120 is connected to the first water inlet pipe 160 via the first water inlet pipe 170. Water pipe 160 is connected to the first water tank 140; the second heat exchange mechanism 300 includes a first heat exchange medium pipe 340, a compressor 310, a throttling element 330, and a third heat exchanger, wherein the second heat exchanger 130, the compressor 310, the throttling element 330, and the third heat exchanger are connected in series through the first heat exchange medium pipe 340; wherein, the second heat exchanger 130 and the first heat exchanger 120 form a heat exchange, and the second heat exchanger 130 and the third heat exchanger form a heat exchange.

[0053] In this embodiment, the third heat exchanger is a first condenser 320. The first heat exchange chamber 3201 of the first condenser 320 is connected to the first heat exchange medium pipe 340, and the second heat exchange chamber 3202 of the first condenser 320 is connected to the heat exchange passage 260.

[0054] In some other embodiments, the third heat exchanger may consist of a fan, heat exchange fins, and a heat exchange copper tube. The heat exchange copper tube is connected to the first heat exchange medium pipe 340. The heat exchange fins are sleeved on the outside of the heat exchange copper tube. The fan is located on one side of the heat exchange fins. When the heat exchange medium passes through the heat exchange copper tube, the fan is turned on. The fan accelerates the airflow speed near the heat exchange fins, so that the heat of the refrigerant in the heat exchange copper tube is quickly dissipated to the external environment.

[0055] Specifically, during the transition to summer or under low-load conditions, the first heat exchanger 100 can be activated independently. The first circulating pump 170 transports water from the first water tank 140 to the first heat exchanger 120 via the first water inlet pipe 160. The first heat exchanger 120 then exchanges heat with the air flowing over its surface through evaporation, achieving low-energy cooling. During hot and humid seasons or under high-load conditions, the compressor 310 is activated. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the water as it flows through the second heat exchanger 130, completing the first heat exchange. It then flows through the first heat exchange medium pipe 340 to the third heat exchanger to release heat, achieving a complete vapor compression refrigeration cycle for deep cooling and dehumidification of the air. These two modes can be switched on demand within the same device, retaining the outstanding advantage of low energy consumption of the evaporative cooler while overcoming its fatal flaw of failure under high humidity, and avoiding energy waste caused by the air conditioner operating under all conditions.

[0056] In this embodiment, the combined operation mode of the two is to turn on the compressor 310 and not turn on the third heat exchange mechanism 200, which can also achieve cooling.

[0057] Furthermore, the second heat exchanger 130 plays a dual role: on the one hand, it is a key component of the first heat exchange mechanism 100, located inside the first water tank 140, and in direct contact with the water in the water tank 140; on the other hand, it serves as an evaporator or heat exchanger in the second heat exchange mechanism 300, connected to the refrigeration cycle. When operating in refrigeration mode, the low-temperature refrigerant in the second heat exchanger 130 directly absorbs heat from the water in the first water tank 140, pre-cooling or cooling the water in the first water tank 140. The cooled water enters the first heat exchanger 120 via the first water inlet pipe 160, providing a lower surface temperature when exchanging heat with the flowing air, thereby enhancing the evaporative cooling effect. This means that the water medium in the first heat exchange mechanism 100 not only participates in evaporative cooling itself but also serves as an auxiliary cold source for the refrigeration cycle, realizing a positive feedback heat exchange chain of pre-cooling the water medium and enhancing air cooling with the water medium, effectively reducing the heat load of the refrigeration system and improving the overall energy efficiency ratio.

[0058] Furthermore, traditional evaporative air coolers rely solely on water evaporation for cooling. In hot and humid weather (such as the plum rain season in southern China or before summer thunderstorms), the partial pressure of water vapor in the air is near saturation, drastically weakening the driving force of evaporation and rendering the cooling effect almost ineffective. In contrast, this invention allows users to directly switch the compressor 310 to cooling mode when ambient humidity is high. This utilizes a vapor compression refrigeration cycle to condense and dehumidify the air, achieving deep cooling without being constrained by ambient humidity, ensuring that cooling needs are met under any climatic conditions. Simultaneously, during dry or transitional seasons, users can switch back to cooling mode, achieving ventilation and cooling with extremely low energy consumption, avoiding unnecessary energy waste caused by the year-round operation of traditional air conditioners. This method achieves complementary advantages between the two modes, balancing adaptability and economy across all operating conditions throughout the year.

[0059] Preferably, the multi-functional air conditioner further includes a third heat exchange mechanism 200, which includes a fourth heat exchange element 220, a heat exchange passage 260, and a second circulation pump 270. The second circulation pump 270 is installed on the heat exchange passage 260. The heat exchange passage 260 and the fourth heat exchange element 220 form a first heat exchange structure. The third heat exchange element includes a first heat exchange chamber 3201 and a second heat exchange chamber 3202, which are spaced apart. The first heat exchange chamber 3201 is connected to a first heat exchange medium pipe 340, and the second heat exchange chamber 3202 is connected to the heat exchange passage 260. The third heat exchange mechanism 200 also includes a return water pipe 400, which is connected to the first end of the first water tank 140 and the second end of the return water pipe 400. In this embodiment, the heat exchange passage 260 includes a circulation pipeline consisting of a water tank and pipes, and a water collection tray and pipes. This heat exchange passage 260 is not limited to the connection or link between pipes.

[0060] Specifically, in the first heat exchange mechanism 100, the first heat exchange element 120 generates condensate during heat exchange. This condensate collects and drips into the first water tank 140. The condensate has a lower temperature, further reducing the temperature within the first water tank 140. The first water tank 140 is connected to the heat exchange passage 260 via a return water pipe 400. The condensate from the first water tank 140 can enter the heat exchange passage 260 through the return water pipe 400. Since tap water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, it easily forms scale after heating. Condensate, however, does not form scale after heating. Therefore, by recycling the condensate and transporting it to the heat exchange passage 260, scale formation in the water within the heat exchange passage 260 is avoided after heat exchange. Furthermore, the inflow of water from the first water tank 140 into the heat exchange passage 260 further reduces the temperature of the water in the heat exchange passage 260.

[0061] Furthermore, by continuously introducing low-hardness condensate into the fourth heat exchanger 220, it is equivalent to constantly rinsing and wetting the surface of the wet curtain with "soft water." The existing micro-scale layer is easily detached under the flushing action of the circulating water and flows back to the heat exchange passage 260. The freshly added condensate does not introduce new hardness ions, keeping the interior of the fourth heat exchanger 220 clean for a long time. This virtuous cycle of "using water to maintain the curtain" keeps the fiber structure of the fourth heat exchanger 220 loose and porous, allowing for sufficient water absorption. The evaporative heat transfer coefficient remains stable at a high level for a long time, avoiding the performance degradation problem caused by scaling in traditional air coolers. The replacement cycle of the fourth heat exchanger 220 can be extended from 1-2 years in the traditional solution to 3-5 years or even longer, significantly reducing consumable costs and the inconvenience of downtime for replacement.

[0062] Preferably, the third heat exchange mechanism 200 further includes a first heat exchange pipe 3501 and a second heat exchange pipe 3502, the first heat exchange pipe 3501 and the second heat exchange pipe 3502 forming a second heat exchange structure 350; the return water pipe 400 includes a first return water branch pipe 500 and a second return water branch pipe 600, the first end of the first heat exchange pipe 3501 is connected to the first water tank 140 through the first return water branch pipe 500, and the second end of the first heat exchange pipe 3501 is connected to the heat exchange passage 260 through the second return water branch pipe 600; the two ends of the second heat exchange pipe 3502 are respectively connected to the first heat exchange chamber 3201 and the compressor 310.

[0063] In this embodiment, the first heat exchange pipe 3501 can be a second water tank, and the second heat exchange pipe 3502 can be a spiral evaporator located inside the second water tank. Condensate in the first water tank 140 enters the second water tank through the first return water branch pipe 500. The condensate in the second water tank exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the second heat exchange pipe 3502, further reducing the temperature of the refrigerant in the second heat exchange pipe 3502 and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchange mechanism 300. Furthermore, the second water tank is also connected to the heat exchange passage 260 through the second return water branch pipe 600. Therefore, the condensate in the second water tank can also flow into the heat exchange passage 260. During the heat exchange process, the condensate in the heat exchange passage 260 can prevent scale formation on the fourth heat exchange element 220.

[0064] Furthermore, the two ends of the second heat exchange pipe 3502 are connected to the first heat exchange chamber 3201 and the compressor 310, respectively, and the refrigerant flowing inside is at a relatively high temperature (high-temperature refrigerant after compressor discharge or condensation). When the condensate in the first heat exchange pipe 3501 exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the second heat exchange pipe 3502, the relatively low-temperature condensate effectively absorbs the heat of the refrigerant, playing a role in assisting subcooling or precooling the refrigerant. For a vapor compression refrigeration cycle, the increase in refrigerant subcooling means that a unit mass of refrigerant can absorb more heat in the evaporator, thus increasing the cooling capacity; at the same time, the decrease in condensing pressure helps to reduce the pressure ratio of the compressor 310, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the compressor 310. This invention confirms that an additional heat exchange stage is added between the water side and the refrigerant side. The condensate that would have been transported to the fourth heat exchanger 220 (wet curtain) for evaporation is used to pre-cool the refrigerant. This is equivalent to achieving a "free" efficiency boost to the refrigeration cycle without increasing any external energy consumption, effectively improving the overall energy efficiency ratio of the machine and reducing the power consumption of the compressor 310.

[0065] Preferably, the first heat exchanger 120 has a U-shaped cross-section and includes a first heat exchange end 1204, a second heat exchange end 1205, and a first cavity 1206. The first heat exchange end 1204 is located on the peripheral wall of the first heat exchanger 120, and the second heat exchange end 1205 is located at the opening of the first heat exchanger 120. The first heat exchanger 120 has multiple first air ducts that extend from the outside of the first heat exchanger 120 to its inside. The first heat exchange end 1204 is connected to the first cavity 1206 through the first air ducts. The first cavity 1206 is connected to the second heat exchange end 1205; the first heat exchange mechanism 100 also includes a first fan 150 and a first water sprayer 110. The first fan 150 is disposed at the second heat exchange end 1205, and the air intake surface of the first fan 150 faces the first cavity 1206; the first water sprayer 110 is installed on the top of the first heat exchange component 120, and the first water sprayer 110 has multiple water spray nozzles, which are distributed along the peripheral wall of the first heat exchange component 120. The first water sprayer 110 is connected to the first water supply pipe 160.

[0066] Specifically, by setting the cross-section of the first heat exchanger 120 to be U-shaped, the first fan 150 is set at the second heat exchange end 1205, that is, the opening of the first heat exchanger 120, and the first water spray plate 110 is installed on the top of the first heat exchanger 120 with water spray nozzles distributed along its peripheral wall, when water is sprayed, water will flow through the first heat exchanger 120 and drip into the first water tank 140. In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 120 is a paper fiber packing structure, and the fiber packing structure has multiple second air ducts for allowing air from the outside of the first heat exchanger 120 to enter its inside. When the first fan 150 draws air, outside air passes evenly through the moistened paper fiber packing from three directions of the U-shaped peripheral wall and enters the first cavity 1206. The air in the first cavity 1206 is blown out by the first fan 150. The U-shaped first heat exchange element 120 has a large evaporation area and a wide windward surface, resulting in low airflow resistance and uniform distribution. This avoids the problem of reduced evaporation efficiency caused by the single windward surface and uneven wind speed distribution of traditional flat packing, further improving the cooling effect of the cold air mode.

[0067] Preferably, the first heat exchanger 120 includes a first heat exchange perforated plate 1201, a second heat exchange perforated plate 1202, and a third heat exchange perforated plate 1203. The first heat exchange perforated plate 1201 is disposed near the first end of the second heat exchange perforated plate 1202, and the third heat exchange perforated plate 1203 is disposed near the second end of the second heat exchange perforated plate 1202. The first heat exchange perforated plate 1201, the second heat exchange perforated plate 1202, and the third heat exchange perforated plate 1203 form a semi-enclosed U-shaped structure.

[0068] Specifically, the first heat exchange orifice plate 1201, the second heat exchange orifice plate 1202, and the third heat exchange orifice plate 1203 form a semi-enclosed U-shaped structure. Outside air passes through multiple second air ducts from the installation direction of the first heat exchange orifice plate 1201, the second heat exchange orifice plate 1202, and the third heat exchange orifice plate 1203, thereby increasing the contact area between air and water on the first heat exchange element 120.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first water tank 140 has a first water inlet 142 and a first overflow outlet 141. When the water in the first water tank 140 cannot completely submerge the second heat exchanger 130, water needs to be added to the first water tank 140 through the first water inlet 142. The water level of the first water tank 140 can be sensed by setting a water level sensor in the first water tank 140. When the water in the first water tank 140 reaches the position of the first overflow outlet 141, the water in the first water tank 140 overflows through the first overflow outlet 141.

[0070] Preferably, the second heat exchanger 130 has a spiral structure, and the first water tank 140 has an agitator 180. The agitator 180 is disposed at the bottom of the first water tank 140 and is disposed close to the central axis of the second heat exchanger 130. The second heat exchanger 130 is located above the agitator 180.

[0071] Specifically, the spiral-shaped second heat exchanger 130 increases the contact heat exchange area and path length between the refrigerant and the water in the first water tank 140, thus extending the heat exchange time. The agitator 180 is located at the bottom of the first water tank 140 and close to the central axis of the second heat exchanger 130. During operation, it continuously agitates the water in the first water tank 140, promoting water circulation and disrupting the thermal boundary layer and concentration boundary layer on the surface of the second heat exchanger 130. This avoids local water temperature stratification and insufficient refrigerant heat exchange, significantly improving the heat transfer coefficient of the second heat exchanger 130, and thus enhancing the overall performance of the unit in cooling mode.

[0072] Preferably, the fourth heat exchanger 220 has an enclosed structure, and has a third heat exchange end 221 and a fourth heat exchange end 222. A second cavity 224 is formed inside the fourth heat exchanger 220. Multiple second air ducts are provided on the peripheral wall of the fourth heat exchanger 220. Each second air duct passes through the inner side of the fourth heat exchanger 220 and extends to its outer side. The third heat exchange end 221 is located on the peripheral wall of the fourth heat exchanger 220, and the fourth heat exchange end 222 is disposed at the top of the fourth heat exchanger 220. The third heat exchange end 221 is connected to the second cavity 224 through the second air ducts, and the second cavity 224 is connected to the fourth heat exchange end 222.

[0073] The third heat exchange mechanism 200 further includes a second fan 210, a second water spraying plate 240, and a water receiving plate 230. The second fan 210 is disposed at the fourth heat exchange end 222, the second water spraying plate 240 is installed on the top of the fourth heat exchange component 220, and the water receiving plate 230 is installed at the bottom of the fourth heat exchange component 220. The second water spraying plate 240 is connected to the water receiving plate 230 through a heat exchange passage 260.

[0074] Specifically, a second circulation pump 270 is installed on the heat exchange passage 260. When the third heat exchange mechanism 200 is running, the second circulation pump 270 is started, and the water in the heat exchange passage 260 is delivered to the second spray plate 240. The second spray plate 240 sprays water on the fourth heat exchange element 220. After the water passes through the fourth heat exchange element 220, the second fan 210 is turned on. The second fan 210 draws air from the second cavity 224, creating a negative pressure environment in the second cavity 224. The air on the periphery of the fourth heat exchange element 220 enters the second cavity 224 through the second air duct. When the air passes through the second air duct of the fourth heat exchange element 220, it comes into contact with the water and carries away the heat from the water. The heat from the third heat exchange end 221 flows to the fourth heat exchange end 222 through the air flow, and the second fan 210 blows out the air carrying the heat. The fourth heat exchanger 220, the second fan 210, and the second water spray plate 240 work together to remove the heat from the refrigerant, further improving the cooling effect of the cooling mode.

[0075] Preferably, the fourth heat exchanger 220 is formed by multiple independent fourth heat exchange perforated plates 223, each of which is a rectangular flat plate with a number of second air ducts that penetrate the plate thickness evenly formed thereon.

[0076] The third heat exchange mechanism 200 also includes a second water supply pipe 250, which is disposed in the second cavity 224. The second water supply pipe 250 includes a first water supply main pipe 2501 and multiple second water supply branch pipes 2502. The first end of the first water supply main pipe 2501 is connected to the heat exchange passage 260, and the second end of the first water supply main pipe 2501 is connected in parallel with multiple second water supply branch pipes 2502. The multiple second water supply branch pipes 2502 are all connected to the second sprinkler plate 240, and the number of multiple second water supply branch pipes 2502 corresponds to the number of multiple fourth heat exchange orifice plates 223.

[0077] Specifically, the fourth heat exchanger 220 is formed by multiple independent fourth heat exchange perforated plates 223. Second air ducts, penetrating the thickness of the plate, are evenly distributed on each fourth heat exchange perforated plate 223. Outside air can flow into the second cavity 224 from various directions along the perimeter wall through these second air ducts, and then be drawn out by the second fan 210 from the top fourth heat exchange end 222, forming a three-dimensional airflow path from the outside in and from the bottom up. This structure significantly increases the contact area between the air and the perforated plate wall and the cross-section of the airflow channel, resulting in low wind resistance and uniform heat dissipation. Simultaneously, the independent yet interconnected second air ducts are less prone to affecting overall heat dissipation performance due to localized blockages, ensuring the long-term stable and efficient heat dissipation capability of the third heat exchange mechanism 200.

[0078] In this embodiment, the water receiving tray 230 also has a second overflow port 2301, a second water inlet 2302, a return water port 2303, and a drain pipe 280. The drain pipe 280 is connected to the bottom of the water receiving tray 230. After the water receiving tray 230 is cleaned, the wastewater in the water receiving tray 230 is discharged through the drain pipe 280. If the water in the water receiving tray 230 exceeds the preset water level, it overflows through the second overflow port 2301. If the water level in the water receiving tray 230 does not reach the preset position, water is replenished through the second water inlet 2302. The return water port 2303 is used to connect to the return water pipe 400 or the second return water branch pipe 600.

[0079] Preferably, the multi-functional air conditioner further includes a housing 1110 and two support plates 1114. The two support plates 1114 are disposed inside the housing 1110 and divide the housing 1110 to form a first mounting cavity 1111, a second mounting cavity 1112, and a third mounting cavity 1113. The first mounting cavity 1111, the second mounting cavity 1112, and the third mounting cavity 1113 are respectively located at the bottom, middle, and top of the housing 1110. The first condenser 320 and the compressor 310 are both disposed in the first mounting cavity 1111. The first water tank 140 is disposed in the second mounting cavity 1112. The first heat exchanger 120 is disposed in the third heat exchange cavity 1113.

[0080] Specifically, the outer casing 1110 is divided into three independent mounting cavities—bottom, middle, and top—by two support plates 1114. The first condenser 320 and compressor 310 are located in the bottom first mounting cavity 1111, the first water tank 140 is located in the middle second mounting cavity 1112, and the first heat exchanger 120 is located in the top third mounting cavity 1113. The compressor 310 is located at the bottom of the outer casing 1110; the lower the compressor 310 is, the less its vibration causes swaying. The first water tank 140 is located in the middle of the outer casing 1110. Water from the first heat exchanger 120 falls into the first water tank 140 by its own weight. The weight of the first water tank 140 acts on the bottom of the outer casing 1110, further reducing the amplitude of the compressor 310 and lowering the noise of the multi-functional air conditioner during operation. Furthermore, the separate cavity arrangement of the core components, clear functional zoning, and simple and orderly piping connections facilitate assembly line operations during production and facilitate daily inspection, maintenance, and partial replacement during subsequent use, reducing the maintenance cost throughout the entire lifecycle.

[0081] This invention also proposes a method for using a multi-functional air conditioner, comprising the following steps:

[0082] In the first heat exchange mechanism 100, water from the first water tank 140 flows into the first heat exchange element 120 through the first water supply pipe 160. The water exchanges heat with the air through the first heat exchange element 120, and the water evaporates and absorbs heat to achieve the cold air mode.

[0083] When the compressor 310 is turned on, the refrigerant completes the first heat exchange with the second heat exchange element 130 of the first heat exchange mechanism 100 through the first heat exchange medium pipe 340. The refrigerant then flows into the first heat exchange chamber 3201 through the first heat exchange medium pipe 340. The refrigerant in the first heat exchange chamber 3201 completes the second heat exchange with the water in the second heat exchange chamber 3202. The water in the second heat exchange chamber 3202 flows into the fourth heat exchange element 220 through the heat exchange passage 260 and completes the third heat exchange with the fourth heat exchange element 220, thus realizing the cooling mode.

[0084] Specifically, this method achieves the startup and operation of different cooling modes through two core steps: In the cooling mode, cooling is achieved solely through water circulation and air heat exchange in the first heat exchange mechanism 100, utilizing water evaporation to absorb heat. The entire unit only needs to drive the first circulation pump 170 and the first fan 150, while the compressor 310 and the refrigeration system remain off, resulting in extremely low power consumption. In the cooling mode, by starting the compressor 310, the refrigerant sequentially completes the first heat exchange with the water in the second heat exchange element 130, the second heat exchange with the water in the first heat exchange chamber 3201 and the second heat exchange chamber 3202, and then the heat is transferred to the fourth heat exchange element 220 through the heat exchange passage 260 to complete the third heat exchange, forming a complete vapor compression refrigeration cycle and achieving deep cooling and dehumidification. Users can freely switch between the two modes simply by controlling the start and stop of the compressor 310, eliminating the need to purchase and install two separate sets of equipment, such as a evaporative cooler and an air conditioner, as required by traditional solutions. This achieves true dual-purpose functionality, significantly reducing equipment procurement costs, installation space, and initial investment.

[0085] Furthermore, this method can switch between the two modes simply by controlling the start and stop of the compressor 310, without the need for complex valve switching or multi-loop regulation. The control logic is simple and clear, requiring minimal technical expertise from operators and lowering the barrier to entry. At the same time, this method provides a clear technical foundation for further development of automatic switching control strategies, such as automatically selecting the operating mode based on ambient temperature and humidity sensor signals. It can be easily upgraded to an intelligent control mode, possessing good scalability and practical application value.

[0086] When referencing drawings, new features are explained. To avoid redundant references to drawings that would make the description less concise, features already described will not be referenced again on the drawings if the description is clear.

[0087] The purpose of the above embodiments is to reproduce and derive the technical solution of the present invention by way of example, and to fully describe the technical solution, purpose and effect of the present invention. The purpose is to enable the public to have a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0088] The above embodiments are not an exhaustive list based on the present invention, and there may be many other embodiments not listed. Any substitutions and improvements made without departing from the concept of the present invention are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multi-functional air conditioner, characterized in that, include: First heat exchange mechanism, second heat exchange mechanism; The first heat exchange mechanism includes a first heat exchange element, a first water tank, a first water supply pipe, a second heat exchange element, and a first circulating pump. The second heat exchange element is disposed inside the first water tank, the first heat exchange element is located above the first water tank, the first circulating pump is installed on the first water supply pipe, and the first heat exchange element is connected to the first water tank through the first water supply pipe. The second heat exchange mechanism includes a first heat exchange medium pipeline, a compressor, a throttling element, and a third heat exchange component, wherein the second heat exchange component, the compressor, the throttling element, and the third heat exchange component are connected in series through the first heat exchange medium pipeline. The second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the third heat exchanger.

2. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-functional air conditioner also includes a third heat exchange mechanism, which comprises a fourth heat exchange element, a heat exchange passage, and a second circulation pump. The second circulation pump is installed on the heat exchange passage, and the heat exchange passage and the fourth heat exchange element form a first heat exchange structure. The third heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange chamber and a second heat exchange chamber, the first heat exchange chamber and the second heat exchange chamber are spaced apart, the first heat exchange chamber is connected to a first heat exchange medium pipeline, and the second heat exchange chamber is connected to a heat exchange passage. The third heat exchange mechanism also includes a return water pipe, the first water tank is connected to the first end of the return water pipe, and the second end of the return water pipe is connected to the heat exchange passage.

3. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a first heat exchange pipeline and a second heat exchange pipeline, wherein the first heat exchange pipeline and the second heat exchange pipeline form a second heat exchange structure; The return water pipeline includes a first return water branch pipe and a second return water branch pipe. The first end of the first heat exchange pipeline is connected to the first water tank through the first return water branch pipe, and the second end of the first heat exchange pipeline is connected to the heat exchange passage through the second return water branch pipe. The two ends of the second heat exchange pipeline are respectively connected to the first heat exchange chamber and the compressor.

4. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger has a U-shaped cross-section and has a first heat exchange end, a second heat exchange end, and a first cavity. The first heat exchange end is located on the peripheral wall of the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchange end is located at the opening of the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger has multiple first air ducts, which extend from the outside of the first heat exchanger to its inside. The first heat exchange end is connected to the first cavity through the first air duct, and the first cavity is connected to the second heat exchange end. The first heat exchange mechanism further includes a first fan and a first water spray plate. The first fan is located at the second heat exchange end, and the air intake surface of the first fan faces the first cavity. The first sprinkler disc is installed on the top of the first heat exchanger. The first sprinkler disc has multiple sprinkler nozzles, which are distributed along the periphery of the first heat exchanger. The first sprinkler disc is connected to the first water supply pipe.

5. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange perforated plate, a second heat exchange perforated plate, and a third heat exchange perforated plate. The first heat exchange perforated plate is disposed at a first end near the second heat exchange perforated plate, and the third heat exchange perforated plate is disposed at a second end near the second heat exchange perforated plate. The first heat exchange perforated plate, the second heat exchange perforated plate, and the third heat exchange perforated plate form a semi-enclosed U-shaped structure.

6. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger has a spiral structure. The first water tank has an agitator located at the bottom of the first water tank. The agitator is positioned close to the central axis of the second heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger is located above the agitator.

7. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The fourth heat exchanger has an enclosed structure and includes a third heat exchange end, a fourth heat exchange end, a second cavity, and multiple second air ducts. Each second air duct extends from the inside of the fourth heat exchanger to its outside. The third heat exchange end is located on the peripheral wall of the fourth heat exchanger and is disposed at the top of the fourth heat exchanger. The third heat exchange end is connected to the second cavity through the second air ducts, and the second cavity is connected to the fourth heat exchange end. The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second fan, which is located at the fourth heat exchange end, with the suction surface of the second fan facing the second cavity.

8. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second water spray plate and a water receiving plate. The second water spray plate is installed on the top of the fourth heat exchange element, and the water receiving plate is installed on the bottom of the fourth heat exchange element. The outer diameter of the water receiving plate is larger than the outer diameter of the fourth heat exchange element. The second water spray plate is connected to the water receiving plate through a heat exchange passage, and the water receiving plate is connected to the return water pipe.

9. The multi-functional air conditioner as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The fourth heat exchanger is formed by multiple independent fourth heat exchange perforated plates. Each fourth heat exchange perforated plate is a rectangular flat plate, on which several second air ducts penetrating the plate thickness are evenly opened. The third heat exchange mechanism further includes a second water supply pipe, which is disposed in the second cavity; The second water supply pipe includes a first main water supply pipe and multiple second branch water supply pipes. The first end of the first main water supply pipe is connected to the heat exchange passage, and the second end of the first main water supply pipe is connected in parallel with the multiple second branch water supply pipes. The multiple second branch water supply pipes are all connected to the second sprinkler plate, and the number of the multiple second branch water supply pipes corresponds to the number of the fourth heat exchange orifice plate.

10. The method of using a multi-functional air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: In the first heat exchange mechanism, water from the first water tank flows into the first heat exchanger through the first water supply pipe. The water exchanges heat with the air through the first heat exchanger, and the water evaporates and absorbs heat to achieve the cold air mode. When the compressor is turned on, the refrigerant completes the first heat exchange with the second heat exchange element of the first heat exchange mechanism through the first heat exchange medium pipe. The refrigerant then flows into the third heat exchange element through the first heat exchange medium pipe, and the third heat exchange element completes the second heat exchange with the external environment, thus realizing the cooling mode.

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