air conditioner

Abstract

This utility model relates to an air conditioner, belonging to the technical field of air handling equipment. The air conditioner includes: a shell, an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, and an electrocatalytic module. The shell has an air inlet; the indoor heat exchanger is disposed within the shell; the indoor fan is disposed within the shell and blows air across the indoor heat exchanger; the electrocatalytic module includes: a heat-conducting element, a heating element, and a catalytic coating. The heat-conducting element is honeycomb-shaped; the heating element heats the heat-conducting element; the catalytic coating is adhered to the surface of the heat-conducting element. By heating the honeycomb-shaped heat-conducting element through the heating element of the electrocatalytic module, the heat-conducting element is uniformly heated, activating the catalytic performance of the catalytic coating, thereby achieving the purpose of highly efficient air purification and effectively removing harmful substances from the air. It is installed within the air duct of the air conditioner, has low air resistance, strong catalytic purification capacity, and is not easily deactivated, meeting the user's needs for long-term use and zero consumables.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of air handling equipment, and more particularly to an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] As a crucial device for indoor air conditioning, air conditioners primarily regulate indoor temperature and humidity. However, with rising living standards, the demand for high-quality indoor air is increasing. Air conditioners are no longer limited to traditional temperature and humidity control; air purification has become a key development direction for modern air conditioning systems. Especially in newly renovated buildings and indoor environments with activities such as smoking and cooking, the concentration of pollutants in the air is high, requiring air conditioners to possess effective gaseous pollutant purification capabilities to meet people's needs for a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

[0003] Air conditioners typically contain catalytic filters that convert harmful volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene into harmless substances like carbon dioxide and water. Integrating catalytic purification into an air conditioning system allows for the continuous removal of pollutants during air circulation, improving indoor air quality.

[0004] Currently, air conditioning catalytic purification technology on the market has some limitations. On the one hand, catalytic filters at room temperature are prone to generating intermediate products during the reaction process. These intermediate products adsorb onto the catalyst surface, occupying active sites, leading to a gradual decrease in catalyst efficiency and even secondary pollution problems such as acidification. On the other hand, for highly stable benzene compounds, the treatment efficiency of room-temperature catalytic filters is low, making it difficult to meet the requirements for controlling the risk of long-term exposure to low concentrations of benzene compounds. In addition, existing electrocatalytic purification devices mostly use electrothermal conduction to heat the filter. However, due to the thermal resistance characteristics and three-dimensional porous structure of the filter material, a significant temperature gradient will appear during heat conduction, resulting in uneven temperature distribution. This leads to insufficient utilization of catalytic active sites, and local low-temperature zones are prone to the accumulation of intermediate products, increasing the risk of secondary pollution. At the same time, to ensure the minimum activation temperature, the overall heating power needs to be increased, resulting in increased energy consumption. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model solves, to at least a certain extent, one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0006] Therefore, this application aims to provide an air conditioner in which a photocatalytic module can emit light to irradiate the catalytic coating on a heat-conducting component, and an electrocatalytic module can also heat the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting component, thereby enhancing the formaldehyde removal effect of the catalytic coating and achieving the purpose of efficient air purification, effectively removing harmful substances in the air. It is installed inside the air conditioner's duct, has low air resistance, strong catalytic purification ability, and is not easily deactivated, meeting users' needs for long-term use and zero consumables.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides an air conditioner, comprising:

[0008] The housing has an air inlet.

[0009] An indoor heat exchanger is disposed within the housing;

[0010] An indoor fan is disposed inside the housing and is used to blow air through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0011] An electrocatalytic module, comprising:

[0012] The heat-conducting component is honeycomb-shaped;

[0013] A heating element, wherein the heating element is used to heat the heat-conducting element;

[0014] A catalytic coating is disposed on the heat-conducting component.

[0015] In this technical solution, the heating element of the electrocatalytic module heats the honeycomb heat-conducting element, causing it to heat up evenly and further activating the catalytic performance of the catalytic coating. This achieves efficient air purification and effectively removes harmful substances from the air. Installed within the air conditioning duct, it features low air resistance, strong catalytic purification capability, and is not easily deactivated, meeting users' needs for long-term use and zero consumables.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the heat-conducting element includes a plurality of honeycomb holes, with the two ends of the honeycomb holes facing the air inlet and the indoor heat exchanger, respectively.

[0017] In this technical solution, such a structure facilitates airflow within the honeycomb pores, increasing the contact area and time between the air and the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting component. Simultaneously, it allows the heat generated by the heating element to be transferred more fully and efficiently to the heat-conducting component, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the catalytic coating and enhancing the catalytic reaction effect. Furthermore, the honeycomb structure reduces wind resistance, ensuring the normal ventilation performance of the air conditioner.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the heat-conducting element is plate-shaped, and the direction from the heat exchanger toward the air inlet is the thickness direction of the heat-conducting element;

[0019] The heating element is attached to the peripheral wall of the heat-conducting element.

[0020] In this technical solution, the design allows the heating element to fit closely to the heat-conducting element, making heat transfer more direct and uniform, reducing heat loss during the transfer process, improving heating efficiency, and ensuring that the heat-conducting element can heat up quickly and uniformly, thereby providing a more stable thermal environment for the catalytic coating and improving the catalytic purification effect.

[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the electrocatalytic module further includes a heat insulation layer;

[0022] The heat insulation layer wraps around the heat-conducting component; the heating component is located between the heat-conducting component and the heat insulation layer.

[0023] In this technical solution, the insulation layer effectively prevents heat conduction from escaping to the outside, avoiding heat dissipation to other areas inside the air conditioner. This prevents heat waste and avoids unnecessary thermal impact on other components. Simultaneously, the insulation layer concentrates heat transfer to the catalytic coating, improving thermal energy utilization efficiency and further enhancing the activity of the catalytic reaction.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the heating element is an electrothermal film, which includes two insulating films and an electrothermal paste located between the two insulating films, wherein the electrothermal paste is distributed in a serpentine pattern.

[0025] In this technical solution, the serpentine distribution of the electrothermal paste effectively increases the heating area, allowing the heat-conducting component to receive more uniform and sufficient heat per unit area. Upon energization, the electrothermal paste generates Joule heat, rapidly heating up with controllable temperature. The heating power can be adjusted according to actual needs to achieve precise temperature control, providing a stable heat source for the catalytic coating and meeting the catalytic temperature requirements under different operating conditions.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the serpentine distributed electrothermal paste includes a plurality of parallel first heating sections and a second heating section for connecting the plurality of first heating sections;

[0027] The honeycomb holes are regular hexagonal holes, and the length of the second heating section is the same as the length of one of the sides of the honeycomb holes.

[0028] The technical solution maximizes the heating area and achieves uniform heat distribution. The matching design between the length of the second heating section and the side length of the hexagonal honeycomb cells allows the electrothermal paste to be precisely distributed along the edges of the honeycomb cells, ensuring that each cell receives uniform heat. This layout not only improves heat transfer efficiency but also enhances the thermal stability and catalytic performance of the catalytic coating, thereby achieving a more efficient air purification effect.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, a photocatalytic module is further included, which is disposed within the housing and is used to emit light to irradiate the heat-conducting component.

[0030] In the technical solution, when needed, the photocatalytic module emits light to irradiate the heat-conducting component, causing the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting component to produce a photocatalytic reaction, decomposing pollutants in the air.

[0031] In some embodiments of this application, the photocatalytic module includes a mounting bracket and a light-emitting substrate. The mounting bracket is disposed on the side of the electrocatalytic module away from the indoor heat exchanger; the light-emitting substrate is disposed on the side of the mounting bracket facing the electrocatalytic module.

[0032] In the technical solution, when used in photocatalytic mode, the light generated by the light-emitting substrate illuminates the heat-conducting component, thereby achieving photocatalysis of the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting component, enabling the catalytic coating to decompose pollutants in the air and effectively remove harmful substances from the air.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting bracket is symmetrically provided with buckles, and two buckles are opposite each other to form a slot, and the light-emitting substrate is inserted into the slot;

[0034] The side of the buckle facing the heat-conducting component is a light-guiding surface, and the light-guiding surface is inclined from the side away from the other buckle toward the heat-conducting component.

[0035] In this technical solution, the light-emitting substrate is inserted into the slot, facilitating its installation and removal, maintenance, and replacement. Simultaneously, the light-guiding surface of the latch facing the heat-conducting component is designed to be angled, which better guides the light source towards the heat-conducting component, improving light utilization efficiency and ensuring the catalytic coating receives sufficient light intensity, thereby enhancing the photocatalytic reaction effect.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting bracket has heat dissipation holes that communicate with the card slot.

[0037] In this technical solution, heat dissipation holes facilitate the timely dissipation of heat generated by the light-emitting substrate during operation. The design of these holes effectively reduces the temperature of the light-emitting substrate, extends its lifespan, ensures the normal operation of the photocatalytic module, and also improves the overall safety and stability of the air conditioner, preventing malfunctions or safety hazards caused by overheating of the light-emitting substrate.

[0038] In addition, it also provides an air conditioner, which includes:

[0039] The housing has an air inlet.

[0040] An indoor heat exchanger is disposed within the housing;

[0041] An indoor fan is disposed inside the housing and is used to blow air through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0042] A catalytic filter is disposed inside the housing and is located near the air inlet;

[0043] An electrocatalytic module is disposed on the side of the catalytic filter away from the indoor heat exchanger; the electrocatalytic module includes:

[0044] The heat-conducting component is honeycomb-shaped;

[0045] A heating element, which is used to heat the heat-conducting element.

[0046] In this technical solution, when needed, the heating element of the electrocatalytic module heats the honeycomb heat-conducting element, causing it to heat up evenly. Air flows within the honeycomb pores of the heat-conducting element, carrying away heat. The heated air then flows through the catalytic filter, enhancing its formaldehyde removal performance. This achieves efficient air purification, effectively removing harmful substances from the air. Installed within the air conditioning duct, it features low air resistance, strong catalytic purification capability, and is not easily deactivated, meeting users' needs for long-term use and zero consumables.

[0047] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrocatalytic module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrocatalytic module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0054] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the electrocatalytic module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket portion of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric heating paste of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application.

[0059] In the above figures: 100, housing; 101, air inlet; 200, catalytic filter; 300, heat-conducting component; 400, heating component; 500, mounting bracket; 600, clip; 700, light-emitting substrate; 800, heat dissipation hole; 900, first heating section; 110, second heating section. Detailed Implementation

[0060] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0061] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0062] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0063] In this utility model, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0064] The present invention will now be described in detail through exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that, without further description, elements, structures, and features in one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments.

[0065] In this application, the indoor unit of the air conditioner includes a housing 100, an indoor heat exchanger, and an indoor fan. The indoor heat exchanger and the indoor fan are disposed inside the housing 100. Indoor air enters the housing 100 and comes into contact with the indoor heat exchanger. After the indoor heat exchanger exchanges heat with the air, the heat-exchanged air is output to the room under the action of the indoor fan, thereby achieving the regulation of the indoor temperature.

[0066] In the following, embodiments of this application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Please refer to all the accompanying drawings. In one illustrative embodiment of the air conditioner of this utility model, the air conditioner includes a housing 100, and an air inlet 101 is provided on the housing 100; the air inlet 101 is used for air to pass through and enter the housing 100.

[0068] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes an indoor heat exchanger disposed within the housing 100. The indoor heat exchanger is a key component for heat exchange in the air conditioning system. In cooling mode, refrigerant evaporates within the heat exchanger, absorbing heat from the surrounding air.

[0069] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes an indoor fan disposed within the housing 100. The indoor fan is used to blow air through an indoor heat exchanger. The indoor fan is disposed inside the housing 100. The indoor fan causes airflow to enter the housing 100 through the air inlet 101 and to be discharged to the room after heat exchange by the indoor heat exchanger.

[0070] In some embodiments, the air conditioner also includes an electrocatalytic module, which uses an electric field to activate catalytic materials, accelerate the decomposition of pollutants, and efficiently remove harmful substances such as formaldehyde, odors, and bacteria, resulting in a more thorough purification effect.

[0071] In some embodiments, the electrocatalytic module includes a heat-conducting element 300 and a heating element 400, wherein the heat-conducting element 300 is honeycomb-shaped; the heating element 400 is used to heat the heat-conducting element 300. The honeycomb structure of the heat-conducting element 300 helps to increase the contact area with air and improve heat transfer efficiency. This structural design allows air to be heated more evenly as it flows through, promoting the electrocatalytic reaction.

[0072] In some embodiments, a catalytic coating is provided on the heat-conducting component 300 to enable the entire heat-conducting component 300 to perform catalytic filtration. In particular, when the heat-conducting component 300 is heated, the catalytic coating is heated to catalyze the filtration process, thereby improving the catalytic filtration effect.

[0073] It is worth noting that a catalytic coating is applied to the surface of the heat-conducting component 300.

[0074] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes a photocatalytic module disposed within the housing 100. The photocatalytic module is used to emit light to irradiate the heat-conducting component 300. The light irradiating the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting component 300 activates the coating, accelerating the decomposition of harmful substances in the air, such as organic pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene, and microorganisms like bacteria and viruses, significantly improving the purification efficiency and sterilization effect of the catalytic coating. Simultaneously, photocatalysis can convert some difficult-to-decompose pollutants into easily processed small molecules, further optimizing air quality and delaying the degradation of the catalytic coating's activity, reducing maintenance and replacement costs, and providing users with a high-quality, healthy indoor air environment.

[0075] This application incorporates both an electrocatalytic module and a photocatalytic module. The electrocatalytic module's heating element 400 heats the honeycomb heat-conducting element 300, causing it to heat up uniformly. Air flows within the honeycomb pores of the heat-conducting element 300, carrying away heat. The heated air then flows through the catalytic filter, enhancing its formaldehyde removal performance and achieving highly efficient air purification, effectively removing harmful substances from the air. Installed within the air conditioning duct, it features low air resistance, strong catalytic purification capability, and is not easily deactivated, meeting users' needs for long-term use and zero consumables. When needed, the photocatalytic module emits light to illuminate the catalytic coating, causing the catalyst on the filter to undergo a photocatalytic reaction, decomposing pollutants in the air.

[0076] It is understandable that the electrocatalytic module can be turned on independently; the photocatalytic module can be turned on independently; and the photocatalytic module and the electrocatalytic module can be turned on simultaneously.

[0077] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting element 300 is plate-shaped, with its thickness direction extending from the heat exchanger towards the air inlet 101; the heating element 400 is attached to the peripheral wall of the heat-conducting element 300. That is, the heating element 400 is disposed on the side wall of the heat-conducting element that is neither facing the air inlet 101 nor the indoor heat exchanger. This design allows the heating element 400 to fit tightly against the heat-conducting element 300, resulting in more direct and uniform heat transfer, reducing heat loss during transfer, improving heating efficiency, and ensuring that the heat-conducting element 300 can heat up quickly and uniformly, thereby providing a more stable thermal environment for the catalytic coating and enhancing the catalytic purification effect.

[0078] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting element 300 includes a plurality of honeycomb holes, with both ends of the honeycomb holes facing the air inlet 101 and the indoor heat exchanger, respectively. This structure facilitates airflow within the honeycomb holes, increasing the contact area and time between the air and the catalytic coating on the heat-conducting element 300. Simultaneously, it allows the heat generated by the heating element 400 to be transferred to the heat-conducting element more fully and efficiently, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the catalytic coating and enhancing the catalytic reaction effect. At the same time, the honeycomb structure reduces wind resistance, ensuring the normal ventilation performance of the air conditioner.

[0079] It is worth noting that the catalytic coating is applied to the outer wall of the heat-conducting component 300 and also to the surface of the honeycomb pores.

[0080] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting element 300 includes a plurality of honeycomb holes that extend through the thickness direction of the heat-conducting element 300.

[0081] In some embodiments, the honeycomb pores are hexagonal, which efficiently utilizes space, maximizes the contact area between air and the heat-conducting component 300, and improves heat transfer efficiency. Their uniform geometry allows air to flow evenly within the pores, increasing the contact time between air and the pore walls, facilitating full heat transfer and enhancing the catalytic reaction effect. Simultaneously, the regular arrangement of the hexagonal pores ensures the uniformity and stability of airflow, improving the overall purification performance of the catalytic coating. Furthermore, the hexagonal pore structure is more economical in terms of material usage, reducing material waste and lowering costs while maintaining structural strength. In the electrocatalytic module, this pore shape facilitates the arrangement and heat distribution of the heating element 400, resulting in more uniform heating of the heat-conducting component 300 and further improving catalytic efficiency.

[0082] In some embodiments, to ensure the catalyst coating area and catalytic performance, the hexagonal honeycomb holes on the heat-conducting component 300 have a side length 'a' of 1-3 mm, a wall thickness of 0.1-0.2 mm, and a height of 5-15 mm. A side length of 1-3 mm maximizes the catalyst coating area, ensuring sufficient air contact with the catalyst and improving reaction efficiency. A wall thickness of 0.1-0.2 mm reduces material usage and cost while maintaining structural strength, decreasing thermal resistance, and improving heat transfer efficiency. A height of 5-15 mm balances sufficient catalytic reaction space with a compact design, ensuring sufficient residence time for air within the holes for catalytic reaction, while not increasing excessive wind resistance, maintaining air conditioning ventilation performance, and thus achieving efficient air purification.

[0083] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting component 300 is made of metal materials such as aluminum or copper. Metals such as aluminum and copper have excellent thermal conductivity, which can quickly and evenly transfer the heat generated by the heating component 400 to the catalytic coating, thereby improving the efficiency of the catalytic reaction.

[0084] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting component 300 is selected from heat-resistant plastics or ceramics with a 5-20 μm thermally conductive coating on the surface. These heat-resistant plastics or ceramics, while possessing a certain degree of thermal conductivity, also offer better corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, adapting to the complex operating environment inside the air conditioner. The surface thermally conductive coating further enhances the thermal conductivity of the non-metallic material, ensuring efficient heat transfer.

[0085] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element 300 is 200-1000 W / (m·K). Within this range of thermal conductivity, the requirement for uniform temperature distribution in the electrocatalytic module is met, thus improving the catalytic purification effect.

[0086] In some embodiments, the electrocatalytic module further includes a heat insulation layer; the heat insulation layer surrounds the heat-conducting component 300; and the heating component 400 is located between the heat-conducting component 300 and the heat insulation layer. The heat insulation layer effectively prevents the heat-conducting component 300 from dissipating heat to the outside, avoiding heat loss to other areas inside the air conditioner. This prevents heat waste and avoids unnecessary thermal impact on other components of the air conditioner. Simultaneously, the heat insulation layer allows heat to be transferred more concentratedly to the catalytic coating, improving thermal energy utilization efficiency and further enhancing the activity of the catalytic reaction.

[0087] In some embodiments, the heat insulation layer can be a rectangular frame, and the heat-conducting element 300 is disposed in a plate-like form within the heat insulation layer. The thickness plate of the heating element 400 adhering to the heat-conducting element 300 is located within the heat insulation layer.

[0088] In some embodiments, the heating element 400 is an electrothermal film, which includes two insulating films and an electrothermal paste located between the two insulating films, the electrothermal paste being distributed in a serpentine pattern.

[0089] In this technical solution, the serpentine distribution of the electrothermal paste effectively increases the heating area, allowing the heat-conducting component 300 to receive more uniform and sufficient heat per unit area. Upon power-on, the electrothermal paste generates Joule heat, rapidly heating up with controllable temperature. The heating power can be adjusted according to actual needs to achieve precise temperature control, providing a stable heat source for the catalytic coating and meeting the catalytic temperature requirements under different operating conditions.

[0090] In some embodiments, the serpentine distributed electrothermal paste includes a plurality of parallel first heating sections 900 and a second heating section 110 for connecting the plurality of first heating sections 900; the length of the second heating section 110 is the same as one side length of the honeycomb cells. This maximizes the heating area and achieves uniform heat distribution. The matching design of the length of the second heating section 110 with the side length of the regular hexagonal honeycomb cells allows the electrothermal paste to be precisely distributed along the edge of the honeycomb cells, ensuring that each honeycomb cell receives uniform heat. This layout not only improves the efficiency of heat transfer but also enhances the thermal stability and catalytic performance of the catalytic coating, thereby achieving a more efficient air purification effect.

[0091] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting element 300 can be understood as consisting of multiple heat-conducting units, each having a honeycomb hole. Multiple heat-conducting units are arrayed and connected. Any three adjacent heat-conducting units can share a sidewall.

[0092] In some embodiments, the length of the first heating section 900 is the same as the width of the heat-conducting element 300.

[0093] In some embodiments, the long side of the heat-conducting element 300 in the width direction is provided with a trapezoidal groove array that matches the first heating section 900. This can also be understood as the long side of the heat-conducting unit closest to the side of the heat-conducting element 300 being provided with a trapezoidal groove array that matches the first heating section 900. This design helps optimize the installation and heat distribution of the electrothermal film. The matching of the trapezoidal groove array with the first heating section 900 ensures that the electrothermal film can be tightly adhered to the heat-conducting element 300, thereby reducing heat loss during the transfer process and improving heating efficiency. This structure not only enhances the uniformity of heat transfer but also enables the heat-conducting element 300 to heat up quickly and uniformly, providing a stable thermal environment for the catalytic coating and thus improving the catalytic purification effect. Simultaneously, the trapezoidal groove array design also helps to enhance the overall structural strength of the heat-conducting element 300, preventing deformation or damage caused by thermal expansion and contraction, and ensuring the long-term stable operation of the electrocatalytic module.

[0094] In some embodiments, the short side of the hexagon near the honeycomb holes in the width direction of the heat-conducting element 300 is provided with an array of triangular grooves that match the wiring of the electrothermal film. Alternatively, the short side of the heat-conducting unit closest to the side of the heat-conducting element 300 is provided with an array of triangular grooves that match the wiring of the electrothermal film. The arrangement of the triangular groove array provides precise spatial support for the installation and wiring of the electrothermal film. This structural optimization not only increases the contact area between the electrothermal film and the heat-conducting element 300, enhancing the heat transfer efficiency from the electrothermal film to the heat-conducting element 300, but also ensures that the electrothermal film can be evenly distributed along the edge of the heat-conducting element 300, thereby achieving more uniform heat transfer. In this way, not only is the heat utilization efficiency improved, but the thermal stability and catalytic performance of the catalytic coating are also enhanced, thus achieving a more efficient air purification effect.

[0095] In some embodiments, the heating element 400's electrothermal film and the heat-conducting element 300 are bonded together by a hot-pressing process.

[0096] In addition, thermally conductive silicone and other adhesives can be used to replace the hot pressing process.

[0097] In some embodiments, the photocatalytic module is disposed on the side of the electrocatalytic module away from the indoor heat exchanger. This facilitates the placement of the photocatalytic module and allows for easy removal or replacement by the user in case of a photocatalytic module failure, thus simplifying maintenance.

[0098] In some embodiments, the photocatalytic module is positioned on the side of the electrocatalytic module facing the indoor heat exchanger. This arrangement ensures that the photocatalytic module can operate independently, and the light it emits can evenly illuminate the catalytic coating, exciting the catalyst to produce a photocatalytic reaction, effectively decomposing organic pollutants and microorganisms in the air and enhancing air purification. Simultaneously, this arrangement avoids mutual interference between the photocatalytic module and the electrocatalytic module, ensuring that they can work collaboratively, utilizing light and heat energy respectively to activate the catalytic coating, achieving more efficient and comprehensive air purification. Furthermore, this arrangement also helps optimize the internal space of the air conditioner, improving the compactness and rationality of the overall design.

[0099] In some embodiments, the photocatalytic module includes a mounting bracket 500 and a light-emitting substrate 700. The mounting bracket 500 is disposed on the side of the electrocatalytic module away from the indoor heat exchanger; the light-emitting substrate 700 is disposed on the side of the mounting bracket facing the electrocatalytic module. When used in photocatalytic mode, the light generated by the light-emitting substrate 700 can illuminate the heat-conducting element 300, thereby achieving photocatalysis of the catalytic coating, enabling the catalytic coating to decompose pollutants in the air and effectively remove harmful substances from the air.

[0100] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 500 is symmetrically provided with clips 600, and two clips 600 are opposite each other to form a slot, into which the light-emitting substrate 700 is inserted. The side of the clip 600 facing the heat-conducting element 300 is a light-guiding surface, which is inclined from the side away from the other clip 600 towards the heat-conducting element 300. The insertion of the light-emitting substrate 700 into the slot facilitates the installation and removal of the light-emitting substrate 700, and makes maintenance and replacement convenient. At the same time, the inclined design of the light-guiding surface of the clip 600 facing the heat-conducting element 300 can better guide the light source towards the heat-conducting element 300, improve the utilization efficiency of light, ensure that the catalytic coating receives sufficient intensity of light, and thus enhance the effect of photocatalytic reaction.

[0101] In some embodiments, the angle between the light guide surface and the side of the light-emitting substrate 700 facing the heat-guiding element 300 is 60° to 120°. This angle range ensures that the light generated by the light-emitting substrate 700 is guided to the catalytic coating with high efficiency, improving light utilization efficiency and ensuring that the catalytic coating receives sufficient light intensity, thereby enhancing the photocatalytic reaction effect. This angle design helps to avoid excessive light diffusion or reflection, allowing the light to be more concentrated and uniformly irradiated onto the catalytic coating, thereby improving the purification efficiency of the photocatalytic module. At the same time, a reasonable angle also helps to optimize the structural layout of the photocatalytic module, enabling it to exert its maximum photocatalytic effect within a limited space and improving the overall air purification performance of the air conditioner.

[0102] In some embodiments, the angle between the light guide surface and the side of the light-emitting substrate 700 facing the heat-conducting element 300 is greater than 60°. When the angle between the light guide surface and the side of the light-emitting substrate 700 facing the catalytic coating is 60°, the light can be guided to the catalytic coating in a more concentrated manner, ensuring that the intensity and coverage of the light are ideal and improving the photocatalytic efficiency. If the angle is less than 60°, the light may be too focused, resulting in excessive light in some areas and uneven photocatalysis. At the same time, other areas may be affected by insufficient light, reducing the overall purification performance.

[0103] In some embodiments, the angle between the light guide surface and the side of the light-emitting substrate 700 facing the heat-conducting element 300 is less than 120°. When the angle is 120°, the light distribution is more dispersed, the coverage area is increased, and this helps to improve the overall photocatalytic reaction efficiency of the catalytic coating. However, if the angle is greater than 120°, the dispersion of the light may exceed a reasonable range, resulting in an excessively long light propagation path and significant energy loss before reaching the catalytic coating, thereby reducing the efficiency of the photocatalytic reaction and potentially affecting its purification effect because the light cannot be effectively focused on the catalytic coating.

[0104] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 500 is provided with heat dissipation holes 800 communicating with the card slot. The heat dissipation holes 800 facilitate the timely dissipation of heat generated by the light-emitting substrate 700 during operation. The design of the heat dissipation holes 800 effectively reduces the temperature of the light-emitting substrate 700, extends its service life, ensures the normal operation of the photocatalytic module, and also improves the overall safety and stability of the air conditioner, preventing malfunctions or safety hazards caused by overheating of the light-emitting substrate 700.

[0105] In some embodiments, the number of heat dissipation holes 800 is multiple, further improving heat dissipation.

[0106] In the above scheme, the heating element 400 of the electrocatalytic module heats the honeycomb heat-conducting element 300, causing the heat-conducting element 300 to heat up uniformly, and the catalytic coating is heated to carry out the catalytic reaction. The heat-conducting element 300 with the catalytic coating on its surface can be considered as the catalytic filter 200. A separate catalytic filter 200 is not required.

[0107] In addition, this device also provides an air conditioner, which differs from the one described above only in that it includes a catalytic filter 200. The catalytic filter 200 is located within the housing 100 and is positioned near the air inlet 101. This proximity allows for efficient purification of the air entering the air conditioner. It decomposes harmful gases in the air, such as formaldehyde and odors, reducing pollutant buildup inside the air conditioner and preventing secondary pollution. Simultaneously, the catalytic effect lowers the conversion temperature of some pollutants, enhancing purification efficiency. It also inhibits bacterial growth to some extent, improves air circulation cleanliness, extends the lifespan of the air conditioner, optimizes indoor air quality, provides users with ample clean air, and ensures a healthy and comfortable user experience.

[0108] In the above scheme, after the heat-conducting component 300 is coated with a catalytic coating, the heat-conducting component 300 coated with the catalytic coating can be considered as the catalytic filter 200.

[0109] In this embodiment, the heat-conducting component 300 and the catalytic filter 200 are two separate structures.

[0110] In some embodiments, both the heat-conducting element 300 and the photocatalytic module are used to heat the catalytic filter 200.

[0111] In some embodiments, the electrocatalytic module is disposed on the side of the catalytic filter 200 away from the indoor heat exchanger. Light emitted by the photocatalytic module shines onto the catalytic filter 200 through the honeycomb holes of the heat-conducting element 300, thereby achieving photocatalysis.

[0112] In some embodiments, the electrocatalytic module is disposed on the side of the catalytic filter 200 facing the indoor heat exchanger.

[0113] In some embodiments, when the electrocatalytic module is positioned on the side of the catalytic filter 200 facing the indoor heat exchanger, the photocatalytic module is positioned on the side of the catalytic filter 200 away from the electrocatalytic module; that is, the photocatalytic module and the electrocatalytic module are respectively positioned on opposite sides of the catalytic filter 200. This arrangement avoids mutual interference between the photocatalytic module and the electrocatalytic module, ensuring that they can work together to activate the catalytic filter 200 using light and heat energy respectively, achieving more efficient and comprehensive air purification. Furthermore, this layout also helps optimize the internal space of the air conditioner, improving the compactness and rationality of the overall design.

[0114] In some embodiments, the air conditioner further includes a gas sensor and a controller. The gas sensor is used to detect the concentration of TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) and formaldehyde in the air, and obtain TVOC and formaldehyde values ​​respectively. The controller is configured to: control the gas sensor to obtain TVOC and formaldehyde values; determine whether the TVOC value is less than a first TVOC threshold; and simultaneously determine whether the formaldehyde value is less than a first formaldehyde threshold; if so, enter a first-level mode.

[0115] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to: determine whether the TVOC value is greater than a first TVOC threshold and less than a second TVOC threshold; if so, enter the second-level mode.

[0116] Alternatively, determine whether the formaldehyde value is greater than the first formaldehyde threshold and less than the second formaldehyde threshold; if so, proceed to the second-level mode.

[0117] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to: determine whether the TVOC value is greater than a first TVOC threshold and less than a second TVOC threshold; and simultaneously determine whether the formaldehyde value is greater than a first formaldehyde threshold and less than a second formaldehyde threshold; if so, then enter the three-level mode.

[0118] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to: determine whether the TVOC value is greater than a second TVOC threshold; if so, enter the fourth-level mode.

[0119] Alternatively, determine whether the formaldehyde value is greater than the second formaldehyde threshold; if so, proceed to the fourth-level mode.

[0120] Understandably, the difference between entering Level 3 and Level 4 is that Level 3 is entered if either the formaldehyde or TVOC level exceeds the standard. If both formaldehyde and TVOC levels exceed the standard, Level 4 is entered.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first formaldehyde threshold is 0.08 mg / m³. The second formaldehyde threshold is 0.3 mg / m³. The first TVOC threshold is 0.6 mg / m³. The second TVOC threshold is 2 mg / m³.

[0122] In some embodiments, in the primary mode, no action is taken. Because there is less contamination at this stage, the catalytic filter 200 itself is sufficient for filtration.

[0123] In some embodiments, in secondary mode, the photocatalytic module is controlled at 30mW / cm 2 Intermittent irradiation (mW / cm²). Control the electrocatalytic module heating to 40°C. Control the indoor fan to 50% of its rated speed in the current mode.

[0124] In some embodiments, in the three-level mode, the photocatalytic module is controlled at 50mW / cm 2 Intermittent irradiation. Control the electrocatalytic module heating to 80°C. Control the indoor fan to 70% of its rated speed in the current mode.

[0125] In some embodiments, in the fourth-level mode, the photocatalytic module is controlled at 200 mW / cm². 2 Intermittent irradiation. Control the electrocatalytic module heating to 120°C. Control the indoor fan to 100% of its rated speed in the current mode.

[0126] In some embodiments, as the catalytic filter 200 filters, the indoor TVOC and formaldehyde levels decrease, and the mode gradually changes accordingly, i.e., from level four to level three, then from level three to level two, and then from level two back to level one. However, airflow may cause fluctuations in the TVOC and formaldehyde levels detected by the gas sensor. To avoid repeated switching between modes, a preset time is set; the system will only switch to another mode after the current mode has run for the preset time. It is important to note that the mode referred to here is only one of the level one, level two, level three, and level four modes.

[0127] In some embodiments, airflow may cause fluctuations in the TVOC and formaldehyde values ​​detected by the gas sensor. To avoid repeated switching between modes, a degradation threshold is set. The degradation threshold from Level 3 to Level 2 is 0.25 mg / m³. The degradation threshold from Level 2 to Level 1 is 0.10 mg / m³.

[0128] In some embodiments, the efficiency of the catalytic filter 200 varies depending on the air conditioning mode. Therefore, in order to achieve the same purification capacity, the controller is configured to add a preset power boost to the power of the photocatalytic module in cooling mode.

[0129] In some embodiments, the preset power increase is 50%. That is, the controller is configured to increase the power of the photocatalytic module by 50% in cooling mode. For example, in secondary mode and in cooling mode, the photocatalytic module operates at 30m² + (30 * 50%) = 45W / cm². 2 run.

[0130] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to: in heating mode, subtract a preset temperature reduction value from the temperature of the electrocatalytic module.

[0131] In some embodiments, the preset temperature reduction value is 5°C. The controller is configured to reduce the temperature of the electrocatalytic module by 5°C in heating mode. For example, in secondary mode and heating mode, the temperature of the electrocatalytic module is 40-5=35°C.

[0132] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to increase the temperature of the electrocatalytic module by a preset temperature increment during nighttime silent mode.

[0133] In some embodiments, the preset temperature increment is 3°C. The controller is configured to increase the temperature of the electrocatalytic module by 3°C in nighttime silent mode. For example, in secondary mode and nighttime silent mode, the temperature of the electrocatalytic module is 40 + 3 = 43°C.

[0134] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: It includes: The housing has an air inlet. An indoor heat exchanger is disposed within the housing; An indoor fan is disposed inside the housing and is used to blow air through the indoor heat exchanger. An electrocatalytic module, comprising: The heat-conducting component is honeycomb-shaped; A heating element, wherein the heating element is used to heat the heat-conducting element; A catalytic coating is disposed on the heat-conducting component.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The heat-conducting component includes multiple honeycomb holes, with both ends of the honeycomb holes facing the air inlet and the indoor heat exchanger, respectively.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The heat-conducting component is plate-shaped; The heating element is attached to the peripheral wall of the heat-conducting element.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein The electrocatalytic module also includes a heat insulation layer; The heat insulation layer wraps around the heat-conducting component; the heating component is located between the heat-conducting component and the heat insulation layer.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein The heating element is an electrothermal film, which includes two insulating films and an electrothermal paste located between the two insulating films.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein The serpentine distribution of the electrothermal paste includes multiple parallel first heating sections and a second heating section for connecting the multiple first heating sections; The honeycomb holes are regular hexagonal holes, and the length of the second heating section is the same as the length of one of the sides of the honeycomb holes.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein It also includes a photocatalytic module, which is disposed inside the housing and is used to emit light to irradiate the heat-conducting component.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein The photocatalytic module includes a mounting frame and a light-emitting substrate. The mounting frame is located on the side of the electrocatalytic module away from the indoor heat exchanger; the light-emitting substrate is located on the side of the mounting frame facing the electrocatalytic module.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein The mounting bracket is symmetrically provided with buckles, and two buckles are opposite each other to form a slot, and the light-emitting substrate is inserted into the slot; The side of the buckle facing the heat-conducting component is a light-guiding surface, and the light-guiding surface is inclined from the side away from the other buckle toward the heat-conducting component.

10. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: It includes: The housing has an air inlet. An indoor heat exchanger is disposed within the housing; An indoor fan is disposed inside the housing and is used to blow air through the indoor heat exchanger. A catalytic filter is disposed inside the housing and is located near the air inlet; An electrocatalytic module is disposed on the side of the catalytic filter away from the indoor heat exchanger; The electrocatalytic module includes: The heat-conducting component is honeycomb-shaped; A heating element, which is used to heat the heat-conducting element.

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