Air conditioner

By setting up a power control circuit in the air conditioner and intelligently managing the power supply of the outdoor unit, the problem of high power consumption in the air conditioner standby state is solved, and the energy efficiency ratio is improved.

WO2025200064A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-10-02HISENSE (GUANGDONG) AIR CONDITIONER
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/CN2024/088706
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-03-27
Filing Date
2024-04-19
Publication Date
2025-10-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing air conditioners consume high power in standby mode, which affects the energy efficiency ratio and becomes a focus of attention for users and technicians.

Method used

By setting up a power control circuit between the outdoor unit and indoor unit of the air conditioner and using a signal line to control the on and off of the power supply line, intelligent power supply management of the outdoor unit power supply is achieved to avoid continuous power supply in standby mode.

Benefits of technology

Significantly reduce the power consumption of the air conditioner when in standby mode, improve energy efficiency and save electricity.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An air conditioner comprises an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The outdoor unit comprises an outdoor-unit main control circuit, an outdoor-unit communication circuit, a power supply control circuit and an outdoor power supply. The power supply control circuit comprises a first loop, a second loop and a trigger circuit, wherein the first loop is a loop where a connected power supply line supplies power to the outdoor power supply under the control of a power supply control signal; the second loop is a loop where the connected power supply line supplies power to the outdoor power supply under the control of a closed control signal; and the trigger circuit is configured to trigger, on the basis of the power supply control signal, the first loop to turn on.
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Description

air conditioner

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 18 / 617,902, filed on March 27, 2024, and Chinese patent application No. 202410366570.6, filed on March 27, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of control, and in particular to an air conditioner. Background Art

[0003] With the advancement of society and technology, air conditioners have become ubiquitous in every household. With their growing popularity, users are increasingly concerned about their energy efficiency (EER). EER refers to energy conversion efficiency, representing the ratio of heat output to electrical energy input. The higher the EER, the more energy the air conditioner saves. In today's increasingly environmentally friendly and energy-efficient world, EER is a growing concern, alongside cooling and noise reduction. In particular, the power consumption of air conditioners in standby mode is becoming a key concern for users and technicians.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] An air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit includes an indoor unit main control circuit, an indoor unit communication circuit, and at least one indoor power supply. The indoor unit main control circuit is configured to control the operation of the at least one indoor power supply and the indoor unit communication circuit, as well as control communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. The indoor unit communication circuit is connected to the power control circuit and the outdoor unit communication circuit of the outdoor unit via a signal line and is configured to communicate with the outdoor unit. The at least one indoor power supply is configured to supply power to the indoor unit main control circuit and the indoor unit communication circuit. The live terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the live terminal of the indoor unit, and the live terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the live wire of the power supply line. The neutral terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the neutral terminal of the indoor unit, and the neutral terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the neutral wire of the power supply line. The outdoor unit includes the outdoor unit main control circuit, the outdoor unit communication circuit, the power control circuit, and at least one outdoor power supply. The outdoor unit main control circuit is configured to control the operation of the at least one outdoor power supply, the power supply control circuit, and the outdoor unit communication circuit, as well as control communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. The outdoor unit communication circuit is configured to communicate with the indoor unit. The power supply control circuit is disposed on the circuit that supplies power to the at least one outdoor power supply via the power supply line and is configured to control the power supply line to supply power to the at least one outdoor power supply by switching the circuit on and off. The at least one outdoor power supply is configured to supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit and the outdoor unit communication circuit upon receiving power from the power supply line. The power supply control circuit includes a first circuit, a second circuit, and a trigger circuit. The first circuit is the circuit that connects the power supply line to supply power to the at least one outdoor power supply under the control of a power supply control signal. The power supply control signal is a signal sent by the indoor unit communication circuit to the power supply control circuit via the signal line. The second circuit is the circuit that connects the power supply line to supply power to the at least one outdoor power supply under the control of a closing control signal. The closing control signal is a signal sent by the outdoor unit main control circuit to the power supply control circuit after the at least one outdoor power supply is powered on via the first circuit. The first loop and the second loop are connected in parallel, and the impedance of the second loop is smaller than that of the first loop. The trigger circuit is connected to the signal line and the first loop, and is configured to trigger the first loop to conduct according to the power supply control signal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG1 is a circuit diagram of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit in an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0007] FIG2 is a block diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0008] FIG3 is a structural diagram of a power control circuit according to some embodiments;

[0009] FIG4 is another structural diagram of a power control circuit according to some embodiments;

[0010] FIG5 is another structural diagram of a power control circuit according to some embodiments;

[0011] FIG6 is a structural diagram of an indoor unit according to some embodiments;

[0012] FIG7 is a structural diagram of an outdoor unit according to some embodiments;

[0013] FIG8 is a working timing logic diagram of an air conditioner startup process according to some embodiments;

[0014] FIG9 is a working timing logic diagram of an air conditioner shutdown process according to some embodiments;

[0015] FIG10 is another structural diagram of an indoor unit according to some embodiments;

[0016] FIG11 is another structural diagram of an outdoor unit according to some embodiments;

[0017] FIG12 is another working timing logic diagram during the air conditioner startup process according to some embodiments;

[0018] FIG13 is another working timing logic diagram during the air conditioner shutdown process according to some embodiments;

[0019] FIG14 is a structural diagram of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0020] FIG15 is another structural diagram of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0021] FIG16 is a structural diagram of a second power supply according to some embodiments;

[0022] FIG17 is a structural diagram of a trigger circuit according to some embodiments;

[0023] FIG18 is another working timing logic diagram during the air conditioner startup process according to some embodiments;

[0024] FIG19 is another structural diagram of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0025] FIG20 is another structural diagram of a trigger circuit according to some embodiments;

[0026] FIG21 is another working timing logic diagram during the startup process of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0027] FIG22 is another structural diagram of an air conditioner according to some embodiments;

[0028] FIG23 is a structural diagram of a fourth power supply according to some embodiments;

[0029] FIG24 is another structural diagram of a trigger circuit according to some embodiments;

[0030] FIG. 25 is another working timing logic diagram during the air conditioner startup process according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings to clearly and completely describe some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments provided by the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0032] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprise" and its other forms, such as the third person singular form "comprises" and the present participle form "comprising", are to be interpreted as open and inclusive, that is, "including, but not limited to". In the description of the specification, the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "exemplary embodiments", "example", "specific example" or "some examples" are intended to indicate that the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics associated with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. In addition, the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics may be included in any one or more embodiments or examples in any appropriate manner.

[0033] In the following, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0034] When describing some embodiments, the expressions "coupled" and "connected" and their derivatives may be used. The term "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. The term "coupled" indicates, for example, that two or more components are in direct physical or electrical contact. The term "coupled" or "communicatively coupled" may also refer to two or more components that are not in direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the contents of this document.

[0035] “At least one of A, B and C” has the same meaning as “at least one of A, B or C” and both include the following combinations of A, B and C: A only, B only, C only, the combination of A and B, the combination of A and C, the combination of B and C, and the combination of A, B and C.

[0036] “A and / or B” includes the following three combinations: A only, B only, and a combination of A and B.

[0037] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally interpreted to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined that" or "if [stated condition or event] is detected" are optionally interpreted to mean "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon detecting [stated condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [stated condition or event]," depending on the context.

[0038] The use of "adapted to" or "configured to" herein is intended to be open and inclusive language that does not exclude devices adapted or configured to perform additional tasks or steps.

[0039] As used herein, "about," "substantially," or "approximately" includes the stated value and an average value that is within an acceptable range of deviation from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurements in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system).

[0040] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner 10. As shown in FIG1 , the air conditioner 10 includes an indoor unit 100 (also referred to as the air conditioner indoor unit) and an outdoor unit 200 (also referred to as the air conditioner outdoor unit). The indoor unit 100 is located indoors, and the outdoor unit 200 can be located outdoors. The air conditioner 10 also includes a power supply circuit 300 for providing commercial power to the air conditioner 10. The power supply circuit 300 includes the live wire L, neutral wire N, and ground wire shown in FIG1 .

[0041] As shown in Figure 1, the outdoor unit 200 includes a connection terminal SI1 for the outdoor unit communication circuit (described later), a live terminal L1, and a neutral terminal N1. The indoor unit 100 includes a connection terminal SI2 for the indoor unit communication circuit (described later). The connection terminal SI1 of the outdoor unit communication circuit is connected to the connection terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit via a signal line (SI). The live terminal L1 of the outdoor unit 200 is connected to the live terminal L2 of the indoor unit 100, and both are connected to the live line L of the power supply circuit 300. The neutral terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200 is connected to the neutral terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, and both are connected to the neutral line N of the power supply circuit 300. In other words, the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100 can be powered by the same power supply circuit 300.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2 , the outdoor unit 200 further includes an outdoor unit main control circuit 210 (also referred to as an outdoor unit main control board), a power supply 220 , a power supply control circuit 230 and an outdoor unit communication circuit 240 .

[0043] The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is configured to control the operation of other modules of the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., the power supply control circuit 230) and communication between the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 can be a control chip or a circuit including a control chip. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is further configured to send a disconnection control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 after the power supply 220 is powered on.

[0044] The power supply 220 is configured to convert the voltage provided by the power supply line 300 (typically 220V AC mains) into the voltage required by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, and other modules of the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., 3.3V DC voltage). Thus, after receiving power from the power supply line 300, the power supply 220 can power the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, and other modules.

[0045] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure do not limit the number or type of the power supply 220 of the outdoor unit 200. The power supply 220 can be a power supply with frequency conversion, voltage conversion, or AC / DC conversion functions. For example, the power supply 220 includes a DC current source or an AC current source. The power supply 220 can be one or more. When there is one power supply 220, the power supply 220 can provide corresponding DC voltage or AC voltage to different circuit components in the outdoor unit 200 simultaneously or at different time periods. When there are multiple power supplies 220, each power supply can provide corresponding DC voltage or AC voltage to different circuit components in the outdoor unit 200.

[0046] The power control circuit 230 is set on the loop of the power supply line 300 that supplies power to the power supply 220, and is configured to control whether the power supply line 300 supplies power to the power supply 220 by controlling the on and off of the loop, and further to control whether the power supply 220 supplies power to other modules of the outdoor unit 200.

[0047] The outdoor unit communication circuit 240 is connected to the indoor unit communication circuit via a signal line S1 to communicate with the indoor unit communication circuit, thereby realizing communication between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200. As a result, a command received by the indoor unit 100 can be transmitted to the outdoor unit 200, or the operating status of the outdoor unit 200 can be transmitted to the indoor unit 100.

[0048] It should be noted that the power control circuit 230 may be part of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 or may be independent of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The outdoor unit communication circuit 240 may also be part of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 or may be independent of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The following description will only take the example of the case where both the power control circuit 230 and the outdoor communication circuit 240 are independent of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0049] As can be seen from the above, the power control circuit 230 is disposed on the loop through which the power supply line 300 supplies power to the power supply 220. It controls whether the power supply line 300 supplies power to the power supply 220 by controlling the on / off state of the loop. For example, the power control circuit 230 is configured to connect the loop through which the power supply line 300 supplies power to the power supply 220 in response to a power control signal (e.g., a signal of a predetermined level) transmitted by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI, thereby enabling the power supply line 300 to supply power to the power supply 220, which in turn enables the power supply 220 to supply power to the various modules of the outdoor unit 200. The loop through which the power control circuit 230 connects the power supply line 300 to supply power to the power supply 220 under the control of the power control signal is referred to as the first loop H1 (as shown in FIG. 3 ).

[0050] The predetermined level signal is, for example, a high level that lasts for a predetermined period of time. The power supply control signal is issued by the indoor unit 100, for example, by the indoor unit communication circuit 130 (see Figure 6), or by other modules of the indoor unit 100 and transmitted to the signal line SI via the indoor unit communication circuit 130, which is not limited in this embodiment of the present disclosure. The connectivity of the first circuit H1 can be maintained by the power supply control signal. For example, when the predetermined level signal is present, the first circuit H1 remains connected, and when the predetermined level signal disappears, the first circuit H1 is disconnected.

[0051] Since signal line SI is used for communication between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200, if the power supply control signal (a predetermined level signal, such as a high level signal) is maintained on signal line SI to maintain connectivity of the first circuit H1, it will affect other communications between the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100. Therefore, after the first circuit H1 is connected to power the power supply 220, the power control circuit 230 needs to connect the power supply line 300 to the second circuit H2 (as shown in Figure 3), replacing the first circuit H1. Therefore, the power control circuit 230 is also configured to connect the second circuit H2 in response to a disconnection control signal sent by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. Consequently, after the power supply control signal disappears, that is, after the first circuit H1 is disconnected, power is supplied to the power supply 220 via the second circuit H2. The circuit through which the power control circuit 230 connects the power supply line 300 to power the power supply 220 under the control of the disconnection control signal is referred to as the second circuit H2.

[0052] It should be noted that the above-mentioned circuit breaker control signal can be sent by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 as well as by other modules, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0053] To enable normal communication between the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100, the power control circuit 230 is further configured to, in response to a disconnection control signal transmitted by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, disconnect the receiving loop of the power control signal from the indoor unit communication circuit 130 to the power control circuit 230. This allows the communication signal transmitted by the indoor unit communication circuit 130 via the signal line S1 to flow to the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 instead of to the power control circuit 230, thereby enabling normal communication between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200. The power control circuit 230 is further configured to, in response to the absence of the disconnection control signal, connect the receiving loop of the power control signal from the indoor unit communication circuit 130 to the power control circuit 230, thereby preparing for reconnection of the first loop H1.

[0054] To implement the functions of the power control circuit 230 described above, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a circuit structure of the power control circuit 230 is provided, as shown in FIG3 . The power control circuit 230 includes a switching relay K1 and a normally closed transfer relay K2. The switching relay K1 is configured to close in response to the power control signal transmitted by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI, thereby connecting the first circuit H1 of the power supply line 300 to supply power to the power source 220, that is, connecting the first circuit H1 between the neutral line N and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200 (in FIG3 , N-OUT represents the neutral terminal N1 in FIG1 ). The normally closed changeover relay K2 is configured to switch its movable contact from being connected to the normally closed contact to being connected to the normally open contact in response to the disconnection control signal transmitted by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. This disconnects the signal line S1 from supplying power to the switch relay K1, thereby disconnecting the first circuit H1 from the power supply line 300 supplying power to the power source 220, and connecting the second circuit H2 from the power supply line 300 supplying power to the power source 220, namely, connecting the second circuit H2 between the neutral line N and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200. The operating states of both the switch relay K1 and the normally closed changeover relay K2 can be changed by whether or not power is supplied to them.

[0055] There are many ways to supply power to the switch relay K1, and different power supply methods correspond to different structures of the power control circuit 230. The following describes two different structures of the power control circuit 230 and explains the ways to supply power to the switch relay K1.

[0056] In some embodiments, the switching relay K1 can be powered by the signal line SI, thereby connecting the circuit powering the switching relay K1 via the signal line SI. The switching relay K1 is configured to close in response to the power control signal transmitted by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI, thereby connecting the first circuit H1 of the power supply line 300 to power the power source 220. For example, the power control circuit 230 implements this approach using the circuit structure shown in FIG4 . As shown in FIG4 , one end of the normally open contact of the switching relay K1 is connected to the neutral line N of the power supply line 300 via a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) resistor RT1, and the other end is connected to the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200. The coil of the switching relay K1 has one end connected to the signal line SI and the other end connected to the normally closed contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2. The movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is connected to the neutral line N, and the normally open contact is connected to the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200. The power supply to the coil of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is controlled by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The indoor unit 100 transmits the power supply control signal to the coil of the switching relay K1 via the signal line S1, closing the normally open contact of the switching relay K1 and the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 with its normally closed contact. This establishes electrical continuity between the neutral line N of the power supply circuit 300 and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200.

[0057] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG5 , the power control circuit 230 further includes a level signal providing circuit 2301. This level signal providing circuit 2301 is configured to respond to the power control signal transmitted by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI and provide an operating level signal (e.g., a high level signal) to the switching relay K1, thereby connecting the circuit that supplies power to the switching relay K1. The switching relay K1 is configured to close in response to the operating level signal transmitted by the level signal providing circuit 2301, thereby connecting the power supply line 300 to the first circuit H1 that supplies power to the power source 220.

[0058] For example, the power control circuit 230 can implement this method using the circuit structure shown in Figure 5. The level signal providing circuit 2301 includes a comparator circuit N1A, a transistor circuit V1, and a voltage divider circuit 2302. As shown in Figure 5, the comparator circuit N1A includes a positive input terminal (+), a negative input terminal (-), and an output terminal (OUT). The transistor circuit V1 includes a base (B), a collector (C), and an emitter (E). The positive input terminal (+) of the comparator circuit N1A is configured to receive a predetermined voltage provided by the voltage divider circuit 2302, the negative input terminal (-) is used to receive the power supply control signal sent by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI, and the output terminal (OUT) is connected to the base (B) of the transistor circuit V1. The comparator circuit N1A is configured to output a high level at the output terminal (OUT) after receiving the power supply control signal sent by the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI at the negative input terminal (-). The collector (C) of transistor circuit V1 is connected to the coil of switching relay K1, and the emitter (E) is connected to the normally closed contact of normally closed changeover relay K2. Transistor circuit V1 is configured such that, upon receiving a high level at the output (OUT) of comparator circuit N1A at its base (B), the collector (C) and emitter (E) are connected, thereby connecting the power supply circuit for switching relay K1. As shown in Figure 5, one end of the normally open contact of switching relay K1 is connected to the neutral line N of power supply circuit 300 via PTC resistor RT1, and the other end is connected to the neutral line terminal N-OUT of outdoor unit 200. The coil of switching relay K1 has one end connected to a reference voltage, and the other end is connected to the collector (C) of transistor circuit V1. The moving contact of the normally closed switching relay K2 is connected to the neutral line N, and the normally open contact is connected to the neutral line terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200. The power supply of the coil of the normally closed switching relay K2 is controlled by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0059] After receiving the power supply control signal transmitted from the indoor unit 100 via signal line SI at its negative input (-), comparator circuit N1A outputs a high level from its output (OUT) and transmits this high level to the base (B) of transistor circuit V1. Transistor circuit V1 is an NPN transistor. Receiving this high level at its base (B) causes the collector (C) and emitter (E) to conduct, thereby connecting the circuit powering switching relay K1. In this state, switching relay K1 closes, and the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 closes with its normally closed contact, thus connecting the first circuit H1 between the neutral line N of the power supply circuit 300 and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200.

[0060] Alternatively, in some embodiments, after receiving the power supply control signal transmitted from the indoor unit 100 via the signal line SI at the negative input terminal (-) of the comparator circuit N1A, the comparator circuit N1A outputs a low level from the output terminal (OUT) and transmits this low level to the base (B) of the transistor circuit V1. Transistor circuit V1 is a PNP type transistor. Upon receiving this low level, the base (B) of the transistor circuit V1 conducts the collector (C) and emitter (E), thereby connecting the circuit that supplies power to the switching relay K1.

[0061] It should be noted that the above are only two exemplary descriptions of the structure of the power control circuit 230 and the power supply to the switch relay K1 under the corresponding structure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0062] The technical solution of controlling the power supply of the power supply 220 by the power control circuit 230 is further described below with reference to Figures 6 and 7. For example, the circuit structure of the indoor unit 100 may be as shown in Figure 6, and the circuit structure of the outdoor unit 200 may be as shown in Figure 7.

[0063] As shown in Figure 6, the indoor unit 100 includes an indoor unit main control circuit 110 (also known as an indoor unit main control board), a power supply 120, and an indoor unit communication circuit 130. The indoor unit communication circuit 130 includes an optocoupler B3 and an optocoupler B4. Optocoupler B3 is the communication transmitting end (TXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100, and optocoupler B4 is the communication receiving end (RXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100. Optocoupler B3 and optocoupler B4 serve to isolate signals. The indoor unit communication circuit 130 also includes a diode D4, a diode D5, a PTC resistor RT3, a varistor RV2, a resistor R10, a resistor R11, a resistor R12, and a capacitor C4. The above-mentioned diode D4 is a reverse freewheeling diode and serves as a reverse withstand voltage protection. Diode D5 is a forward diode that prevents reverse current flow and reverse withstand voltage protection. PTC resistor RT3 serves as current limiting and short-circuit overcurrent protection. Varistor RV2 serves as a surge voltage absorber. Resistors R10 and R12 act as current limiters, while resistor R11 and capacitor C4 form an RC filter circuit.

[0064] Because different circuit components in the indoor unit 100 may require different operating voltages, multiple power supplies 120 may be provided in the indoor unit 100 to power different circuit components. For example, FIG6 illustrates a power supply 120 that provides the 5V voltage required for operation of the indoor unit main control circuit 110, which is isolated from the power supply 120 that provides the 30V voltage required for operation of the indoor unit communication circuit 130. This means that the 5V and 30V voltages required for operation of the circuit components can be provided by different power supplies 120. The specific implementation of power supply 120 will not be detailed here; the description of the power supply 120 of the indoor unit 100 is similar to that of the power supply 220 of the outdoor unit 200.

[0065] As shown in Figure 7, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 includes a PTC resistor RT2, a varistor RV1, a diode D1, a diode D2, a resistor R1, a resistor R3, a resistor R4, a resistor R5, a capacitor C1, a capacitor C2, a capacitor C3, an optocoupler B1 (also referred to as a first optocoupler), and an optocoupler B2 (also referred to as a second optocoupler). The outdoor unit 200 also includes a post-stage rectifier bridge VC1 and an electrolytic capacitor E2. The PTC resistor RT2 provides current limiting and short-circuit overcurrent protection. The varistor RV1 absorbs surge voltage. The diode D1 is a forward diode that prevents reverse current flow and provides reverse voltage protection. The diode D2 is a reverse freewheeling diode that provides reverse overvoltage protection. The resistors R1, R3, and R5 are current-limiting resistors. The capacitors C1 and C3 provide filtering. Optocoupler B1 is the outdoor unit's transmitter (TXD_IDU), and optocoupler B2 is the outdoor unit's receiver (RXD_IDU). Optocouplers B1 and B2 isolate the signals. Resistor R4 and capacitor C2 form an RC filter circuit.

[0066] Similar to the indoor unit 100, since the operating voltages of different circuit components in the outdoor unit 200 may be different, for example, the 3.3V voltage and 12V voltage shown in Figure 7 are provided by different power supplies 220, and the specific implementation method of the power supply of the power supply 220 will not be described in detail here.

[0067] It should be noted that, in Figures 6 and 7 , the diode includes an anode A and a cathode K. The transistor includes a base B, a collector C, and an emitter E.

[0068] When the air conditioner 10 is in standby mode, the optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit 100 shown in Figure 6 stops sending signals, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 shown in Figure 7 is de-energized, and the switching relay K1 in the power control circuit 230 is disconnected, while the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is closed to its normally closed contact. In this state, both the first circuit H1 and the second circuit H2 between the neutral line N (also referred to as the N line) and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200 are disconnected, meaning that the power supply line 300 cannot supply power to the power supply 220, and thus the power supply 220 cannot supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. As a result, the outdoor unit 200 does not generate any standby power consumption, significantly reducing the power consumption of the air conditioner 10 during standby mode.

[0069] When the air conditioner 10 needs to be powered on, the indoor unit main control circuit 110, via the MCU (Microcontroller Unit), controls the collector C and emitter E (CE) of the optocoupler B3 to conduct. After the CE of the optocoupler B3 is turned on, a voltage (exemplarily +30V) referenced to the neutral line is transmitted sequentially through the optocoupler B3, optocoupler B4, diode D5, PTC resistor RT3, and signal line SI to the outdoor unit 200. The voltage on signal line SI then passes through the outdoor unit 200's PTC resistor RT2 to the coil of the switching relay K1 and returns to the neutral line through the normally closed contacts of the normally closed transfer relay K2, thus forming a closed current loop. In this state, the switching relay K1 is closed (i.e., the first loop H1 is turned on), and the power supply circuit 300 supplies power to the subsequent rectifier bridge VC1 and electrolytic capacitor E2 through the PTC resistor RT1 and the normally open contacts of the switching relay K1, thereby energizing the power supply 220 of the outdoor unit 200.

[0070] It should be noted that the MCU mentioned above can be the indoor unit main control circuit 110 itself or a part of the indoor unit main control circuit 110.

[0071] After the outdoor unit 200's power supply 220 is powered, it supplies power to the outdoor unit's main control circuit 210. This power supply then provides a circuit-breaking control signal to the power supply control circuit 230. This signal causes the outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 to energize the coil of the normally closed changeover relay K2. This causes the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 to switch from a normally closed position to a normally open position, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the neutral line and the outdoor unit 200's neutral terminal N-OUT via the second circuit H2. This continuously supplies power to the post-stage rectifier bridge VC1 and electrolytic capacitor E2, maintaining power to the power supply 220 and ensuring reliable power supply to the outdoor unit 200. The disconnection of the normally closed contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 disconnects the circuit powering the coil of the switching relay K1, causing the switching relay K1 to cease operation (i.e., disconnecting the first circuit). After the normally closed transfer relay K2 is energized, the current signal on the signal line SI flows to the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, that is, the current signal flows to the optocoupler B1 and the optocoupler B2 through the current limiting resistor R1 and the forward diode D1 of the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, thereby connecting the communication loop between the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, so that the voltage of the signal line SI switches between high and low levels with the communication square wave signal, thereby causing the indoor unit main control circuit 110 and the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 of the air conditioner 10 to enter a normal working state, so that other communication data can be transmitted between the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240.

[0072] When the air conditioner 10 is turned on, the working timing logic of the circuit can be seen in FIG8 .

[0073] As shown in Figure 8, the power supply circuit 300 always has AC mains power. The time period t0-t1 is the time period when the optocoupler B3 is turned off. During this time period, the CE voltage of the optocoupler B3 is at a high level. At this time, during the time period t0-t1, the indoor unit communication circuit 130 does not transmit the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 through the signal line SI. Therefore, the voltage on the signal line SI during this time period is at a low level. During the time period t0-t1, neither the switching relay K1 nor the normally closed transfer relay K2 is energized, so the voltages on their coils are both at a low level; and during this time period, neither the first circuit H1 nor the second circuit H2 of the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the power supply 220 is connected. The power supply 220 is not powered, so the voltage of the power supply 220 is 0.

[0074] During the time period t1-t2, optocoupler B3 is turned on. During this time, the CE voltage of optocoupler B3 is low. The indoor unit communication circuit 130 transmits the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via signal line SI. The voltage on signal line SI is high, energizing the switching relay K1. The first loop H1 of the power supply circuit 300, which supplies power to the power supply 220, is connected. The power supply 220 begins to power up and, in turn, supplies power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. At time t2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a disconnection control signal to the power supply control circuit 230. The normally closed transfer relay K2 is energized, and the voltage on its coil changes from low to high, connecting the second loop H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supplies power to the power supply 220. The switching relay K1 is de-energized, and the voltage on its coil changes from high to low. After the switching relay K1 is de-energized, the voltage on signal line SI also changes from high to low. After this, signal line SI can transmit other communication data.

[0075] When the air conditioner receives a shutdown command, the indoor unit's optocoupler B3 stops sending signals, and the outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 stops supplying power to the normally closed switching relay K2. Normally closed switching relay K2 switches its moving contact from normally open to normally closed, disconnecting the neutral line from the outdoor unit's neutral terminal N-OUT (i.e., the second circuit H2 is disconnected). Since optocoupler B3 is now off, no current flows through switching relay K1, and switching relay K1 remains de-energized. The outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 then shuts down, awaiting the next power-on command. The circuit's operating timing logic during this process can be seen in Figure 9.

[0076] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the circuit structure of the indoor unit 100 may be as shown in FIG. 10 , and the circuit structure of the outdoor unit 200 may be as shown in FIG. 11 .

[0077] As shown in Figure 10, the indoor unit communication circuit 130 includes a resistor R9, a resistor R10, a resistor R11, a resistor R12, a diode D2, a capacitor C3, a capacitor C4, an optocoupler B3, and an optocoupler B4. Resistors R9, R10, and R12 are current-limiting resistors. Diode D2 provides reverse voltage protection. Capacitor C3 provides filtering. Optocoupler B3 is the communication transmitting end (TXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100, and optocoupler B4 is the communication receiving end (RXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100. Optocoupler B3 and optocoupler B4 are used to isolate signals. Resistor R11 and capacitor C4 form an RC filter circuit.

[0078] As shown in Figure 11, the power supply control circuit 230 includes components such as a switching relay K1, a normally closed transfer relay K2, a comparator circuit N1A, a transistor circuit V1, resistors R6, R7, R8, and a PTC resistor RT1. The power supply 220 includes a capacitor C1, a resistor R1, a diode D1, a Zener diode Z1, and a Zener capacitor E1. The outdoor unit communication circuit 240 includes components such as an optocoupler B1 (also referred to as a first optocoupler) and an optocoupler B2 (also referred to as a second optocoupler), resistors R3, R4, R5, and a capacitor C2.

[0079] Capacitor C1, resistor R1, and diode D1 form a RC step-down half-wave rectifier circuit. Zener diode Z1 and stabilizing capacitor E1 form a voltage stabilization circuit. Power supply 220 generates a regulated power supply, for example, 15V, using the N line as a reference ground. Optocoupler B1 serves as the outdoor unit's communication transmitter, while optocoupler B2 serves as the outdoor unit's communication receiver. Optocouplers B1 and B2 isolate the signal. Resistor R2 acts as a voltage divider. Resistors R3 and R5 act as current limiters. Resistor R4 and capacitor C2 form an RC filter circuit.

[0080] The positive input (+) of the comparator circuit N1A of the power control circuit 230 can be input with a fixed voltage level of, for example, 7.5V. This fixed voltage level of 7.5V is generated by a voltage divider circuit composed of resistors R7 and R8. The negative input (-) of the comparator circuit N1A receives the signal sent by the signal line SI. Resistor R6 is a pull-up resistor for the output (OUT) of the comparator circuit N1A. The output (OUT) of the comparator circuit N1A controls the base (B pole) of the NPN-type transistor circuit V1. The transistor circuit V1 can control the on and off of the switching relay K1. The PTC resistor RT1 limits the inrush current when the outdoor unit 200 is powered on. When the coil of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is not energized, the moving contact connects to the normally closed contact, thereby connecting the N line and the emitter (E pole) of the transistor circuit V1. When the coil of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is in operation, the moving contact is connected to the normally open contact, thereby connecting the N line and the neutral line terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200 to supply power to the power supply 220 .

[0081] When the air conditioner 10 is in standby mode, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is de-energized, the optocoupler B1 receives no power signal, and the CE terminal of the optocoupler B1 is cut off. The optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130 has not received a power-on command and is also cut off. At this time, the voltage on the signal line SI is equal to the output voltage of the Zener diode Z1 (e.g., 15V), and the voltage at the positive input terminal (+) of the comparator circuit N1A is 7.5V. The negative input terminal (-) of the comparator circuit receives the 15V voltage of the signal line SI, which is higher than the 7.5V voltage at the positive input terminal (+). Therefore, the comparator circuit N1A outputs a low level, disabling the CE terminal of the transistor circuit V1. This disables power to the switching relay K1, disconnecting the first loop H1 between the neutral line and the outdoor unit 200's neutral terminal N-OUT. Consequently, the power supply circuit 300 cannot supply power to the power supply 220, and consequently, the power supply 220 cannot supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. Consequently, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 does not generate standby power.

[0082] When the air conditioner 10 needs to be turned on, the indoor unit main control circuit 110, through the MCU, controls the CE terminal of the optocoupler B3 to conduct. Due to the voltage divider effect of resistors R2 and R9, the voltage on the signal line SI becomes 5V (15V×5K / 15K), which means that the voltage input to the negative input terminal (-) of the comparator N1A becomes 5V. At this time, the voltage at the positive input terminal (+) of the comparator N1A remains at 7.5V. Because the voltage of 7.5V at the positive input terminal (+) of the comparator circuit N1A is higher than the voltage of 5V at the negative input terminal (-), the output terminal (OUT) of the comparator circuit N1A outputs a high level of 15V, and the CE terminal of the transistor circuit V1 conducts. The normally open contact of the switching relay K1 closes, and the first loop H1 between the neutral line and the neutral terminal N-OUT of the outdoor unit 200 is connected. The neutral line supplies power to the power supply 220 through the PTC resistor RT1, and the power supply 220 supplies power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. After the outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 is powered, it energizes the coil of the normally closed switching relay K2 (in other words, sends a circuit-breaking control signal to the power supply control circuit 230), causing its movable contact to switch from normally closed to normally open. This in turn disconnects the emitter E of transistor circuit V1 from the neutral line, causing switching relay K1 to cease operation and disconnecting the first circuit H1. Simultaneously, the second circuit H2, between the neutral line and the outdoor unit's neutral terminal N-OUT, remains conductive, continuing to supply power to the power supply 220 and ensuring reliable power supply to the outdoor unit. At the same time, because the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K2 is disconnected from the normally closed contact, the circuit powering the coil of the switching relay K1 is disconnected, causing the switching relay K1 to stop operating. The current signal flows to the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, thereby connecting the communication circuit between the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240. This puts the indoor unit main control circuit 110 and the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 of the air conditioner 10 into normal operation, allowing other communication data to be transmitted between the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240. The circuit operation timing logic during this process can be seen in Figure 12.

[0083] When the air conditioner 10 receives a shutdown command, the optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit 100 and the optocoupler B1 of the outdoor unit 200 stop sending signals. The outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 stops supplying power to the normally closed switching relay K2, disconnecting the second loop H2. Since the voltage from the signal line SI to the negative input terminal (-) of the comparator circuit N1A is 15V at this point, the switching relay K1 is also disconnected. The outdoor unit's main control circuit 210 shuts down and waits for the next power-on command. The circuit's operating timing logic during this process can be seen in Figure 13.

[0084] It should be noted that the above embodiments are examples of the present disclosure. In actual use, the power control circuit 230 may also include more or fewer circuit components, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085] Other circuits or modules, such as the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 or the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, may also include more or fewer circuit components to implement more or fewer functions. For example, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is further configured to stop sending the disconnection control signal after the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 receives the shutdown signal from the indoor unit communication circuit 130. The normally closed changeover relay K2 is further configured to switch its movable contact from being connected to the normally open contact to being connected to the normally closed contact after the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 stops sending the disconnection control signal, thereby connecting the signal line S1 to the circuit that powers the switch relay K1.

[0086] In the technical solutions provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure, the indoor unit 100 can be used to control the on and off of the power control circuit 230 through the signal line SI, thereby controlling whether to supply power to the outdoor unit 200. Since the voltage of the signal line SI (for example, 30V) is relatively small, for example, it is smaller than the voltage provided by the power supply line 300 (usually 220V), the air conditioner 10 has lower requirements for the wire diameter of the signal line SI. On the one hand, it can reduce costs, and on the other hand, it can ensure the reliability of power supply to the outdoor unit 200.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner 10 is in standby mode, the optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit 100 stops sending signals, thereby stopping power supply to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, thereby reducing the standby power consumption of the air conditioner 10. When the air conditioner 10 needs to be powered on, a power supply control signal is first provided to the power control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via the indoor unit communication circuit 130, thereby energizing the first circuit H1 of the power control circuit 230 and, in turn, causing the power supply line 300 to conduct electricity to the power supply 220 through the power control circuit 230. After the power supply 220 is powered on, it supplies power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. After receiving power, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a circuit breaker control signal to the power control circuit 230, disconnecting the first circuit H1 and energizing the second circuit H2. The power supply line 300 continues to supply power to the power supply 220. At this time, the current signal output by the signal line S1 flows to the outdoor unit communication circuit 240, rather than the power control circuit 230. In this way, while ensuring the power supply reliability of the power supply 220, the communication connection between the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 is also realized, thereby enabling the indoor unit main control circuit 110 and the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 of the air conditioner 10 to enter normal working state.

[0088] Of course, the circuit structures of the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 can also be other structures to further reduce the wire diameter requirements of the cables between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200. For example, if the power supply 120 that supplies power to the indoor unit communication circuit 130 has a weak current capability, the power supply of the power supply 220 in the outdoor unit 200 can be controlled by a smaller drive current on the signal line S1, so that the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 can operate reliably under the drive of the smaller drive current. Here, the wire diameter requirements of the cables can be understood as parameters such as the number, diameter, or length of the connection lines (such as power cables) between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200.

[0089] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 14 , the power supply circuit 300 is located near the outdoor unit 200 to accommodate the outdoor power supply of a split-type air conditioner. In this case, the live terminal L2 of the indoor unit 100 is connected to the live terminal L1 of the outdoor unit 200, and the neutral terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100 is connected to the neutral terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200. The live terminal L1 of the outdoor unit 200 is connected to the live wire L of the power supply circuit 300, and the neutral terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200 is connected to the neutral wire N of the power supply circuit 300. Terminal SI1 of the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 is connected to terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130 via a signal line SI.

[0090] It can be understood that the circuit structure in some embodiments of the present disclosure is also applicable to air conditioners powered indoors.

[0091] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG14 , the indoor unit 100 includes an indoor unit main control circuit 110. The indoor unit main control circuit 110 is configured to control the operation of at least one power supply 120 and an indoor unit communication circuit 130, and to control communication between the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100. The power supply 120 and the indoor unit communication circuit 130 will be described later.

[0092] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14 , the indoor unit 100 includes at least one power supply 120 (ie, indoor power supply).

[0093] At least one power supply 120 is configured to supply power to the indoor unit main control circuit 110 and the indoor unit communication circuit 130. Of course, the power supply 120 can also supply power to other different circuit components in the indoor unit 100, which is not limited in the present disclosure.

[0094] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , the at least one power source 120 includes a first power source 1201 and a second power source 1202 .

[0095] The input end of the first power supply 1201 is connected to the live wire terminal L2 and the neutral wire terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, and the output end of the first power supply 1201 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. The first power supply 1201 is configured to provide the required operating voltage to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. For example, the first power supply 1201 converts 220V / 50Hz alternating current (AC) into 5V or 12V direct current (DC). It will be understood that the first power supply 1201 can output DC power of various voltages.

[0096] The input end of the second power supply 1202 is connected to the live wire terminal L2 and the neutral wire terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, and the output end of the second power supply 1202 is connected to the indoor unit communication circuit 130. The second power supply 1202 is configured to provide the indoor unit communication circuit 130 with the required voltage (e.g., 24V) required for operation.

[0097] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG16 , the second power supply 1202 includes a switching relay K3 (ie, a second switching relay), a half-wave rectifier circuit 1203 , and an optocoupler B5 (ie, a first optocoupler).

[0098] The switching relay K3 is provided on the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the second power source 1202. It is configured to control the on / off state of the second power source 1202 under the control of the indoor unit main control circuit 110. For example, one end of the normally open contact of the switching relay K3 is connected to the live wire terminal L2 via the first input terminal X1, and the other end is connected to the input of the half-wave rectifier circuit 1203. One end of the coil of the switching relay K3 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the indoor unit 100 (e.g., the reference voltage terminal providing 12V as shown in FIG. 15 ), and the other end is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110.

[0099] An input end of the half-wave rectifier circuit 1203 is connected to the power supply line 300 , and an output end of the half-wave rectifier circuit 1203 is connected to the indoor unit communication circuit 130 .

[0100] For example, the half-wave rectifier circuit 1203 includes a resistor R13, a diode D6, a diode D7, a capacitor C5, and a Zener diode Z2.

[0101] The resistor R13 has the function of reducing voltage and limiting current. One end of the resistor R13 is connected to the other end of the switch relay K3, and the other end of the resistor R13 is connected to the anode of the diode D6.

[0102] The cathodes of diode D6 and diode D7 are connected to the indoor unit communication circuit 130. For example, the cathodes of diode D6 and diode D7 are connected to the collector C of the phototransistor in optocoupler B3. The anode of diode D7 is connected to the neutral terminal N2 via the second input terminal X2. Diodes D6 and D7 provide half-wave rectification. Furthermore, diode D7 provides unidirectional isolation and clamping functions to prevent high voltage damage to the communication circuit caused by incorrect wiring during installation of the air conditioner 10.

[0103] For example, if the live wire L is mistakenly connected to the neutral terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, diode D7 can cooperate with diode D9 to limit the voltage across optocouplers B3 and B4, thereby preventing damage to optocouplers B3 and B4. Diode D9 will be described later. Furthermore, clamping can be understood as limiting the potential at a point in a circuit to a specified level. Clamping is an overvoltage protection technology.

[0104] Capacitor C5 acts as an energy storage filter. One end of capacitor C5 is connected to the cathode of diode D6 and the line between the cathode of diode D7 and optocoupler B3, thereby connecting to the collector C of the phototransistor in optocoupler B3. The other end of capacitor C5 is connected to the neutral terminal N2.

[0105] A voltage stabilizing diode Z2 is connected in parallel with capacitor C5, and the cathode of the voltage stabilizing diode Z2 is connected to the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B3. The voltage stabilizing diode Z2 stabilizes the voltage. For example, the voltage stabilizing diode Z2 includes a 24V voltage stabilizing diode.

[0106] The light-emitting end (i.e., light-emitting diode) of the optocoupler B5 is arranged on the loop of the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the second power supply 1202, and the light-receiving end (i.e., phototransistor) of the optocoupler B5 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. The optocoupler B5 is configured to detect the zero-crossing signal of the alternating current transmitted by the power supply circuit 300. In other words, the optocoupler B5 can detect when the alternating current changes from positive to negative, or from negative to positive. Since the optocoupler B5 turns on after the alternating current crosses zero and the alternating current voltage rises to a level that exceeds the conduction voltage of the optocoupler B5, the optocoupler B5 can play the role of detecting the zero-crossing signal of the alternating current.

[0107] For example, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B5 is connected to the cathode of the diode D6, and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B5 is connected to the cathode of the diode D7 and the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B3. The collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B5 is connected to a reference voltage terminal in the indoor unit 100 (for example, the reference voltage terminal providing 5V in Figure 15), and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B5 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110.

[0108] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG16 , the second power supply 1202 further includes a resistor R14 . Resistor R14 (i.e., a second resistor) is connected in parallel with the light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler B5 . For example, the two ends of resistor R14 are respectively connected to the anode A and cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B5 . Resistor R14 is configured to limit the voltage at the light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler B5 to protect the light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler B5 .

[0109] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG16 , the second power supply 1202 further includes a resistor R15. One end of the resistor R15 is connected to the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B5, and the other end is grounded. Resistor R15 functions to limit current and pull down the voltage level. Thus, when the optocoupler B5 is disconnected, the voltage level signal received by the indoor unit main control circuit 110 is low.

[0110] Of course, the second power supply 1202 may also have other structures. For example, the second power supply 1202 includes a RC step-down half-wave rectifier circuit or a switching power supply.

[0111] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the indoor unit 100 further includes an indoor unit communication circuit 130. The indoor unit communication circuit 130 is also connected to the power control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via a signal line SI, and is configured to communicate with the outdoor unit 200 and send a power control signal to the power control circuit 230. Here, the current value of the power control signal may be less than or equal to a first preset value. The first preset value may be less than or equal to 10mA. It is understood that the first preset value may also be other values ​​greater than 10mA, and the first preset value is related to the structure of the circuit (such as the second power supply 1202) and the specifications of the electronic components used in the circuit, and the present disclosure does not limit this.

[0112] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , the indoor unit communication circuit 130 includes an optical coupler B3 and an optical coupler B4 .

[0113] Optocoupler B3 (i.e., the second optical coupler) is the communication transmitting end (TXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100, and optocoupler B4 (i.e., the third optical coupler) is the communication receiving end (RXD_IDU) of the indoor unit 100. Optocouplers B3 and B4 have the function of isolating signals.

[0114] The light-emitting end of the optocoupler B3 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110, and the light-receiving end of the optocoupler B3 is connected to the output end of the second power supply 1202. For example, the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B3 is connected to the output end of the second power supply 1202, and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B3 is connected to the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B4. The anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B3 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110, and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B3 is grounded.

[0115] The light-emitting end of the optocoupler B4 is connected to the light-receiving end of the optocoupler B3 and the signal line SI, respectively. The light-receiving end of the optocoupler B4 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. For example, the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B4 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the indoor unit 100 (e.g., the reference voltage terminal providing a 5V voltage as shown in FIG14 ), and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B4 is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. The anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B4 is connected to the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B3, and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B4 is connected to the signal line SI via the terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130.

[0116] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the indoor unit communication circuit 130 further includes a diode D8 and a diode D9. The anode of diode D8 is connected to the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B4, and the cathode of diode D8 is connected to the terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130. The anode of diode D9 is connected to the neutral terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, and the cathode of diode D9 is connected between the cathode of diode D8 and the terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130.

[0117] Diodes D8 and D9 provide unidirectional isolation and clamping functions to prevent abnormally high voltages from damaging the communication circuits due to incorrect wiring during installation of the air conditioner 10. For example, if the live wire L is mistakenly connected to terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130, current cannot flow in the reverse direction through diode D8, thereby preventing damage to optocouplers B3 and B4.

[0118] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the indoor unit communication circuit 130 further includes a PTC resistor RT3. The PTC resistor RT3 is connected between the cathodes of diodes D8 and D9 and the connection terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130. For example, one end of the PTC resistor RT3 is connected to the connection terminal SI2 of the indoor unit communication circuit 130 via the third input terminal X3, and the other end is connected to the cathodes of diodes D8 and D9.

[0119] PTC resistor RT3 provides current limiting and short-circuit overcurrent protection. When an abnormally high current flows, PTC resistor RT3 rapidly heats up, rapidly increasing its resistance and thereby quickly reducing the current. This prevents high current from damaging the communication circuit due to incorrect wiring during installation of the air conditioner 10. For example, if the live wire L is mistakenly connected to the neutral terminal N2 of the indoor unit 100, the resistance of PTC resistor RT3 increases, reducing the current and preventing damage to diode D9.

[0120] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the indoor unit communication circuit 130 further includes a resistor R16. One end of resistor R16 is connected to the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B4, and the other end is grounded. The function of resistor R16 is the same as that of resistor R15 and will not be further described here.

[0121] It should be noted that the 5V voltage in the indoor unit communication circuit 130 and the 5V and 12V voltages in the second power supply 1202 in FIG. 15 can be provided by the first power supply 1201 .

[0122] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the outdoor unit 200 includes an outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is configured to control the operation of at least one power supply 220, a power supply control circuit 230, and an outdoor unit communication circuit 240, as well as control communication between the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 100. The power supply 220, the power supply control circuit 230, and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 will be described later.

[0123] 14 and 15 , the outdoor unit 200 further includes an outdoor unit communication circuit 240. The outdoor unit communication circuit 240 is configured to communicate with the indoor unit 100.

[0124] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 includes an optical coupler B2 and an optical coupler B1 .

[0125] Optocoupler B1 is the communication transmitting end (TXD_ODU) of the outdoor unit 200, and optocoupler B2 is the communication receiving end (RXD_ODU) of the outdoor unit 200. Optocoupler B1 and optocoupler B2 have the function of isolating signals.

[0126] The light-emitting terminal of optocoupler B1 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, and the light-receiving terminal of optocoupler B1 is connected to the neutral line N and the light-emitting terminal of optocoupler B2, respectively. For example, the collector C of the phototransistor in optocoupler B1 is connected to the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in optocoupler B2, and the emitter E of the phototransistor in optocoupler B1 is connected to the neutral line N via the fifth input terminal X5. The anode A of the light-emitting diode in optocoupler B1 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in optocoupler B1 is grounded.

[0127] The light-emitting end of the optocoupler B2 is connected to the signal line SI and the light-receiving end of the optocoupler B1. The light-receiving end of the optocoupler B2 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. For example, the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B2 is connected to the signal line SI via the terminal SI1 of the outdoor unit communication circuit 240. The cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B2 is connected to the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B1. The collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B2 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the outdoor unit 200 (such as the reference voltage terminal providing a 5V voltage as shown in FIG. 14 ), and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B2 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0128] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 further includes a PTC resistor RT2. One end of the PTC resistor RT2 is connected to the connection terminal SI1 of the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 via the fourth input terminal X4, and the other end is connected to the anode of the diode D10. The function of the PTC resistor RT2 is the same as that of the PTC resistor RT3. For example, if the live wire L is mistakenly connected to the outdoor signal wire SI, the PTC resistor RT2 rapidly heats up, and its resistance rapidly increases, quickly reducing the current, thereby preventing damage to the diode D10 and the Zener diode Z1.

[0129] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 also includes a diode D10 and a diode D11. The cathode of the diode D10 is connected to the cathode of the diode D11 and one end of the resistor R21. The anode of the diode D11 is connected to the neutral terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200 through the fifth access terminal X5. The diode D10 and the diode D11 have a unidirectional isolation and clamping function to prevent abnormal high voltage from damaging the communication circuit due to incorrect wiring during the installation of the air conditioner 10. For example, when the live wire L is mistakenly connected to the fifth access terminal X5, the current cannot flow in the reverse direction through the diode D10, and the diode D11 can limit the voltage across the optocoupler B1 and the optocoupler B2, thereby preventing damage to the optocoupler B1 and the optocoupler B2.

[0130] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 further includes a resistor R21. The other end of the resistor R21 is connected to the cathode of the voltage-stabilizing diode Z1 and the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B2. The resistor R21 has the function of limiting current.

[0131] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 further includes a Zener diode Z1. The anode of the Zener diode Z1 is connected between the anode of the diode D11 and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B1. The Zener diode Z1 provides clamping protection for the optocouplers B1 and B2.

[0132] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 further includes a resistor R17. One end of resistor R17 is connected to the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B2, and the other end of resistor R17 is grounded. The function of resistor R17 is the same as that of resistors R15 and R16 and will not be further described here.

[0133] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the outdoor unit 200 further includes at least one power supply 220 (i.e., an outdoor power supply). The at least one power supply 220 is configured to supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 after receiving power from the power supply line 300 .

[0134] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the at least one power supply 220 includes a third power supply 2201. The output end of the third power supply 2201 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, the first input end of the third power supply 2201 is connected to the neutral line N of the power supply circuit 300, and the second input end of the third power supply 2201 is connected to the power control circuit 230 (such as the first loop H1 and the second loop H2).

[0135] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the outdoor unit 200 further includes a power control circuit 230. The power control circuit 230 is disposed on a loop of the power supply line 300 that supplies power to the at least one power source 220, and is configured to control the power supply line 300 to supply power to the at least one power source 220 by controlling the on / off state of the loop.

[0136] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , the power control circuit 230 includes a first loop H1 , a second loop H2 , and a trigger circuit H3 .

[0137] The first circuit H1 is a circuit in which the power supply line 300, connected under the control of a power supply control signal, supplies power to the power supply 220 (i.e., the third power supply 2201). The second circuit H2 is a circuit in which the power supply line 300, connected under the control of a closing control signal, supplies power to the power supply 220. The closing control signal is a signal sent from the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 to the power supply control circuit 230 after the power supply 220 is powered on via the first circuit H1. The trigger circuit H3 has an input connected to the signal line S1 and an output connected to the first circuit H1. The trigger circuit H3 is configured to trigger the first circuit H1 to conduct according to the power supply control signal.

[0138] Here, the power supply capacity of the half-wave rectifier circuit 1203 is limited, and in order to fully charge the capacitor C5, the conduction time of the optocoupler B3 is relatively short. Therefore, the power supply control signal is at a high level for a relatively short duration (e.g., 2 ms), and the current value of the power supply control signal is relatively small.

[0139] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG14 , the first loop H1 includes a PTC resistor RT1 and a thyristor Q1. One end of the PTC resistor RT1 is connected to the live wire L via the sixth access terminal X6, and the other end is connected to the first electrode of the thyristor Q1. The function of the PTC resistor RT1 is similar to that of the PTC resistors RT3 and RT2 and will not be further described here.

[0140] The second electrode of thyristor Q1 is connected to the second input terminal of third power supply 2201, and the gate of thyristor Q1 is connected to the output terminal of trigger circuit H3. Thyristor Q1 is configured to be turned on under the control of a trigger signal from trigger circuit H3, thereby turning on first loop H1 and enabling power supply line 300 to supply power to third power supply 2201.

[0141] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 17 , the trigger circuit H3 includes an optocoupler thyristor B6 , a transistor V2 , a resistor R18 , a resistor R19 , a resistor R20 , and an optocoupler B7 .

[0142] The light receiving end (i.e., thyristor) of the optocoupler thyristor B6 is connected to the gate of the thyristor Q1, and the optocoupler thyristor B6 is configured to be turned on according to the power supply control signal sent by the indoor unit 100 through the signal line SI to trigger the first circuit H1 to be turned on (i.e., the thyristor Q1 is turned on).

[0143] For example, the first electrode of the thyristor in optocoupler thyristor B6 is connected to the other end of PTC resistor RT1 via resistor R20, and the second electrode of the thyristor in optocoupler thyristor B6 is connected to the gate of thyristor Q1. The anode A of the light-emitting diode in optocoupler thyristor B6 is connected to signal line SI, and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in optocoupler thyristor B6 is connected to the collector C of transistor V2. Resistor R20 serves as a current limiter.

[0144] The base B of the transistor V2 is connected to the signal line SI and the light-receiving terminal of the optocoupler B7, respectively. The collector C of the transistor V2 is connected to the light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler thyristor B6. The emitter E of the transistor V2 is connected to the neutral line N. For example, the base B of the transistor V2 is connected to the signal line SI through the resistor R18, the collector C of the transistor V2 is connected to the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler thyristor B6, and the emitter E of the transistor V2 is connected to the neutral line N through the fifth input terminal X5. When the indoor unit 100 transmits a power supply control signal via the signal line SI, the transistor V2 is turned on, thereby controlling the light-receiving terminal of the optocoupler thyristor B6 to turn on.

[0145] Here, the resistor R18 (i.e., the first resistor) is configured to bias the voltage of the base B of the transistor V2 and limit the current flowing into the optocoupler B7 (i.e., the fourth optocoupler). The resistance value of the resistor R18 is greater than or equal to the second preset value (i.e., the preset value). For example, the second preset value is greater than or equal to 100K. In this way, when the optocoupler B7 is turned on, the current value of the current flowing through the resistor R18 and the optocoupler B7 can be smaller. Here, bias can be understood as providing a set DC voltage or current to the electronic components in the circuit.

[0146] The light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler B7 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, and the light-receiving terminal of the optocoupler B7 is connected to the neutral line N and the signal line SI, respectively. For example, the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the outdoor unit 200 (such as the reference voltage terminal providing a 5V voltage as shown in FIG15 ), and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the signal line SI via a resistor R18, and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the emitter E of the transistor V2 and the neutral line N.

[0147] Optocoupler B7 is configured to conduct under the control of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 after the outdoor unit 200 is powered on, thereby turning off transistor V2 and optocoupler thyristor B6. For example, when the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is not operating, optocoupler B7 is turned off; when the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is powered on and operating normally, optocoupler B7 is turned on.

[0148] One end of resistor R19 is connected between the gate of thyristor Q1 and the light-receiving terminal of optocoupler thyristor B6, and the other end is connected to the second electrode of thyristor Q1 and the second input terminal of third power supply 2201. Resistor R19 has a biasing function to control the voltage at the gate of thyristor Q1 so that thyristor Q1 can be turned on after optocoupler thyristor B6 is turned on.

[0149] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 , the second circuit H2 includes a switching relay K2 (i.e., a first switching relay). One end of the normally open contact of the switching relay K2 is connected to the second input terminal of the third power source 2201, and the other end is connected to the live terminal L1 of the outdoor unit 200 via the sixth input terminal X6. One end of the coil of the switching relay K2 is connected to a reference voltage terminal of the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., the reference voltage terminal providing 12V in Figure 15 ), and the other end is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The switching relay K2 is configured to close in response to a closing control signal sent by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, thereby connecting the second circuit H2.

[0150] It should be noted that the first loop H1 and the second loop H2 are connected in parallel, and the impedance of the second loop H2 is lower than that of the first loop H1. Thus, when the first loop H1 and the second loop H2 are both conducting, most of the current from the power supply circuit 300 flows through the second loop H2 to supply the third power source 2201. Furthermore, after the second loop H2 is conducting, the first loop H1 is controlled to be cut off.

[0151] It should be noted that the 5V voltage in the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 and the 5V and 12V voltages in the power control circuit 230 in FIG. 15 can be provided by the power supply 220 .

[0152] The control process of the circuit between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 will be described below.

[0153] In the standby state, the switch relay K3, the thyristor Q1 and the switch relay K2 are all turned off, so that the outdoor unit 200 cannot be powered and work.

[0154] When the air conditioner 10 needs to be turned on (i.e., when the indoor unit 100 receives a power-on command), the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the switch relay K3 to close. Current flows through the switch relay K3, resistor R13, diode D6, and optocoupler B5, charging capacitor C5. Due to the voltage regulator diode Z2, the voltage across capacitor C5 is less than or equal to the voltage of the Zener diode Z2 (e.g., 24V). Optocoupler B5 outputs a zero-crossing signal to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. At this point, optocoupler B3 is turned off, so no signal is output from signal line S1 to the outdoor unit 200, and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 does not operate.

[0155] When the switch relay K3 is closed for a first preset time (e.g., 1 second), the voltage across the capacitor C5 can be stabilized at 24 V. At this time, after a second preset time (e.g., 1 ms) after receiving the zero-crossing signal, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B3 to be turned on for a third preset time (e.g., approximately 2 ms).

[0156] In this way, the current flows from capacitor C5 through optocoupler B3, optocoupler B4, diode D8, PTC resistor RT3 in sequence, and is then output to PTC resistor RT2, diode D10, optocoupler thyristor B6, and transistor V2 through signal line SI. In this case, transistor V2 is turned on, so that the light-emitting end of optocoupler thyristor B6 can trigger the light-receiving end of optocoupler thyristor B6 to turn on, thereby turning on thyristor Q1. After thyristor Q1 is turned on, the first loop H1 is turned on, so that the live wire L can supply power to the third power supply 2201 through PTC resistor RT1 and thyristor Q1. After the third power supply 2201 is continuously powered for a period of time (for example, 2 seconds), the third power supply 2201 can stably supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0157] Since thyristor Q1 remains conductive after receiving a trigger signal and remains turned off until the next zero-crossing signal (i.e., when the voltage or current in the conduction path of thyristor Q1 approaches zero), during a half-wave cycle of the AC power (for example, a 50Hz AC half-wave cycle is 10ms), optocoupler B3 only needs to be turned on for approximately a third preset time after the zero-crossing signal to turn on first circuit H1. Optocoupler B3 can be turned off for the remainder of the half-wave cycle, allowing a longer period of time to charge capacitor C5 and maintain its voltage at 24V.

[0158] Through this design, when the second power supply 1202 corresponding to the indoor unit communication circuit 130 provides weak current capability, the power control circuit 230 can be controlled so that the communication circuits of the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 can operate reliably under the drive of a smaller driving current.

[0159] After the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 operates normally (e.g., after the first circuit H1 is turned on for a fourth preset time), the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 can send a closing control signal to control the switch type relay K2 to close, so that the power supply line 300 can supply power to the third power source 2201 through the second circuit H2. Here, since the second circuit H2 is connected in parallel with the first circuit H1 and the impedance of the second circuit H2 is smaller than that of the first circuit H1, after the switch type relay K2 is closed, most of the current from the power supply line 300 enters the third power source 2201 through the second circuit H2.

[0160] At the same time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 turns on the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B7. After optocoupler B7 turns on, the voltage between the base B and emitter E of transistor V2 falls below its conduction voltage. Consequently, transistor V2 is turned off, and optocoupler thyristor B6 is turned off. Consequently, the current on signal line S1 no longer flows through the branch containing optocoupler thyristor B6 and transistor V2. Consequently, the first loop H1 is turned off. Thus, when the air conditioner 10 is operating, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is powered by the second loop H2.

[0161] At this time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B1 to conduct. In this way, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 can send a communication signal by controlling the on and off of the optocoupler B3. For example, when the optocoupler B3 is on, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the indoor unit communication circuit 130 to send a high-level communication signal; when the optocoupler B3 is off, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the indoor unit communication circuit 130 to send a low-level communication signal. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 receives this communication signal through the optocoupler B2 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., the compressor, outdoor fan motor) based on this communication signal.

[0162] After sending the communication signal, the indoor unit master circuit 110 turns on the optocoupler B3, waiting for the outdoor unit master circuit 210 to respond with a communication signal. The outdoor unit master circuit 210 transmits the communication signal by turning on and off the optocoupler B1. The indoor unit master circuit 110 receives the communication signal via the optocoupler B4 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the indoor unit 100 based on the received communication signal. Furthermore, during this process, the indoor unit master circuit 110 can also prepare to send a new communication signal to the outdoor unit 200.

[0163] In this way, the process of powering on the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 after receiving the power-on command and the communication process between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 are completed. It should be noted that in order to ensure reliable transmission of communication signals, the communication sending end of the indoor unit 100 (or the outdoor unit 200) needs to be maintained in a conductive state after sending the communication signal, so that the entire communication loop is conductive, so that the communication receiving end of the outdoor unit 200 (or the indoor unit 100) can reliably receive the communication signal. For example, when the optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit 100 sends a communication signal, the optocoupler B1 of the outdoor unit 200 is in a conductive state; when the optocoupler B1 of the outdoor unit 200 sends a communication signal, the optocoupler B3 of the indoor unit 100 is in a conductive state.

[0164] When the indoor unit main control circuit 110 receives a shutdown command, it controls optocoupler B3 to issue a shutdown signal. Upon receiving the shutdown signal via optocoupler B2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 stops the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 and sends a response to the indoor unit main control circuit 110 via optocoupler B1. Upon receiving the response, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls optocoupler B3 to turn off. At this point, no current is output from signal line S1 to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0165] In this case, after the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 delays for the fifth preset time, if it is confirmed that there is no new signal sent by the indoor unit main control circuit 110, the switch type relay K2 is controlled to be disconnected, thereby cutting off the power supply to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0166] Furthermore, after the indoor unit main control circuit 110 sends the shutdown signal, if it determines that the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 has received the shutdown signal, it controls the switch relay K3 to disconnect, thereby further reducing standby power consumption. At this point, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 completes the shutdown process and enters the power-off state, awaiting the next startup operation.

[0167] The corresponding timing of the above control process is introduced below using FIG18 as an example.

[0168] As shown in Figure 18, the power supply circuit 300 always has AC mains power. The time period from time t0 to time t1 is when the optocoupler B3 is off. During this time period, the optocoupler B3's switching signal is low, and the indoor unit communication circuit 130 does not transmit the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 via signal line S1. Furthermore, during the time period from time t0 to time t1, the switching relay K2 is not energized, the voltage across the coil of the switching relay K2 is low, and the switching signal of the optocoupler thyristor B6 is low, turning off the optocoupler thyristor B6. Therefore, during this time period, both the first circuit H1 and the second circuit H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supply power to the third power supply 2201, are disconnected, de-energizing the third power supply 2201. Consequently, the voltage of the third power supply 2201 is zero.

[0169] During the time period from time t1 to time t2, the switching signal of the optocoupler B3 is briefly high multiple times, and the optocoupler B3 is briefly turned on multiple times. Therefore, during this time period, the indoor unit communication circuit 130 transmits the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via the signal line S1. The switching signal of the optocoupler thyristor B6 is also briefly high multiple times, and the optocoupler thyristor B6 is turned on, thereby connecting the first loop H1 of the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the third power supply 2201. The third power supply 2201 begins to power up and supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0170] At time t2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a close control signal to the switching relay K2, energizing the latter. The voltage across the coil of the switching relay K2 changes from a low level to a high level, connecting the second loop H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supplies power to the power source 220. Furthermore, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a control signal to the optocoupler B7, turning its switch signal high. In this state, the optocoupler B7 turns on, the transistor V2 turns off, and the optocoupler thyristor B6 turns off. As a result, the current on the signal line S1 no longer flows through the branch containing the optocoupler thyristor B6 and the transistor V2, allowing the signal line S1 to transmit other communication data.

[0171] It should be noted that the above-mentioned switching signal refers to a signal for triggering an optocoupler or an optocoupler thyristor to conduct.

[0172] In other embodiments, trigger circuit H3 may have other structures. In trigger circuit H3, resistor R18, transistor V2, and optocoupler B7 may be replaced with a normally closed switching relay K4. As shown in Figures 19 and 20, in addition to optocoupler thyristor B6, resistor R19, and resistor R20, trigger circuit H3 also includes a normally closed switching relay K4.

[0173] The normally closed switching relay K4 is configured to switch the moving contact from being connected to the normally closed contact to being connected to the normally open contact under the control of the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 after the outdoor unit 200 is powered on, thereby connecting the signal line SI with the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 and disconnecting the signal line SI from the trigger circuit H3, thereby enabling communication between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200.

[0174] One end of the coil of the normally closed change-over relay K4 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., the reference voltage terminal providing 12V in FIG. 19 ), and the other end of the coil of the normally closed change-over relay K4 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. Thus, the power supply to the normally closed change-over relay K4 can be controlled by the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. The movable contact of the normally closed change-over relay K4 is connected to the signal line SI, the normally closed contact of the normally closed change-over relay K4 is connected to the light-emitting terminal of the optocoupler thyristor B6, and the normally open contact of the normally closed change-over relay K4 is connected to the outdoor unit communication circuit 240.

[0175] For example, the movable contact of the normally closed switching relay K4 is connected to the cathode of the diode D10. The normally closed contact of the normally closed switching relay K4 is connected to the anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler thyristor B6. The normally open contact of the normally closed switching relay K4 is connected to the cathode of the diode D11 and the one end of the resistor R21.

[0176] It should be noted that the functions of the optocoupler thyristor B6, the resistor R19, and the resistor R20 and the connection structure therebetween can be found in the relevant content above and will not be repeated here.

[0177] The control process of the circuit between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 will be described below.

[0178] In the standby state, the moving contact of the normally closed changeover relay K4 is connected to its normally closed contact, and the switch relay K3, the thyristor Q1, and the switch relay K2 are all turned off, so that the outdoor unit 200 cannot be powered and work.

[0179] When the air conditioner 10 needs to be turned on, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the switch relay K3 to close. Current flows through the switch relay K3, resistor R13, diode D6, and optocoupler B5, charging capacitor C5. Due to the voltage regulator diode Z2, the voltage across capacitor C5 is less than or equal to the voltage of the Zener diode Z2 (e.g., 24V). Optocoupler B5 outputs a zero-crossing signal to the indoor unit main control circuit 110. At this point, optocoupler B3 is turned off, so no signal is output from signal line S1 to the outdoor unit 200, and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 does not operate.

[0180] When the switch relay K3 is closed for the first preset time, the voltage across the capacitor C5 can be stabilized at 24 V. At this time, after a second preset time delay after obtaining the zero-crossing signal, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B3 to be turned on for a third preset time.

[0181] In this way, current flows from capacitor C5 through optocoupler B3, optocoupler B4, diode D8, and PTC resistor RT3, and is then output via signal line S1 to PTC resistor RT2, diode D10, normally closed transfer relay K4, and optocoupler thyristor B6. In this case, the light-emitting end of optocoupler thyristor B6 triggers the light-receiving end of optocoupler thyristor B6 to conduct, thereby turning on thyristor Q1. After thyristor Q1 turns on, first circuit H1 turns on, allowing live wire L to supply power to third power supply 2201 via PTC resistor RT1 and thyristor Q1. After the third power supply 2201 is continuously powered for a period of time, the third power supply 2201 can stably supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0182] After the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 operates normally, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 can send a closing control signal to control the switching relay K2 to close, so that the power supply line 300 can supply power to the third power supply 2201 through the second loop H2. Most of the current from the power supply line 300 enters the third power supply 2201 through the second loop H2.

[0183] At the same time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the movable contact of the normally closed change-over relay K4 to connect to the normally open contact. The current on the signal line S1 no longer flows through the optocoupler thyristor B6, which is turned off. Consequently, the first circuit H1 is cut off. Thus, when the air conditioner 10 is operating, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is powered by the second circuit H2.

[0184] At this time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B1 to be conductive. In this way, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 can send a communication signal by controlling the on and off of the optocoupler B3. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 receives the communication signal through the optocoupler B2 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 according to the communication signal.

[0185] After sending the communication signal, the indoor unit master circuit 110 controls the optocoupler B3 to conduct, waiting for the outdoor unit master circuit 210 to respond with a communication signal. The outdoor unit master circuit 210 then controls the optocoupler B1 to transmit the communication signal. The indoor unit master circuit 110 receives the communication signal via the optocoupler B4 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the indoor unit 100 based on the received communication signal. Furthermore, during this process, the indoor unit master circuit 110 can also prepare to send a new communication signal to the outdoor unit 200.

[0186] In this way, after receiving the power-on command, the process of powering on the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 and the communication process between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 are completed.

[0187] When the indoor unit main control circuit 110 receives a shutdown command, it controls optocoupler B3 to issue a shutdown signal. Upon receiving the shutdown signal via optocoupler B2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 stops the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 and sends a response to the indoor unit main control circuit 110 via optocoupler B1. Upon receiving the response, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls optocoupler B3 to turn off. At this point, no current is output from signal line S1 to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0188] In this case, after the fifth preset delay, if the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 confirms that no new signal has been sent from the indoor unit main control circuit 110, it controls the switching relay K2 to be turned off, thereby cutting off the power supply to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210. At the same time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the normally closed change-over relay K4 to be de-energized, so that the movable contact of the normally closed change-over relay K4 can be connected to the normally closed contact.

[0189] Furthermore, after the indoor unit main control circuit 110 sends the shutdown signal, if it determines that the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 has received the shutdown signal, it controls the switch relay K3 to disconnect, thereby further reducing standby power consumption. At this point, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 completes the shutdown process and enters the power-off state, awaiting the next startup operation.

[0190] The corresponding timing of the above control process is introduced below using FIG21 as an example.

[0191] As shown in Figure 21, the power supply circuit 300 always receives AC mains power. The time period from time t0 to time t1 is when the optocoupler B3 is off. During this time period, the optocoupler B3's switching signal is low, and the indoor unit communication circuit 130 does not transmit the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 via signal line S1. Furthermore, during this time period from time t0 to time t1, the switching relay K2 and the normally closed changeover relay K4 are de-energized, and the voltage across the coil of the switching relay K2 is low. Furthermore, the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K4 is connected to the normally closed contact, and the switching signal of the optocoupler thyristor B6 is low, turning off the optocoupler thyristor B6. Therefore, during this time period, both the first circuit H1 and the second circuit H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supply power to the third power supply 2201, are disconnected, de-energizing the third power supply 2201. Consequently, the voltage of the third power supply 2201 is zero.

[0192] During the time period from time t1 to time t2, the switching signal of the optocoupler B3 is briefly high multiple times, and the optocoupler B3 is briefly turned on multiple times. Therefore, during this time period, the indoor unit communication circuit 130 transmits the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via the signal line S1. The switching signal of the optocoupler thyristor B6 is also briefly high multiple times, and the optocoupler thyristor B6 is turned on, thereby connecting the first loop H1 of the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the third power supply 2201. The third power supply 2201 begins to power up and supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0193] At time t2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a close control signal to the switching relay K2, energizing the latter. The voltage across the coil of the switching relay K2 changes from a low level to a high level, connecting the second loop H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supplies power to the power source 220. Furthermore, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the normally closed changeover relay K4 to energize, bringing the voltage across the coil of the normally closed changeover relay K4 to a high level. This connects the movable contact of the normally closed changeover relay K4 to the normally open contact. Under these conditions, the current on the signal line S1 no longer flows through the optocoupler thyristor B6, turning it off. This allows the signal line S1 to transmit other communication data.

[0194] Of course, in other embodiments, the power control circuit 230 may also be implemented by a field effect transistor.

[0195] In this case, as shown in Figure 22, the second power supply 1202 omits resistors R14, R15, and optocoupler B5. The circuit structure of the second power supply 1202 is similar to that described above and will not be further described here. Furthermore, the outdoor unit 200 includes multiple power supplies 220. In some examples, the multiple power supplies 220 include a third power supply 2201 and a fourth power supply 2202.

[0196] The third power supply 2201 is described above and will not be further described here. The input of the fourth power supply 2202 is connected to the live wire L and neutral wire N of the power supply circuit 300, and the output of the fourth power supply 2202 is connected to one end of the coil of the switching relay K5 (i.e., the third switching relay). The fourth power supply 2202 is configured to power the switching relay K5, thereby enabling the switching relay K5 to be closed or opened.

[0197] For example, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the fourth power supply 2202 includes a diode D12, a resistor R20, a capacitor C6, and a Zener diode Z3. The anode of diode D12 is connected to the live wire terminal L1 of the outdoor unit 200 via the sixth input terminal X6, and the cathode of diode D12 is connected to one end of resistor R20. The other end of resistor R20 is connected to one end of the coil of the switching relay K5. One end of capacitor C6 is connected between the other end of resistor R20 and one end of the coil of the switching relay K5, and the other end of capacitor C6 is connected to the other end of the coil of the switching relay K5. Zener diode Z3 is connected in parallel with capacitor C6, with the cathode of Zener diode Z3 connected between one end of capacitor C6 and one end of the coil of the switching relay K5. Here, the above components can form a half-wave rectifier circuit.

[0198] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG22 , the first circuit H1 includes a PTC resistor RT1 and a switching relay K5. One end of the PTC resistor RT1 is connected to the live wire L via the sixth input terminal X6, and the other end is connected to one end of the switching relay K5. The function of the PTC resistor RT1 is described above and will not be further elaborated here.

[0199] The other end of the switching relay K5 is connected to the second input terminal of the third power supply 2201. One end of the coil of the switching relay K5 is connected to the output terminal of the fourth power supply 2202, and the other end is connected to the output terminal of the trigger circuit H3. The switching relay K5 is configured to conduct under the control of a trigger signal from the trigger circuit H3, thereby energizing the first loop H1 and enabling the power supply line 300 to supply power to the third power supply 2201.

[0200] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 24 , the trigger circuit H3 includes a resistor R18 , a resistor R19 , an optocoupler B7 , and a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET, MOS) Q2 .

[0201] The gate of MOS Q2 is connected to the signal line S1, the first electrode of MOS Q2 is connected to the neutral line N of the power supply line 300, and the second electrode of MOS Q2 is connected to the other end of the coil of the switch-type relay K5. For example, the gate of MOS Q2 is connected to the cathode of diode D10 via resistor R19. The first electrode of MOS Q2 is connected to the neutral line terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200 via the fifth input terminal X5, and the second electrode of MOS Q2 is connected to the other end of the coil of the switch-type relay K5.

[0202] MOS Q2 is configured to conduct upon receiving a power supply control signal transmitted from the indoor unit 100 via the signal line S1, thereby controlling the switching relay K5 to conduct. Thus, the switching relay K5 can conduct under the control of MOS Q2, so that the power supply line 300 can supply power to the third power source 2201.

[0203] The power supply control signal is a high level signal that lasts for a certain period of time. It should be noted that due to the relatively large impedance of the power supply control circuit 230, the current value of the power supply control signal can be less than or equal to the first preset value. Furthermore, MOS Q2 is a voltage-controlled device, requiring only a relatively small current to turn on MOS Q2.

[0204] Here, the resistor R19 (ie, the third resistor) is configured to limit the current supplied to the gate of the MOS Q2.

[0205] The light-emitting terminal of optocoupler B7 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210, while the light-receiving terminal of optocoupler B7 is connected to the neutral terminal N1 and signal line S1 of outdoor unit 200, respectively. When outdoor unit 200 is powered on, optocoupler B7 is configured to conduct under the control of outdoor unit main control circuit 210, turning off MOS Q2 and, in turn, disconnecting switch relay K5.

[0206] For example, the collector C of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the signal line S1 via resistors R18 and R19, and the emitter E of the phototransistor in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the neutral terminal N1 of the outdoor unit 200. The anode A of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the reference voltage terminal of the outdoor unit 200 (e.g., the reference voltage terminal providing 5V in FIG. 22 ), and the cathode K of the light-emitting diode in the optocoupler B7 is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0207] Here, resistor R18 is configured to limit the current through optocoupler B7. The functions of resistor R18 and optocoupler B7 are similar to those described above and will not be repeated here.

[0208] The control process of the circuit between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 will be described below.

[0209] In the standby state, the switch relay K3, the switch relay K2, and the switch relay K5 are all turned off, so that the outdoor unit 200 cannot be powered and operate.

[0210] When the indoor unit 100 receives a power-on command, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the switching relay K3 to close. Current flows through the switching relay K3, resistor R13, and diode D6, charging capacitor C5. Due to the voltage regulator diode Z2, the voltage across capacitor C5 is less than or equal to the voltage of the Zener diode Z2 (e.g., 24V). At this point, the optocoupler B3 is turned off, so no signal is output from the signal line S1 to the outdoor unit 200, and the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 does not operate.

[0211] After the switch relay K3 is closed for a first preset time, the voltage across capacitor C5 stabilizes at 24V. At this point, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 turns on the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B3. This causes current to flow from capacitor C5 through the optocoupler B3, optocoupler B4, diode D8, and PTC resistor RT3, and then through signal line S1 to the PTC resistor RT2, diode D10, resistor R19, and MOS Q2.

[0212] In this situation, MOS Q2 is turned on. After MOS Q2 turns on, it triggers the fourth power supply 2202 to provide a stable power supply (e.g., 12V) to the switching relay K5. The switching relay K5 then turns on, and the first circuit H1 is connected. This allows the live wire L to supply power to the third power supply 2201 via the PTC resistor RT1 and the switching relay K5. After the third power supply 2201 has been continuously powered for a period of time, the third power supply 2201 can stably supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0213] After the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 operates normally, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 can send a closing control signal to control the switching relay K2 to close, so that the power supply line 300 can supply power to the third power source 2201 through the second loop H2. After the switching relay K2 is closed, most of the current from the power supply line 300 enters the third power source 2201 through the second loop H2.

[0214] At the same time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B7 to conduct. After the optocoupler B7 is turned on, the voltage between the gate and source of the MOS Q2 falls below its conduction voltage. Therefore, the MOS Q2 is turned off, and the switch relay K5 is disconnected. As a result, the current on the signal line S1 no longer flows through the branch where the MOS Q2 resides. Therefore, the first loop H1 is cut off. Thus, when the air conditioner 10 is operating, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 is powered by the second loop H2.

[0215] At this time, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 controls the collector C and emitter E of the optocoupler B1 to be conductive. In this way, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 can send a communication signal by controlling the on and off of the optocoupler B3. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 receives the communication signal through the optocoupler B2 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 according to the communication signal.

[0216] After sending the communication signal, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls the optocoupler B3 to conduct, waiting for the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 to reply with a communication signal. The outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends the communication signal by controlling the optocoupler B1 to be on and off. The indoor unit main control circuit 110 receives the communication signal via the optocoupler B4 and controls the operation of the relevant loads in the indoor unit 100 based on the received communication signal. In addition, during the above process, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 can also prepare to send a new communication signal to the outdoor unit 200 next time.

[0217] In this way, after receiving the power-on command, the process of powering on the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 and the communication process between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200 are completed.

[0218] When the indoor unit main control circuit 110 receives a shutdown command, it controls optocoupler B3 to issue a shutdown signal. Upon receiving the shutdown signal via optocoupler B2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 stops the operation of the relevant loads in the outdoor unit 200 and sends a response to the indoor unit main control circuit 110 via optocoupler B1. Upon receiving the response, the indoor unit main control circuit 110 controls optocoupler B3 to turn off. At this point, no current is output from signal line S1 to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0219] In this case, after the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 delays for the fifth preset time, if it is confirmed that there is no new signal sent by the indoor unit main control circuit 110, the switch type relay K2 is controlled to be disconnected, thereby cutting off the power supply to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0220] Furthermore, after the indoor unit main control circuit 110 sends the shutdown signal, if it determines that the outdoor unit communication circuit 240 has received the shutdown signal, it controls the switch-type relay K3 to disconnect, thereby further reducing standby power consumption. At this point, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 completes the shutdown process and enters the power-off state, waiting for the next startup operation.

[0221] The corresponding timing of the above control process is introduced below using FIG25 as an example.

[0222] As shown in Figure 25, the power supply circuit 300 always receives AC mains power. The time period from time t0 to time t1 is when the optocoupler B3 is off. During this time period, the optocoupler B3's switching signal is low, and the indoor unit communication circuit 130 does not transmit the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 via signal line S1. Furthermore, during the time period from time t0 to time t1, the switching signals of the switching relay K2 and the MOS Q2 are low, de-energizing the coil of the switching relay K2. The MOS Q2 is turned off, and thus de-energizing the coil of the switching relay K5. Therefore, during this time period, both the first circuit H1 and the second circuit H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supply power to the third power supply 2201, are disconnected. The third power supply 2201 loses power, and the voltage of the third power supply 2201 is therefore zero.

[0223] During the time period from time t1 to time t2, the switching signal of optocoupler B3 is high, and optocoupler B3 is turned on. Therefore, during this time period, the indoor unit communication circuit 130 transmits the power supply control signal to the power supply control circuit 230 of the outdoor unit 200 via signal line S1. Consequently, the switching signal of MOS Q2 is high, and the switching signal of switching relay K5 is high, energizing the coil of switching relay K5. This connects the first loop H1 of the power supply circuit 300 that supplies power to the third power supply 2201, connecting the third power supply 2201 to power on and supplying power to the outdoor unit main control circuit 210.

[0224] At time t2, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a closing control signal to the switching relay K2. The switching signal of the switching relay K2 goes high, energizing the coil of the switching relay K2 and connecting the second loop H2 of the power supply circuit 300, which supplies power to the power source 220. Furthermore, the outdoor unit main control circuit 210 sends a control signal to the optocoupler B7, turning its switching signal high. In this state, the optocoupler B7 turns on, and the MOSFET Q2 turns off. In this state, the current on the signal line S1 no longer flows through the MOSFET Q2, allowing the signal line S1 to transmit other communication data.

[0225] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the power supply 120 that supplies power to the indoor unit communication circuit 130 has a weak current capability, the power supply of the power supply 220 in the outdoor unit 200 can be controlled by a smaller driving current on the signal line SI, thereby further reducing the wire diameter requirements of the cable between the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor unit 200.

[0226] In the description of the above embodiments, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0227] Those skilled in the art will understand that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above specific embodiments, and that certain elements of the embodiments may be modified and replaced without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is limited by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner comprising: Indoor unit, including: an indoor unit main control circuit configured to control the operation of at least one indoor power supply and an indoor unit communication circuit, and to control communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit; The indoor unit communication circuit is connected to the power control circuit and the outdoor unit communication circuit of the outdoor unit via a signal line and is configured to communicate with the outdoor unit; and The at least one indoor power supply is configured to supply power to the indoor unit main control circuit and the indoor unit communication circuit; and The outdoor unit, wherein the live wire terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the live wire terminal of the indoor unit, and the live wire terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the live wire of the power supply line; the neutral wire terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the neutral wire terminal of the indoor unit, and the neutral wire terminal of the outdoor unit is connected to the neutral wire of the power supply line, and the outdoor unit includes: an outdoor unit main control circuit configured to control the operation of at least one outdoor power supply, the power supply control circuit, and the outdoor unit communication circuit, and to control communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit; The outdoor unit communication circuit is configured to communicate with the indoor unit; The power supply control circuit is provided on a loop of the power supply line supplying power to the at least one outdoor power supply, and is configured to control the power supply line to supply power to the at least one outdoor power supply by controlling the on / off state of the loop; and The at least one outdoor power supply is configured to supply power to the outdoor unit main control circuit and the outdoor unit communication circuit after receiving power from the power supply line; Wherein, the power control circuit includes: A first circuit is a circuit in which the power supply line connected under the control of a power supply control signal supplies power to the at least one outdoor power supply; the power supply control signal is a signal sent by the indoor unit communication circuit to the power supply control circuit via the signal line; a second circuit, which is a circuit for supplying power to the at least one outdoor power supply through the power supply line connected under the control of a closed control signal; the closed control signal is a signal sent by the outdoor unit main control circuit to the power supply control circuit after the at least one outdoor power supply is powered on through the first circuit; the first circuit and the second circuit are connected in parallel, and the impedance of the second circuit is smaller than that of the first circuit; and The trigger circuit is connected to the signal line and the first loop, and is configured to trigger the first loop to be turned on according to the power supply control signal.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein: The second circuit includes a first switch-type relay, and the first switch-type relay is configured to be closed according to the closing control signal, thereby connecting the second circuit.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one indoor power supply comprises: a first power supply, wherein an input end of the first power supply is connected to the live wire terminal and the neutral wire terminal of the indoor unit, an output end of the first power supply is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit, and the first power supply is configured to provide a voltage required for operation of the indoor unit main control circuit; and A second power supply, the input end of the second power supply is connected to the live wire terminal and the neutral wire terminal of the indoor unit, the output end of the second power supply is connected to the indoor unit communication circuit, and the second power supply is configured to provide the indoor unit communication circuit with the voltage required for operation.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein: The second power supply includes a second switch-type relay, which is arranged on the circuit of the power supply line supplying power to the second power supply and is configured to control the on and off of the circuit of the second power supply under the control of the indoor unit main control circuit.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, wherein: The second power supply further includes a half-wave rectifier circuit, an input end of the half-wave rectifier circuit is connected to the power supply line, and an output end of the half-wave rectifier circuit is connected to the indoor unit communication circuit.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein: The second power supply also includes a first optocoupler, the light-emitting end of the first optocoupler is arranged on the loop of the power supply line that supplies power to the second power supply, the light-receiving end of the first optocoupler is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit, and the first optocoupler is configured to detect the zero-crossing signal of the alternating current transmitted by the power supply line.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: The indoor unit communication circuit includes: a second optical coupler, which is a communication transmitting end of the indoor unit, wherein a light emitting end of the second optical coupler is connected to a main control circuit of the indoor unit, and a light receiving end of the second optical coupler is connected to an output end of the second power supply; and The third optical coupler is the communication receiving end of the indoor unit. The light emitting end of the third optical coupler is connected to the light receiving end of the second optical coupler. and the signal line, the light receiving end of the third optical coupler is connected to the indoor unit main control circuit; The indoor unit main control circuit is further configured to: when the second switch-type relay is closed for a first preset time, control the second optocoupler to be turned on for a third preset time after delaying for a second preset time after acquiring the zero-crossing signal.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: The at least one outdoor power supply includes a third power supply, an output end of the third power supply is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit, a first input end of the third power supply is connected to the neutral line of the power supply circuit, and a second input end of the third power supply is connected to the first loop; The first circuit includes a thyristor, a gate of the thyristor is connected to the trigger circuit, a first pole of the thyristor is connected to the live wire of the power supply line, a second pole of the thyristor is connected to the second input end of the third power supply, and the thyristor is configured to be turned on under the control of the trigger signal of the trigger circuit.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein: The trigger circuit comprises: an optocoupler thyristor, wherein a light-receiving end of the optocoupler thyristor is connected to the gate of the thyristor, and the optocoupler thyristor is configured to be turned on according to the power supply control signal to trigger the first circuit to be turned on; a transistor, wherein the base of the transistor is connected to the signal line and the light-receiving end of the fourth optocoupler, the collector of the transistor is connected to the light-emitting end of the optocoupler thyristor, and the emitter of the transistor is connected to the neutral line of the power supply circuit; and The fourth optocoupler, the light-emitting end of the fourth optocoupler is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit, the light-receiving end of the fourth optocoupler is respectively connected to the neutral line of the power supply line and the signal line, and the fourth optocoupler is configured to be turned on under the control of the outdoor unit main control circuit after the outdoor unit is powered on, so that the transistor and the optocoupler thyristor are cut off.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein: The trigger circuit also includes a first resistor, which is connected between the light-receiving end of the fourth optocoupler and the signal line. The resistance value of the first resistor is greater than or equal to a preset value. The first resistor is configured to bias the voltage of the base of the transistor and limit the current flowing into the fourth optocoupler.

11. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein: The trigger circuit comprises: an optocoupler thyristor, wherein a light-receiving end of the optocoupler thyristor is connected to the gate of the thyristor, and the optocoupler thyristor is configured to be turned on according to the power supply control signal to trigger the first circuit to be turned on; A normally closed switching relay, wherein one end of the normally closed switching relay coil is connected to the reference voltage end of the outdoor unit, the other end of the normally closed switching relay coil is connected to the main control circuit of the outdoor unit, the moving contact of the normally closed switching relay is connected to the signal line, the normally closed contact of the normally closed switching relay is connected to the light-emitting end of the optocoupler thyristor, and the normally open contact of the normally closed switching relay is connected to the outdoor unit communication circuit. The normally closed switching relay is configured to: after the outdoor unit is powered on, under the control of the outdoor unit main control circuit, switch the moving contact from being connected to the normally closed contact to being connected to the normally open contact, so as to connect the signal line with the outdoor unit communication circuit and disconnect the signal line from the trigger circuit.

12. The air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein The voltage of the reference voltage terminal is provided by the third power supply.

13. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: The second power supply further includes a second resistor connected in parallel with the light-emitting end of the first optocoupler. The second resistor is configured to limit the voltage of the light-emitting end of the first optocoupler to protect the light-emitting end of the first optocoupler.

14. The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein The at least one outdoor power source comprises: a third power supply, wherein an output end of the third power supply is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit, a first input end of the third power supply is connected to the neutral line of the power supply circuit, and a second input end of the third power supply is connected to the first loop; and a fourth power supply, wherein an input end of the fourth power supply is connected to the live wire of the power supply circuit, and an output end of the fourth power supply is connected to one end of the third switch-type relay coil; The first circuit includes the third switch-type relay, the other end of the third switch-type relay coil is connected to the output end of the trigger circuit, one end of the third switch-type relay is connected to the live wire of the power supply line, and the other end of the third switch-type relay is connected to the second input end of the third power supply. The third switch-type relay is configured to be turned on under the control of the trigger signal of the trigger circuit.

15. The air conditioner according to claim 14, wherein The trigger circuit comprises: a field effect transistor, wherein a gate of the field effect transistor is connected to the signal line, a first electrode of the field effect transistor is connected to the neutral line of the power supply circuit, a second electrode of the field effect transistor is connected to the other end of the coil of the third switch-type relay, and the field effect transistor is configured to be turned on according to the power supply control signal to trigger the first loop to be turned on; and The fourth optical coupler, the light emitting end of the fourth optical coupler is connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit, and the light receiving end of the fourth optical coupler is respectively connected to the outdoor unit main control circuit. The neutral line of the power supply line and the signal line are connected, and the fourth optical coupler is configured to be turned on under the control of the outdoor unit main control circuit after the outdoor unit is powered on, so as to turn off the field effect tube.

16. The air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein The field effect transistor includes a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor.

17. The air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein The trigger circuit further includes a third resistor connected between the gate of the field effect transistor and the signal line, and the third resistor is configured to limit the current of the gate of the field effect transistor.

18. The air conditioner according to claim 17, wherein: The trigger circuit also includes a first resistor, which is connected between the light-receiving end of the fourth optocoupler and the third resistor. The resistance value of the first resistor is greater than or equal to a preset value, and the first resistor is configured to limit the current flowing into the fourth optocoupler.

19. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein: The outdoor unit main control circuit is further configured to send the closing control signal after the first circuit is turned on for a fourth preset time.

20. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein: The outdoor unit main control circuit is further configured as follows: After receiving the shutdown signal sent by the indoor unit communication circuit, after a fifth preset time delay, if the indoor unit communication circuit stops sending the signal, controlling the first switch type relay to be disconnected; After sending the shutdown signal, if it is determined that the outdoor unit communication circuit has received the shutdown signal, the second switch-type relay is controlled to be disconnected.

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