Partitioned, multi-cooling mode combined high-efficiency energy-saving refrigeration device

Abstract

This invention discloses a zoned, multi-cooling, high-efficiency, and energy-saving refrigeration device. The device includes a casing and water pipes. Inside the casing are a compressor and a finned-tube condenser. An insulated water tank is located at the top of the casing. A temperature sensor is installed at the outlet of the finned-tube condenser. The finned-tube condenser includes a high-temperature zone at the top, a medium-temperature zone in the middle, and a low-temperature zone at the bottom. The cooling subsystem includes a water-cooled structure, an air-cooled structure, and an evaporative cooling structure. The casing also houses a controller, which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the cooling subsystem. The combination and operation of the various cooling structures are controlled by the controller through random, dynamic, and reciprocating operation guided by the outlet temperature sensor. This invention uses multiple cooling methods, including air-cooling, water-cooling, and evaporative cooling, to cool the condenser, improving cooling efficiency and reducing air conditioning energy consumption.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 202510652529.X, filed on May 20, 2025, entitled "A High-Efficiency and Energy-Saving Refrigeration Device and Method Combining Zoned and Multiple Cooling Methods". This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202510214898.0, filed on February 26, 2025. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a refrigeration device for refrigeration and air conditioning facilities, and is mainly applicable to refrigeration devices where the outdoor unit is a forced air-cooled unit. Background Technology

[0004] During routine maintenance, it was found that the outdoor unit is a forced-air-cooled refrigeration unit. The condenser's heat dissipation effect is greatly limited by the ambient temperature. The ambient temperature determines the condenser outlet temperature, or the degree of subcooling. The higher the ambient temperature, the higher the condenser outlet temperature, the worse the cooling effect and the higher the energy consumption. When the ambient temperature exceeds 43 degrees Celsius, it can even cause the air conditioner to lose its cooling function. The subcooling of the existing refrigeration unit is a variable that changes with the ambient temperature. The indoor evaporator of the existing refrigeration unit produces a large amount of condensate. In the process of condensate formation, the refrigeration unit is forced to do a lot of useless work, which wastes energy and pollutes the environment. The fins of the outdoor condenser of the existing air-cooled refrigeration unit are easily blocked by fluffy materials such as willow catkins and poplar hairs, and dust easily accumulates on the finned tubes, affecting ventilation and heat dissipation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device that combines zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods. It aims to solve many problems caused by the low heat dissipation efficiency of condensers in forced-air-cooled outdoor units and refrigeration devices. For example, the subcooling of the refrigerant decreases as the ambient temperature rises. Only by maintaining the subcooling at its maximum value designed for the air conditioner can the air conditioner operate in optimal condition, fundamentally solving the problem of high energy consumption. It also solves the problem of air conditioners not operating stably in extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, it addresses the issue that the subcooling of existing air conditioners is always a variable affected by ambient temperature. With this invention, the subcooling will be a fixed quantity that is consistently maintained at an optimal maximum value, far exceeding the subcooling values ​​of existing refrigeration devices. The invention also solves the problem of wasted energy and environmental pollution during condensate formation through condensate recycling and reuse. Finally, it addresses the problem of condenser fins being blocked by willow catkins, poplar fluff, and other fibrous materials, and the problem of dust accumulation on the finned tubes affecting ventilation and heat dissipation.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: The present invention provides a high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device that combines partitioned cooling with multiple cooling methods, including a housing. The housing contains a compressor and a finned tube condenser. The top of the housing is equipped with an insulated water tank. A temperature sensor is installed at the outlet of the finned tube condenser. The interior of the casing is provided with several cooling zones; At least one cooling subsystem is provided in the cooling area, and the cooling subsystem is selected from water-cooled structure, air-cooled structure, evaporative cooling structure or a combination thereof; The housing is also equipped with a controller, which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the cooling subsystem. The controller is used to dynamically switch the cooling structure in the cooling area according to real-time temperature data. The combination mode and operation process between various cooling structures are controlled by the controller in a random dynamic reciprocating mode under the guidance of the outlet temperature sensor.

[0007] Furthermore, the cooling subsystem is a zoned water-cooling structure, including at least one spray water pipe connected to the water supply pipe. The spray water pipe is equipped with a solenoid valve, which is electrically connected to the controller. Under the control of the temperature sensor and the controller, the spray water pipe selects an area and starts spraying, relying on the heat exchange between the water and the finned tube cluster for cooling, thus forming a zoned water-cooling system.

[0008] Furthermore, the duration of a single spray from the spray pipe is sufficient to wet the finned tube clusters that are responsible for cooling, even when the machine is off.

[0009] Furthermore, the cooling subsystem is a zoned air-cooled structure, including a fan, which is located on the inner side of the finned tube condenser and is electrically connected to the controller; after the spray area is selected under the control of the temperature sensor and the controller, the remaining unselected area is cooled by air cooling, forming a zoned air cooling system.

[0010] Furthermore, the cooling subsystem is a zoned evaporative cooling structure. Under the control of the temperature sensor and the controller, the spray water pipes select an area and start spraying. After spraying is completed, the fan blows air onto the finned tube cluster. The evaporation of water remaining on the finned tube cluster after spraying by each spray water pipe cools the finned tube cluster, forming a zoned evaporative cooling system.

[0011] Furthermore, the cooling subsystem is a combination of water-cooled, air-cooled, and evaporative cooling structures. Under the control of the temperature sensor and the controller, each area is cooled by air-cooling, water-cooling, and evaporative cooling in a time-sharing and zone-based manner, forming a zoned combination of air-cooling, water-cooling, and evaporative cooling.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes a condensate recovery and reuse system, which includes a condensate pipe connected to the bottom of a water supply pipe and the upper part of the water supply pipe connected to the insulated water tank, ensuring that condensate is used preferentially when the spray pipe is spraying water.

[0013] Furthermore, the controller operates randomly and dynamically in a reciprocating manner; when the controller is programmed, it is centered on the pre-set outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser and guided by the temperature detected by the temperature sensor at the outlet. It controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve according to the temperature change detected by the temperature sensor to control the spraying time of the spray water pipe.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a reverse air supply and water washing dust removal system. When the controller is programmed, a cleaning time is set. After the refrigeration unit stops, the controller controls the fan to reverse for a certain period of time to blow off the fibrous material on the protective net. After the fan stops, the controller controls the spray water pipe at the top of the finned tube cluster to spray water and wash the finned tube cluster. The wastewater is discharged through the wastewater pipe at the bottom of the casing.

[0015] A highly efficient and energy-saving refrigeration method combining zoned cooling and multiple cooling methods, which utilizes the refrigeration device described above for refrigeration, includes the following processes: When the refrigeration unit is turned on, it enters the refrigeration mode. First, it enters the air-cooling mode, and the fan runs. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser has reached the predetermined value, the air-cooling mode continues to be executed. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser is greater than a predetermined value, a zoned water cooling mode is adopted. The lowest primary cooling zone is the first to activate water cooling mode. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser reaches the predetermined value within the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, it returns to the previous zoned air cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the primary cooling zone. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser is higher than the predetermined temperature within the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, the secondary cooling zone activates the zoned water cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the previous stage. If the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the secondary cooling zone is higher than the predetermined temperature, the secondary cooling zone activates the zoned water cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the previous stage. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser reaches a predetermined value within the spray duration, the system returns to the primary cooling zone for zoned water cooling mode. This, combined with the evaporation of water remaining between the spray pipes after the secondary cooling zone spray, further cools the finned tube cluster. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser is higher than the predetermined temperature, both the primary and tertiary cooling zones simultaneously activate zoned water cooling mode. If the temperature sensor detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser reaches a predetermined value within the set spray duration of the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, the system returns to the secondary cooling zone for spraying. This, combined with the evaporation of water remaining after the primary and tertiary cooling zones spray, further cools the finned tube cluster. If the temperature exceeds the predetermined value, it indicates that the condenser has reached the limit of its operating environment, and the system automatically shuts down.

[0016] The above describes a single preset value for the condenser outlet temperature. Multiple preset values ​​can also be designed, such as one high and one low. When rapid cooling of the room is needed, the controller executes the low preset value; when rapid cooling is not required and only the room temperature needs to be maintained, the controller executes the high preset value. The operating process for both the high and low preset values ​​is the same as for the single preset value.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial technical effects of the present invention are as follows: This invention includes zoned water cooling, zoned air cooling, zoned evaporative cooling, and a combination of zoned air cooling, water cooling, and evaporative cooling. The combination and operation of various cooling methods are controlled by a controller that operates randomly and dynamically under the guidance of an outlet temperature sensor. This improves the heat dissipation efficiency of the condenser, with a subcooling degree far exceeding that of existing air conditioners. The subcooling degree, which was previously an uncontrollable variable that changed with the environment, has become a controllable and optimal constant value. The value of the subcooling degree can be set by the user, fundamentally solving the problem of high energy consumption in refrigeration devices and enabling the air conditioner to operate stably in extreme weather conditions. Reverse airflow and automatic dust removal with water washing solve the problem of condenser fin blockage by willow catkins, poplar fluff, and other fibrous materials, as well as dust accumulation on the finned tube clusters. Condensate recycling and reuse solve the problems of energy waste and environmental pollution during condensate formation, as well as the problem of water source acquisition. The insufficient water is obtained through automatic water replenishment. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a front view of the efficient and energy-saving refrigeration device of the present invention, which combines zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the efficient and energy-saving refrigeration method that combines partitioned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to the present invention.

[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Housing; 2. Insulation layer; 3. Water supply pipe; 4. Fan; 5. Insulated water tank; 6. Finned tube condenser; 7. Electronic water level gauge; 8. Compressor; 9. Exhaust port; 10. Wastewater pipe; 11. Capillary tube; 12. Temperature sensor; 13. Solenoid valve I; 14. Solenoid valve II; 15. Solenoid valve III; 16. Spray water pipe I; 17. Spray water pipe II; 18. Spray water pipe III; 19. Water supply pipe; 20. Condensate pipe; F indicates that the air conditioner is operating in a single cooling mode with air cooling. T indicates that the condenser outlet temperature has reached the predetermined value; T1 indicates that the condenser outlet temperature is greater than the predetermined value; G1F indicates that spray pipe I and the fan are operating simultaneously; G2F indicates that the spray pipe II and the fan are operating simultaneously; G1G3F indicates that spray pipe I, spray pipe III, and the fan are operating simultaneously; O indicates that the system is powered off and has entered standby mode. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will now be described in more detail, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0022] A high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining partitioned cooling and multiple cooling methods includes a casing 1. The casing 1 is equipped with a compressor 8 and a finned tube condenser 6. The top of the casing 1 is equipped with an insulated water tank 5. The top surface of the insulated water tank 5 is equipped with a water supply pipe 3 and an exhaust port 9. A temperature sensor 12 is installed at the outlet of the finned tube condenser 6. The interior of the housing 1 is divided into several cooling zones based on temperature or refrigerant state, with at least two cooling zones; At least one cooling subsystem is provided in the cooling area, and the cooling subsystem is selected from water-cooled structure, air-cooled structure, evaporative cooling structure or a combination thereof; The housing 1 is also equipped with a controller, which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 12 and the cooling subsystem. The controller is used to dynamically switch the cooling structure in the cooling area according to real-time temperature data. The combination mode and operation process between various cooling structures are controlled by the controller in a random dynamic reciprocating mode under the guidance of the outlet temperature sensor.

[0023] The cooling subsystem is a zoned water-cooling structure, including at least one spray water pipe connected to the water supply pipe 19. The spray water pipe is equipped with a solenoid valve, which is electrically connected to the controller. Under the control of the temperature sensor 12 and the controller, the spray water pipe selects an area and starts spraying, relying on the heat exchange between the water and the finned tube cluster for cooling, thus forming a zoned water-cooling system.

[0024] The duration of a single spray from the spray pipe is sufficient to wet the finned tube clusters that are responsible for cooling, even when the machine is off.

[0025] The cooling subsystem is a zoned air-cooled structure, including a fan 4, which is located on the inner side of the finned tube condenser 6 and is electrically connected to the controller. After the spray area is selected under the control of the temperature sensor 12 and the controller, the remaining unselected area is cooled by air cooling, forming a zoned air cooling system.

[0026] The cooling subsystem is a zoned evaporative cooling structure. Under the control of the temperature sensor 12 and the controller, the spray water pipe selects an area and starts spraying. After the spraying is completed, the fan 4 blows air onto the finned tube cluster. The evaporation of the water remaining on the finned tube cluster after the spraying is completed by each spray water pipe cools the finned tube cluster, forming a zoned evaporative cooling system.

[0027] The cooling subsystem is a combination of water-cooled structure, air-cooled structure and evaporative cooling structure. Under the control of the temperature sensor 12 and the controller, each area is cooled by air-cooled, water-cooled and evaporative cooling respectively in a time-division and zone-division manner, forming a zoned air-cooled, water-cooled and evaporative cooling combination.

[0028] The condensate recovery and reuse system includes a condensate pipe 20, which is connected to the bottom of a water supply pipe 19. The upper part of the water supply pipe 19 is connected to the insulated water tank 5. This system ensures that condensate is used preferentially when the spray pipe is spraying water. The condensate has a very low temperature, which greatly improves the water cooling effect. At the same time, it realizes the recovery and reuse of condensate, avoiding water waste.

[0029] The controller operates randomly and dynamically; when the controller is programmed, it is centered on the pre-set outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 and guided by the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 12 at the outlet. The controller controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve according to the temperature change detected by the temperature sensor 12 to control the spraying time of the spray water pipe.

[0030] The reverse airflow and water-washing dust removal system has a set cleaning time during controller programming. After the refrigeration unit stops, the controller controls the fan 4 to reverse for 1 minute to blow off the fibrous material on the protective net. After the fan 4 stops, the controller controls the spray water pipe at the top of the finned tube cluster to spray water and wash the finned tube cluster. The wastewater is discharged through the wastewater pipe 10 at the bottom of the casing 1. In addition, a dustproof net is installed on the outside of the casing 1 to prevent dust from adhering to the fin surface and affecting the cooling effect.

[0031] This invention can divide the area into multiple cooling zones using spray pipes and combine various cooling methods. The most representative partitioning method, dividing the area into three cooling zones, will now be analyzed, combining air cooling, water cooling, and evaporative cooling: Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, a high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining partitioned cooling and multiple cooling methods includes a casing 1. Inside the casing 1 are a compressor 8, a finned tube condenser 6, and a capillary tube 11. A temperature sensor 12 is installed at the outlet of the finned tube condenser 6. The surface of the temperature sensor 12 is wrapped with an insulation layer to prevent ambient temperature from affecting the sensor, allowing it to more accurately measure the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6. An insulated water tank 5 is installed on the top of the casing 1, and an insulation layer 2 is installed on the outside of the insulated water tank 5. A water supply pipe 3 and an exhaust port 9 are connected to the top surface of the insulated water tank 5. A solenoid valve IV is installed on the water supply pipe 3. A water delivery pipe 19 is connected to the bottom of the insulated water tank 5, and a condensate pipe 20 is connected to the bottom of the water delivery pipe 19. An electronic water level gauge 7 is installed inside the insulated water tank 5. The solenoid valve IV, the temperature sensor 12, and the electronic water level gauge 7 are all electrically connected to the controller.

[0032] Research on existing air conditioners reveals that during the heat dissipation process of air-cooled condensers, the high-temperature region at the top of the condenser has a large temperature difference with the ambient temperature, resulting in excellent cooling. The middle region also has a certain temperature difference and its cooling effect is acceptable. However, the lower region of the condenser, being very close to the ambient temperature, has a less significant cooling effect. This makes it difficult to increase the condenser's outlet temperature, i.e., the subcooling of the refrigerant, and it rises and falls with the ambient temperature. To solve this problem, this embodiment divides the condenser into three temperature zones: high, medium, and low. A spray water pipe is installed above each zone, simultaneously implementing zoned air cooling, zoned water cooling, and zoned evaporative cooling. During operation, the three spray water pipes, under the control of temperature sensors and controllers, work in conjunction with air cooling to dynamically cool the condenser in different time zones and areas. Zoned air cooling prevents water waste in high-temperature zones where air cooling is sufficient for heat dissipation in non-extreme weather conditions, and also prevents excessive refrigerant accumulation in the condenser due to rapid heat dissipation in high-temperature zones caused by water cooling. Zoned cooling compensates for the shortcomings of existing condensers where single air cooling in the low-temperature zone is ineffective.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the finned tube array of the finned tube condenser 6 is divided into a high-temperature zone, a medium-temperature zone, and a low-temperature zone according to temperature, and the high-temperature zone, the medium-temperature zone, and the low-temperature zone are distributed sequentially from top to bottom; the zoned water-cooling structure includes a primary water-cooling structure, a secondary water-cooling structure, and a tertiary water-cooling structure, which are respectively located in the low-temperature zone, the medium-temperature zone, and the high-temperature zone; each of the primary, secondary, and tertiary water-cooling structures includes at least one spray water pipe, and more spray water pipes can be set in the actual manufacturing process; specifically, The primary water-cooling structure includes a spray pipe I16, which is connected to the water supply pipe 19, and a solenoid valve I13 is installed on the spray pipe I16; the secondary water-cooling structure includes a spray pipe II17, which is connected to the water supply pipe 19, and a solenoid valve II14 is installed on the spray pipe II17; the tertiary water-cooling structure includes a spray pipe III18, which is connected to the water supply pipe 19, and a solenoid valve III15 is installed on the spray pipe III18; the solenoid valves I13, II14, and III15 are all electrically connected to the controller.

[0034] The installation principle for each spray pipe is to install them from bottom to top, with each spray pipe corresponding to a specific ambient temperature range it can handle. The higher the pipe, the higher the ambient temperature it can handle. The specific installation location and quantity should be determined by the manufacturer based on the historical highest temperatures of the area where the air conditioning will be installed.

[0035] The duration of a single spray cycle for the spray pipe I 16, the spray pipe II 17, and the spray pipe III 18 is sufficient to wet the finned tube clusters that they are responsible for cooling when the machine is off.

[0036] The area covered by spray pipe I16 extends from spray pipe I16 to the bottom of the finned tube cluster. The area covered by spray pipe II17 extends from spray pipe II17 to the bottom of the finned tube cluster. The area covered by spray pipe III18 extends from spray pipe III18 to spray pipe II17.

[0037] The spray pipe can be installed on the finned tube cluster to supply water by spraying; or it can be installed on the side of the finned tube cluster to spray water by pressurizing it. However, this method is prone to water drift under the action of the fan, and the water will be sucked through the gaps in the fins. It also cannot ensure that the finned tubes are evenly watered, and the water consumption is large, which is not conducive to water conservation.

[0038] The partitioned air-cooled structure includes a fan 4, which is disposed on the inner side of the finned tube condenser 6, and the fan 4 is electrically connected to the controller.

[0039] The coordination between the fan and each spray water pipe, and the working procedure of the controller, adopt a random dynamic reciprocating operation: when the air conditioner is turned on and enters the cooling mode, the air conditioner controller detects the water level in the insulation water tank 5 and replenishes water, while the outdoor unit operates in air cooling mode, and the controller begins execution. Figure 2 The operating procedure shown begins with the fan running. If the condenser outlet temperature reaches the predetermined value, air cooling continues. If the temperature exceeds the predetermined value, solenoid valve I13 opens, and spray water pipe I16 sprays. If the condenser outlet temperature reaches the predetermined value within the spraying time set by spray water pipe I16, it returns to the previous stage of air-cooled operation. The condenser then cools the finned tube clusters together with the evaporation of residual water after spraying by spray water pipe I16. If the temperature exceeds the predetermined value, solenoid valve II14 opens, and spray water pipe II17 sprays. The condenser then cools the finned tube clusters together with the evaporation of residual water after spraying by spray water pipe I16. If the condenser outlet temperature reaches the predetermined value within the spraying time set by spray water pipe II17, it returns to the previous stage of spray water pipe I16. The system sprays water from pipes II17 and III18, along with the evaporation of water remaining between them, to cool the finned tube clusters. If the temperature exceeds a predetermined level, pipes III18 and I16 will spray simultaneously. If the condenser outlet temperature reaches a predetermined value within the set spraying time of pipe I16, the system returns to the previous level, spraying from pipe II17. This process, combined with the evaporation of water remaining between pipes III18 and I16, further cools the finned tube clusters. If the temperature exceeds the predetermined level, it indicates that the condenser has reached its operating environmental limits, and the system automatically shuts down. Throughout the entire process, the fan remains running, providing air cooling to non-sprayed areas and accelerating water evaporation in the sprayed areas to improve heat dissipation efficiency. Each time a spray pipe completes its spraying, the corresponding area experiences evaporative cooling.

[0040] The water source primarily utilizes condensate from the indoor evaporator, which is collected in the insulated water tank 5 via the evaporator's condensate pipe 20 connected to the water supply pipe 19. Water replenishment is automatic; when the water level is too low, the electronic water level gauge 7 sends a command to the controller to open the solenoid valve IV. After replenishment is complete, the solenoid valve IV closes. Both the water supply pipe 3 and the condensate pipe 20 have filters installed indoors for easy cleaning.

[0041] The cleaning process involves removing fluffy materials such as willow catkins and poplar fluff from the outside of the protective netting, as well as dust and scale from the finned tube clusters. The cleaning time can be set during controller programming. After the refrigeration unit stops, the controller controls fan 4 to reverse for one minute to blow off the fluffy materials from the protective netting. After fan 4 stops, the controller controls the spray pipe III18 at the top of the finned tube clusters to spray water, rinsing the clusters. Wastewater is discharged through wastewater pipe 10 at the bottom of the casing. This process can also be repeated during winter water draining. Before rinsing, descaling agent should be added to the insulated water tank 5 through the water supply pipe for better cleaning results; alternatively, a nano-coating can be applied to the surface of the finned tube clusters, which also has a positive effect on preventing scale and willow catkin deposition.

[0042] Research on existing air conditioners has revealed that during the heat dissipation process of air-cooled condensers, the high-temperature region at the top of the condenser has a large temperature difference with the ambient temperature, resulting in excellent cooling. The middle region also has a certain temperature difference and its cooling effect is acceptable. However, the lower region of the condenser, being very close to the ambient temperature, has a less significant cooling effect. This makes it difficult to increase the condenser's outlet temperature, i.e., the refrigerant's subcooling; and the refrigerant's subcooling increases with rising ambient temperature and decreases with falling ambient temperature. To solve this problem, this invention divides the condenser into three temperature zones: high, medium, and low. A spray water pipe is installed above each zone, simultaneously implementing zoned air cooling and zoned water cooling. During operation, the three spray water pipes work in conjunction with the air cooling to cool the condenser in different time zones and areas. Zoned air cooling prevents water waste in the high-temperature zone where air cooling is sufficient for heat dissipation in non-extreme weather conditions; it also prevents excessive refrigerant accumulation in the condenser due to rapid heat dissipation in the high-temperature zone, which could lead to increased pressure. Zoned water cooling compensates for the poor heat dissipation of the low-temperature zone by single air cooling in existing condensers. This invention addresses the problem that the subcooling degree of existing air conditioners is always a variable affected by ambient temperature. The subcooling degree of the refrigeration device using this invention will be a fixed value that is always kept at the optimal maximum value.

[0043] A highly efficient and energy-saving refrigeration method combining zoned cooling and multiple cooling methods, which utilizes the refrigeration device described above for refrigeration, includes the following process: When the refrigeration unit is turned on, it enters the refrigeration mode. First, it enters the air-cooling mode, and the fan 4 runs. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 has reached the predetermined value, the air-cooling mode continues to be executed. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 is greater than a predetermined value, a zoned water cooling mode is adopted. The lowest primary cooling zone is the first to activate the water cooling mode. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 reaches the predetermined value within the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, it returns to the previous zoned air cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the primary cooling zone. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 is higher than the predetermined temperature within the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, the secondary cooling zone activates the zoned water cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the previous stage. If the spray duration set by the spray pipes in the secondary cooling zone is higher than the predetermined temperature, the secondary cooling zone activates the zoned water cooling mode, and the finned tube cluster is cooled by the evaporation of residual water after spraying in the previous stage. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 reaches a predetermined value within the spray duration, it returns to the primary cooling zone for zoned water cooling mode. This, combined with the evaporation of water remaining between the spray pipes after the secondary cooling zone spray, further cools the finned tube cluster. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 is higher than the predetermined temperature, both the primary and tertiary cooling zones simultaneously activate zoned water cooling mode. If the temperature sensor 12 detects that the outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser 6 reaches a predetermined value within the set spray duration of the spray pipes in the primary cooling zone, it returns to the secondary cooling zone for spraying. This, combined with the evaporation of water remaining after the primary and tertiary cooling zones spray, further cools the finned tube cluster. If the temperature exceeds the predetermined value, it indicates that the condenser has reached the limit of its operating environment, and the system automatically shuts down.

[0044] The present invention divides the finned tube cluster of a forced air-cooled finned condenser into several cooling zones. Under the control of a temperature sensor and a controller, each cooling zone is simultaneously cooled using air cooling, water cooling, and evaporative cooling modes, thereby achieving the purpose of efficient heat dissipation.

[0045] There are many combinations of air-cooled, water-cooled, and evaporative cooling modes, such as air-cooled + water-cooled, air-cooled + evaporative cooling, and water-cooled + evaporative cooling. However, only the combination of air-cooled + water-cooled + evaporative cooling performs best in terms of water saving and heat dissipation efficiency.

[0046] The finned tube condenser 6 of this invention can be divided into multiple cooling zones, and each cooling zone can have multiple spray water pipes. Regardless of how many cooling zones the finned tube condenser is divided into, the principle is the same: it starts with air cooling and then operates step by step from bottom to top as the ambient temperature changes.

[0047] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Any modifications, improvements, or substitutions that can be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the essential content of this invention fall within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods, characterized in that, The device includes a housing (1) and a water pipe (19). The housing (1) is equipped with a compressor (8) and a finned tube condenser (6). The top of the housing (1) is equipped with an insulated water tank (5). The outlet of the finned tube condenser (6) is equipped with a temperature sensor (12). The finned tube condenser (6) includes a high temperature zone at its upper part, a medium temperature zone at its middle part, and a low temperature zone at its lower part. The interior of the casing (1) is provided with several cooling zones; At least one cooling subsystem is provided in the cooling area, and the cooling subsystem includes a water-cooled structure, an air-cooled structure, and an evaporative cooling structure. The water-cooling structure is a partitioned water-cooling structure, which includes a primary water-cooling structure, a secondary water-cooling structure, and a tertiary water-cooling structure. The primary water-cooling structure includes a spray water pipe I (16), which is connected to the water supply pipe (19). A solenoid valve I (13) is installed on the spray water pipe I (16), and the spray water pipe I (16) is located above the low-temperature zone of the finned tube condenser (6). The secondary water cooling structure includes a spray water pipe II (17), which is connected to the water supply pipe (19). A solenoid valve II (14) is installed on the spray water pipe II (17), and the spray water pipe II (17) is located above the medium temperature zone of the finned tube condenser (6). The three-stage water cooling structure includes a spray water pipe III (18), which is connected to the water supply pipe (19). A solenoid valve III (15) is installed on the spray water pipe III (18), and the spray water pipe III (18) is located above the high-temperature zone of the finned tube condenser (6). The spray water pipes in each level of the water-cooled structure are arranged step by step from bottom to top; the spray water pipe I (16) is set to spray water on the bottom of the finned tube cluster from the spray water pipe I (16) to the finned tube condenser (6); the spray water pipe II (17) is set to spray water on the bottom of the finned tube cluster from the spray water pipe II (17) to the finned tube condenser (6); and the spray water pipe III (18) is set to spray water on the finned tube cluster between the spray water pipe III (18) and the spray water pipe II (17). The housing (1) is also equipped with a controller, which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor (12), solenoid valve I (13), solenoid valve II (14) and solenoid valve III (15). The controller is used to dynamically switch the operation of the water-cooled structure, air-cooled structure and evaporative cooling structure in the cooling area according to the real-time temperature data. The combination mode and operation process of the water-cooled structure, air-cooled structure and evaporative cooling structure are controlled by the controller under the guidance of the outlet temperature sensor in a random dynamic reciprocating operation mode.

2. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The duration of a single water spray from the spray pipe is sufficient to wet the finned tube clusters responsible for water spraying when the machine is off.

3. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The air-cooled structure includes a fan (4), which is located on the inner side of the finned tube condenser (6). The fan (4) is electrically connected to the controller. After the water spray area is selected under the control of the temperature sensor (12) and the controller, the remaining unselected area is cooled by air cooling to form a partitioned air cooling system.

4. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The evaporative cooling structure is that the spray water pipe selects an area and starts spraying water under the control of the temperature sensor (12) and the controller. After the water spraying is completed, the fan (4) blows air onto the finned tube cluster. The evaporation of the water remaining on the finned tube cluster after the water spraying is completed by each spray water pipe is used to cool the finned tube cluster, forming a zoned evaporative cooling.

5. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, Under the control of the temperature sensor (12) and the controller, each area is cooled by air cooling, water cooling and evaporative cooling respectively in a time-division and zone-division manner, forming a combination of zoned air cooling, water cooling and evaporative cooling.

6. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a condensate recovery and reuse system, which includes a condensate pipe (20) connected to the bottom of a water supply pipe (19), and the upper part of the water supply pipe (19) connected to the insulated water tank (5), to ensure that condensate is used preferentially when the spray pipe sprays water.

7. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller operates randomly and dynamically; when the controller is programmed, it takes the pre-set outlet temperature of the finned tube condenser (6) as the center and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (12) at the outlet as the guide, and controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve according to the temperature change detected by the temperature sensor (12) to control the spraying time of the spray pipe.

8. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a reverse air supply and water washing dust removal system. When the controller is programmed, the cleaning time is set. After the refrigeration unit stops, the controller controls the fan (4) to reverse for a certain period of time to blow off the flocculent material on the protective net. After the fan (4) stops, the controller controls the spray water pipe to spray water to wash the finned tube cluster of the finned tube condenser (6). The wastewater generated is discharged through the wastewater pipe (10) at the bottom of the casing (1).

9. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the temperature sensor (12) is wrapped with an insulation layer, and the outside of the insulated water tank (5) is equipped with an insulation layer (2).

10. The high-efficiency and energy-saving refrigeration device combining zoned cooling with multiple cooling methods according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top surface of the insulated water tank (5) is connected to a water supply pipe (3) and an exhaust port (9). A solenoid valve IV is installed on the water supply pipe (3). An electronic water level gauge (7) is installed inside the insulated water tank (5).

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