Mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method, device and refrigeration system

Abstract

The present application mainly relates to the technical field of mobile air conditioners. The present application discloses a mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method, equipment and refrigerating system. The method comprises the following steps: in a target mobile air conditioner, a water delivery motor is controlled to deliver water in a water collecting tank to a condenser, and the state of a float ball switch in the water collecting tank is detected; when the float ball switch is detected to switch from a high water level state to a low water level state, a water pump is started to deliver water to the water collecting tank and a timer is started; according to the flow rate of the water pump and the timing value of the timer, the cumulative water supplement amount injected into the water collecting tank is determined; when the cumulative water supplement amount exceeds a preset water supplement volume threshold value, the current state of the float ball switch is determined, and if the current state is a low water level state, it is determined that the float ball switch has a stuck fault. The present application can actively identify the float ball stuck state, thereby effectively diagnosing the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of portable air conditioning technology, specifically to a method, device, and refrigeration system for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch. Background Technology

[0002] Portable air conditioners are widely used in homes, offices, and temporary locations due to their convenience and flexibility. These air conditioners typically have a built-in condensate collection system and use a water level switch to control the drain pump or alarm device to ensure the water level in the condensate pan remains within a safe range. Water level switches often employ a float-type mechanical structure, which works by moving a float up and down with the water level, triggering a reed switch or microswitch to switch the water level signal on or off. This method is simple in structure and low in cost, and has long been the mainstream solution for water level detection in portable air conditioners.

[0003] However, the water quality conditions in actual use environments are complex and variable. Dissolved calcium and magnesium ions in tap water easily precipitate and adhere to the float rod wall and guide sleeve surface when condensate is heated or left to stand for a long time. Simultaneously, dust in the air, microbial metabolic products, and the weakly acidic corrosion products of the condensate itself also contribute to the formation of sticky deposits. These deposits gradually accumulate, causing a continuous increase in the sliding resistance between the float and the guide components. When the resistance exceeds the driving force provided by the float's own weight or buoyancy, the float will fail to rise and fall normally in accordance with actual water level changes, resulting in a jamming malfunction.

[0004] Currently, the control systems of portable air conditioners typically rely solely on the on / off signals of a water level switch for logical judgment. When the float is stuck in the low position, even if the water level has risen to a dangerous height, the switch still outputs a low water level signal, and the controller will not start drainage, causing condensate to overflow and potentially damaging the floor or internal electrical components. When the float is stuck in the high position, even if the water level has dropped, the switch continues to output a high water level signal, causing the controller to run the drain pump for an extended period or frequently issue false alarms, resulting in increased energy consumption and a degraded user experience.

[0005] More importantly, most existing fault detection strategies target electrical short circuits or open circuits in the switch itself, such as detecting sudden changes in voltage or resistance in the signal line to determine switch damage. Existing methods cannot effectively identify situations where the float's mechanical movement malfunctions while the signal level remains unchanged. Because the signal output remains stable in the initial stage of jamming, the system will not report any fault codes, and users will not notice the abnormality until serious phenomena such as overflow or accidental drainage occur. This lag significantly increases the cost of troubleshooting and maintenance, especially in unattended or remotely monitored scenarios, where the risks are even more pronounced. In summary, existing technologies lack a means to actively identify float jamming, particularly failing to provide timely warnings in the early stages when water quality gradually deteriorates, leading to increased resistance. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a method, device, and refrigeration system for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch. It can actively identify the state of a stuck float, thereby effectively diagnosing faults in the portable air conditioner's water level switch.

[0007] This invention provides a method for diagnosing faults in the water level switch of a portable air conditioner, the method comprising: In the target portable air conditioner, the water pump motor is controlled to deliver water from the water collection tank to the condenser, and the status of the float switch in the water collection tank is detected. When the float switch is detected to switch from a high water level state to a low water level state, the water pump is started to transfer water to the water collection tank and the timer is started. The cumulative amount of water added to the collection tank is determined based on the flow rate of the water pump and the timer value. When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to have a jamming fault.

[0008] Optionally, the specific method for determining the cumulative replenishment volume of water injected into the water collection tank includes: Obtain the rated flow rate and operating time of the water pump, and calculate the product of the rated flow rate and the operating time to obtain the theoretical water intake. Obtain the efficiency coefficient of the water pump and multiply the efficiency coefficient by the theoretical inflow rate to obtain the corrected cumulative water replenishment.

[0009] Optionally, when the cumulative water replenishment exceeds a preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to have a jamming fault, including: If the cumulative water replenishment is greater than the product of the rated capacity of the water collection tank and the preset safety factor, and the float switch does not undergo the expected state change from the low water level state to the high water level state, then the float switch is determined to have a stuck fault.

[0010] Optionally, the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method further includes: Determine the maximum allowable water replenishment time corresponding to the water replenishment volume threshold; When the timing value reaches the maximum allowable water replenishment time, if the cumulative water replenishment amount does not exceed the water replenishment volume threshold, the level signal of the float switch is collected multiple times consecutively. If multiple collected level signals indicate a low water level, then the current state of the float switch is determined to be the low water level state.

[0011] Optionally, the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method further includes: When it is determined that the float switch is stuck, the water pump is controlled to stop running, a fault prompt signal is output and fault information is recorded. The fault information includes at least the fault occurrence time, the cumulative water replenishment volume and the status information of the float switch.

[0012] The present invention also provides an electronic device, the electronic device including a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, and the processor executing the computer program to implement the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0013] The present invention also provides a portable air conditioning refrigeration system, the system comprising: A water collection tank is installed on the chassis of the portable air conditioner, and the water collection tank is used to collect condensate. A water pumping motor, the fan blades of which are installed in the water collection tank, is used to pump water from the water collection tank to the condenser. A water pump is used to transfer water from the storage tank to the collection tank; A float switch is installed inside the water collection tank. The float switch is used to detect changes in the water level of the water collection tank and output a high water level status signal or a low water level status signal according to the water level change. The control module is electrically connected to the float switch, the water pump, and the water pump motor, respectively. The control module is used for: The water pump motor is controlled to transport water from the water collection tank to the condenser, and the status of the float switch is detected. When the float switch is detected to switch from a high water level state to a low water level state, the pump is controlled to transfer water to the collection tank and the pump's running time is recorded. Based on the flow rate and operating time of the water pump, determine the cumulative amount of water replenished into the water collection tank; When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to be stuck, and the water pump is controlled to stop running.

[0014] Optionally, the float switch includes a water level detection unit for detecting changes in the water level of the collection tank; The water level detection unit includes a first resistor, a second resistor, a first capacitor, and a water level switch; One end of the first resistor is used to connect to the power supply, and the other end of the first resistor is connected to one end of the second resistor; One end of the second resistor is connected to one end of the water level switch, and the other end of the second resistor is connected to the water level switch signal terminal of the control module and one end of the first capacitor, respectively. The other end of the first capacitor is grounded, and the other end of the water level switch is grounded.

[0015] Optionally, the water pump includes a water pump drive unit; The water pump drive unit includes a water pump connector, a diode, a switching transistor, a third resistor, and a fourth resistor; The first end of the water pump connector is used to connect to the power supply, and the second end of the water pump connector is connected to the drain of the switching transistor. The cathode of the diode is connected to the first end of the water pump connector, and the anode of the diode is connected to the drain of the switching transistor. The source of the switching transistor is grounded, and the gate of the switching transistor is connected to one end of the third resistor; The other end of the third resistor is connected to the water pump control terminal of the control module, one end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor, and the other end of the fourth resistor is grounded.

[0016] Optionally, the portable air conditioning refrigeration system further includes a display module for alarming and displaying fault codes when a fault is detected; The display module includes a driver chip, a display device, and an alarm LED; The clock terminal of the driver chip is connected to the clock signal terminal of the control module through a fifth resistor, and the data terminal of the driver chip is connected to the data signal terminal of the control module through a sixth resistor. The clock terminal and the data terminal of the driver chip are connected to the power supply through a seventh resistor and an eighth resistor, respectively. The clock terminal of the driver chip is grounded through a second capacitor, and the data terminal of the driver chip is grounded through a third capacitor. The display device has multiple display segment pins and multiple common pins. Each display segment pin is connected to the corresponding display segment driving terminal of the driving chip, and each common pin is connected to the corresponding common driving terminal of the driving chip. The anode of the alarm LED is connected to the first light driving terminal of the driver chip, and the cathode of the alarm LED is connected to the second light driving terminal of the driver chip.

[0017] The present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: This technical solution achieves proactive identification of float ball jamming through active water injection testing and quantitative comparison. After the float switch normally switches to the low water level, the solution actively starts the water pump to inject water into the collection tank while simultaneously timing the process. The cumulative water replenishment volume is accurately calculated using the known flow rate and timing value. When the replenishment volume exceeds the preset replenishment volume threshold, the water level in the collection tank should theoretically have risen to trigger the high water level state. If the float switch still outputs a low water level signal at this time, it can be determined that the float has not moved with the water level rise, indicating a jamming fault. The innovation of this technical solution lies in transforming passive waiting into active diagnosis. It does not rely on abnormal signals after a fault occurs, but actively creates test conditions during the normal operation intervals of the air conditioner, establishing a clear reference system for water level changes through quantitative water injection. The design of the replenishment volume threshold eliminates interference from normal water level fluctuations, ensuring the reliability of the diagnostic results. The entire diagnostic process requires no additional hardware and can be completed using only existing water pumps, water motors, and float switch signals. It is both cost-effective and practical, effectively solving the technical problem that increased resistance to float movement caused by water quality deterioration cannot be detected in time. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further understand the technical solutions of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of the present invention to explain the technical solutions of the present invention, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a method for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a portable air conditioning refrigeration system. Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of a water level detection unit in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system; Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram of a water pump drive unit in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system; Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram of a display module in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0021] It should be noted that portable air conditioners, as a type of portable cooling device, are widely used in homes, offices, temporary locations, and other environments. Existing portable air conditioners typically use a water-cooled heat dissipation system. Their working principle is as follows: a water tank on the chassis collects condensate, and a water pump motor pours the water from the tank onto the condenser. The evaporation of water absorbs heat, thus lowering the condenser temperature and improving cooling efficiency.

[0022] In water-cooling systems, water level detection is a crucial step in ensuring the normal operation of the equipment. Currently, most portable air conditioners use mechanical float switches as water level detection devices. The float switch is typically installed inside the water tank in the chassis. When the water level reaches a set height, the float rises, triggering the switch; when the water level drops, the float sinks, changing the switch's state.

[0023] However, in actual use, float switches are prone to the following malfunctions: (1) Due to the complex environment in which the water may contain impurities, minerals or microorganisms, dirt or crystals will form on the surface of the float after long-term use, resulting in an increase in the weight of the float or obstruction of its movement.

[0024] (2) When the float moves on the guide rod, it may get stuck due to dirt accumulation, guide rod deformation or float deformation, and cannot float or sink normally.

[0025] (3) The electrical contacts inside the float switch may fail due to oxidation, corrosion or mechanical wear, resulting in the inability to correctly detect changes in water level.

[0026] Traditional methods for detecting float switch faults typically rely on monitoring a single switch status, only identifying a fault when the float switch remains in the same state for an extended period. This method has significant drawbacks: it cannot distinguish between a truly empty water tank and a faulty float switch; it has a high false alarm rate, potentially leading to unnecessary downtime or maintenance; and it cannot promptly detect stuck float switches, affecting normal equipment operation. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method that can accurately and promptly detect float switch faults to improve the reliability and user experience of portable air conditioners.

[0027] This technical solution provides a method, device, and refrigeration system for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch. It can actively identify the state of a stuck float, thereby effectively diagnosing faults in the portable air conditioner's water level switch. The following are various embodiments of this technical solution.

[0028] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps involved in diagnosing a fault in a portable air conditioner's water level switch.

[0029] This embodiment provides a method for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch, including: S101. In the target portable air conditioner, control the water pump motor to deliver water from the water collection tank to the condenser, and detect the status of the float switch in the water collection tank.

[0030] S102. When the float switch is detected to switch from high water level to low water level, the water pump is started to transfer water to the water collection tank and the timer is started.

[0031] S103. Determine the cumulative amount of water replenished into the collection tank based on the flow rate of the water pump and the timer value.

[0032] S104. When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, determine the current state of the float switch. If the current state is a low water level state, it is determined that the float switch has a stuck fault.

[0033] Understandably, this embodiment achieves proactive identification of the float ball's stuck state through active water injection testing and quantitative comparison. After the float switch normally switches to the low water level, the water pump is actively started to inject water into the collection tank and timed simultaneously. The cumulative water replenishment volume is accurately calculated using the known flow rate and timing value. When the water replenishment volume exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, theoretically, the water level in the collection tank should have risen to trigger the high water level state. If the float switch still outputs a low water level signal at this time, it can be determined that the float ball has not moved with the rise in water level, and a stuck fault has occurred. The innovation of this embodiment lies in changing passive waiting to active diagnosis. It does not rely on abnormal signals after a fault occurs, but actively creates test conditions during the normal operation interval of the air conditioner, and establishes a clear reference system for water level changes through quantitative water injection. The design of the water replenishment volume threshold eliminates interference from normal water level fluctuations, ensuring the reliability of the diagnostic results. The entire diagnostic process requires no additional hardware and can be completed using only existing water pumps, water motors, and float switch signals. It is both cost-effective and practical, effectively solving the technical problem that increased resistance to float movement caused by water quality deterioration cannot be detected in time.

[0034] It should be noted that the normal operating procedure of a portable air conditioner is as follows: The water pump motor continuously pumps water from the water tank onto the condenser, and the water evaporates on the surface of the condenser to achieve cooling. As water is consumed, the water level in the tank gradually decreases; When the water level drops to the preset low water level threshold, the float sinks and the state of the float switch changes (e.g., from closed to open). The control unit detects a change in the state of the float switch and starts the water pump to fill the water tank.

[0035] In some embodiments, the specific methods for determining the cumulative replenishment volume of water injected into the collection tank include: Obtain the rated flow rate and operating time of the water pump, and calculate the product of the rated flow rate and operating time to obtain the theoretical water intake; obtain the efficiency coefficient of the water pump, and multiply the efficiency coefficient by the theoretical water intake to obtain the corrected cumulative water replenishment.

[0036] Understandably, this embodiment compensates for the error caused by pump wear, water quality differences, or voltage fluctuations that lead to deviations in actual flow rate from the rated value, making the calculation of injected water volume closer to the actual physical quantity. This correction significantly improves the accuracy of the water replenishment volume threshold determination and effectively avoids misjudgments caused by flow rate estimation errors. When pump efficiency decreases, if the rated flow rate is still used for calculation, the actual water replenishment volume may not reach the threshold, resulting in missed detection of stuck faults. The corrected solution can reliably trigger diagnostic logic under different operating conditions, further enhancing the robustness and field adaptability of fault diagnosis.

[0037] In some embodiments, step S104 includes: If the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the product of the rated capacity of the water collection tank and the preset safety factor, and the float switch does not undergo the expected state change from low water level to high water level, then the float switch is determined to be stuck.

[0038] Understandably, the water replenishment volume threshold has been optimized from a fixed value to a dynamic judgment criterion related to the rated capacity and safety factor of the water collection tank. This threshold directly corresponds to the theoretical water replenishment volume required to trigger a high water level state, with clear physical meaning, avoiding misjudgments that may be caused by arbitrary threshold settings. By comparing the cumulative water replenishment volume with this theoretical water volume and simultaneously verifying whether the float switch has undergone the expected state switch, a dual judgment logic of "water volume meets the standard and state remains unchanged" is formed. This design effectively distinguishes between two situations: the water level not reaching the high point and the float being mechanically stuck, eliminating false alarms caused by normal water level fluctuations or drainage interference, and making the identification results of stuck faults more accurate and reliable.

[0039] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method further includes: Determine the maximum allowable water replenishment time corresponding to the water replenishment volume threshold; when the timing value reaches the maximum allowable water replenishment time, if the cumulative water replenishment amount does not exceed the water replenishment volume threshold, the level signal of the float switch is collected multiple times; if the level signals collected multiple times all indicate a low water level state, the current state of the float switch is determined to be a low water level state.

[0040] Understandably, this embodiment provides a clear termination condition for the water injection process by setting a maximum allowable water replenishment time, preventing the risk of overflow due to unlimited water injection caused by pump malfunction or pipeline leakage, thus improving the safety of the testing process. Simultaneously, when the maximum allowable water replenishment time is reached but the water replenishment volume does not reach the threshold, the float switch level signal is continuously sampled multiple times, eliminating the possibility of misjudgment caused by signal jitter or momentary interference from a single sampling. Only when multiple samplings consistently indicate a low water level is the current water level status finally confirmed, enhancing the anti-interference capability and reliability of the status determination, and making the fault diagnosis conclusion more robust.

[0041] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method further includes: When a float switch malfunction is detected, the water pump is stopped, a fault warning signal is output, and fault information is recorded. The fault information includes at least the time of the fault, the cumulative water replenishment volume, and the status information of the float switch.

[0042] Understandably, once a float switch malfunction is detected, the water pump should be immediately stopped to eliminate the risk of overflow caused by continuous condensate injection and ensure equipment safety. Simultaneously, the system outputs a fault warning signal, transforming a latent fault into a visible alarm, allowing users or maintenance personnel to be aware of the anomaly immediately. Local recording of key information such as the fault occurrence time, cumulative water replenishment volume, and float switch status provides detailed data support for subsequent troubleshooting and root cause analysis, helping maintenance personnel quickly locate the problem and develop targeted solutions, significantly improving maintainability.

[0043] In one embodiment, the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method is performed according to the following procedure.

[0044] The control unit first records the start time and duration of each pump start-up as the basis for subsequent calculations. During pump operation, the control unit calculates the theoretical inflow rate based on the pump's rated flow rate and actual operating time; that is, the theoretical inflow rate equals the rated flow rate multiplied by the operating time. To eliminate deviations in actual flow rate caused by pump wear, voltage fluctuations, or water quality differences, a preset efficiency coefficient is introduced to correct the theoretical inflow rate, resulting in a cumulative replenishment rate closer to the true value.

[0045] Subsequently, the control unit compares the corrected cumulative water replenishment volume with the rated capacity of the water collection tank. Specifically, a safety factor is preset, ranging from 1.1 to 1.2 times the rated capacity, and the product of the rated capacity and this safety factor is used as the judgment threshold. When the cumulative water replenishment volume exceeds this threshold, it indicates that the injected water volume is sufficient to raise the water level to the height that triggers the high water level state.

[0046] Throughout the pumping process and after pumping stops, the control unit continuously collects the level signal output by the float switch to monitor its status changes. If the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the aforementioned threshold, but the float switch fails to switch from a low water level to a high water level (i.e., the expected status change does not occur), the float switch is determined to have a stuck fault.

[0047] Once a fault is determined, the control unit immediately executes the fault handling procedure. This procedure includes: stopping the water pump to prevent the water collection tank from overflowing; activating the alarm mechanism by alerting the user through flashing indicator lights, a buzzer, or a fault code displayed on the screen; and simultaneously recording relevant information about the fault, including the time of the fault, the cumulative water replenishment at the time of the fault, and the final state of the float switch, for review and analysis during subsequent maintenance.

[0048] In another embodiment, the control flow of the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method is as follows.

[0049] After the system is powered on, the control unit first completes the initialization configuration of each peripheral device and reads the initial state of the float switch to record the current water level. At the same time, the control unit loads preset parameters from the memory, including baseline data such as the rated capacity of the water collection tank, the rated flow rate of the water pump, and the safety factor, to prepare for subsequent diagnostic logic.

[0050] Once in normal operation, the pump motor runs continuously, transporting the condensate in the collection tank to the condenser for heat dissipation. The control unit cyclically monitors the level signal of the float switch every ten milliseconds. When the system detects that the float switch has switched from a high water level state to a low water level state, it records this water level drop event, indicating that the water level in the collection tank has dropped to a low level.

[0051] In response to the water level drop, the system immediately enters the water replenishment phase. The control unit starts the water pump to fill the collection tank and simultaneously starts the timer. During the water replenishment process, the system continuously monitors the float switch status, expecting the float to actuate and switch from low to high water level as the water level rises. At the same time, the control unit calculates the amount of water injected in real time based on the rated flow rate and operating time of the water pump.

[0052] When the calculated water level exceeds 1.15 times the rated capacity of the collection tank, the system enters the fault detection phase. At this time, the control unit checks the current state of the float switch. If the switch remains in a low water level state, i.e., the expected state transition has not occurred, the float switch is determined to be stuck. In practical applications, this fault determination threshold can be flexibly set within the range of 110% to 120% of the rated capacity.

[0053] Once the fault is confirmed, the system immediately executes the fault handling procedure. The control unit first stops the water pump to prevent the collection tank from overflowing. Simultaneously, a fault alarm is triggered, including rapid flashing of a red LED and intermittent beeping of a buzzer to attract the user's attention. Furthermore, a fault code is displayed on the screen; for example, a combination of the letter E and the number 1 indicates a float switch fault, allowing users or maintenance personnel to quickly identify the fault type and take appropriate action.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a portable air conditioning refrigeration system.

[0055] This embodiment also provides a portable air conditioning refrigeration system, including: The water collection tank, installed on the chassis of the portable air conditioner, is used to collect condensate.

[0056] The water pump motor has its fan blades installed inside the water collection tank. The water pump motor is used to pump water from the water collection tank to the condenser.

[0057] A water pump is used to transfer water from a storage tank to a collection tank.

[0058] The float switch is installed inside the water collection tank. It is used to detect changes in the water level in the water collection tank and output a high water level status signal or a low water level status signal according to the water level change.

[0059] The control module is electrically connected to the float switch, water pump, and pump motor, and is used for: The system controls the water pump to deliver water from the collection tank to the condenser and monitors the status of the float switch. When the float switch switches from a high water level to a low water level, the system controls the water pump to deliver water to the collection tank and records the pump's running time. Based on the pump's flow rate and running time, the system determines the cumulative amount of water added to the collection tank. When the cumulative amount of water added exceeds a preset water replenishment volume threshold, the system determines the current status of the float switch. If the current status is a low water level, the system determines that the float switch has jammed and stops the water pump.

[0060] It is understood that the content of the above method embodiments is applicable to this embodiment. The specific functions implemented in this embodiment are the same as those in the above method embodiments, and the beneficial effects achieved are also the same as those achieved in the above method embodiments.

[0061] In some embodiments, a portable air conditioning refrigeration system includes a water tank assembly, a water level detection assembly, a water circulation assembly, a water replenishment assembly, a control assembly, and a human-machine interface assembly. The water tank assembly is a water receiving tank integrated into the portable air conditioning chassis, with a capacity ranging from 300 to 500 ml, used to collect condensate generated during the refrigeration process. The water level detection assembly is a float switch installed on the side wall of the water receiving tank, with its low water level detection point 10 to 30 mm from the bottom of the tank, used to output a level signal indicating the water level. The water circulation assembly includes a pump motor, which operates continuously during normal refrigeration operation, transporting condensate from the water receiving tank to the condenser surface to improve heat dissipation efficiency. The water replenishment assembly includes a water pump with a flow rate ranging from 1 to 3 liters per minute, used to actively inject water into the water receiving tank when needed to simulate a rising water level. The control assembly is a microcontroller with built-in analog-to-digital converters, general-purpose input / output ports, and timers, used to receive signals from the float switch, control the start and stop of the pump motor and water pump, and execute fault diagnosis logic. The human-machine interface components include LED indicator lights, a buzzer, and an LCD screen, which are used to output audible and visual alarms and display fault codes when a fault occurs.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of a water level detection unit in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system.

[0063] In some embodiments, the float switch includes a water level detection unit for detecting changes in the water level of the collection tank.

[0064] The water level detection unit includes a first resistor R1, a second resistor R2, a first capacitor C2, and a water level switch; one end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the power supply, and the other end of the first resistor R1 is connected to one end of the second resistor R2; one end of the second resistor R2 is connected to one end of the water level switch, and the other end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the water level switch signal terminal of the control module and one end of the first capacitor C2 respectively; the other end of the first capacitor C2 is grounded, and the other end of the water level switch is grounded.

[0065] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram of a water pump drive unit in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system.

[0066] In some embodiments, the water pump includes a pump drive unit.

[0067] The water pump drive unit includes a water pump connector, a diode D1, a switching transistor Q1, a third resistor R8, and a fourth resistor R4. The first end of the water pump connector is used to connect to the power supply, and the second end of the water pump connector is connected to the drain of the switching transistor Q1. The cathode of the diode D1 is connected to the first end of the water pump connector, and the anode of the diode D1 is connected to the drain of the switching transistor Q1. The source of the switching transistor Q1 is grounded, and the gate of the switching transistor Q1 is connected to one end of the third resistor R8. The other end of the third resistor R8 is connected to the water pump control terminal of the control module, and one end of the third resistor R8 is connected to one end of the fourth resistor R4. The other end of the fourth resistor R4 is grounded.

[0068] Please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram of a display module in a portable air conditioning refrigeration system.

[0069] In some embodiments, the portable air conditioning refrigeration system further includes a display module for alarming and displaying fault codes when a fault is detected; the display module includes a driver chip, a display device, and an alarm light-emitting diode LED1.

[0070] The clock terminal of the driver chip is connected to the clock signal terminal of the control module through the fifth resistor R9, and the data terminal of the driver chip is connected to the data signal terminal of the control module through the sixth resistor R9. The clock terminal and the data terminal of the driver chip are connected to the power supply through the seventh resistor R5 and the eighth resistor R6, respectively. The clock terminal of the driver chip is grounded through the second capacitor C3, and the data terminal of the driver chip is grounded through the third capacitor C4.

[0071] The display device has multiple display segment pins and multiple common pins. Each display segment pin is connected to the corresponding display segment driving terminal of the driver chip, and each common pin is connected to the corresponding common driving terminal of the driver chip.

[0072] The anode of the alarm LED1 is connected to the first light driving terminal of the driver chip, and the cathode of the alarm LED1 is connected to the second light driving terminal of the driver chip.

[0073] In summary, this technical solution offers several significant advantages. Regarding accuracy, by combining water volume estimation with dual verification of the float switch status, it effectively avoids misjudgments caused by relying on a single signal, making fault detection results more reliable. In terms of timeliness and safety, diagnosis can be completed simultaneously during water injection, without waiting for natural water level changes, and the water pump is immediately stopped after a fault is detected, eliminating the risk of overflow. This method has excellent identification capabilities for float jamming caused by water quality deterioration and is widely adaptable. Simultaneously, the system outputs clear audible and visual alarms and fault codes, facilitating quick problem location for users and maintenance personnel, reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, this solution is highly compatible and can be implemented on existing portable air conditioner hardware platforms through software upgrades without structural modifications. Moreover, the system can perform self-learning based on historical fault data, continuously optimizing the judgment threshold, improving its intelligence level and adaptive capabilities.

[0074] This application also provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement any of the above-mentioned methods for diagnosing faults in a mobile air conditioner water level switch.

[0075] It is understood that the content of the above method embodiments is applicable to the embodiments of this electronic device. The specific functions implemented by the embodiments of this electronic device are the same as those of the above method embodiments, and the beneficial effects achieved are also the same as those achieved by the above method embodiments.

[0076] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, apparatus, product, or device that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices. It should be understood that in this application, “at least one” means one or more, and “more than one” means two or more.

[0077] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus, devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, devices, or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0078] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0079] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0080] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0081] Although the description of this application has been quite detailed and particularly focused on several of the described embodiments, it is not intended to limit itself to any of these details or embodiments or any particular embodiment. Rather, it should be considered as effectively covering the intended scope of this application by referring to the appended claims and taking into account the prior art, which provides for a broad possible interpretation of these claims. Furthermore, the foregoing description of this application with respect to embodiments foreseeable by the inventors is intended to provide a useful description, and non-substantial modifications to this application that have not yet been foreseen may still represent equivalent modifications.

Claims

1. A method for diagnosing faults in a portable air conditioner's water level switch, characterized in that, The method includes: In the target portable air conditioner, the water pump motor is controlled to deliver water from the water collection tank to the condenser, and the status of the float switch in the water collection tank is detected. When the float switch is detected to switch from a high water level state to a low water level state, the water pump is started to transfer water to the water collection tank and the timer is started. The cumulative amount of water added to the collection tank is determined based on the flow rate of the water pump and the timer value. When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to have a jamming fault.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The specific methods for determining the cumulative replenishment volume of water injected into the collection tank include: Obtain the rated flow rate and operating time of the water pump, and calculate the product of the rated flow rate and the operating time to obtain the theoretical water intake. Obtain the efficiency coefficient of the water pump and multiply the efficiency coefficient by the theoretical inflow rate to obtain the corrected cumulative water replenishment.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds a preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to have a jamming fault, including: If the cumulative water replenishment is greater than the product of the rated capacity of the water collection tank and the preset safety factor, and the float switch does not undergo the expected state change from the low water level state to the high water level state, then the float switch is determined to have a stuck fault.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Determine the maximum allowable water replenishment time corresponding to the water replenishment volume threshold; When the timing value reaches the maximum allowable water replenishment time, if the cumulative water replenishment amount does not exceed the water replenishment volume threshold, the level signal of the float switch is collected multiple times consecutively. If multiple collected level signals indicate a low water level, then the current state of the float switch is determined to be the low water level state.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: When it is determined that the float switch is stuck, the water pump is controlled to stop running, a fault prompt signal is output and fault information is recorded. The fault information includes at least the fault occurrence time, the cumulative water replenishment volume and the status information of the float switch.

6. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the mobile air conditioner water level switch fault diagnosis method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A portable air conditioning refrigeration system, characterized in that, The system includes: A water collection tank is installed on the chassis of the portable air conditioner, and the water collection tank is used to collect condensate. A water pumping motor, the fan blades of which are installed in the water collection tank, is used to pump water from the water collection tank to the condenser. A water pump is used to transfer water from the storage tank to the collection tank; A float switch is installed inside the water collection tank. The float switch is used to detect changes in the water level of the water collection tank and output a high water level status signal or a low water level status signal according to the water level change. The control module is electrically connected to the float switch, the water pump, and the water pump motor, respectively. The control module is used for: The water pump motor is controlled to transport water from the water collection tank to the condenser, and the status of the float switch is detected. When the float switch is detected to switch from a high water level state to a low water level state, the pump is controlled to transfer water to the collection tank and the pump's running time is recorded. Based on the flow rate and operating time of the water pump, determine the cumulative amount of water replenished into the water collection tank; When the cumulative water replenishment exceeds the preset water replenishment volume threshold, the current state of the float switch is determined. If the current state is the low water level state, the float switch is determined to be stuck, and the water pump is controlled to stop running.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The float switch includes a water level detection unit for detecting changes in the water level of the water collection tank; The water level detection unit includes a first resistor, a second resistor, a first capacitor, and a water level switch; One end of the first resistor is used to connect to the power supply, and the other end of the first resistor is connected to one end of the second resistor; One end of the second resistor is connected to one end of the water level switch, and the other end of the second resistor is connected to the water level switch signal terminal of the control module and one end of the first capacitor, respectively. The other end of the first capacitor is grounded, and the other end of the water level switch is grounded.

9. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water pump includes a water pump drive unit; The water pump drive unit includes a water pump connector, a diode, a switching transistor, a third resistor, and a fourth resistor; The first end of the water pump connector is used to connect to the power supply, and the second end of the water pump connector is connected to the drain of the switching transistor. The cathode of the diode is connected to the first end of the water pump connector, and the anode of the diode is connected to the drain of the switching transistor. The source of the switching transistor is grounded, and the gate of the switching transistor is connected to one end of the third resistor; The other end of the third resistor is connected to the water pump control terminal of the control module, one end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor, and the other end of the fourth resistor is grounded.

10. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The system also includes a display module for alarming and displaying fault codes when a fault is detected; The display module includes a driver chip, a display device, and an alarm LED; The clock terminal of the driver chip is connected to the clock signal terminal of the control module through a fifth resistor, and the data terminal of the driver chip is connected to the data signal terminal of the control module through a sixth resistor. The clock terminal and the data terminal of the driver chip are connected to the power supply through a seventh resistor and an eighth resistor, respectively. The clock terminal of the driver chip is grounded through a second capacitor, and the data terminal of the driver chip is grounded through a third capacitor. The display device has multiple display segment pins and multiple common pins. Each display segment pin is connected to the corresponding display segment driving terminal of the driving chip, and each common pin is connected to the corresponding common driving terminal of the driving chip. The anode of the alarm LED is connected to the first light driving terminal of the driver chip, and the cathode of the alarm LED is connected to the second light driving terminal of the driver chip.

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