Drying equipment control methods and drying equipment

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, disclosing a control method and drying equipment for a drying device. The drying equipment includes a heat pump system, which comprises an evaporator, a condenser, and a refrigerant reversing structure. The refrigerant reversing structure is used to switch the refrigerant flow direction between the evaporator and the condenser. The drying equipment has a first program and / or a second program. The control method for the drying equipment includes the following steps: during the execution of the first program, controlling the refrigerant reversing structure to switch the refrigerant flow direction, thereby lowering the surface temperature of the condenser to form condensate; during the execution of the second program, controlling the refrigerant reversing structure to switch the refrigerant flow direction, thereby raising the surface temperature of the evaporator. By executing the first and second programs, the condenser can be cleaned of lint and the evaporator can be sterilized, respectively, ensuring the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, guaranteeing long-term high-efficiency operation, and reducing equipment investment costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a drying equipment control method and a drying equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Dryers, washer-dryer combos, garment care machines, and other appliances with drying functions can dry clothes through a drying program, eliminating the need for air drying, shortening drying time, and providing convenience for users.

[0003] The heat pump system of a heat pump dryer includes an evaporator and a condenser. After a period of use, lint and other impurities accumulate on the condenser, affecting its heat exchange efficiency, leading to decreased drying efficiency, increased drying time, and increased energy consumption. Simultaneously, the evaporator is prone to mold growth due to prolonged dampness, further impacting its heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, mold can easily enter the drum with the drying airflow, contaminating clothes and negatively affecting the user experience.

[0004] In existing technologies, to clean lint from the condenser, a separate spray system is typically installed to wash away the lint; to remove mold from the evaporator, a separate heating device is usually installed to heat and dry the evaporator, thus achieving the mold removal effect. These solutions require additional spray and heating devices, increasing equipment investment costs.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a drying equipment control method and a drying equipment in order to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Based on the above problems, the purpose of this invention is to provide a drying equipment control method and drying equipment, which can ensure the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, reduce equipment investment costs, and improve the user experience.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] On the one hand, a method for controlling a drying equipment is provided. The drying equipment includes a heat pump system, which includes an evaporator, a condenser, and a refrigerant reversing structure. The refrigerant reversing structure is used to switch the refrigerant flow direction between the evaporator and the condenser. The drying equipment has a first procedure for removing lint from the condenser and / or a second procedure for sterilizing the evaporator.

[0009] The drying equipment control method includes the following steps:

[0010] During the execution of the first program, the refrigerant reversing structure is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the surface temperature of the condenser to form condensate.

[0011] During the execution of the second program, the refrigerant reversing structure is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby increasing the surface temperature of the evaporator.

[0012] As an optional embodiment of the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the drying equipment includes a drying drum and a drying air duct communicating with the inner cavity of the drying drum, wherein the evaporator and the condenser are located inside the drying air duct;

[0013] The first procedure includes the following steps:

[0014] Obtain the temperature downstream of the condenser in the drying duct and / or the humidity at the air outlet of the clothes dryer;

[0015] Determine whether the temperature meets the preset temperature condition and / or whether the humidity meets the preset humidity condition;

[0016] If so, then control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure.

[0017] As an optional solution to the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the preset temperature condition includes: the temperature downstream of the condenser is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value;

[0018] And / or, the preset humidity condition includes: the humidity at the air outlet of the clothes dryer is greater than or equal to the preset humidity value.

[0019] As an optional embodiment of the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the second procedure includes the following steps:

[0020] Control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure to switch the refrigerant flow direction;

[0021] Obtain the surface temperature of the evaporator;

[0022] After the surface temperature of the evaporator reaches the set temperature value, the heat pump system is controlled to continue running for a set time.

[0023] As an optional solution to the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the range of the set temperature value is 50℃~70℃;

[0024] And / or, the set duration ranges from 15 minutes to 40 minutes.

[0025] As an optional embodiment of the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the drying equipment control method further includes the following steps:

[0026] Obtain the airflow information downstream of the condenser and / or the surface temperature information of the condenser;

[0027] Determine whether the airflow information and / or the surface temperature information of the condenser meet the first preset condition;

[0028] If not, then execute the first procedure.

[0029] As an optional solution to the drying equipment control method of the present invention, when obtaining the air volume information downstream of the condenser, the air volume information includes air pressure and / or air speed, and the first preset condition includes: the air pressure is less than a set air pressure threshold and / or the air speed is less than a set air speed threshold.

[0030] When obtaining the surface temperature information of the condenser, the first preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the condenser is greater than a first set temperature threshold.

[0031] As an optional embodiment of the drying equipment control method of the present invention, the drying equipment control method further includes the following steps:

[0032] Obtain the surface temperature information of the evaporator;

[0033] Determine whether the surface temperature information of the evaporator meets the second preset condition;

[0034] If not, then proceed with the second procedure;

[0035] or,

[0036] Obtain the humidity information of the environment in which the drying equipment is located;

[0037] Determine whether the ambient humidity of the drying equipment is greater than a set humidity threshold;

[0038] If so, then execute the second procedure.

[0039] As an optional solution to the drying equipment control method of the present invention, when obtaining the surface temperature information of the evaporator, the second preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the evaporator is greater than a second set temperature threshold.

[0040] On the other hand, a drying device is provided, which is controlled by the drying device control method described above, the drying device comprising:

[0041] Clothes dryer;

[0042] The drying air duct is connected to the inner cavity of the clothes drying drum;

[0043] A heat pump system includes an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and a refrigerant reversing structure. The evaporator and the condenser are located within the drying air duct. The refrigerant reversing structure has a first interface, a second interface, a third interface, and a fourth interface. The first interface is connected to the output end of the compressor, the second interface is connected to the inlet of the condenser, the third interface is connected to the outlet of the evaporator, the fourth interface is connected to the input end of the compressor, and the outlet of the condenser is connected to the inlet of the evaporator.

[0044] The control module is capable of controlling the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure according to the first program or the second program.

[0045] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0046] The drying equipment control method and drying equipment provided by this invention, during the drying process, humid air in the drying drum enters the drying duct. The low-temperature refrigerant in the evaporator absorbs the heat from the humid air in the drying duct, converting it into dry, cold air. The high-temperature refrigerant in the condenser releases heat, converting the dry, cold air into dry, hot air. This dry, hot air is then introduced into the drying drum to contact the wet clothes and remove moisture, thus drying the clothes. During the drying process, if the condenser's heat exchange efficiency decreases due to lint accumulation, a first procedure can be executed. This involves switching the refrigerant flow between the evaporator and condenser using a refrigerant switching structure, lowering the condenser's surface temperature. Because a significant amount of moisture has accumulated in the drying drum, condensate forms quickly on the condenser surface as the surface temperature decreases. As the condensate flows, lint is carried away from the condenser surface, automatically cleaning the lint and preventing it from affecting heat exchange efficiency, thus ensuring the drying efficiency of the equipment.

[0047] When the drying equipment executes the second program, the refrigerant flow between the evaporator and condenser is switched via a refrigerant switching structure, raising the surface temperature of the evaporator (i.e., by supplying high-temperature refrigerant to the evaporator through the compressor). This high temperature dries the evaporator surface, preventing mold and bacterial growth, thus achieving sterilization. Furthermore, the increased evaporator temperature inhibits mold corrosion of the evaporator fins, extending component lifespan and preventing mold buildup from affecting heat exchange efficiency, further ensuring the drying efficiency of the equipment. Simultaneously, the high temperature evaporates residual condensate on the evaporator surface, reducing mold growth and preventing mold from contaminating clothes with the drying airflow, ensuring optimal drying results.

[0048] This drying equipment control method, by executing the first and second programs, can respectively achieve the purpose of cleaning lint from the condenser and sterilizing the evaporator, without the need for additional spray and heating devices. It can ensure the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, ensure long-term high-efficiency operation of the equipment, reduce the number of parts, reduce equipment investment costs, and help to reduce the size of the equipment and improve the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0049] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the content of the embodiments of the present invention and these drawings without creative effort.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the drying equipment provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 2 This is a first flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 3 This is a second flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the drying equipment control method provided in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0057] In the picture:

[0058] 1. Clothes dryer; 2. Heat pump system;

[0059] 21. Evaporator; 22. Condenser; 23. Refrigerant reversing mechanism; 24. Compressor. Detailed Implementation

[0060] To make the technical problems solved by the present invention, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail 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.

[0061] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The terms "first position" and "second position" refer to two different positions.

[0062] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections or detachable connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0063] Example 1

[0064] This embodiment provides a drying equipment control method that can improve drying efficiency and user experience. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the drying equipment includes a heat pump system 2, which includes an evaporator 21, a condenser 22, and a refrigerant reversing structure 23. The refrigerant reversing structure 23 is used to switch the refrigerant flow direction between the evaporator 21 and the condenser 22. The drying equipment has a first procedure for removing lint from the condenser 22 and / or a second procedure for sterilizing the evaporator 21.

[0065] The control method for the drying equipment includes the following steps:

[0066] During the execution of the first procedure, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the surface temperature of the condenser 22 and forming condensate.

[0067] During the execution of the second procedure, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby increasing the surface temperature of the evaporator 21.

[0068] The drying equipment control method provided in this embodiment, when executing the drying program, the humid air in the drying drum 1 enters the drying air duct, the low-temperature refrigerant in the evaporator 21 absorbs the heat of the humid air in the drying air duct and converts the humid air into dry cold air, the high-temperature refrigerant in the condenser 22 releases heat and converts the dry cold air into dry hot air, the dry hot air is introduced into the drying drum 1 and comes into contact with the wet clothes to remove moisture, thereby drying the clothes.

[0069] During the drying process, if the heat exchange efficiency of condenser 22 decreases due to lint accumulation, the first procedure can be executed. This involves switching the refrigerant flow between evaporator 21 and condenser 22 via a refrigerant switching structure, causing the surface temperature of condenser 22 to decrease. Since a significant amount of moisture has accumulated inside the drying drum 1, condensate will quickly form on the surface of condenser 22 as its surface temperature decreases. As the condensate flows, the lint will be carried away from the surface of condenser 22, thus automatically cleaning the lint from condenser 22 and preventing the accumulation of lint from affecting heat exchange efficiency, thereby ensuring the drying efficiency of the drying equipment.

[0070] When the drying equipment executes the second program, the refrigerant flow between the evaporator 21 and the condenser 22 is switched by the refrigerant switching structure, causing the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 to rise (i.e., high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the evaporator 21 through the compressor 24). This high temperature dries the surface of the evaporator 21, preventing mold and bacterial growth, thus achieving sterilization of the evaporator 21. Furthermore, the increased temperature of the evaporator 21 inhibits mold corrosion of the evaporator 21 fins, extending component lifespan and preventing mold from affecting heat exchange efficiency, further ensuring the drying efficiency of the equipment. Simultaneously, the high temperature evaporates residual condensate on the surface of the evaporator 21, reducing mold growth and preventing mold from contaminating clothes with the drying airflow, ensuring effective drying.

[0071] This drying equipment control method can achieve the purpose of cleaning lint from the condenser 22 and sterilizing the evaporator 21 by executing the first and second programs respectively, without the need for additional spraying and heating devices. It can ensure the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, maintain the high energy efficiency ratio of the heat pump system 2, ensure the long-term high-efficiency operation of the equipment, reduce the number of parts, reduce equipment investment costs, and help to reduce the size of the equipment and improve the user experience.

[0072] In this embodiment, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 has a first interface, a second interface, a third interface, and a fourth interface. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the first interface a is connected to the output end of the compressor 24, the second interface b is connected to the inlet of the condenser 22, the third interface c is connected to the outlet of the evaporator 21, the fourth interface d is connected to the input end of the compressor 24, and the outlet of the condenser 22 is connected to the inlet of the evaporator 21.

[0073] For example, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 includes a four-way reversing valve. The first port, the second port, the third port and the fourth port are the four ports of the four-way reversing valve. The flow direction of the refrigerant is switched by controlling the four-way reversing valve to turn on / off.

[0074] Optionally, the drying equipment includes a drying drum 1 and a drying duct communicating with the inner cavity of the drying drum 1. An evaporator 21 and a condenser 22 are located inside the drying duct. When the drying equipment executes the drying program, the humid air in the drying drum 1 enters the drying duct and flows sequentially through the evaporator 21 and the condenser 22. The evaporator 21 converts the humid air into dry cold air, and the condenser 22 converts the dry cold air into dry hot air. The dry hot air enters the drying drum 1 under the action of a fan, and the cycle continues to dry the clothes.

[0075] Optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first procedure includes the following steps:

[0076] H1. Obtain the temperature downstream of the condenser 22 in the drying duct and / or the humidity at the air outlet of the dryer drum 1.

[0077] H2. Determine whether the temperature meets the preset temperature conditions and / or whether the humidity meets the preset humidity conditions.

[0078] If so, then control the refrigerant reversing structure 23 to operate.

[0079] When the temperature downstream of condenser 22 meets the preset temperature condition and / or the humidity at the air outlet of dryer drum 1 meets the preset humidity regulation, it indicates that enough moisture has accumulated inside dryer drum 1. At this time, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is activated to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant between evaporator 21 and condenser 22. This ensures that when the surface temperature of condenser 22 decreases, there is sufficient temperature difference and humidity to promote faster and more condensation on the surface of condenser 22, thereby effectively using the condensate to wash away the lint on condenser 22 and ensure the lint cleaning effect. The condensate on condenser 22 can be diverted to the drainage system of the drying equipment to discharge the condensate and the washed-off lint.

[0080] Furthermore, once the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is activated, timing begins. After the designed time (e.g., 5 min to 10 min) is reached, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is controlled to switch back to the original refrigerant flow direction and continue the drying process until drying is completed.

[0081] Optionally, the preset temperature condition includes: the temperature downstream of the condenser 22 is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value. When the temperature downstream of the condenser 22 reaches the preset temperature value, it indicates that the moisture in the dryer drum 1 has reached the rapid evaporation stage. At this time, controlling the refrigerant reversing structure 23 to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant is beneficial to the rapid formation of condensate on the surface of the condenser 22.

[0082] The preset temperature value ranges from 40℃ to 55℃. For example, the preset temperature value could be 50℃. In other embodiments, the preset temperature value could also be 40℃, 42℃, 45℃, 47℃, 48℃, 51℃, 53℃, 54℃, 55℃, etc., but is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0083] Optionally, the preset humidity conditions include: the humidity at the air outlet of the dryer 1 is greater than or equal to the preset humidity value. When the humidity at the outlet of the dryer 1 reaches the preset humidity value, it indicates that the humidity inside the dryer 1 is high enough and the moisture has reached the rapid evaporation stage. At this time, controlling the refrigerant reversing structure 23 to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant is beneficial to the rapid formation of condensate on the surface of the condenser 22.

[0084] The preset humidity value ranges from 25% to 50%. For example, a preset humidity value of 30% means that when the humidity at the air outlet of the clothes dryer 1 is greater than or equal to 30%, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 switches the direction of refrigerant flow. In other embodiments, the preset humidity value may also be 25%, 28%, 32%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, etc., but is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0085] In this embodiment, a temperature detection element is installed downstream of the condenser 22 within the drying duct. The temperature downstream of the condenser 22 is obtained through the temperature detection element, and the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is then controlled to switch the refrigerant flow direction based on the actual detected temperature value. For example, the temperature detection element is a temperature sensor.

[0086] Furthermore, a humidity detection element is installed at the air outlet of the dryer drum 1 to obtain the humidity at the air outlet of the dryer, and then the refrigerant reversing structure 23 is controlled to switch the direction of refrigerant flow based on the actual detected humidity value. In some other embodiments, a humidity detection element can also be installed at the air inlet of the drying duct. Exemplarily, the humidity detection element is a humidity sensor.

[0087] In this embodiment, the following steps are included before executing the first procedure:

[0088] Determine whether the load weight inside dryer drum 1 is greater than the set weight value;

[0089] If so, then execute the first procedure;

[0090] If not, the first procedure will not be executed.

[0091] That is, sufficient moisture can only be generated when there is a sufficient amount of wet clothes in the drying drum 1. At this time, the execution of the first program can ensure effective cleaning of the lint on the condenser 22, avoid the invalid operation of the first program, and prevent increased energy consumption of the drying equipment.

[0092] For example, the weight value can be set to 2kg, 2.2kg, 2.4kg, 2.5kg, etc. The weight value can be adapted to the model of the drying equipment and is not limited to the values ​​listed above.

[0093] Optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second procedure includes the following steps:

[0094] W1. Control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure 23 to switch the refrigerant flow direction;

[0095] W2. Obtain the surface temperature of evaporator 21;

[0096] W3. After the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 reaches the set temperature value, control the heat pump system 2 to continue running for the set time.

[0097] When the refrigerant flow direction between the evaporator 21 and the condenser 22 is switched by the refrigerant reversing structure 23, the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 gradually increases. After the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 reaches the set temperature value, the heat pump system 2 is controlled to continue to maintain the current operating state for the set time. This allows the surface of the evaporator 21 to maintain the set temperature value, thereby using high temperature to sterilize and reserving enough time for sterilization, ensuring the sterilization effect, reducing mold growth, and avoiding the generation of odors.

[0098] Optionally, the set temperature value can be set between 50°C and 70°C. For example, a set temperature of 65°C ensures that the surface of the evaporator 21 has a sufficiently high temperature to kill residual bacteria, mites, and other microorganisms, significantly improving the hygiene of clothing. In other embodiments, the set temperature value can be adaptively adjusted according to actual needs, such as 55°C, 60°C, 63°C, 68°C, 70°C, etc., but is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above, as long as the sterilization requirements are met.

[0099] Optionally, the set duration can range from 15 minutes to 40 minutes to ensure that the high temperature is maintained for a sufficient period of time to improve the sterilization effect. For example, the set duration is 30 minutes. In other embodiments, the set duration can also be 20 minutes, 25 minutes, 35 minutes, 40 minutes, etc., and can be adapted to the actual situation, and is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0100] In this embodiment, the second program can run when the drying equipment is idle, minimizing disruption to the normal execution of the drying process. For example, the second program can be executed after the drying process has finished. Alternatively, the second program can be executed periodically, such as once every 10 cumulative executions of the drying process, to sterilize the evaporator 21. Alternatively, the user can manually select the second program on the control panel of the drying equipment and execute it according to their needs.

[0101] Example 2

[0102] This embodiment provides a control method for a drying device, which is a further improvement on the first embodiment:

[0103] like Figure 4 As shown, the control method for the drying equipment also includes the following steps:

[0104] S1. Obtain the airflow information downstream of condenser 22;

[0105] S2. Determine whether the air volume information meets the first preset condition;

[0106] If not, then proceed with the first procedure.

[0107] When the airflow information downstream of condenser 22 does not meet the first preset condition, it indicates that the drying airflow is not smooth and condenser 22 may be blocked. The first procedure is executed to use condensate water to flush away impurities such as lint on the surface of condenser 22, so as to ensure the heat exchange efficiency of condenser 22, thereby improving the drying efficiency of the drying equipment and avoiding the problem of increased drying time or insufficient drying of clothes.

[0108] Optionally, when acquiring airflow information downstream of the condenser 22, the airflow information may include air pressure and / or air velocity. The need to clean lint from the condenser 22 is determined by detecting the air pressure or air velocity value downstream of the condenser 22. Specifically, when a decrease in air pressure or air velocity is detected, it indicates that lint accumulation on the condenser 22 is obstructing airflow, and lint cleaning of the condenser 22 is necessary.

[0109] In this embodiment, when detecting the wind pressure value, the first preset condition can be that the wind pressure is less than a set wind pressure threshold. The wind pressure value can be detected by a wind pressure sensor, and the set wind pressure threshold can be obtained experimentally. The wind pressure value downstream of the condenser 22 is measured when there are no or very few wire chips on the surface of the condenser 22. The set wind pressure threshold is equal to or slightly greater than the measured value.

[0110] When detecting wind speed, the first preset condition can be that the wind speed is less than a set wind speed threshold. The wind speed can be detected by a wind speed sensor, and the set wind speed threshold can be obtained experimentally. The wind speed downstream of the condenser 22 is measured when there are no or very few wires on the surface of the condenser 22. The set wind speed threshold is equal to or slightly greater than the measured value.

[0111] Example 3

[0112] This embodiment provides a control method for a drying device, which differs from Embodiment 2 in that:

[0113] like Figure 5 As shown, the control method for the drying equipment also includes the following steps:

[0114] S1. Obtain the surface temperature information of condenser 22;

[0115] S2. Determine whether the surface temperature information of the condenser 22 meets the first preset condition;

[0116] If not, then proceed with the first procedure.

[0117] When the surface temperature of condenser 22 does not meet the first preset condition, condenser 22 may be clogged with lint. The first procedure is then executed to flush away lint and other impurities from the surface of condenser 22 with condensate water, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of condenser 22 and thus improving the drying efficiency of the drying equipment. This avoids problems such as increased drying time or insufficient drying of clothes. A temperature sensor can be installed on the surface of condenser 22 to obtain the surface temperature value.

[0118] Optionally, when acquiring the surface temperature information of the condenser 22, the first preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the condenser 22 is greater than a first set temperature threshold. When the surface temperature of the condenser 22 is detected to be greater than the first set temperature threshold, it indicates that the airflow is obstructed by the accumulation of wire debris on the condenser 22, and the condenser 22 needs to be cleaned of the wire debris.

[0119] The first set temperature threshold can be 70℃~80℃, such as 70℃, 72℃, 75℃, 78℃, 80℃, etc., but is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0120] Of course, in some other embodiments, the air volume information downstream of the condenser 22 and the surface temperature information of the condenser 22 can be obtained simultaneously. When the air volume information and the surface temperature information of the condenser 22 both meet the corresponding first preset conditions, the first program is executed.

[0121] In other embodiments, after obtaining the surface temperature information of the condenser 22, the exhaust temperature of the compressor 24 can also be obtained. Then, the temperature difference between the surface temperature of the condenser 22 and the exhaust temperature of the compressor 24 is calculated. It is then determined whether the temperature difference is less than a set temperature difference value. If so, the first procedure is executed. That is, when the temperature difference value is small, it indicates that the condenser 22 needs to be cleaned of lint.

[0122] For example, the temperature difference is set to 5°C. In other embodiments, the temperature difference can also be 4.5°C, 4°C, 3.5°C, etc., and is not limited to the values ​​listed above.

[0123] Example 4

[0124] This embodiment provides a control method for a drying device, which is a further improvement on the first embodiment:

[0125] like Figure 6 As shown, the control method for the drying equipment also includes the following steps:

[0126] S3. Obtain the surface temperature information of evaporator 21;

[0127] S4. Determine whether the surface temperature information of the evaporator 21 meets the second preset condition;

[0128] If not, proceed to the second procedure.

[0129] When the surface temperature of evaporator 21 does not meet the second preset condition, it indicates that mold or frost may be present on the surface of evaporator 21. In this case, a second procedure is executed to evaporate the moisture on the surface of evaporator 21 using high temperature and to sterilize it, eliminating mold or frost, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of evaporator 21, improving the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, and avoiding problems such as increased drying time or insufficient drying of clothes. A temperature sensor can be installed on the surface of evaporator 21 to obtain the surface temperature value.

[0130] Optionally, the second preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 is greater than a second set temperature threshold. When the surface temperature of the evaporator 21 is detected to be greater than the second set temperature threshold, it indicates that the deposits on the surface of the evaporator 21 are affecting heat exchange, and the evaporator 21 needs to be sterilized.

[0131] The second set temperature threshold can be 35℃ to 50℃. Further, the second set temperature threshold can be 40℃ to 50℃, such as 40℃, 42℃, 45℃, 48℃, 50℃, etc., but is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0132] Example 5

[0133] This embodiment provides a control method for a drying device, which is a further improvement on the first embodiment:

[0134] like Figure 7 As shown, the control method for the drying equipment also includes the following steps:

[0135] S5. Obtain humidity information of the environment where the drying equipment is located;

[0136] S6. Determine whether the ambient humidity of the drying equipment is greater than the set humidity threshold.

[0137] If so, then proceed with the second procedure.

[0138] When the ambient humidity of the drying equipment exceeds the set humidity threshold, it indicates high humidity (e.g., during the rainy season). Mold may be present on the surface of the evaporator 21. A second procedure is then executed to evaporate the moisture from the surface of the evaporator 21 using high temperature and to sterilize it, eliminating mold and ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 21, thus improving the drying efficiency of the drying equipment. A humidity sensor can be installed inside the drying equipment housing, and the ambient humidity value of the drying equipment can be obtained through a temperature sensor.

[0139] For example, the humidity threshold can be set to 70% to 80%. For instance, the humidity threshold can be set to 70%, 73%, 75%, 78%, 80%, etc., and is not limited to the values ​​and ranges listed above.

[0140] Example 6

[0141] This embodiment provides a drying device, which is controlled using the drying device control method described in any of the above embodiments, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the drying equipment includes a drying drum 1, a drying duct, a heat pump system 2, and a control module. The drying drum 1 is used to hold clothes to be dried, and the drying duct is connected to the inner cavity of the drying drum 1. The heat pump system 2 includes an evaporator 21, a condenser 22, a compressor 24, and a refrigerant reversing structure 23. The evaporator 21 and condenser 22 are located inside the drying duct. The refrigerant reversing structure 23 has a first interface a, a second interface b, a third interface c, and a fourth interface d. The first interface a is connected to the output end of the compressor 24, the second interface b is connected to the inlet of the condenser 22, the third interface c is connected to the outlet of the evaporator 21, the fourth interface d is connected to the input end of the compressor 24, and the outlet of the condenser 22 is connected to the inlet of the evaporator 21. The control module can control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure 23 according to the drying program, the first program, or the second program to switch the direction of refrigerant flow.

[0142] The drying equipment can be a clothes dryer, a garment care machine, etc., and the control module is the control circuit board of the drying equipment, which has various drying programs, as well as a first program and a second program preset on it.

[0143] For example, the refrigerant reversing structure 23 includes a four-way reversing valve. The first port, the second port, the third port and the fourth port are the four ports of the four-way reversing valve. By controlling the on / off switching mode of the four-way reversing valve, the connection direction between the compressor 24's suction and discharge and the evaporator 21 and the condenser 22 is changed, thereby changing the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0144] The drying equipment provided in this embodiment can achieve the purpose of cleaning lint from the condenser 22 and sterilizing the evaporator 21 by executing the first and second programs respectively. There is no need to add an additional spray device and heating device. This can ensure the drying efficiency of the drying equipment, ensure the long-term high-efficiency operation of the equipment, reduce the number of parts, reduce the equipment investment cost, and also reduce the size of the equipment and improve the user experience.

[0145] Note that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, and various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, although the present invention has been described in detail through the above embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and may include many other equivalent embodiments without departing from the concept of the present invention, the scope of which is determined by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method for drying equipment, characterized in that, The drying equipment includes a heat pump system (2), which includes an evaporator (21), a condenser (22), and a refrigerant reversing structure (23). The refrigerant reversing structure (23) is used to switch the refrigerant flow direction between the evaporator (21) and the condenser (22). The drying equipment has a first procedure for removing lint from the condenser (22) and / or a second procedure for sterilizing the evaporator (21). The drying equipment control method includes the following steps: During the execution of the first program, the refrigerant reversing structure (23) is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the surface temperature of the condenser (22) to form condensate. During the execution of the second procedure, the refrigerant reversing structure (23) is controlled to switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby increasing the surface temperature of the evaporator (21).

2. The drying equipment control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drying equipment includes a drying drum (1) and a drying duct communicating with the inner cavity of the drying drum (1), wherein the evaporator (21) and the condenser (22) are located inside the drying duct; The first procedure includes the following steps: Obtain the temperature downstream of the condenser (22) in the drying duct and / or the humidity at the air outlet of the clothes dryer (1); Determine whether the temperature meets the preset temperature condition and / or whether the humidity meets the preset humidity condition; If so, then control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure (23).

3. The drying equipment control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The preset temperature condition includes: the temperature downstream of the condenser (22) is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value; And / or, the preset humidity condition includes: the humidity at the air outlet of the clothes dryer (1) is greater than or equal to the preset humidity value.

4. The drying equipment control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second procedure includes the following steps: Control the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure (23) to switch the refrigerant flow direction; Obtain the surface temperature of the evaporator (21); After the surface temperature of the evaporator (21) reaches the set temperature value, the heat pump system (2) is controlled to continue running for a set time.

5. The drying equipment control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The set temperature value ranges from 50℃ to 70℃. And / or, the set duration ranges from 15 minutes to 40 minutes.

6. The drying equipment control method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The drying equipment control method further includes the following steps: Obtain the airflow information downstream of the condenser (22) and / or the surface temperature information of the condenser (22); Determine whether the air volume information and / or the surface temperature information of the condenser (22) meet the first preset condition; If not, then execute the first procedure.

7. The drying equipment control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, When obtaining the air volume information downstream of the condenser (22), the air volume information includes air pressure and / or air speed, and the first preset condition includes: the air pressure is less than a set air pressure threshold and / or the air speed is less than a set air speed threshold. When obtaining the surface temperature information of the condenser (22), the first preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the condenser (22) is greater than a first set temperature threshold.

8. The drying equipment control method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The drying equipment control method further includes the following steps: Obtain the surface temperature information of the evaporator (21); Determine whether the surface temperature information of the evaporator (21) meets the second preset condition; If not, then proceed with the second procedure; or, Obtain the humidity information of the environment in which the drying equipment is located; Determine whether the ambient humidity of the drying equipment is greater than a set humidity threshold; If so, then execute the second procedure.

9. The drying equipment control method according to claim 8, characterized in that, When obtaining the surface temperature information of the evaporator (21), the second preset condition includes: the surface temperature of the evaporator (21) is greater than the second set temperature threshold.

10. A drying device, characterized in that, The drying equipment is controlled by the drying equipment control method according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the drying equipment comprises: Clothes dryer (1); The drying air duct is connected to the inner cavity of the clothes drying drum (1); The heat pump system (2) includes an evaporator (21), a condenser (22), a compressor (24), and a refrigerant reversing structure (23). The evaporator (21) and the condenser (22) are located in the drying duct. The refrigerant reversing structure (23) has a first interface, a second interface, a third interface, and a fourth interface. The first interface is connected to the output end of the compressor (24), the second interface is connected to the inlet of the condenser (22), the third interface is connected to the outlet of the evaporator (21), the fourth interface is connected to the input end of the compressor (24), and the outlet of the condenser (22) is connected to the inlet of the evaporator (21). The control module is capable of controlling the operation of the refrigerant reversing structure (23) according to the first program or the second program.

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