Water route coupling split type mobile air conditioner based on combustible refrigerant

Abstract

The application discloses a water route coupling split type mobile air conditioner based on combustible refrigerant. It relates to the technical field of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. The outdoor unit is integrated with a compressor, an outdoor side heat exchanger, a throttling element and a plate heat exchanger, is connected through refrigerant pipelines to form a closed refrigerant loop, is filled with combustible refrigerant, and is placed outdoors. The indoor unit is provided with a liquid-air heat exchanger and a supply air assembly, and does not set any refrigerant pipeline connected with the closed refrigerant loop. The liquid side of the plate heat exchanger is connected with the liquid-air heat exchanger through a liquid supply pipe and a liquid return pipe to form a closed liquid cooling circulating loop, and quick joints capable of disconnecting liquid stop are arranged on the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe. A water pan is arranged below the liquid-air heat exchanger of the indoor unit, and the condensed water is guided to a spraying device above the outdoor side heat exchanger. The application realizes zero leakage of the combustible refrigerant, zero refrigerant operation in the dismounting process, and spraying of the condensed water to reduce the condensation temperature and improve the system COP.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment technology, specifically a water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on a combustible refrigerant. Background Technology

[0002] Portable air conditioners are typically used in situations requiring temporary cooling or heating, or where the indoor unit's location needs frequent repositioning. While traditional portable air conditioners offer flexibility, their compressors are located indoors, resulting in high noise levels and the release of waste heat into the room. Conventional household split-type air conditioners require on-site installation of refrigerant piping, welding of flared ends, on-site vacuuming, and refrigerant charging, making them inconvenient for users to disassemble and install.

[0003] In recent years, a series of patent applications for "split-type portable air conditioners" have emerged to address the issue of disassembly and assembly. However, existing solutions generally suffer from the following shortcomings:

[0004] The indoor unit still handles part or all of the refrigerant circuit (evaporator / throttling element / part of the refrigerant piping), increasing the risk of flammable refrigerant seeping into the room;

[0005] The connection between the indoor and outdoor units is the refrigerant piping. When using quick-connect fittings, refrigerant leakage is likely to occur, and the charge and leakage of A3-class flammable refrigerants such as R290 must be strictly controlled.

[0006] The outdoor unit and the indoor unit are connected by a normally open circulating water circuit. There is no interlocking logic of "connection lock → circulation state → compressor operation", which poses a risk that the compressor will continue to run even after the pipeline is disconnected, causing the circulating pump to run dry and the water circuit to become blocked.

[0007] The functionality of plate heat exchangers or high-efficiency tanks as refrigerant-cooled liquid heat exchangers has not been fully analyzed in the above schemes, and no specific adaptations for low charge and miniaturization of flammable refrigerants have been given.

[0008] The design for preventing and controlling flammable refrigerant leaks is either lacking or relies on complex structures such as flammable gas concentration sensors, forced ventilation devices, and explosion-proof sealing cavities, which result in high costs, easy sensor drift and failure, and poor long-term reliability.

[0009] Existing split-type portable air conditioners do not utilize the condensate continuously generated by the indoor unit's evaporator. The condensate is usually collected and discharged directly or evaporates naturally, and is not used to enhance the heat exchange of the outdoor unit's condenser, thus failing to further improve the system's COP.

[0010] The applicant found through searching that six related patents / applications, CN114719334A, CN213955424U, CN209147231U, CN223550552U, CN222732906U, and CN216522018U, are of reference value in single-point technologies such as split-type moving structure, circulating water circuit, quick connector, or outdoor application of flammable refrigerant. However, no single document disclosed an overall technical solution of "R290 closed loop concentrated in outdoor unit + indoor unit without refrigerant + plate / tank heat exchanger adaptation + quick-connect locking and interlocking of coolant circulation status + flammable refrigerant leakage interlocking + condensate cooling by evaporation".

[0011] The applicant also found that existing solutions mostly use shell-and-tube heat exchangers as refrigerant-heat transfer side heat exchangers, which are large in size and have low heat transfer coefficients, forcing an increase in the amount of flammable refrigerant charged. Summary of the Invention

[0012] To overcome the aforementioned deficiencies of existing technologies, this invention provides a water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant. This solves the technical problem that when indoor and outdoor units are connected via refrigerant piping, on-site handling of the refrigerant piping is required during movement, installation, or disassembly, and leaks can compromise the safety of the flammable refrigerant. This invention further recognizes that if indoor unit condensate is simply discharged as waste liquid or allowed to evaporate naturally, its latent heat of vaporization and cooling potential are wasted. By lifting and spraying the condensate onto the outdoor heat exchanger, the condensate temperature is reduced, energy efficiency is improved, and the peak pressure of R290 refrigerant on the high-pressure side of the condenser is simultaneously reduced. This expands the safe operating window for A3-class flammable refrigerants in the low-charge range, allowing condensate utilization to simultaneously serve both energy-saving and safety objectives.

[0013] The technical solution adopted by this invention to solve its technical problem is:

[0014] A water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on combustible refrigerant includes a portable outdoor unit, a portable indoor unit, a closed-loop refrigerant circulation loop, a condensate utilization system, and a controller.

[0015] 1. Outdoor unit integration solution

[0016] The outdoor unit integrates a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, a throttling element, a plate / tank heat exchanger, a refrigerant circulation pump, and an outdoor fan. The compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, throttling element, and plate / tank heat exchanger are sequentially connected via refrigerant piping to form a closed refrigerant circuit, which is filled with R290 refrigerant (or other A3-class flammable refrigerant). The refrigerant-side flow channel of the plate / tank heat exchanger is connected to the refrigerant circuit, and the refrigerant-side flow channel is connected to the closed refrigerant circulation circuit; the two flow channels are physically isolated by metal plates or coils, preventing media exchange. The outdoor unit also includes a refrigerant pressure sensor and an outdoor unit moving assembly. The refrigerant pressure sensor is installed on the closed refrigerant circuit and electrically connected to the controller. It is used to determine refrigerant leakage by changing the circuit pressure. When a leak is detected, the controller cuts off the power to all electrical components in the outdoor unit (compressor, outdoor fan, and refrigerant circulation pump) and the condensate lift pump in the indoor unit. It eliminates all electrical ignition sources in the outdoor unit. The leaked refrigerant diffuses and is discharged naturally in the open outdoor environment. The outdoor unit does not require a combustible gas concentration sensor, forced ventilation assembly, or explosion-proof sealed chamber. The additional material cost for safety control is extremely low.

[0017] The outdoor unit has an outdoor unit casing. The compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the throttling element, the plate / tank heat exchanger, the refrigerant circulation pump, and the refrigerant piping connected thereto are all arranged inside the outdoor unit casing, forming a closed refrigeration unit independent of the indoor unit. The outdoor unit does not extend any external piping for transmitting flammable refrigerant towards the indoor unit. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit are coupled only through a closed refrigerant circuit and condensate piping. The electrical components of the outdoor unit are centrally located in the electrical installation area in the upper part of the outdoor unit casing. An electrical installation area partition is provided between the electrical installation area and the area where the refrigerant circuit components are arranged. The outdoor unit casing is provided with a vent that communicates with the outside atmosphere, allowing leaked flammable refrigerant to be discharged naturally without accumulating inside the casing.

[0018] 2. Indoor unit structure

[0019] The indoor unit includes a liquid-air heat exchanger, an air supply assembly, a drip tray (which also serves as a condensate collection tray), an indoor unit moving assembly, and a refrigerant flow channel. The indoor unit does not have any refrigerant piping connected to the closed refrigerant circuit, no refrigerant charging port, no throttling element, and no refrigerant container of any kind. The drip tray is located below the liquid-air heat exchanger and is used to collect condensate generated on the surface of the liquid-air heat exchanger fins due to the cooling and dehumidification of indoor air. The indoor unit exchanges heat between the refrigerant and indoor air through the liquid-air heat exchanger to deliver the heated air into the room. The indoor unit has a simple structure and high safety; even if there is a slight leak at the joints of the refrigerant (water / antifreeze), it will not cause personal injury or environmental harm.

[0020] 3. Functional Analysis of Plate / Tank Heat Exchangers

[0021] The plate heat exchanger (or a high-efficiency tank heat exchanger) in this invention performs the core function of "isolated heat exchange between the refrigerant side and the coolant side".

[0022] The plate heat exchanger is composed of multiple stamped metal heat exchange plates stacked together, forming mutually separated refrigerant-side and coolant-side flow channels. The heat transfer coefficient of the plate heat exchanger is 3 to 5 times higher than that of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, enabling efficient heat transfer between the refrigerant and coolant under small volume and low charge conditions. This keeps the refrigerant charge within a low-risk range of 0.15 kg to 0.5 kg (1-2 HP air conditioner). The plate heat exchanger has a large heat exchange area per unit volume, maximizing the compression of the refrigerant-side loop volume, thus controlling the refrigerant charge within the "low charge" range under the designed rated cooling capacity.

[0023] The high-efficiency tank heat exchanger features coaxially arranged spiral coils or reed tubes within the shell. The shell side carries a coolant, and the tube side carries a refrigerant. This high-efficiency tank heat exchanger offers a large heat exchange area and a large coolant buffer volume per unit volume. While retaining sufficient refrigerant charging space, it provides a larger coolant buffer volume, accommodating greater flow fluctuations and short-term cold storage needs. While plate heat exchangers are suitable for applications with smaller cooling capacities and a compact, lightweight design, the high-efficiency tank heat exchanger is suitable for applications requiring greater cold storage capacity and higher tolerance for coolant temperature fluctuations.

[0024] Plate heat exchangers and high-efficiency tank heat exchangers can reduce the refrigerant charge by 20% to 40% compared to shell and tube heat exchangers for the same cooling capacity, thus reducing the potential risks of Class A3 flammable refrigerants from the source.

[0025] 4. Enhanced heat transfer synergy of nanofluid coolant

[0026] To further enhance the heat transfer capacity of the coolant side, this invention preferably adds nano-thermal conductive particles to the coolant to form a nanofluid coolant. The coolant is water, an aqueous solution of ethylene glycol, an aqueous solution of propylene glycol, or other antifreeze coolant suitable for liquid heat transfer, or a nanofluid coolant containing nano-thermal conductive particles. These nano-thermal conductive particles are selected from one or more of Al2O3, CuO, TiO2, SiO2, carbon nanotubes, or metal nanoparticles, with a volume fraction not exceeding 5%. The nanoparticles (such as Al2O3, CuO, TiO2, SiO2, or carbon nanotubes, typically with a volume fraction of 0.1%–5% and an average particle size of 10 nm–100 nm) are stably suspended in the base liquid, simultaneously improving the thermal conductivity of the coolant (by approximately 10%–40% relative to the base liquid) and the convective heat transfer coefficient on the coolant side (by approximately 15%–60%), and enhancing heat transfer on the plate surface due to Brownian motion and micro-convection suppressing the boundary layer. This enhancement effect allows plate / tank heat exchangers to further reduce the heat exchange area or the required refrigerant flow rate under the same cooling capacity, thereby: ① further compressing the refrigerant side loop volume, reducing the refrigerant charge by approximately 10% to 30% beyond the aforementioned range, further away from the upper limit of Class A3 charge; ② reducing the circulating pump head and power consumption, and reducing pipeline pressure drop and quick-connect pressure; ③ increasing the cooling capacity margin or widening the applicable ambient temperature range under the same pump power. The above advantages of the nanofluid refrigerant, combined with the "enclosed outdoor unit + low refrigerant charge + closed refrigerant loop," achieve a significant increase in heat exchange performance using a non-hazardous liquid medium without introducing any flammable components, further consolidating the technical effectiveness of this invention in the safe use of flammable refrigerants.

[0027] The controller executes an antifreeze control strategy corresponding to the type of coolant based on ambient temperature, coolant temperature, or user-defined mode; when the ambient temperature is below zero, it uses an aqueous solution of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, and the controller takes antifreeze protection measures at low coolant temperatures.

[0028] 5. Closed-loop coolant circulation circuit

[0029] The coolant-side flow channel of the plate / tank heat exchanger is connected to the liquid-air heat exchanger via a supply pipe and a return pipe, forming a closed-loop coolant circulation circuit. This closed-loop coolant circulation circuit includes a coolant circulation pump, a replenishment and venting assembly, and an expansion volume. The replenishment and venting assembly is used to replenish and vent the coolant during initial connection, maintenance, or when gas accumulation is detected within the circuit. The expansion volume compensates for volume changes in the coolant due to temperature variations. The closed-loop coolant circulation circuit may also include at least some of a flow sensor, a pressure sensor, a level sensor, and a leakage sensor. The coolant can be water, an aqueous solution of ethylene glycol, an aqueous solution of propylene glycol, or other media suitable for liquid heat transfer, or a nanofluid coolant containing nano-thermal conductive particles. The closed-loop design ensures that the coolant is always circulating within the unit, with no external discharge or replenishment, preventing scaling in the plate heat exchanger flow channel due to water quality changes over long-term use.

[0030] The quick-connector for liquid supply and the quick-connector for liquid return each include a first connector and a second connector that cooperate with each other. When the first connector and the second connector are separated, they respectively drive the corresponding valve core to close, so as to implement double-end liquid stoppage on the disconnected ends of the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe, so that the leakage of coolant is close to zero when disconnected. After the quick-connector is disconnected, the coolant side circuit remains sealed to prevent air from entering and forming air lock.

[0031] 6. Condensate Utilization System

[0032] The condensate utilization system includes a drip tray (which also serves as a condensate collection tray) located below the liquid-air heat exchanger of the indoor unit, a condensate pipe extending from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit, a condensate lift pump located inside the indoor unit, a lift pipe extending from the condensate lift pump to the top of the outdoor heat exchanger, and a spray device located above the top of the outdoor heat exchanger. The condensate pipe is equipped with a disconnectable quick-connect condensate connector, which has a liquid-stopping structure that closes the condensate channel when disconnected.

[0033] The water collection tray is located below the liquid-air heat exchanger, and has a water collection surface facing the fins of the liquid-air heat exchanger and a condensate drain outlet located at a low position. The condensate lift pump is a miniature submersible pump, which is installed inside the indoor unit's water collection tray. The lift pump's head is sufficient to overcome the friction and local resistance of the condensate pipe, the lift pipe, and the spray device, and lifts the condensate from the bottom of the indoor unit to the top of the outdoor heat exchanger. The spray device is located above the top of the outdoor heat exchanger, and includes a distribution pipe and multiple nozzles. The nozzles are evenly distributed along the width of the outdoor heat exchanger, and are used to spray the condensate into a mist or film-like water flow to cover the fin surface of the outdoor heat exchanger. The spray device also includes a baffle, a guide plate, or a distributor to evenly distribute the condensate to the entire windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger has a water collection trough at the top of its windward side, and multiple overflow ports or orifices are evenly distributed at the bottom of the water collection trough, communicating with the nozzles. The bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger has a water collection pan, which collects unevaporated condensate and discharges it through a drain pipe. The water collection pan is equipped with an overflow port and a level switch; when the amount of condensate generated is too large, the excess condensate is discharged through the overflow port.

[0034] Its working process is as follows: In cooling mode, the indoor unit's liquid-air heat exchanger cools the humid air passing through its fins to below the dew point temperature, causing water vapor in the air to condense into water droplets on the fin surface. These droplets collect in a drip tray under gravity. A condensate lift pump is installed at the lower end of the drip tray. The lift pump raises the condensate from the lower level to a higher level, and then sends it through a lift pipe to a spray device located above the top of the outdoor heat exchanger. Multiple nozzles are evenly distributed along the width of the outdoor heat exchanger, spraying the condensate into a mist or film-like water flow that covers all the windward fins of the outdoor heat exchanger. The condensate forms a thin water film on the fin surface and evaporates rapidly. Because the latent heat of vaporization of water is as high as approximately 2453.6... kJ / kg (20℃), the evaporation process absorbs a large amount of heat, which significantly reduces the surface temperature of the condenser fins, thereby reducing the condensation temperature of the refrigerant; the small amount of unevaporated condensate flows down the fins to the water collection pan at the bottom of the condenser, and the condensate in the water collection pan can be directly discharged to the outside through the drain pipe.

[0035] The technical effects of the condensate utilization system include at least the following: (1) significantly reducing the condensing temperature. Under standard refrigeration conditions (outdoor 35℃ / 40%RH, rated refrigeration capacity 3.5 kW), the measured condensing temperature can be reduced by 3-5℃ compared to the state without spraying. For every 1℃ reduction in condensing temperature, the theoretical system COP can be increased by about 2%-3%; (2) improving the system COP. Under typical operating conditions, the condensate utilization system of the present invention can increase the overall COP by 5%-15% compared to the state without spraying; (3) improving the operating conditions of flammable refrigerants. The reduction in condensing temperature causes a decrease in the high-pressure side pressure of the refrigerant circuit, thereby reducing the peak working pressure of R290 in the condenser, creating more favorable conditions for the low-pressure operation of Class A3 refrigerants, and indirectly reducing the diffusion risk when R290 leaks; (4) achieving "zero residue" of condensate in the room; (5) positive system energy efficiency. The rated power of the condensate booster pump (typically 1 W to 5 W) is much less than the compressor power saving brought about by the COP increase (typically tens of watts). The total energy consumption of the condensate utilization system is less than the energy saved by the system due to the COP increase, and the overall energy efficiency is positive.

[0036] The key design parameters for the condensate utilization system typically range as follows: rated flow rate of the condensate lift pump: 0.5 L / h to 3.0 L / h; rated head of the condensate lift pump: 0.5 m to 2.0 m; spray density of the spray device: 2.0 L / (m³). 2 ·h)~4.0 L / (m 2 •h), the diameter of the condensate pipe is 4 mm to 10 mm, and the leakage of the condensate quick connector is less than 0.05 mL / time.

[0037] When the air humidity is lower than a preset humidity threshold or the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, the controller shuts down the condensate booster pump to reduce water and electricity consumption.

[0038] 7. Dual-channel quick-connect assembly

[0039] The supply and return pipes are each equipped with quick-connect fittings that have a disconnect and liquid-stopping function. These quick-connect fittings connect the liquid path via mating first and second connectors, and when disconnected, utilize a valve core, stop valve, sealing surface, or other liquid-limiting structure to close the corresponding liquid path or restrict coolant leakage. The supply and return quick-connect fittings are integrated into a single dual-channel quick-connect assembly with a shared locking mechanism; the shared locking mechanism only outputs a connection locking signal when both the supply and return channels are fully inserted and locked. This shared locking mechanism prevents one-way pressurization, one-way air resistance, or partial circulation failure caused by connecting only one channel. The condensate pipe is equipped with a disconnectable condensate quick-connect fitting, which has a liquid-stopping structure that closes the condensate channel when disconnected, preventing condensate leakage to the indoor floor or floor during disassembly.

[0040] The connection status detection device includes a mechanical position switch, a magnetic detection device, an coded identification device, or a combination thereof, used to output the connection lock status of the quick connector; the controller only performs the compressor start permission judgment after receiving a status signal that the liquid supply quick connector, the liquid return quick connector, and the condensate quick connector are all locked.

[0041] The coolant circulation status detection device includes at least one of a flow rate detection device, a pressure detection device, a liquid level detection device, and a leakage detection device; the preset circulation conditions include the coolant flow rate reaching a preset lower limit value, or the pressure difference between the supply pipe and the return pipe being within a preset range; the lower flow rate limit value prevents the circulation pump from running dry and being damaged when there is no liquid, and the pressure difference range simultaneously reflects whether the circulation path is normal and whether there is blockage or leakage in the pipeline.

[0042] 8. Control methods

[0043] A control method for a water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant includes the following steps:

[0044] Step 1: Obtain the connection status of the liquid supply quick connector, the liquid return quick connector, and the condensate quick connector;

[0045] Step 2: When the supply quick connector, the return quick connector, and the condensate quick connector are all in the locked state, start the coolant circulation pump and obtain the flow rate and pressure values ​​of the coolant in the supply pipe and the return pipe.

[0046] Step 3: When the flow rate reaches the preset lower limit, the pressure is within the preset pressure range, and the pressure of the closed refrigerant circuit is within the preset normal pressure range, start the compressor;

[0047] Step 4: During the operation of the compressor, when the condensate level in the water receiving pan is higher than the preset spray threshold, the condensate lift pump is started; when the condensate level in the water receiving pan is lower than the preset low level threshold, the condensate lift pump is stopped.

[0048] Step 5: When any one of the liquid supply quick connector, the liquid return quick connector, or the condensate quick connector is in a non-connection locked state, or the flow rate is lower than the preset lower limit, or the pressure value exceeds the preset pressure range, or the pressure value of the closed refrigerant circuit deviates from the preset normal pressure range, stop the compressor and the refrigerant circulation pump, and stop the condensate lift pump.

[0049] In step five, when the pressure value of the closed refrigerant circuit continues to deviate from the preset normal pressure range, it is determined that a refrigerant leak has occurred in the closed refrigerant circuit, and the power supply to the compressor, the outdoor fan of the outdoor heat exchanger, the coolant circulation pump, and the condensate lift pump is cut off.

[0050] The control method also includes a disassembly control step: upon receiving a disassembly request, the compressor is stopped, the refrigerant circulation pump is stopped after a delay, and after the condensate lift pump stops running, a prompt signal is output allowing the liquid supply quick connector, the liquid return quick connector, and the condensate quick connector to be unlocked.

[0051] 9. Controller Interlocking Logic

[0052] The controller is electrically connected to the connection status detection device, the coolant circulation status detection device, the refrigerant pressure sensor, the compressor, and the condensate lift pump. The controller is configured as follows:

[0053] Start-up permission determination: The compressor is allowed to run only after it is confirmed that the liquid supply quick connector, liquid return quick connector and condensate quick connector are all in the locked state, the closed refrigerant circulation loop meets the preset circulation conditions, and the refrigerant pressure sensor detects that the loop pressure is within the preset normal pressure range.

[0054] Condensate utilization control: Based on the feedback from the condensate flow detection device and / or condensate level detection device, when the condensate generation exceeds the preset spray threshold, the condensate lift pump is started to supply water to the spray device, and when the condensate generation is below the preset low level threshold, the condensate lift pump is stopped to avoid dry running.

[0055] Operation monitoring and shutdown: When the controller detects joint unlocking, abnormal liquid flow, abnormal pressure, abnormal liquid level, abnormal refrigerant leakage, or abnormal R290 leakage, it will immediately prevent the compressor from starting or control the compressor that is already running to stop running.

[0056] Disassembly Management: In disassembly management, in response to a disassembly request or the unlocking action of the quick-connect coupling, the controller first stops the compressor, then stops the refrigerant circulation pump and / or closes the liquid circuit valve, then confirms that the condensate lift pump has stopped, and finally outputs an unlocking permission prompt. This control sequence links the quick-connect coupling disconnection action with the equipment operating status, preventing unlocking under pressure.

[0057] 10. R290 Risk Prevention and Control System

[0058] This invention constructs a multi-level risk prevention and control system for flammable refrigerants:

[0059] Table 1. Multi-level Flammable Refrigerant Risk Prevention and Control System of the Present Invention

[0060]

[0061] Note: In Table 1, the "Risk Levels" are numbered L1 to L8 in the logical order of prevention → monitoring → treatment → emission. Based on the traditional prevention and control levels (L1 source, L2 charge quantity, L3 pressure monitoring, L5 power failure interlock, L6 outdoor emission), this invention adds a "L4 condensing temperature and pressure reduction" level, which reduces the peak working pressure of R290 through condensate spraying, and a "L7 isolation warning" level, which achieves physical isolation and leakage discharge between the electrical area and the refrigerant area through electrical installation partitions and shell vents; the newly added "L8 maintenance safety" level uses the controller communication module to trigger a safe shutdown of the indoor unit in the event of an outdoor unit failure.

[0062] 11. Expanded heating modes

[0063] The closed refrigerant circuit also includes a four-way reversing valve configured to change the refrigerant flow direction so that the air conditioner can selectively operate in cooling mode or heating mode; in heating mode, the plate / tank heat exchanger is configured to heat the refrigerant flowing through its refrigerant side; in heating mode, the condensate utilization system is configured to stop operating or only be activated during outdoor unit defrosting.

[0064] 12. Modular hydraulic system components and disassembly control

[0065] The supply pipe, the return pipe, the condensate pipe, the flow sensor, the pressure sensor, the replenishment and venting assembly, and the quick connector are pre-installed as a retractable modular liquid circuit assembly; one end of the modular liquid circuit assembly is fixed to the outdoor unit, and the other end is connected to the indoor unit through the quick connector; the modular liquid circuit assembly is provided with at least one of an outer sheath, a bending limiting part, and a storage reel.

[0066] The controller is configured to, upon receiving a disassembly request or detecting an unlocking action of the quick connector, first control the compressor to stop running, control the refrigerant circulation pump to stop running and / or control the liquid circuit valve to close, and then output an unlocking permission signal or a disassembly prompt signal; after confirming that the compressor, the refrigerant circulation pump, and the condensate lift pump have all stopped running, the controller outputs a prompt signal allowing the supply quick connector, the return quick connector, and the condensate quick connector to unlock.

[0067] 13. Motion and Positioning Components

[0068] The outdoor unit and the indoor unit each have at least one of the following moving or positioning components: casters, handles, window-side positioning components, and anti-tipping support components; the liquid supply pipe, liquid return pipe, and condensate pipe are flexible pipes and are housed in the pipe housing of at least one of the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

[0069] The plate heat exchanger (typically brazed plate) or high-efficiency tank heat exchanger used in this invention can achieve the same heat transfer in a smaller volume and with higher heat transfer efficiency. The refrigerant circuit is located entirely outdoors, and the indoor unit has no refrigerant, thus circumventing the IEC 60335-2-40 restriction on the amount of flammable refrigerant charged on the indoor side. This is an important improvement in the direction of flammable refrigerant risk control. In addition, in traditional air conditioning systems, the condensate continuously generated by the indoor unit evaporator is usually collected and discharged directly, and its latent heat of vaporization (approximately 2453.6 kJ / kg, 20°C) is not utilized. If this condensate is sprayed onto the fins of the outdoor unit condenser to evaporate and absorb heat, the condensation temperature can be significantly reduced (measured at 3-5°C) and the system COP can be increased (approximately 5%-15%). The three-pipe structure of this invention (supply pipe + return pipe + condensate pipe) provides a simple connection channel for the utilization of this condensate.

[0070] Compared with the scheme of arranging refrigerant connection pipes across indoor and outdoor units, the present invention has at least the following technical advantages:

[0071] Zero permeation of flammable refrigerant: By arranging the closed refrigerant circuit of flammable refrigerant entirely inside the outdoor unit, the indoor unit does not have any refrigerant pipes, throttling elements, or refrigerant charging ports connected to the closed circuit, thus structurally ensuring that flammable refrigerant will not enter the indoor space;

[0072] The disassembly and assembly process involves zero refrigerant operation: heat is transferred through a closed-loop refrigerant circulation loop consisting of a supply pipe and a return pipe, avoiding the need for external pipes for refrigerant transfer between the indoor and outdoor units. The disassembly and assembly process only involves non-hazardous water / antifreeze.

[0073] Low charge and low risk: By replacing shell and tube heat exchangers with plate heat exchangers or high-efficiency tank heat exchangers, the refrigerant charge can be reduced by 20% to 40% under the same cooling capacity, thus reducing the potential danger of flammable refrigerants at the source.

[0074] Operational interlock safety: By associating the quick-connect connection status, refrigerant circulation status, and refrigerant leakage status with the compressor's operating permit, the compressor's operation is restricted when any condition is not met, thus preventing abnormalities such as unlocking under pressure, idling, and over-freezing.

[0075] Condensate utilization and COP improvement: Condensate is collected through the indoor unit's drip tray and transported to the outdoor unit's condensate lift pump via condensate piping. After being lifted, it is sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger fins. The condensate absorbs heat through evaporation, reducing the condensation temperature by 3-5°C, thereby improving the system's COP by 5%-15%.

[0076] Indirectly reducing the working pressure of R290: The lower condensing temperature reduces the peak pressure of R290 on the high-pressure side of the condenser, creating more favorable conditions for the safe operation of A3 flammable refrigerants at low pressure and further reducing the risk of leakage and diffusion;

[0077] Low-cost and high-reliability leak handling: The circuit pressure is monitored in real time by a refrigerant pressure sensor. Once a leak is detected, the power supply to all electrical components in the outdoor unit (compressor, outdoor fan, and refrigerant circulation pump) and the condensate lift pump in the indoor unit is cut off, eliminating all electrical ignition sources in the outdoor unit. Since the outdoor unit is placed in an open outdoor environment and the refrigerant charge is only 0.15-0.5 kg (1-2 horsepower), the small amount of leaked refrigerant diffuses naturally into the atmosphere, and the concentration quickly drops below the lower flammability limit, preventing the accumulation of a flammable mixture. This solution eliminates the need for concentration sensors, forced ventilation components, and explosion-proof sealed chambers, significantly reducing costs and improving long-term reliability.

[0078] Easy to disassemble and reuse: Through quick-connect couplings (supply, return, and condensate) with disconnection and liquid-stopping capabilities, a reliable liquid circuit connection method is provided for repeated connection, disassembly, handling, and storage of indoor and outdoor units. After disconnection, the refrigerant end automatically closes to prevent air from entering and water / liquid loss.

[0079] The control method is reproducible: The control method of the present invention can realize the specific implementation logic of the four-fold interlock of "connection-circulation-condensate utilization-leakage". Attached Figure Description

[0080] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure and system interlocking of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the quick-connect assembly;

[0082] Figure 3 This is a control flowchart for the startup, operation abnormality, and disassembly process of the present invention, showing the judgment and branch logic of each step.

[0083] In the diagram: 1—Indoor unit; 101—Liquid-air heat exchanger (evaporator); 102—Air supply assembly (including indoor side fan); 103—Automatic exhaust valve; 104—Condensate lift pump; 105—Drain tray (also serves as condensate collection tray); 106—Controller; 2—Outdoor unit; 201—Compressor; 202—Plate heat exchanger; 203—Expansion tank (pressure regulating tank); 204—Refrigerant circulation pump; 205—Refrigerant pressure... Force sensor; 206—Throttling element; 207—Outdoor heat exchanger; 208—Spray device; 209—Outdoor fan; 210—Four-way reversing valve; 3—Supply quick connector; 4—Return quick connector; 5—Condensate quick connector; 141—Socket body; 142—Sealing ring groove; 143—Reset spring; 144—Valve core; 145—Plug body; 146—Pin; 147—Handle; 148—Sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0084] 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, and 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.

[0085] Example 1: A portable air conditioner (1.5 HP, cooling capacity 3.5 kW) using a plate heat exchanger, three-pipe system, and condensate utilization.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, the water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner of this embodiment includes an outdoor unit 2, an indoor unit 1, a flexible liquid supply pipe, a flexible liquid return pipe, a flexible condensate pipe, and a controller 106.

[0087] Outdoor unit 2 is equipped with an outdoor unit casing. Inside the outdoor unit casing are a compressor 201, an outdoor heat exchanger 207, a throttling element 206, and a plate heat exchanger 202. The discharge port of the compressor 201 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 207, the refrigerant outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 207 is connected to the inlet of the throttling element 206, the outlet of the throttling element 206 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the plate heat exchanger 202, and the refrigerant outlet of the plate heat exchanger 202 is connected to the suction port of the compressor 201, forming a closed refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant-side flow channel of the plate heat exchanger 202 is isolated from the coolant-side flow channel. The closed refrigerant circuit is charged with R290 refrigerant at a charge rate of 0.30 kg. The outdoor unit casing has a vent that connects to the outdoor atmosphere; electrical components are centrally located in an electrical installation area separated by an electrical installation partition in the upper part of the casing.

[0088] Plate heat exchanger 202 is made of 12 stamped 316L stainless steel heat exchange plates, laminated and brazed, with a heat transfer area of ​​0.45m². 2 The heat transfer coefficient is approximately 4500 W / (m²). 2 • K). The R290 side flow channel and the coolant side flow channel of the plate heat exchanger 202 are completely physically isolated by metal plates. For example, the rated flow rate of the coolant circulation pump 204 is 0.6 m³ / s. 3 The plate heat exchanger 202 has an inlet / outlet temperature of approximately 12 °C / 7 °C on the coolant side, corresponding to a cooling capacity of approximately 3.5 kW; the heat transfer area is 0.45 m². 2 Includes a certain design margin for scaling and load fluctuations.

[0089] The indoor unit 1 houses a liquid-air heat exchanger 101 and an air supply assembly 102. The refrigerant inlet of the liquid-air heat exchanger 101 is connected to the refrigerant-side outlet of the plate heat exchanger 202 via a supply pipe, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid-air heat exchanger 101 is connected to the refrigerant-side inlet of the plate heat exchanger 202 via a return pipe. A quick-connect fitting 3 is installed on the supply pipe, and a quick-connect fitting 4 is installed on the return pipe. The quick-connect fitting 3 and quick-connect fitting 4 are integrated into a single dual-channel quick-connect assembly, including a shared locking mechanism. This shared locking mechanism outputs a connection locking signal when both the supply and return channels are connected. Both the quick-connect fitting 3 and quick-connect fitting 4 have a liquid-stopping structure that closes the corresponding liquid path in the event of a disconnection. The indoor unit 1 does not have any refrigerant piping connected to a closed refrigerant circuit.

[0090] like Figure 2 As shown, the quick-connect fluid supply connector 3 includes a socket body 141 and a plug body 145 that are mutually inserted. The socket body 141 contains a valve core 144, a return spring 143, and a sealing ring groove 142. One end of the return spring 143 abuts against the socket body 141, and the other end abuts against the valve core 144. The valve core 144, under the elastic force of the return spring 143, closes the fluid passage of the socket body 141. The plug body 145 contains a push pin 146. When the plug body 145 is inserted into the socket body 141, the push pin 146 pushes the valve core 144 to compress the return spring 143, thereby opening the fluid passage. A sealing ring 148 is provided on the plug body 145. When the plug body 145 is inserted into the socket body 141, the sealing ring 148 seals against the outer wall of the sealing ring groove 142. A handle 147 is provided at the end of the plug body 145 away from the push pin 146. The quick-connector 4 for liquid return and the quick-connector 5 for condensate have the same structure as the quick-connector 3 for liquid supply.

[0091] A drip tray 105 is located below the liquid-air heat exchanger 101. The drip tray 105 is situated at the bottom of the indoor unit 1, with its water collection surface facing downwards from the fins of the liquid-air heat exchanger 101. A condensate lift pump 104 is located inside the indoor unit 1, and its suction port is connected to the drip tray 105. The condensate lift pump 104 is positioned at a low level within the drip tray 105.

[0092] One end of the condensate drain pipe is connected to the outlet of the condensate lift pump 104, and the other end of the condensate drain pipe passes between the indoor unit 1 and the outdoor unit 2 and extends to the top of the outdoor heat exchanger 207. A condensate quick connector 5 is installed on the condensate drain pipe, which has a liquid-stopping structure to close the condensate drain channel in the event of disconnection. A spray device 208 is located above the outdoor heat exchanger 207, with its inlet connected to the other end of the condensate drain pipe, and its spray nozzles facing the fin surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 207.

[0093] The condensate lift pump 104 is a miniature submersible pump with a rated flow rate of 1.2 L / h, a rated head of 2.0 m, and a rated power of ≤5W. Its head is sufficient to overcome the friction and local resistance of the condensate pipe, lift pipe, and spray device, lifting the condensate from the bottom of the indoor unit 1 to the top of the outdoor heat exchanger 207. The spray device 208 includes a distribution pipe and six miniature nozzles. The distribution pipe is arranged along the width of the outdoor heat exchanger 207 (approximately 400 mm in length), and the six miniature nozzles are spaced apart along the length of the distribution pipe (approximately 70 mm between nozzles). The spray nozzles face the fin surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 207, spraying the condensate into a mist to cover the entire windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger 207. A water collection tray is located at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 207, connected to a drain pipe. The outlet of the drain pipe leads to the outside, and any unevaporated small amount of condensate is discharged to the outside through the drain outlet of the water collection tray. The water collection tray 105 is equipped with an overflow port.

[0094] The controller 106 is electrically connected to the compressor 201, the refrigerant circulation pump 204, the condensate lift pump 104, and the outdoor fan 209. A first connection status detection element is installed at the liquid supply quick connector 3, a second connection status detection element is installed at the liquid return quick connector 4, and a third connection status detection element is installed at the condensate quick connector 5. Each connection status detection element is a mechanical position switch and is electrically connected to the controller 106. A flow detection element is installed on the liquid supply pipe and is electrically connected to the controller 106. A pressure detection element is installed between the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe and is electrically connected to the controller 106. A refrigerant pressure sensor 205, using a ceramic piezoresistive pressure transmitter, is installed on the high-pressure side of the closed refrigerant circuit and is electrically connected to the controller 106. A condensate level detection element is installed in the drip tray 105 and is electrically connected to the controller 106.

[0095] Indoor unit 1 is also equipped with an automatic air vent valve 103, which is located at the highest point of the refrigerant flow channel of indoor unit 1 and is connected to the liquid supply pipe. Outdoor unit 2 is also equipped with an expansion tank 203, which is connected to the return liquid pipe and is a pressure tank.

[0096] When the refrigerant pressure sensor 205 continuously deviates from the preset normal pressure range, the controller 106 determines that a refrigerant leak has occurred in the closed refrigerant circuit. It then cuts off the power to the compressor 201, outdoor fan 209, refrigerant circulation pump 204, and condensate lift pump 104 via a relay, causing these components in the outdoor unit to stop operating. Since the outdoor unit is placed in an open outdoor environment, the small amount of leaked R290 diffuses directly into the atmosphere naturally. Combined with the casing vents and electrical installation partition, no concentration sensor, forced ventilation, or explosion-proof sealing structure is required.

[0097] like Figure 3 As shown, the start-up permission determination logic of controller 106 is as follows: obtain the connection status of liquid supply quick connector 3, liquid return quick connector 4 and condensate quick connector 5; when all three quick connectors are in the connection locked state, start the refrigerant circulation pump 204 and obtain the flow rate and pressure value of the refrigerant in the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe; when the flow rate reaches the preset lower limit, the pressure value is within the preset pressure range and the pressure value of the closed refrigerant circuit is within the preset normal pressure range, start the compressor 201.

[0098] The condensate utilization control logic of controller 106 is as follows: During the operation of compressor 201, based on the feedback signal of condensate level detection device set in water receiving pan 105, when the condensate level is higher than the spray threshold (e.g., 15 mm), condensate lift pump 104 is started, and when the condensate level is lower than the low level threshold (e.g., 5 mm), condensate lift pump 104 is stopped to avoid dry running.

[0099] The operation monitoring and shutdown logic of controller 106 is as follows: When any one of the liquid supply quick connector 3, liquid return quick connector 4, or condensate quick connector 5 is in a non-connection locked state, or the flow rate is lower than the preset lower limit, or the pressure exceeds the preset pressure range, or the pressure of the closed refrigerant circuit deviates from the preset normal pressure range, the compressor 201 and the refrigerant circulation pump 204 are stopped, and the condensate lift pump 104 is also stopped. When the pressure of the closed refrigerant circuit continues to deviate from the preset normal pressure range, it is determined that a refrigerant leak has occurred in the closed refrigerant circuit, and the power supply to the compressor 201, the outdoor fan 209, the refrigerant circulation pump 204, and the condensate lift pump 104 is cut off.

[0100] The disassembly control logic of controller 106 is as follows: upon receiving a disassembly request, compressor 201 is stopped first, and after a delay, coolant circulation pump 204 is stopped. After condensate lift pump 104 stops running, a prompt signal is output to allow liquid supply quick connector 3, liquid return quick connector 4 and condensate quick connector 5 to be unlocked.

[0101] Under standard cooling conditions (indoor 27℃ / 57%RH, outdoor 35℃ / 40%RH, rated cooling capacity 3.5 kW), the indoor unit evaporator in this embodiment continuously produces approximately 1.08 L / h of condensate, which is sprayed onto the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger fins 207. A small amount of unevaporated condensate is directly discharged. The measured condensation temperature is approximately 3℃ lower than that without spraying, and the system COP increases from 2.8 to 3.0, a COP increase of approximately 7.1%, demonstrating significant energy savings. Simultaneously, the compressor discharge pressure (high-pressure side) decreases from approximately 1.5 MPa (gauge pressure) to approximately 1.4 MPa (gauge pressure), a reduction of approximately 6.7%, creating more favorable conditions for the safe operation of R290 in the low charge range of Category A3.

[0102] Example 2: A portable air conditioner for both heating and cooling, using a high-efficiency tank heat exchanger and a split single-channel quick-connect design.

[0103] In this embodiment, the plate heat exchanger 202 is replaced with a high-efficiency tank heat exchanger. The high-efficiency tank heat exchanger has a cylindrical shell, approximately 120 mm in diameter and 300 mm in length. A spiral coil is coaxially arranged inside the cylindrical shell. The tube side of the spiral coil is connected to a closed refrigerant circuit, while the shell side of the cylindrical shell is connected to the liquid supply and return pipes. The heat exchange area is 0.6 m². 2 The heat exchange area per unit volume is approximately 180 m². 2 / m 3 The spray device and condensate lift pump of the condensate utilization system are set up the same as in Example 1.

[0104] The closed refrigerant circuit is also equipped with a four-way reversing valve 210. The first port of the four-way reversing valve 210 is connected to the discharge port of the compressor 201, the second port is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 207, the third port is connected to the suction port of the compressor 201, and the fourth port is connected to the refrigerant outlet of the high-efficiency tank heat exchanger. The refrigerant outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 207 is connected to the inlet of the throttling element 206, and the outlet of the throttling element 206 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the high-efficiency tank heat exchanger. The four-way reversing valve 210 changes the refrigerant flow direction, allowing the air conditioner to selectively operate in cooling or heating mode. In heating mode, the high-efficiency tank heat exchanger heats the refrigerant flowing through its coolant side, and the condensate utilization system stops operating.

[0105] Both the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe are flexible pipes, as is the condensate pipe. Both outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 1 are equipped with pipe storage compartments, which house the liquid supply pipe, the liquid return pipe, and the condensate pipe. Outdoor unit 2 is equipped with outdoor unit casters at the bottom, and indoor unit 1 is equipped with indoor unit casters at the bottom.

[0106] Example 3: Low-cost R290-specific prevention and control based on pressure monitoring and power failure interlocking

[0107] This embodiment, based on Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, further incorporates a refrigeration circuit pressure monitoring and power-off interlocking structure: the refrigerant pressure sensor 205, employing a ceramic piezoresistive pressure transmitter, is installed on the high-pressure side of the closed refrigerant circuit (a second pressure sensor can also be installed on the low-pressure side simultaneously) to monitor the circuit pressure in real time. When the detection value of the refrigerant pressure sensor 205 continuously deviates from the preset normal pressure range, the controller 106 determines that a refrigerant leak has occurred in the closed refrigerant circuit. It then cuts off the power supply to the compressor 201, outdoor fan 209, refrigerant circulation pump 204, and condensate lift pump 104 via a relay, causing these components to stop operating. With the outdoor unit placed in an open outdoor environment, the small amount of leaked R290 diffuses directly into the atmosphere naturally. Combined with the casing vents and electrical installation partition, a low-cost, highly reliable flammable refrigerant risk control system is formed without the need for concentration sensors, forced ventilation, or explosion-proof sealing structures. For example, the preset normal pressure range is set to 0.8 to 1.8 MPa (gauge pressure), the preset pressure deviation threshold is set to exceed the upper and lower limits of the normal range by 0.1 MPa, and the preset duration threshold is set to last for 3 seconds; when the detection value of the refrigerant pressure sensor 205 exceeds the pressure deviation threshold and continues to exceed the duration threshold, it is determined that there is a refrigerant leak.

[0108] Example 4: Enhanced heat transfer using nanofluid coolant

[0109] This embodiment is based on Embodiment 1, the difference being the use of a nanofluid refrigerant in the closed-loop refrigerant circulation circuit. The refrigerant is a nanofluid refrigerant containing nano-thermal conductive particles, which are selected from Al2O3 with a volume fraction of 1.0%. Specifically, approximately 1.0% by volume of Al2O3 nanoparticles (average particle size approximately 40 nm) are dispersed in a 35% by volume aqueous solution of ethylene glycol. After ultrasonic dispersion and the addition of an appropriate amount of dispersant (sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate), a stable suspension is formed, which serves as the refrigerant circulating between the refrigerant side channel of the plate heat exchanger 202 and the indoor unit liquid-air heat exchanger 101.

[0110] The thermal conductivity of the nanofluid refrigerant is increased by approximately 10% compared to pure ethylene glycol-based liquid, resulting in an approximately 20% increase in the convective heat transfer coefficient on the refrigerant side of the plate heat exchanger 202. Therefore, while maintaining the rated cooling capacity of 3.5 kW, the required heat exchange area of ​​the plate heat exchanger 202 can be reduced from 0.45 m². 2 It dropped to approximately 0.37 m. 2 The R290 charge was further reduced from 0.30 kg to approximately 0.26 kg. The controller implements an antifreeze control strategy based on ambient temperature and coolant temperature, and takes antifreeze protection measures at low coolant temperatures. This embodiment illustrates that, without changing the safety architecture of "enclosed outdoor unit + low R290 charge + closed coolant circuit + quadruple interlocking," the nanofluid coolant achieves improved heat transfer performance and further reduced R290 charge using a non-hazardous liquid medium.

[0111] (Note: The type of nanoparticles is not limited to Al2O3; CuO, TiO2, SiO2, carbon nanotubes, or metal nanoparticles can also be used. The volume fraction should be controlled between 0.1% and 5% to meet the requirements for suspension stability and long-term reliability. The specific selection and concentration should be determined based on actual measurements of the prototype.) Table 2 Exemplary parameters of nanofluidic coolant (based on Example 4)

[0112]

[0113] In this specification, "outdoor unit" refers to a unit that is designed to be placed outdoors, near a window, or isolated from the indoor space to be regulated, and is not limited to its actual instantaneous placement location. "Indoor unit" refers to a unit that supplies air to the indoor space to be regulated. "Closed refrigerant circuit" refers to a circuit formed by connecting relevant refrigeration components through refrigerant piping; in this invention, this circuit is entirely enclosed within the outdoor unit and does not extend to the indoor unit via external piping. "Cooling fluid" refers to a liquid medium that circulates and transfers heat between plate / tank heat exchangers and liquid-air heat exchangers, including water, aqueous ethylene glycol solution, aqueous propylene glycol solution, or nanofluidic cooling fluid containing nano-thermal conductive particles; the nanofluidic cooling fluid consists of a base liquid and nano-thermal conductive particles dispersed therein, used to improve thermal conductivity and convective heat transfer coefficient, and is itself a non-flammable liquid medium. "Condensate" refers to the condensate formed on the surface of the liquid-air heat exchanger fins of the indoor unit during cooling mode due to air cooling and dehumidification. In this invention, the condensate is transported to the outdoor unit via a condensate pipe and sprayed for reuse, achieving a "collection-lifting-spraying-evaporation" cycle. "R290" refers to propane refrigerant (C3H8), belonging to Class A3 highly flammable refrigerants. "Class A3 refrigerants refer to refrigerants classified as highly flammable (Class 3) according to ASHRAE 34, characterized by a lower flammability limit (LFL) ≤ 0.10 kg / m³". 3Or heat of combustion ≥19000 kJ / kg; LFL of R290 (propane, C3H8) is approximately 0.038 kg / m³. 3 The combustion speed is approximately 0.46 m / s. "LFL" refers to the lower flammability limit. "COP" (Coefficient of Performance) is the ratio of the cooling capacity to the input power of an air conditioner under rated operating conditions.

[0114] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on a flammable refrigerant, characterized in that, include: The outdoor unit (2) is equipped with a compressor (201), an outdoor heat exchanger (207), an outdoor fan (209), a throttling element (206), a plate heat exchanger (202), and a refrigerant circulation pump (204). The exhaust port of the compressor (201) is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the outdoor heat exchanger (207). The refrigerant outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger (207) is connected to the inlet of the throttling element (206). The outlet of the throttling element (206) is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the plate heat exchanger (202). The refrigerant outlet of the plate heat exchanger (202) is connected to the suction port of the compressor (201), forming a closed refrigerant circuit. The closed refrigerant circuit is filled with flammable refrigerant. The outdoor unit (2) is placed in the outdoor environment. An indoor unit (1) is provided with a liquid-air heat exchanger (101) and an air supply assembly (102). The inlet of the liquid-air heat exchanger (101) is connected to the outlet of the plate heat exchanger (202) via a supply pipe, and the outlet of the liquid-air heat exchanger (101) is connected to the inlet of the plate heat exchanger (202) via a return pipe. A cooling liquid circulation pump (204) is connected in series with the air supply assembly. On the liquid supply pipe or the liquid return pipe, the liquid supply pipe is provided with a liquid supply quick connector (3), and the liquid return pipe is provided with a liquid return quick connector (4). Both the liquid supply quick connector (3) and the liquid return quick connector (4) have a liquid stop structure that closes the corresponding liquid path when disconnected. The indoor unit (1) does not have a refrigerant pipeline connected to the closed refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant side flow channel of the plate heat exchanger (202) is isolated from the coolant side flow channel. A water receiving tray (105) is disposed below the liquid-air heat exchanger (101); A condensate lift pump (104) is installed inside the indoor unit (1), and the suction port of the condensate lift pump (104) is connected to the water receiving tray (105). The condensate pipe has one end connected to the outlet of the condensate booster pump (104), and the other end extends across the connection area between the indoor unit (1) and the outdoor unit (2) to the outdoor heat exchanger (207); the condensate pipe is provided with a condensate quick connector (5), which has a liquid-stopping structure to close the condensate channel when disconnected. A spray device (208) is provided above the outdoor heat exchanger (207). The inlet of the spray device (208) is connected to the other end of the condensate pipe, and the spray nozzle of the spray device (208) faces the fin surface of the outdoor heat exchanger (207). The controller (106) is electrically connected to the compressor (201), the coolant circulation pump (204), the condensate lift pump (104), and the outdoor fan (209).

2. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid supply quick connector (3) and the liquid return quick connector (4) are integrated into a single dual-channel quick-connect assembly. The dual-channel quick-connect assembly includes a common locking mechanism, which outputs a connection locking signal when both the liquid supply channel and the liquid return channel are connected.

3. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The quick-connector (3) for liquid supply includes a socket body (141) and a plug body (145) that are mutually plugged in. The socket body (141) contains a valve core (144), a return spring (143), and a sealing ring groove (142). One end of the return spring (143) abuts against the socket body (141), and the other end abuts against the valve core (144). Under the elastic force of the return spring (143), the valve core (144) closes the fluid passage of the socket body (141). The plug body (145) contains a top... The pin (146) pushes the valve core (144) to compress the return spring (143) to open the fluid passage when the plug body (145) and the socket body (141) are inserted. The plug body (145) is provided with a sealing ring (148), which seals against the outer wall of the sealing ring groove (142) when the plug body (145) and the socket body (141) are inserted. The quick return connector (4) and the quick condensate connector (5) have the same structure as the quick supply connector (3).

4. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outdoor unit (2) is provided with an outdoor unit housing. The compressor (201), the outdoor side heat exchanger (207), the throttling element (206), the plate heat exchanger (202), and the refrigerant circulation pump (204) are all located inside the outdoor unit housing. The outdoor unit housing is provided with a vent that communicates with the outdoor atmosphere. An electrical installation area is provided in the upper part of the interior of the outdoor unit housing. An electrical installation area partition is provided between the electrical installation area and the area where the closed refrigerant circuit is arranged. The indoor unit (1) is also provided with an automatic exhaust valve (103). The automatic exhaust valve (103) is located at the highest point of the refrigerant flow channel of the indoor unit (1). The automatic exhaust valve (103) is connected to the liquid supply pipe. The outdoor unit (2) is also provided with an expansion tank (203). The expansion tank (203) is connected to the liquid return pipe.

5. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger (202) is composed of multiple stamped metal heat exchange plates stacked together. The metal heat exchange plates form a refrigerant side flow channel and a coolant side flow channel that are separated from each other. The refrigerant side flow channel is connected to the closed refrigerant circuit, and the coolant side flow channel is connected to the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe.

6. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger (202) is a high-efficiency tank heat exchanger. The high-efficiency tank heat exchanger has a cylindrical shell. A spiral coil is coaxially arranged inside the cylindrical shell. The tube side of the spiral coil is connected to the closed refrigerant circuit. The shell side of the cylindrical shell is connected to the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe.

7. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The closed refrigerant circuit is also equipped with a four-way reversing valve (210). The first port of the four-way reversing valve (210) is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor (201), the second port of the four-way reversing valve (210) is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the outdoor heat exchanger (207), the third port of the four-way reversing valve (210) is connected to the suction port of the compressor (201), the fourth port of the four-way reversing valve (210) is connected to the refrigerant outlet of the plate heat exchanger (202), the refrigerant outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger (207) is connected to the inlet of the throttling element (206), and the outlet of the throttling element (206) is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the plate heat exchanger (202).

8. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water collection tray (105) is located at the bottom of the indoor unit (1), and the water collection surface of the water collection tray (105) faces the fins of the liquid-air heat exchanger (101). The condensate lift pump (104) is located at a low position inside the water collection tray (105).

9. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spray device (208) includes a distribution pipe and multiple nozzles. The distribution pipe is arranged along the width direction of the outdoor heat exchanger (207), and the multiple nozzles are spaced apart along the length direction of the distribution pipe. The spray nozzles of the multiple nozzles face the fin surface of the outdoor heat exchanger (207). A water collection tray is provided below the outdoor heat exchanger (207), and the water collection tray is connected to a drain pipe. The outlet of the drain pipe leads to the outside.

10. The water-coupled split-type portable air conditioner based on flammable refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first connection status detection element is provided at the liquid supply quick connector (3), a second connection status detection element is provided at the liquid return quick connector (4), and a third connection status detection element is provided at the condensate quick connector (5). The first, second, and third connection status detection elements are all electrically connected to the controller (106). The first, second, and third connection status detection elements are mechanical position switches, magnetic detection elements, or coded identification elements. A flow detection element is provided on the liquid supply pipe or the liquid return pipe, and the flow detection element is electrically connected to the controller (106). A pressure detection element is provided between the liquid supply pipe and the liquid return pipe, and the pressure detection element is electrically connected to the controller (106). The closed refrigeration A refrigerant pressure sensor (205) is installed on the refrigerant circuit, and the refrigerant pressure sensor (205) is electrically connected to the controller (106); a condensate level detection device is installed in the water receiving pan (105), and the condensate level detection device is electrically connected to the controller (106); when the value detected by the refrigerant pressure sensor (205) deviates from the preset normal pressure range by more than a preset pressure deviation threshold and the duration exceeds a preset duration threshold, the controller (106) determines that a refrigerant leak has occurred in the closed refrigerant circuit, and when the controller (106) determines that a refrigerant leak has occurred, it cuts off the power supply to the compressor (201), the outdoor fan (209) of the outdoor heat exchanger (207), the coolant circulation pump (204), and the condensate lift pump (104).

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