An air conditioner

Abstract

This application discloses an air conditioner. In this air conditioner, by obtaining real-time outdoor temperature and humidity, and when the air conditioner meets target defrosting conditions, defrosting is performed according to a target defrosting scheme corresponding to those conditions. The target defrosting conditions are determined based on the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, and different target defrosting schemes have different operating parameters, including the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the compressor's operating frequency, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve. By controlling the four-way valve to different conduction directions, the compressor to operate at different operating frequencies, and the electronic expansion valve to conduct at different opening degrees according to the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, different defrosting modes are operated. This allows for the development of different defrosting schemes for different operating conditions, extending indoor heating time and improving comfort.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to air conditioning technology, and to, but is not limited to, an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In existing air conditioners, during the heating process, the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates the refrigerant by exchanging heat with the outdoor air, causing the outdoor air temperature to drop. When the outdoor air temperature is below the dew point, water vapor in the nearby air easily condenses into frost on the surface of the heat exchanger. If the frost layer is too thick, it will seriously affect the heating effect. The commonly used defrosting method is reverse defrosting, but heating is stopped during defrosting, and excessively long defrosting time will cause the indoor temperature to drop. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the air conditioner provided in this application embodiment can formulate different defrosting schemes for different working conditions and areas, extend the indoor heating time, and thus improve comfort.

[0004] In a first aspect, an air conditioner provided in the embodiments of this application includes:

[0005] The compressor is configured to output refrigerant;

[0006] An indoor heat exchanger, connected to the compressor, is configured to exchange heat with indoor air via the refrigerant;

[0007] An outdoor heat exchanger, connected to the compressor, is configured to exchange heat with outdoor air via the refrigerant;

[0008] The four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port. The first port is connected to the air outlet of the compressor, the second port is connected to the air inlet of the compressor, the third port is connected to the indoor heat exchanger, and the fourth port is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0009] An electronic expansion valve is installed between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger;

[0010] An outdoor temperature sensor is configured to detect the real-time outdoor temperature of the outdoor environment.

[0011] The controller is electrically connected to the outdoor temperature sensor, the outdoor humidity sensor, the electronic expansion valve, and the four-way valve, respectively, and is configured to control the conduction direction of the four-way valve to adjust the flow direction of the refrigerant;

[0012] The controller is further configured as follows:

[0013] The real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity are obtained;

[0014] When the air conditioner meets the target defrosting conditions, defrosting is performed according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting conditions. The target defrosting conditions include the real-time outdoor temperature being within the target temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity being within the target humidity range. The target defrosting conditions are one of at least two defrosting conditions, and different defrosting conditions correspond to different target temperature ranges and / or different target humidity ranges.

[0015] The target defrosting scheme includes at least one defrosting mode. Different defrosting modes correspond to different values ​​of the first operating parameters. The first operating parameters include the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the operating frequency of the compressor, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve.

[0016] In the aforementioned air conditioner, by obtaining real-time outdoor temperature and humidity, and when the air conditioner meets the target defrosting conditions, defrosting is performed according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to those conditions. The target defrosting conditions are determined based on the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, and different target defrosting schemes have different operating parameters, including the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the compressor's operating frequency, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve. By controlling the four-way valve to different conduction directions, the compressor to operate at different frequencies, and the electronic expansion valve to different opening degrees according to the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, different defrosting modes are implemented. This allows for the development of different defrosting schemes for different operating conditions, extending indoor heating time and improving comfort.

[0017] In some embodiments, the number of the at least one defrosting mode is at least two, and the controller performs defrosting according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting condition, including:

[0018] The controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes;

[0019] The at least two defrosting modes include a reverse defrosting mode and other defrosting modes. Before operating the reverse defrosting mode, the controller also controls the air conditioner to operate the other defrosting modes. The other defrosting modes are determined according to the target defrosting conditions. In the reverse defrosting mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve is a first direction, and in the other defrosting mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve is a second direction. The first direction and the second direction are different.

[0020] Understandably, setting other defrosting modes to run before the reverse defrosting mode can reduce the frequency of reverse defrosting mode operation, preventing problems such as interruption of indoor heat exchange, drop in indoor temperature, and poor comfort caused by frequent operation of reverse defrosting mode.

[0021] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes an outdoor coil temperature sensor for collecting the outdoor coil temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes, including:

[0022] The controller detects whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the other defrosting modes. The second operating parameter includes the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature.

[0023] If so, defrost according to the other defrosting modes described above;

[0024] If not, then if the second operating parameter is within the second parameter range corresponding to the reverse defrosting mode, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode, and the parameter threshold of the second parameter range is greater than the parameter threshold of the first parameter range.

[0025] Understandably, the system first determines whether the current second operating parameter is within the parameter range of other defrosting modes based on the duration and temperature difference of the heating mode. If the current second operating parameter is not within the parameter range of other defrosting modes, then the reverse defrosting mode is judged. This ensures that the execution priority of the reverse defrosting mode is later than that of other defrosting modes, thereby improving defrosting efficiency.

[0026] In some embodiments, the step of defrosting according to the reverse defrosting mode when the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrosting mode includes:

[0027] When the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrost mode, the defrost parameters of the other defrost modes are detected, and the defrost parameters include the number of times the other defrost modes are run and / or the running time of the other defrost modes.

[0028] If the defrosting parameter is greater than or equal to the preset parameter threshold, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode.

[0029] Understandably, when the current second running parameter is within the parameter range of the reverse defrost mode, the execution count and runtime of other defrost modes are first determined. This ensures that other defrost modes have already been executed a certain number of times before the reverse defrost mode, thereby improving defrost efficiency.

[0030] In some embodiments, the controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes, including:

[0031] If the outdoor coil temperature is greater than or equal to the preset coil temperature, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode. The target defrosting mode is one or more of the at least two defrosting modes, and different defrosting modes correspond to different preset coil temperatures.

[0032] And / or, if the defrosting duration of the target defrosting mode reaches the corresponding preset duration threshold, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode.

[0033] Understandably, the longer each defrost mode runs, the more severe the outdoor coil temperature will be, leading to increased frost buildup on the outdoor unit or a drop in indoor temperature. Therefore, it is necessary to exit the current defrost mode in a timely manner when the outdoor coil temperature exceeds the preset coil temperature or the defrost time is too long, in order to alleviate the frost buildup on the outdoor unit and improve the comfort of indoor users.

[0034] In some embodiments, the other defrosting modes include a hot air defrosting mode and a thin frost defrosting mode, with different defrosting modes corresponding to different first parameter ranges. The controller detects whether the second operating parameter is within the first parameter range corresponding to the other defrosting mode, including:

[0035] The controller detects whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode;

[0036] If so, defrost according to the hot air defrosting mode described above;

[0037] If not, defrost according to the described thin-frost defrost mode.

[0038] Understandably, by setting multiple other defrosting modes, a variety of defrosting methods can be provided to adapt to multiple parameter ranges before running the reverse defrosting mode, thereby reducing fluctuations in indoor temperature.

[0039] In some embodiments, after the air conditioner is powered on and completes its first heating mode, the controller performs the first defrost in a reverse defrost mode.

[0040] Understandably, after starting heating operation, the first defrost is performed in reverse defrost mode. This can avoid the problem of limited heating output caused by the outdoor unit starting with frost or ice, and the problem of the four-way valve not switching to defrost properly when the frost layer is thick.

[0041] In some embodiments, the target temperature range includes one of a first temperature range and a second temperature range, the target humidity range includes one of a first humidity range and a second humidity range, and the controller performs defrosting according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting conditions, including:

[0042] When the real-time temperature is within the first temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within the first humidity range, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode;

[0043] When the real-time outdoor temperature is within a second temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within a second humidity range, at least two defrosting modes are run in a target sequence, including a reverse defrosting mode. The target sequence includes running other defrosting modes besides the reverse defrosting mode before running the at least two defrosting modes.

[0044] Wherein, the difference between the upper limit of the first temperature range and the lower limit of the second temperature range is less than or equal to a first preset threshold, and the difference between the lower limit of the first humidity range and the upper limit of the second humidity range is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold.

[0045] Understandably, if the real-time temperature and the real-time outdoor humidity are both within the first temperature range and the outdoor humidity is within the first humidity range, meaning the outdoor environment is in a low temperature and high humidity state, the reverse defrosting mode needs to be executed. Otherwise, other defrosting modes will be executed to adapt to various outdoor environmental conditions while maintaining indoor temperature fluctuations.

[0046] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a third temperature sensor for acquiring the coil temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the controller obtains the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment, including:

[0047] The estimated defrosting time is determined based on the indoor temperature within a unit time period, the coil temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the compressor frequency.

[0048] After the air conditioner is powered on and completes its first heating mode, it defrosts according to the target defrosting mode, which is any defrosting mode other than the reverse defrosting mode.

[0049] The real-time outdoor humidity is determined based on the relationship between the actual defrosting time of the target defrosting mode and the estimated defrosting time.

[0050] It is understandable that estimating real-time outdoor humidity based on the relationship between the actual defrost time and the estimated defrost time of the target defrost mode can reduce the device cost of the outdoor humidity sensor. Furthermore, reflecting real-time outdoor humidity based on the estimated defrost time can more accurately reflect defrost requirements and improve defrost performance.

[0051] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes an outdoor humidity sensor, and the controller obtains the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment, including:

[0052] The outdoor humidity sensor is used to obtain the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment.

[0053] Understandably, using an outdoor humidity sensor to collect real-time outdoor humidity data can improve the accuracy of real-time outdoor humidity measurement. Attached Figure Description

[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the specification, serve to explain the technical solutions of this application.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 2 A timing diagram of the air conditioner's operation in reverse defrosting mode provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 3 A timing diagram of the operation of an air conditioner in the thin frost defrost mode provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 4 A graph showing the change in outdoor coil temperature under the thin-frost defrosting mode provided in this application embodiment;

[0059] Figure 5 This is a timing diagram of the air conditioner's operation in the second defrost mode provided in this application embodiment;

[0060] Figure 6 A timing diagram of the air conditioner's operation in hot air defrosting mode provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the control method of the controller provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity zones provided for embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating the initial power-on defrosting scheme provided in this application embodiment;

[0064] Figure 10 An example flowchart illustrating the implementation process of the first defrosting solution provided in this application embodiment;

[0065] Figure 11 An example flowchart illustrating the implementation process of the second defrosting solution provided in this application embodiment;

[0066] Figure 12 An example flowchart illustrating the implementation process of the third defrosting solution provided in this application embodiment;

[0067] Figure 13 This is an example flowchart illustrating the implementation process of the fourth defrosting solution provided in this application embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0068] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the specific technical solutions of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application. The following embodiments are used to illustrate this application, but are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0069] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.

[0070] In the following description, references are made to “some embodiments,” which describe a subset of all possible embodiments. However, it is understood that “some embodiments” may be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and may be combined with each other without conflict.

[0071] It should be noted that the terms "first, second, third" used in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish similar or different objects and do not represent a specific order of objects. It can be understood that "first, second, third" can be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permitted, so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, an air conditioner may include an indoor unit 1 and an outdoor unit 2. The indoor unit 1 is installed indoors, and the outdoor unit 2 is installed outdoors. The indoor unit 1 and the outdoor unit 2 are connected by a refrigerant flow channel.

[0073] In some embodiments, the indoor unit 1 may include an indoor heat exchanger 22, which is used for heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 11 and the indoor air. This allows the indoor heat exchanger 22 to absorb heat from the room, thereby achieving indoor cooling, or it may release heat into the room, thereby achieving indoor heating. The indoor heat exchanger 22 may include a plate heat exchanger or a coaxial heat exchanger.

[0074] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 2 may include a compressor 11 having an inlet and an outlet. Refrigerant may flow from the outlet of the compressor 11 to other components of the air conditioner, and the refrigerant may also flow from the inlet back into the compressor 11 to complete the refrigerant cycle.

[0075] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 2 may include an outdoor heat exchanger 15, which is used to exchange heat with the outdoor air. The outdoor heat exchanger 15 may include a tube-fin heat exchanger, a plate heat exchanger, or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, etc., so that the outdoor heat exchanger 15 can absorb heat from the outdoor air or release heat from the refrigerant into the outdoor air.

[0076] In some embodiments, during the heat exchange process between the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and the outdoor air, the refrigerant may first exchange heat with the target medium, and then the target medium may exchange heat with the outdoor air. The target medium may include water, brine solution, refrigerant, or antifreeze, such as Freon for refrigerant and ethylene glycol solution for antifreeze. Alternatively, the refrigerant may directly exchange heat with the outdoor air. The specific settings are determined by the user according to the actual situation, and this application embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0077] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 2 may include an outdoor fan 18, which is disposed on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger 15. The outdoor fan 18 is used to transmit outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 15 through the second air inlet of the air conditioner casing, and to transmit the air flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger 15 to the outside through the second air outlet of the air conditioner casing. The second air outlet is an opening on the air conditioner casing corresponding to the position of the outdoor fan 18, and the second air inlet is an opening on the air conditioner casing corresponding to the position of the outdoor fan 18. The positions of the second air outlet and the second air inlet are different.

[0078] It is understandable that the outdoor fan 18 is located close to the outdoor heat exchanger 15. The outdoor fan 18 may include a first fan and an outdoor fan motor. The first fan is fixedly mounted on the rotating shaft of the outdoor fan motor. The outdoor fan motor is connected to the controller of the air conditioner so as to drive the first fan to rotate under the control of the controller, so as to transfer outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and realize heat exchange between the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and the outdoor air.

[0079] The first end of the indoor heat exchanger 22 is connected to the first end of the outdoor heat exchanger 15. In this way, the refrigerant can flow from the first end of the outdoor heat exchanger 15 to the indoor heat exchanger 22, or the refrigerant can flow from the first end of the indoor heat exchanger 22 to the outdoor heat exchanger 15. This allows the air conditioner to switch modes so that the indoor heat exchanger 22 can act as a condenser or an evaporator, thereby achieving indoor cooling, heating or defrosting.

[0080] In some embodiments, during the heat exchange process between the indoor heat exchanger 22 and the indoor air, the refrigerant may first exchange heat with the target medium, and then the target medium may exchange heat with the indoor air. The target medium may include water, brine solution, refrigerant, or antifreeze, such as Freon for refrigerant and ethylene glycol solution for antifreeze. Alternatively, the refrigerant may directly exchange heat with the indoor air. The specific settings are determined by the user according to the actual situation, and this application embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0081] In some embodiments, the indoor unit 1 may include an indoor fan 21, which is disposed on one side of the indoor heat exchanger 22. The indoor fan 21 is used to transmit outside air to the indoor heat exchanger 22 through the first air inlet of the air conditioner casing, and to transmit the air flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 22 to the outside through the first air outlet of the air conditioner casing. The first air outlet is an opening on the air conditioner casing corresponding to the position of the indoor fan 21, and the first air inlet is an opening on the air conditioner casing corresponding to the position of the indoor fan 21. The positions of the first air outlet and the first air inlet are different.

[0082] Understandably, the indoor fan is positioned close to the indoor heat exchanger 22. The indoor fan 21 may include a second fan and an indoor fan motor. The second fan is fixedly mounted on the shaft of the indoor fan motor. The indoor fan motor is connected to the controller of the air conditioner so that, under the control of the controller, the second fan is driven to rotate to transfer indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger 22, thereby realizing heat exchange between the indoor heat exchanger 22 and the indoor air.

[0083] In some embodiments, an exhaust temperature sensor 12 may be provided at the outlet of the compressor 11, and the exhaust temperature sensor 12 may collect the exhaust temperature at the outlet of the compressor 11.

[0084] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 may include an outdoor humidity sensor 14, and the controller may collect outdoor humidity data through the outdoor humidity sensor 14.

[0085] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 may include an outdoor temperature sensor 16, through which the controller can collect the outdoor temperature.

[0086] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 may include an external coil temperature sensor 17, through which the controller can acquire the coil temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0087] In some embodiments, the indoor unit 2 may include a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater 23, and the controller can assist in increasing the indoor temperature by turning on the PTC heater 23.

[0088] In some embodiments, the air conditioner may include an electronic expansion valve 19, which may be disposed in the passage between the indoor heat exchanger 22 and the outdoor heat exchanger 15 for regulating the flow rate of refrigerant flowing between the indoor heat exchanger 22 and the outdoor heat exchanger 15.

[0089] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 may include a four-way valve 13, which is connected to a controller to adjust the conduction direction under the control of the controller so that the air conditioner operates in cooling mode, heating mode or defrosting mode.

[0090] In some embodiments, the four-way valve 13 includes a first connection end, a second connection end, a third connection end, and a fourth connection end. The first connection end is connected to the outlet of the compressor 11, the second connection end is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 22, the third connection end is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 15, and the fourth connection end is connected to the inlet of the compressor 11. The four-way valve 13 can control the flow direction of the refrigerant, thereby allowing one of the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and the indoor heat exchanger 22 to act as a condenser and the other to act as an evaporator.

[0091] For example, the four-way valve 13 can control the flow of refrigerant, presenting one of the following modes:

[0092] 1. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flows out from the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and then returns to the compressor 11 through the indoor heat exchanger 22. The outdoor heat exchanger 15 releases the heat in the refrigerant into the outdoor environment to act as a condenser and liquefy the refrigerant. At the same time, the indoor heat exchanger 22 absorbs the heat in the indoor air to act as an evaporator and evaporate the refrigerant, thereby achieving indoor cooling.

[0093] 2. Heating mode: The refrigerant flows out from the indoor heat exchanger 22 and then returns to the compressor 11 through the outdoor heat exchanger 15. The indoor heat exchanger 22 releases the heat in the refrigerant into the indoor environment to act as a condenser, while the outdoor heat exchanger 15 absorbs the heat in the outdoor air to act as an evaporator, thereby achieving indoor heating.

[0094] 3. In reverse defrosting mode, the four-way valve maintains the conduction direction under the cooling function, so that the refrigerant flows out from the outdoor heat exchanger 15 and then flows back to the compressor 11 through the indoor heat exchanger 22. The outdoor heat exchanger 15 releases the heat in the refrigerant into the outdoor environment to act as a condenser, so that the refrigerant liquefies and releases heat to melt the frost layer on the outdoor unit 1.

[0095] 4. In the thin frost defrost mode, the four-way valve maintains the conduction direction under the heating function, allowing the refrigerant to flow out from the indoor heat exchanger 22 and then return to the compressor 11 through the outdoor heat exchanger 15. This allows the indoor heat exchanger 22 to release the heat in the refrigerant into the indoor environment to act as a condenser, while the outdoor heat exchanger 15 absorbs the heat from the outdoor air to act as an evaporator, thereby achieving indoor heating. However, compared to the heating function, the operating frequency of the compressor 11, the speed of the outdoor fan 18, and the speed of the indoor fan 21 are different under the thin frost defrost function.

[0096] 5. In hot defrost mode, the four-way valve maintains the conduction direction under heating function, allowing the refrigerant to flow out from the indoor heat exchanger 22 and return to the compressor 11 through the outdoor heat exchanger 15. This allows the indoor heat exchanger 22 to release heat from the refrigerant into the indoor environment to act as a condenser, while the outdoor heat exchanger 15 absorbs heat from the outdoor air to act as an evaporator, thus achieving indoor heating. However, compared to the heating function, the compressor 11 operates at a different frequency in hot defrost mode, and the outdoor fan 18 and indoor fan 21 are turned off, causing them to stop running.

[0097] Reverse defrosting mode, thin frost defrosting mode, and hot gas defrosting mode are all designed to remove frost from the coils of the outdoor heat exchanger after the air conditioner has been running in heating mode for a period of time. Different defrosting modes have different defrosting effects. It is understood that thin frost defrosting mode and hot gas defrosting mode are different defrosting modes set by changing the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve, compressor frequency, indoor fan speed, and outdoor fan speed in the air conditioner. Therefore, in addition to thin frost defrosting mode and hot gas defrosting mode, those skilled in the art can also set other defrosting modes besides thin frost defrosting mode and hot gas defrosting mode by changing the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve, compressor frequency, indoor fan speed, and outdoor fan speed. The thin frost defrosting mode and hot gas defrosting mode in the embodiments of this application are merely examples and should not be considered as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0098] In reverse defrosting mode, such as Figure 2 As shown, compared to the heating mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve 13 is reversed. Specifically, the four-way valve 13 first switches to the conduction direction it would in cooling mode. Then, the compressor 11 increases its frequency to the first operating frequency corresponding to the reverse defrost mode. The outdoor fan 18 turns off, the indoor fan 21 turns off, the electronic expansion valve 19 opens to the corresponding first opening, and the PTC heater 23 in the indoor unit is simultaneously turned off. At this time, the air conditioner will stop heating and completely defrost.

[0099] In the first feasible thin-frost defrosting mode, such as Figure 3As shown, compared to the heating mode, the four-way valve 13 does not reverse its direction, and the compressor 11 will reduce its frequency to the second operating frequency corresponding to the thin frost defrost mode (e.g., less than or equal to 40 Hz); the outdoor fan 18 turns on to its maximum speed, and the indoor fan 21 operates at its lowest speed; the electronic expansion valve 19 continues to maintain the opening degree as in the heating mode, and the PTC heater 23 in the indoor unit is turned on at the same time. In this mode, the outdoor coil temperature Tw is increased by reducing the frequency of the compressor 11. When the outdoor coil temperature Tw > 0℃, the thin frost on the fin surface gradually melts. The change of outdoor coil temperature in the thin frost defrost mode is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, after the operating frequency of compressor 11 is reduced to the first operating frequency, the outdoor coil temperature begins to rise until it reaches the maximum outdoor coil temperature. Since the maximum outdoor coil temperature is greater than 0°C, the frost on the outdoor coil can be eliminated.

[0100] In the second feasible thin-cream defrosting mode, such as Figure 5 As shown, compared to the heating mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve 13 does not change, and the compressor 11 will increase its frequency to the third operating frequency corresponding to the thin frost defrost mode (for example, take the maximum value of the operating frequency of the compressor 11); the outdoor fan 18 is turned off, and the indoor fan 21 runs at the lowest speed; the electronic expansion valve 19 is opened to the maximum opening, and the PTC heater 23 in the indoor unit is turned on at the same time.

[0101] Both of the above-mentioned thin-frost defrosting modes can be implemented, and the specific settings can be made by those skilled in the art according to the actual situation. This application does not impose any restrictions.

[0102] In hot defrosting mode, such as Figure 6 As shown, compared to the heating mode, the four-way valve does not change direction, and the compressor will increase its frequency to the fourth operating frequency corresponding to the thin frost defrost mode (for example, take the maximum value of the compressor's operating frequency); the electronic expansion valve 19 opens to the maximum opening; the outdoor fan is turned off, the indoor fan is turned off, and the PTC heater in the indoor unit is turned off at the same time.

[0103] During the heating process of an air conditioner, the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates the refrigerant by exchanging heat with the outdoor air, causing the outdoor air temperature to drop. When the outdoor air temperature is below the dew point, water vapor in the nearby air easily condenses into frost on the surface of the heat exchanger. If the frost layer is too thick, it will seriously affect the heating effect. The commonly used defrosting method is reverse defrosting mode. However, in reverse defrosting mode, the refrigerant flows in the same direction as in cooling mode, which will stop heating. If the defrosting time is too long, it will cause the indoor temperature to drop.

[0104] To address the aforementioned problems, this application proposes an air conditioner that obtains real-time outdoor temperature and humidity, and, when the air conditioner meets target defrosting conditions, performs defrosting according to a target defrosting scheme corresponding to those conditions. The target defrosting conditions are determined based on the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, and different target defrosting schemes have different operating parameters, including the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the compressor's operating frequency, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve. By controlling the four-way valve to different conduction directions, the compressor to operate at different frequencies, and the electronic expansion valve to different opening degrees according to the real-time outdoor humidity and temperature, different defrosting modes are implemented. This allows for the development of different defrosting schemes for different operating conditions, extending indoor heating time and improving comfort.

[0105] In some embodiments, based on Figure 1 The structure of the air conditioner shown is such that the controller of the air conditioner is configured to perform the following steps, as follows: Figure 7 As shown:

[0106] Step S101: Obtain real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity;

[0107] Step S102: If the air conditioner meets the target defrosting conditions, defrost according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting conditions. The target defrosting conditions include the real-time outdoor temperature being within the target temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity being within the target humidity range. The target defrosting condition is one of at least two defrosting conditions. Different defrosting conditions correspond to different target temperature ranges and / or different target humidity ranges.

[0108] The target defrosting scheme includes at least one defrosting mode. Different defrosting modes correspond to different values ​​of the first operating parameters. The first operating parameters include the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the operating frequency of the compressor, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve.

[0109] In some embodiments, the triggering method for the controller to control the air conditioner to operate in the target defrost mode can be that the controller receives a control command triggered by the user. The control command is used to instruct the air conditioner to start executing the defrost mode. Specifically, the control command can be triggered by the user through a remote control transmitter and output to the air conditioner's remote control receiver, so that the controller can control the air conditioner to implement the defrost mode execution process according to the received control command.

[0110] In some embodiments, the real-time outdoor temperature can be obtained by outdoor temperature sensor 16.

[0111] In some embodiments, the real-time outdoor humidity can be obtained by outdoor humidity sensor 14.

[0112] In some embodiments, for air conditioners that do not have an outdoor humidity sensor 14, the real-time outdoor humidity can be determined by estimating the defrost boundary value, thereby reducing device costs.

[0113] The controller can determine the estimated defrosting time based on the indoor temperature, the coil temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the compressor frequency within a unit time period. After the air conditioner is powered on and completes the first heating mode, it defrosts according to the target defrosting mode, which is any defrosting mode except the reverse defrosting mode. The real-time outdoor humidity is determined based on the relationship between the actual defrosting time of the target defrosting mode and the estimated defrosting time.

[0114] It should be understood that after the air conditioner is powered on and completes its initial heating mode, the estimated defrosting time τ can be calculated based on the current outdoor temperature after switching to the target defrosting mode. defrost_st .

[0115]

[0116] Among them, T in基 The indoor temperature set by the user, T n基 F is the preset indoor condensing temperature corresponding to the current indoor fan speed and the current outdoor temperature. 基 This represents the preset operating frequency of the compressor. k1, k2, k3, and k4 are correlation coefficients, the values ​​of which are related to the air conditioner model and configuration.

[0117] After the air conditioner starts heating and completes its initial heating cycle, it can first perform a target defrost mode, such as hot air defrost mode, based on the calculated τ. defrost_st The actual defrosting time τ when executing hot gas defrosting mode. defrost_2 Make comparisons, such as τ defrost_2 ≥τ defrost_st If the humidity value is high, then the outdoor humidity level is considered to be high.

[0118] It is understandable that estimating real-time outdoor humidity based on the relationship between the actual defrost time and the estimated defrost time of the target defrost mode can reduce the device cost of the outdoor humidity sensor. Furthermore, reflecting real-time outdoor humidity based on the estimated defrost time can more accurately reflect defrost requirements and improve defrost performance.

[0119] The aforementioned target defrosting scheme is one of at least two defrosting schemes, and each defrosting scheme may include one or more of the following: reverse defrosting mode, hot air defrosting mode, and thin frost defrosting mode. For example, the at least two defrosting schemes include a first defrosting scheme, a second defrosting scheme, and a third defrosting scheme. The first defrosting scheme includes a reverse defrosting mode, the second defrosting scheme includes a reverse defrosting mode and a hot air defrosting mode, and the third defrosting scheme includes a reverse defrosting mode, a hot air defrosting mode, and a thin frost defrosting mode. The controller can then select one of the first defrosting scheme, the second defrosting scheme, and the third defrosting scheme as the target defrosting scheme based on the real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity.

[0120] In reverse defrost mode, the air conditioner operates in cooling mode, causing the outdoor heat exchanger 15 to release heat from the refrigerant into the outdoor environment, acting as a condenser. This liquefies the refrigerant and releases heat to melt the frost layer on the outdoor unit 1. While this lowers the indoor temperature, the defrosting effect is significant. In contrast, in light frost and hot air defrost modes, the air conditioner operates in heating mode, resulting in a less effective defrost compared to reverse defrost mode. Therefore, light frost and hot air defrost modes are suitable for outdoor environments with less frost buildup.

[0121] In this embodiment, the outdoor environment is judged based on real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity. When both real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity are high, a defrosting scheme with a more significant defrosting effect can be run. When the real-time outdoor temperature or real-time outdoor humidity is at a low level, a defrosting scheme with a poorer defrosting effect can be run, thereby ensuring that the defrosting time is kept at a low level.

[0122] The physical significance of combining reverse defrosting mode with other defrosting modes lies in the following: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, and the frost buildup is not severe or not very severe, operating other defrosting modes can accelerate or slow down the flow of refrigerant from the compressor to the indoor heat exchanger, allowing the frost on the outdoor heat exchanger coils to melt quickly. However, in cases where frost buildup is severe or very severe due to external factors such as environmental climate and weather, or internal factors such as prolonged heating cycle operation or incomplete defrosting from the previous cycle, other defrosting modes may not be able to melt the existing frost reliably and promptly. Specifically, other defrosting modes essentially reduce the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger while maintaining heating mode. Therefore, prolonged operation will result in very low compressor suction and discharge temperatures, insufficient heat to continue defrosting or heating. Thus, when the frost buildup on the outdoor heat exchanger becomes severe, reverse defrosting is necessary—that is, sacrificing user experience for rapid defrosting in exchange for a comfortable indoor temperature.

[0123] In some embodiments, the controller can partition the outdoor temperature and humidity values. The controller first acquires the outdoor temperature and humidity, determines their maximum ranges, and based on these maximum ranges, obtains a complete set of outdoor temperature and humidity conditions that at least cover all defrost modes of the air conditioner. This complete set includes the range of outdoor temperature and humidity for each defrost mode. Combining this complete set with the air conditioner's operating parameters, the controller divides the outdoor temperature and humidity regions for determining whether defrosting is required and which defrost mode is used.

[0124] For example, the controller divides the outdoor temperature into a first temperature range and a second temperature range, and the outdoor humidity into a first humidity range and a second humidity range. Thus, when the real-time outdoor temperature is within the first temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within the first humidity range, the controller performs defrosting according to the reverse defrosting mode.

[0125] When the real-time outdoor temperature is within the second temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within the second humidity range, at least two defrost modes are run in a target sequence, including a reverse defrost mode. The target sequence includes running at least two other defrost modes, excluding the reverse defrost mode, before running the reverse defrost mode.

[0126] In particular, since the four-way valve in the reverse defrosting mode needs to switch to reduce the indoor temperature, in order to better provide indoor comfort for users, the first temperature range and the second temperature range can be set as follows: the difference between the upper limit of the first temperature range and the lower limit of the second temperature range is less than or equal to the first preset threshold, and the difference between the lower limit of the first humidity range and the upper limit of the second humidity range is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold.

[0127] Understandably, if the real-time temperature and the real-time outdoor humidity are both within the first temperature range and the outdoor humidity is within the first humidity range, meaning the outdoor environment is in a low temperature and high humidity state, the reverse defrosting mode needs to be executed. Otherwise, other defrosting modes will be executed to adapt to various outdoor environmental conditions while maintaining indoor temperature fluctuations.

[0128] Since air conditioners offer two defrosting modes besides reverse defrosting, namely thin frost defrosting mode and hot air defrosting mode, these modes can be considered. By combining reverse defrosting mode, thin frost defrosting mode, and hot air defrosting mode, multiple defrosting combinations can be formed, resulting in at least two defrosting schemes. Different defrosting schemes are designed for different temperature and humidity ranges.

[0129] For example, at least two defrosting schemes may include a first defrosting scheme, a second defrosting scheme, a third defrosting scheme, and a fourth defrosting scheme. The first defrosting scheme is a combination of a thin frost defrosting mode one, a hot air defrosting mode, and a reverse defrosting mode. The second defrosting scheme is a combination of a thin frost defrosting mode two, a hot air defrosting mode, and a reverse defrosting mode. The third defrosting scheme is a combination of a hot air defrosting mode and a reverse defrosting mode. The fourth defrosting scheme is a reverse defrosting mode.

[0130] The controller's decision logic for performing defrosting is as follows: if the air conditioner is currently in a low-temperature zone, whether it is hot defrosting mode or thin frost defrosting mode, the effect of maintaining indoor comfort is not as good as that of reverse defrosting mode. Therefore, the fourth defrosting scheme adopts the scheme of executing reverse defrosting mode alone.

[0131] Based on the frosting characteristics of air conditioners, the outdoor temperature and humidity are divided into four zones: Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, and Zone 4. Figure 8 As shown, when the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to T b And less than or equal to T c Outdoor humidity greater than h b And less than h d At that time, the air conditioner is in Zone 1 of the plan; when the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to T. a And less than T b Outdoor humidity greater than h b And less than h c At that time, the air conditioner is in zone two; when the outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to T... a And less than or equal to T c Outdoor humidity greater than h d And greater than h c At that time, the air conditioner was in zone three of the plan; when the outdoor temperature was less than T... a Outdoor humidity greater than h a At that time, the air conditioner was in zone four of the scheme. The critical value h for outdoor humidity in this zone is... a h b h c and h d The specific values ​​shall be set by those skilled in the art based on the actual situation, and the outdoor temperature zone critical value T a T b T c and h d Similarly.

[0132] If the real-time outdoor humidity is less than or equal to the target humidity threshold and the real-time outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, execute the first defrosting scheme.

[0133] If the real-time outdoor humidity is less than or equal to the target humidity threshold, and the real-time outdoor temperature is less than the first temperature threshold and greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, the second defrosting scheme shall be executed.

[0134] If the real-time outdoor humidity is greater than the target humidity threshold and the real-time outdoor temperature is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, execute the third defrosting plan.

[0135] If the real-time outdoor temperature is lower than the second temperature threshold, execute the fourth defrosting plan;

[0136] The target humidity threshold is based on the zone temperature value h of the outdoor temperature. c h d And the zonal humidity value T for outdoor humidity. a T c Determined, that is:

[0137]

[0138] h out T is the target humidity threshold. out This is the real-time outdoor temperature.

[0139] During actual defrosting, in reverse defrosting mode, the four-way valve switches to the direction corresponding to the cooling mode. Therefore, when reverse defrosting is executed, the compressor discharges heat into the outdoor unit for defrosting, while the refrigerant in the indoor unit evaporates and absorbs heat, causing a sharp drop in the evaporator coil temperature and a decrease in indoor temperature, resulting in poor comfort. To reduce this phenomenon, while ensuring adequate defrosting performance, continuously providing heat to the room maximizes indoor comfort and reduces the frequency of reverse defrosting.

[0140] In some embodiments, when the controller is defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes, it can first run other defrosting modes before running the reverse defrosting mode, thereby minimizing the frequency of the reverse defrosting mode.

[0141] For example, if the first defrosting scheme is a combination of thin frost defrosting mode 1, hot air defrosting mode, and reverse defrosting mode; the second defrosting scheme is a combination of thin frost defrosting mode 2, hot air defrosting mode, and reverse defrosting mode; and the third defrosting scheme is a combination of hot air defrosting mode and reverse defrosting mode; then when executing the first defrosting scheme, thin frost defrosting mode 1 or hot air defrosting mode will be executed first, and then reverse defrosting mode will be executed last; when executing the second defrosting scheme, thin frost defrosting mode 2 or hot air defrosting mode will be executed first, and then reverse defrosting mode will be executed last; when executing the third defrosting scheme, hot air defrosting mode will be executed first, and then reverse defrosting mode will be executed.

[0142] To ensure that other defrosting modes can be run a certain number of times before reverse defrosting mode is activated, thereby reducing the frequency of reverse defrosting mode, the controller can first check whether the second operating parameter of the air conditioner is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to other defrosting modes. Then, if other defrosting modes cannot meet the current operating parameters, the controller can then determine the operating environment of reverse defrosting mode.

[0143] In some embodiments, the controller can detect whether the second operating parameter of the air conditioner is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to other defrosting modes. The second operating parameter includes the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature.

[0144] If so, defrost using other defrosting modes;

[0145] If not, then if the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrost mode, defrost will be performed according to the reverse defrost mode, and the parameter threshold of the second parameter range is greater than the parameter threshold of the first parameter range.

[0146] Among them, the other defrosting modes mentioned above may include one or more of the following: thin frost defrosting mode one, thin frost defrosting mode two, and hot air defrosting mode. The specific settings shall be determined by those skilled in the art according to the actual situation, and the embodiments of this application do not impose any restrictions.

[0147] Understandably, the system first determines whether the current second operating parameter is within the parameter range of other defrosting modes based on the duration and temperature difference of the heating mode. If the current second operating parameter is not within the parameter range of other defrosting modes, then the reverse defrosting mode is judged. This ensures that the execution priority of the reverse defrosting mode is later than that of other defrosting modes, thereby improving defrosting efficiency.

[0148] If other defrosting modes include any of the following: thin-frost defrost mode 1, thin-frost defrost mode 2, and hot-air defrost mode, the following explains the first parameter range for thin-frost defrost mode 1, thin-frost defrost mode 2, and hot-air defrost mode, and the second parameter range for the reverse defrost mode:

[0149] The first parameter range corresponding to the thin cream defrosting mode one can include one or a combination of the following:

[0150] 1. The duration of the heating mode is τ≥τa, (τa ranges from 20 to 30 minutes).

[0151] 2. The temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature Tout and the outdoor coil temperature Tw is Tout-Tw≥ΔTdefrosr_in1 (ΔTdefrosr_in1 ranges from 3 to 5℃) and Tw<0℃.

[0152] The first parameter range corresponding to the second defrosting mode for thin cream can include one or a combination of the following:

[0153] 1. The duration of the heating mode τ ≥ τd, (τd ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, for example);

[0154] 2. The temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature Tout and the outdoor coil temperature Tw is Tout-Tw≥ΔTdefrosr_in2 (ΔTdefrosr_in2 ranges from 3 to 5℃) and Tout<0℃.

[0155] The first parameter range corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode can include one or a combination of the following:

[0156] 1. If the previous defrosting method was thin frost defrosting mode one or thin frost defrosting mode two, then the duration of the heating mode τ ≥ τb (τb ranges from 5 to 20 minutes); if the previous defrosting method was hot air defrosting or reverse defrosting mode, then the duration of the heating mode τ ≥ τc (where τc ranges from 35 to 65 minutes).

[0157] 2. The temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature Tout and the outdoor coil temperature Tw is Tout-Tw≥ΔTdefrosr_in3 (ΔTdefrosr_in3 ranges from 7 to 13℃) and Tw<0.

[0158] The range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrost mode can include one or a combination of the following:

[0159] 1. The duration of heating mode τ ≥ τd (the preset value τd ranges from 35 to 65 min);

[0160] 2. The temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature Tout and the outdoor coil temperature Tw is Tout-Tw≥ΔTdefrosr_in4 (the preset value ΔTdefrosr_in4 ranges from 7 to 13℃).

[0161] In some embodiments, if other defrosting modes include multiple modes such as thin frost defrosting mode one, thin frost defrosting mode two, and hot gas defrosting mode, the controller can detect whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter of any of the multiple defrosting modes. The controller can detect at the same time or according to a preset priority.

[0162] For example, for other defrosting modes, including hot air defrosting mode and thin frost defrosting mode, the controller can detect whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode; if so, defrosting is performed according to the hot air defrosting mode; if not, defrosting is performed according to the thin frost defrosting mode.

[0163] For example, for other defrosting modes, including hot air defrosting mode and thin frost defrosting mode, the controller can detect whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode and whether it is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the thin frost defrosting mode; if it is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode, defrosting is performed according to the hot air defrosting mode; if it is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the thin frost defrosting mode, defrosting is performed according to the thin frost defrosting mode.

[0164] Understandably, by setting multiple other defrosting modes, a variety of defrosting methods can be provided to adapt to multiple parameter ranges before running the reverse defrosting mode, thereby reducing fluctuations in indoor temperature.

[0165] In some embodiments, the controller has executed other defrosting modes before the reverse defrosting mode. Therefore, after the controller detects that the second operating parameter of the air conditioner is within the range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrosting mode, it also needs to detect the running time and number of runs of the other defrosting modes.

[0166] In some embodiments, when the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter, the controller can detect the defrosting parameters of other defrosting modes, including the number of runs of other defrosting modes and / or the running time of other defrosting modes; if the defrosting parameter is greater than or equal to the preset parameter threshold, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode.

[0167] In some embodiments, if the other defrosting modes are any one of thin frost defrosting mode one, thin frost defrosting mode two, and hot gas defrosting mode, then the controller can record the number of times or the duration of operation of the other defrosting modes after they have finished running. If the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter, the controller reads the recorded number of times or the duration of operation, judges the magnitude of the recorded number of times or the duration of operation, and then runs the reverse defrosting mode.

[0168] In some embodiments, if the other defrosting modes are multiple of the following: thin frost defrosting mode one, thin frost defrosting mode two, and hot gas defrosting mode, then the controller can record the number of times or the duration of operation of the current defrosting mode after each defrosting mode is completed. If the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter, the controller reads the recorded number of times or the duration of operation of each defrosting mode, judges the magnitude of the recorded number of times or the duration of operation, and then runs the reverse defrosting mode.

[0169] In this embodiment, the controller may defrost in reverse defrost mode when the number of runs or the duration of all defrost modes are greater than the corresponding preset parameter threshold; or it may defrost in reverse defrost mode when the number of runs or the duration of some defrost modes are greater than the corresponding preset parameter threshold.

[0170] Understandably, when the current second running parameter is within the parameter range of the reverse defrost mode, the execution count and runtime of other defrost modes are first determined. This ensures that other defrost modes have already been executed a certain number of times before the reverse defrost mode, thereby improving defrost efficiency.

[0171] In some embodiments, if the outdoor coil temperature is greater than or equal to the preset coil temperature, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode. The target defrosting mode is one or more of at least two defrosting modes, and different defrosting modes correspond to different preset coil temperatures.

[0172] And / or, if the defrosting duration of the target defrosting mode reaches the corresponding preset duration threshold, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode.

[0173] The following explains the conditions for stopping the operation of Thin Frost Defrosting Mode 1, Thin Frost Defrosting Mode 2, Hot Gas Defrosting Mode, and Reverse Defrosting Mode:

[0174] The conditions for exiting the thin cream defrosting mode 1 may include:

[0175] The defrosting time τdefrost_1 ≥ τ1 (τ1 takes values ​​from 1 to 4 min, for example).

[0176] The criteria for exiting the hot defrost mode may include one or a combination of the following:

[0177] 1. The defrosting time τdefrost_2 ≥ τ2 in hot air defrosting mode (τ2 takes values ​​of, for example, 8 to 12 minutes).

[0178] 2. Outdoor coil temperature Tw ≥ Tstop2 (Tstop2 ranges from 3 to 10℃).

[0179] The conditions for exiting the thin cream defrosting mode 2 may include:

[0180] The defrosting time τdefrost_3 ≥ τ3 (τ3 can be 1 to 4 min for example).

[0181] The conditions for exiting reverse defrosting mode include one or a combination of the following:

[0182] 1. The defrost time τdefrost_4 in reverse defrost mode is ≥ τ4 (τ4 takes values ​​of, for example, 8 to 12 minutes).

[0183] 2. Outdoor coil temperature Tw ≥ Tstop4 (Tstop4 ranges from 10 to 20℃).

[0184] It should be understood that every time the air conditioner exits the defrost mode, the controller will reset the defrost time for each defrost mode to zero.

[0185] Understandably, the longer each defrost mode runs, the more severe the outdoor coil temperature will be, leading to increased frost buildup on the outdoor unit or a drop in indoor temperature. Therefore, it is necessary to exit the current defrost mode in a timely manner when the outdoor coil temperature exceeds the preset coil temperature or the defrost time is too long, in order to alleviate the frost buildup on the outdoor unit and improve the comfort of indoor users.

[0186] In some embodiments, after the air conditioner is turned on for heating, in order to avoid the outdoor unit starting with frost or ice, which would limit the output of the air conditioner's heating capacity, and to avoid the problem that the four-way valve cannot switch directions to defrost properly when the frost layer is thick, the first defrost in heating mode adopts a reverse defrost mode.

[0187] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the initial defrosting process for an air conditioner upon power-on may include the following steps:

[0188] Step S901: The air conditioner starts in heating mode for the first time after being powered on;

[0189] Step S902: After the air conditioner has finished running in the initial heating mode, when it is ready to perform the first defrost, start timing and detect the outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature.

[0190] Step S902: The controller determines whether the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature meet the parameter range when the reverse defrosting mode is executed for the first time.

[0191] Step S903: If satisfied, proceed to step S904; if not satisfied, continue to detect the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature.

[0192] Step S904: Execute reverse defrosting mode;

[0193] Step S905: After the reverse defrosting mode reaches its maximum running time or the outdoor coil temperature reaches its maximum temperature, exit the reverse defrosting mode.

[0194] In this embodiment, since the electronic expansion valve may not be able to open to the corresponding opening degree quickly when the unit is powered on for the first time, the method of using outdoor temperature sensor and outdoor humidity sensor to determine defrosting will have errors. Therefore, when judging the outdoor ambient temperature and the temperature difference of the outdoor unit coil, a certain value needs to be added to the original preset parameter threshold to offset the detection error.

[0195] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation process of a first defrosting solution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 As shown, the following steps may be included when the air conditioner is running in the first defrost mode:

[0196] In step S1001, before the air conditioner starts running the first defrosting program, the controller resets all calculation parameters and timings to zero and begins to detect the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature.

[0197] Step S1002: The air conditioner determines whether to enter the light frost defrost mode 1 or the hot air defrost mode. Since the entry conditions for light frost defrost mode 1 are more lenient than those for hot air defrost mode at the start of the first defrost cycle, it usually prioritizes entering light frost defrost mode 1 for the first defrost cycle, and then accumulates the number of times light frost defrost mode 1 is executed (i). The following steps determine the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature. Which defrost mode, light frost defrost mode 1 or hot air defrost mode, is satisfied first, and that defrost mode is entered first.

[0198] For example, Figure 10 Taking the priority judgment of the entry conditions of hot gas defrosting mode as an example, in step S1002, the controller judges whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the hot gas defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1007 is executed; if they are not satisfied, step S1003 is executed.

[0199] In step S1003, before the controller determines whether to enter the thin frost defrosting mode 1, it first determines the number of times the thin frost defrosting mode 1 is executed, i. If i reaches the maximum number of executions, imax, then subsequent defrosting will not enter the thin frost defrosting mode 1. If i does not reach the maximum number of executions, imax, then step S1004 is executed.

[0200] In step S1004, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature meet the entry conditions for the thin frost defrost mode one. If they meet the conditions, step S1005 is executed; otherwise, step S1002 is executed again.

[0201] Step S1005: The controller controls the air conditioner to run in the thin frost defrosting mode one.

[0202] Step S1006: When the running time of the thin frost defrosting mode 1 reaches the upper limit, or when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the upper limit of the temperature corresponding to the thin frost defrosting mode 1, the controller controls the air conditioner to exit the thin frost defrosting mode 1 and updates the execution count i = i + 1 of the thin frost defrosting mode 1.

[0203] Step S1007: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in hot defrosting mode.

[0204] Step S1008: When the running time of the hot air defrosting mode reaches the upper limit, or when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the upper limit of the temperature corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode, the controller controls the air conditioner to exit the hot air defrosting mode and updates the execution number j = j + 1 of the hot air defrosting mode.

[0205] In step S1009, the controller determines whether the number of times i of the thin frost defrosting mode 1 and / or the number of times j of the hot air defrosting mode are greater than the threshold. If they are greater, step S1010 is executed. If they are not greater, step S1002 is executed again.

[0206] In step S1010, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the reverse defrost mode. If they are satisfied, step S1011 is executed. If they are not satisfied, the controller repeats the determination of whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the reverse defrost mode.

[0207] Step S1011: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in reverse defrosting mode.

[0208] After the reverse defrosting mode finishes running, the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature are monitored again to determine which defrosting scheme to execute next.

[0209] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation process of a second defrosting solution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 11 As shown, the following steps may be included when the air conditioner is operating in the second defrost mode:

[0210] In step S1101, before the air conditioner starts running the second defrosting program, the controller resets all calculation parameters and timings to zero and begins to detect the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature.

[0211] Step S1102: The air conditioner determines whether to enter the light frost defrost mode 2 or the hot air defrost mode. Since the entry conditions for light frost defrost mode 2 are more lenient than those for hot air defrost mode at the start of the second defrost mode, the first defrost cycle usually prioritizes light frost defrost mode 2, and then the number of times light frost defrost mode 2 is executed is accumulated (i). The following steps determine the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature. Which defrost mode, light frost defrost mode 2 or hot air defrost mode, is satisfied first, and that defrost mode is entered first.

[0212] For example, Figure 11 Taking the priority judgment of the entry conditions of hot gas defrosting mode as an example, in step S1102, it is judged whether the duration of heating mode and / or the temperature difference between real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of hot gas defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1107 is executed; if they are not satisfied, step S1103 is executed.

[0213] In step S1103, before the controller determines whether to enter the thin frost defrosting mode 2, it first determines the number of times the thin frost defrosting mode 2 is executed, i. If i reaches the maximum number of executions, imax, then subsequent defrosting will not enter the thin frost defrosting mode 2. If i does not reach the maximum number of executions, imax, then step S1104 is executed.

[0214] In step S1104, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature meet the entry conditions for the thin frost defrost mode 2. If the conditions are met, step S1105 is executed; otherwise, step S1102 is executed again.

[0215] Step S1105: The controller controls the air conditioner to run in the second defrosting mode.

[0216] Step S1106: When the running time of the thin frost defrosting mode 2 reaches the upper limit, or when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the upper limit of the temperature corresponding to the thin frost defrosting mode 2, the controller controls the air conditioner to exit the thin frost defrosting mode 2 and updates the execution count i = i + 1 of the thin frost defrosting mode 2.

[0217] Step S1107: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in hot defrosting mode.

[0218] Step S1108: When the running time of the hot air defrosting mode reaches the upper limit, or when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the upper limit of the temperature corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode, the controller controls the air conditioner to exit the hot air defrosting mode and updates the execution number j = j + 1 of the hot air defrosting mode.

[0219] In step S1109, the controller determines whether the number of times i of the thin frost defrosting mode 2 and / or the number of times j of the hot air defrosting mode are greater than the threshold. If they are greater, step S1110 is executed. If they are not greater, step S1102 is executed again.

[0220] In step S1110, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the reverse defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1111 is executed, and the timer for the running time of the thin frost defrosting mode 2 is reset. If they are not satisfied, step S1110 is executed again.

[0221] Step S1111: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in reverse defrosting mode.

[0222] After the reverse defrosting mode finishes running, the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature are monitored again to determine which defrosting scheme to execute next.

[0223] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation process of a third defrosting solution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 12 As shown, when the air conditioner is operating in the third defrost mode, the following steps may be included:

[0224] In step S1201, before the air conditioner starts running the third defrosting program, the controller resets all calculation parameters and timings to zero and begins to detect the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature.

[0225] In step S1202, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the hot air defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1203 is executed; otherwise, step S1202 is repeated.

[0226] Step S1203: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in hot defrosting mode.

[0227] Step S1204: When the running time of the hot air defrosting mode reaches the upper limit, or when the outdoor coil temperature reaches the upper limit of the temperature corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode, the controller controls the air conditioner to exit the hot air defrosting mode and updates the execution number j = j + 1 of the hot air defrosting mode.

[0228] In step S1205, the controller determines whether the number of times the hot air defrosting mode is executed j is greater than the threshold. If it is greater, then step S1206 is executed. If it is not greater, then step S1202 is executed again.

[0229] In step S1206, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the reverse defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1207 is executed; otherwise, step S1206 is repeated.

[0230] Step S1207: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in reverse defrosting mode.

[0231] After the reverse defrosting mode finishes running, the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature are monitored again to determine which defrosting scheme to execute next.

[0232] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation process of a fourth defrosting solution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 13 As shown, when the air conditioner is operating in the fourth defrost mode, the following steps may be included:

[0233] In step S1301, before the air conditioner starts running the fourth defrosting program, the controller resets all calculation parameters and timings to zero and begins to detect the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature.

[0234] In step S1302, the controller determines whether the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature are within the parameter range of the reverse defrosting mode. If they are satisfied, step S1303 is executed; otherwise, step S1301 is repeated.

[0235] Step S1303: The controller controls the air conditioner to operate in reverse defrosting mode.

[0236] After the reverse defrosting mode finishes running, the real-time outdoor temperature and outdoor coil temperature are monitored again to determine which defrosting scheme to execute next.

[0237] It should be understood that, although Figures 7-13 The steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially as indicated by the arrows, but these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless otherwise explicitly stated in this document, there is no strict order in which these steps are executed; they can be performed in other orders. Furthermore, Figures 7-13 At least some of the steps in the process may include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages. These sub-steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these sub-steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least some of the sub-steps or stages of other steps.

[0238] It should be understood that, in the various embodiments of this application, the sequence numbers of the processes in the above flowcharts do not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application. The sequence numbers of the embodiments of this application are merely for description and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments. The descriptions of the various embodiments above tend to emphasize the differences between the various embodiments. Their similarities or commonalities can be referred to each other, and for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0239] In this article, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three kinds of relationships. For example, object A and / or object B can represent three situations: object A exists alone, object A and object B exist simultaneously, and object B exists alone.

[0240] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0241] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps of the above method embodiments can be implemented by hardware related to program instructions. The aforementioned program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. When the program is executed, it performs the steps of the above method embodiments. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media that can store program code, such as mobile storage devices, read-only memory (ROM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0242] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes: The compressor is configured to output refrigerant; An indoor heat exchanger, connected to the compressor, is configured to exchange heat with indoor air via the refrigerant; An outdoor heat exchanger, connected to the compressor, is configured to exchange heat with outdoor air via the refrigerant; The four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port. The first port is connected to the air outlet of the compressor, the second port is connected to the air inlet of the compressor, the third port is connected to the indoor heat exchanger, and the fourth port is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger. An electronic expansion valve is installed between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger; An outdoor temperature sensor is configured to detect the real-time outdoor temperature of the outdoor environment. The controller is electrically connected to the outdoor temperature sensor, the electronic expansion valve, and the four-way valve, respectively, and is configured to control the conduction direction of the four-way valve to adjust the flow direction of the refrigerant; The controller is further configured as follows: Obtain the real-time outdoor temperature and real-time outdoor humidity; When the air conditioner meets the target defrosting conditions, defrosting is performed according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting conditions. The target defrosting conditions include the real-time outdoor temperature being within the target temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity being within the target humidity range. The target defrosting conditions are one of at least two defrosting conditions, and different defrosting conditions correspond to different target temperature ranges and / or different target humidity ranges. The target defrosting scheme includes at least one defrosting mode. Different defrosting modes correspond to different values ​​of the first operating parameters. The first operating parameters include the conduction direction of the four-way valve, the operating frequency of the compressor, and the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve.

2. The air conditioner as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the at least one defrosting mode is at least two, and the controller performs defrosting according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting condition, including: The controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes; The at least two defrosting modes include a reverse defrosting mode and other defrosting modes. Before operating the reverse defrosting mode, the controller also controls the air conditioner to operate the other defrosting modes. The other defrosting modes are determined according to the target defrosting conditions. In the reverse defrosting mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve is a first direction, and in the other defrosting mode, the conduction direction of the four-way valve is a second direction. The first direction and the second direction are different.

3. The air conditioner as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes an outdoor coil temperature sensor, which is used to collect the outdoor coil temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger. The controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes, including: The controller detects whether the second operating parameter of the air conditioner is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the other defrosting mode. The second operating parameter includes the duration of the heating mode and / or the temperature difference between the real-time outdoor temperature and the outdoor coil temperature. If so, defrost according to the other defrosting modes described above; If not, then if the second operating parameter is within the second parameter range corresponding to the reverse defrosting mode, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode, and the parameter threshold of the second parameter range is greater than the parameter threshold of the first parameter range.

4. The air conditioner as described in claim 3, characterized in that, When the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter corresponding to the reverse defrost mode, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrost mode, including: When the second operating parameter is within the range of the second parameter, the defrosting parameters of the other defrosting modes are detected, and the defrosting parameters include the number of times the other defrosting modes are run and / or the running time of the other defrosting modes; If the defrosting parameter is greater than or equal to the preset parameter threshold, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode.

5. The air conditioner as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The other defrosting modes include hot air defrosting mode and thin frost defrosting mode. Different defrosting modes correspond to different ranges of the first parameter. The controller detects whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the other defrosting modes, including: The controller detects whether the second operating parameter is within the range of the first parameter corresponding to the hot air defrosting mode; If so, defrost according to the hot air defrosting mode described above; If not, defrost according to the described thin-frost defrost mode.

6. The air conditioner as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The controller performs defrosting according to at least two defrosting modes, including: If the outdoor coil temperature is greater than or equal to the preset coil temperature, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode. The target defrosting mode is one or more of the at least two defrosting modes, and different defrosting modes correspond to different preset coil temperatures. And / or, if the defrosting duration of the target defrosting mode reaches the corresponding preset duration threshold, the controller stops running the target defrosting mode.

7. The air conditioner as described in claim 1, characterized in that, After the air conditioner is powered on and completes its first heating mode, the controller performs the first defrost in reverse defrost mode.

8. The air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The target temperature range includes one of a first temperature range and a second temperature range, and the target humidity range includes one of a first humidity range and a second humidity range. The controller performs defrosting according to the target defrosting scheme corresponding to the target defrosting conditions, including: When the real-time outdoor temperature is within a first temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within a first humidity range, defrosting is performed according to the reverse defrosting mode. When the real-time outdoor temperature is within a second temperature range and the real-time outdoor humidity is within a second humidity range, at least two defrosting modes are run in a target sequence, including a reverse defrosting mode. The target sequence includes running other defrosting modes besides the reverse defrosting mode before running the at least two defrosting modes. Wherein, the difference between the upper limit of the first temperature range and the lower limit of the second temperature range is less than or equal to a first preset threshold, and the difference between the lower limit of the first humidity range and the upper limit of the second humidity range is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold.

9. The air conditioner as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a third temperature sensor for collecting the coil temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the controller obtains the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment, including: The estimated defrosting time is determined based on the indoor temperature within a unit time period, the coil temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the compressor frequency. After the air conditioner is powered on and completes its first heating mode, it defrosts according to the target defrosting mode, which is any defrosting mode other than the reverse defrosting mode. The real-time outdoor humidity is determined based on the relationship between the actual defrosting time of the target defrosting mode and the estimated defrosting time.

10. The air conditioner as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes an outdoor humidity sensor, and the controller obtains the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment, including: The outdoor humidity sensor is used to obtain the real-time outdoor humidity of the outdoor environment.

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