Control method for heat recovery system, and controller, heat recovery system and storage medium

Abstract

Provided in the embodiments of the present application are a control method for a heat recovery system, and a controller, a heat recovery system and a storage medium. The control method for a heat recovery system comprises: determining that an indoor unit is in a refrigeration mode, and acquiring a water tank temperature of a water tank and an outdoor ambient temperature (S610); when the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to a set temperature, determining a target temperature range on the basis of the outdoor ambient temperature, wherein the upper limit range value of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature (S620); and when the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, continuing to heat the water tank by means of an outdoor unit, such that the water tank executes active heat recovery (S630).

Description

Control methods, controllers, heat recovery systems, and storage media for heat recovery systems

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411046756.X, filed on July 31, 2024, entitled "Control Method, Controller, Heat Recovery System and Storage Medium for Heat Recovery System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of heat recovery system technology, and in particular to a control method, controller, heat recovery system and storage medium for a heat recovery system. Background Technology

[0004] In related technologies, existing heat recovery systems typically have a water tank and an indoor unit on the indoor side. When only the indoor unit has a cooling energy requirement, and the water temperature in the water tank has reached or is close to reaching the required temperature, that is, when the water tank has no need to produce hot water or has a very small need to produce hot water, the entire system is equivalent to a conventional air conditioning system and cannot take advantage of heat recovery. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a control method, controller, heat recovery system, and storage medium for a heat recovery system, which aims to enable the water tank to store energy when the heat recovery system only requires energy for cooling, thereby realizing the heat recovery function.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a heat recovery system, the heat recovery system comprising an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a water tank, wherein the outdoor unit, the indoor unit, and the water tank are connected via refrigerant pipes; the method includes:

[0007] Determine that the indoor unit is in cooling mode, and obtain the water tank temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature;

[0008] When the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to the set temperature, a target temperature range is determined based on the outdoor ambient temperature, wherein the upper limit of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature; and

[0009] When the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, the outdoor unit continues to heat the water tank to enable the water tank to perform active heat recovery.

[0010] According to some embodiments of this application, determining the target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes:

[0011] The first interval corresponding to the global mode is determined based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0012] Based on the outdoor ambient temperature, a second zone corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode is determined; and

[0013] The intersection of the first interval and the second interval is determined to obtain the target temperature range.

[0014] According to some embodiments of this application, determining the first interval corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes: when the water tank is in a temperature-reached shutdown state, determining the first maximum water temperature value corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature, determining the first upper limit value of water temperature based on the first maximum water temperature value and the pre-compensation value, and obtaining the first interval based on the first upper limit value of water temperature.

[0015] According to some embodiments of this application, determining the first interval corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes: when the water tank is not in the temperature-reaching shutdown state, determining the first maximum water temperature value corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature, and obtaining the first interval based on the first maximum water temperature value.

[0016] According to some embodiments of this application, determining the second interval corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes:

[0017] Based on the outdoor ambient temperature, determine the second highest and second lowest water temperature values ​​corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode; and

[0018] The second interval is determined based on the highest and lowest values ​​of the second water temperature.

[0019] According to some embodiments of this application, determining that the indoor unit is in cooling mode includes: determining that the indoor unit is in cooling mode and the continuous cooling duration is greater than or a preset duration.

[0020] According to some embodiments of this application, the outdoor unit is equipped with a compressor and a valve assembly, and the compressor is connected to the indoor unit and the water tank through the valve assembly; the step of continuing to heat the water tank through the outdoor unit includes: when the water tank reaches the temperature and stops, switching the valve assembly so that the exhaust port of the compressor is connected to the heat exchange coil of the water tank through the valve assembly.

[0021] According to some embodiments of this application, the outdoor unit is equipped with a compressor and a valve assembly, and the compressor is connected to the indoor unit and the water tank through the valve assembly; the step of continuing to heat the water tank through the outdoor unit includes: when the water tank is not in the temperature-reaching shutdown state, maintaining the valve assembly so that the exhaust port of the compressor is connected to the heat exchange coil of the water tank through the valve assembly.

[0022] According to some embodiments of this application, after the water tank is further heated by the outdoor unit, the method further includes: modifying the set temperature to the upper limit of the target temperature range.

[0023] According to some embodiments of this application, after the water tank is continued to be heated by the outdoor unit, the method further includes: disabling the electric heating device of the water tank.

[0024] According to some embodiments of this application, after the water tank is further heated by the outdoor unit, the method further includes:

[0025] When a preset exit condition is met, heating of the water tank by the outdoor unit is stopped. The preset exit condition includes at least one of the following:

[0026] No active heat recovery indicator signal was received from the outdoor unit;

[0027] Received a command to shut down the energy storage function of the water tank;

[0028] Received a command to force the electric heating function to be turned on;

[0029] Received the mode switching command for the water tank;

[0030] The received water temperature at the bottom of the tank is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range;

[0031] The received new set temperature is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range;

[0032] Receives a command from the outdoor unit to exit cooling or dehumidification mode;

[0033] The temperature at the top of the water tank is less than a first threshold and the temperature at the bottom of the water tank is less than the minimum of a second threshold and a third threshold, wherein the first threshold is determined by the set temperature, the second threshold is a constant value, and the third threshold is determined by the upper limit of the first water temperature.

[0034] Power off command received.

[0035] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a controller, including: a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the control method of the heat recovery system described in the first aspect when running the computer program.

[0036] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a heat recovery system including the controller described in the second aspect above.

[0037] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions for performing the control method of the heat recovery system as described in the first aspect above.

[0038] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, including a computer program or computer instructions, wherein the computer program or computer instructions are stored in a computer-readable storage medium, a processor of a computer device reads the computer program or computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium, and the processor executes the computer program or computer instructions to cause the computer device to perform the control method of the heat recovery system as described in the first aspect above.

[0039] According to the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, at least the following beneficial effects are achieved: First, when it is determined that the indoor unit is in cooling mode, the embodiments of this application will obtain the water tank temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; then, if the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to the set temperature, it indicates that the water tank has no need for hot water production or the need for hot water production is very small. In this regard, the embodiments of this application will determine the target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature. Since the upper limit of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature, it is equivalent to increasing the original set temperature; next, the embodiments of this application will compare the water tank temperature with the target temperature range. If the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, it indicates that the water tank can continue to store energy. Then, the heat recovery system will continue to heat the water tank through the outdoor unit to enable the water tank to perform active heat recovery function.

[0040] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The accompanying drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the technical solutions of this application and constitute a part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain the technical solutions of this application and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions of this application.

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the flow direction of a heat recovery system in a cooling scenario where heat recovery is not required, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0044] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the flow direction of a heat recovery system in a refrigeration and partial heat recovery scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the flow direction of a heat recovery system in a refrigeration and total heat recovery scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the flow direction of a heat recovery system in a refrigeration and total heat recovery scenario provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 10 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 12 is an overall flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a controller for performing a control method for a heat recovery system according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0056] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0057] In the description of this application, "several" means one or more, "more than" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0058] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly defined, terms such as "setup," "installation," and "connection" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this application in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0059] In some cases, existing heat recovery systems typically have a water tank and an indoor unit on the indoor side. When only the indoor unit has a cooling energy requirement, and the water temperature in the water tank has reached or is close to reaching the required temperature, that is, when the water tank has no need to produce hot water or has a very small need to produce hot water, the entire system is equivalent to a conventional air conditioning system and cannot take advantage of heat recovery.

[0060] Based on the above, embodiments of this application propose a control method, controller, heat recovery system, and storage medium for a heat recovery system, aiming to enable the water tank to store energy when the heat recovery system only needs energy for cooling, thereby realizing the heat recovery function.

[0061] The various embodiments of the heat recovery system of this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] As shown in Figure 1, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0063] In one embodiment, the heat recovery system includes indoor-side equipment and outdoor-side equipment. The indoor-side equipment includes an indoor unit 100 and a water tank 300 as shown in FIG1, and the outdoor-side equipment includes an outdoor unit as shown in FIG1. ​​The outdoor unit, indoor unit 100 and water tank 300 are connected by refrigerant pipes. The outdoor unit is equipped with an outdoor heat exchanger 200, a compressor 400 and a valve assembly. The compressor 400 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 200, indoor unit 100 and water tank 300 through the valve assembly.

[0064] In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes multiple four-way valves 500. In addition, the outdoor unit is also equipped with a throttling assembly. Specifically, the compressor 400 can be connected to the water tank 300 through one four-way valve 500 (the four-way valve 500 in the middle position as shown in Figure 1). The water tank 300 is connected to one end of the indoor unit 100 through the throttling assembly. The other end of the indoor unit 100 is connected to another four-way valve 500 (the four-way valve 500 in the left position as shown in Figure 1). In addition, the compressor 400 is also connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through yet another four-way valve 500 (the four-way valve 500 in the right position as shown in Figure 1). The outdoor heat exchanger 200 is connected to one end of the indoor unit 100 through the throttling assembly. The other end of the indoor unit 100 is connected to the four-way valve 500 (the four-way valve 500 in the left position as shown in Figure 1).

[0065] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG1, the throttling assembly includes a main electronic expansion valve 600 and multiple sub-electronic expansion valves 700. The water tank 300 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through the main electronic expansion valve 600, and the water tank 300 is also connected to each indoor unit 100 through the sub-electronic expansion valves 700.

[0066] In one embodiment, the heat recovery system may include multiple indoor units 100, and each indoor unit 100 is provided with a separate electronic expansion valve 700 at its refrigerant inlet. The separate electronic expansion valve 700 can control the refrigerant flow rate input to the corresponding indoor unit 100. The refrigerant outlet of the water tank 300 can also be connected to each separate electronic expansion valve 700 and the main electronic expansion valve 600 through a first electronic expansion valve 800. By controlling the first electronic expansion valve 800, the refrigerant flow rate input to each separate electronic expansion valve 700 can be controlled.

[0067] As shown in Figure 2, in the case of refrigeration without heat recovery, the refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 400 and then enters the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through the four-way valve 500 on the right side for heat exchange and condensation. At this time, the main electronic expansion valve 600 and the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 are in the open state. Therefore, the condensed refrigerant enters each indoor unit 100 through the main electronic expansion valve 600 and the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 for evaporation. Finally, the evaporated refrigerant re-enters the compressor 400 through the four-way valve 500 on the left side, forming a cycle.

[0068] It should be noted that the refrigerant flow direction in the case of heating and without heat recovery is the opposite of the refrigerant flow direction in the case of cooling and without heat recovery, and the embodiments of this application will not be specifically described in this regard.

[0069] As shown in Figure 3, in the case of refrigeration with partial heat recovery, the refrigerant, after being compressed by the compressor 400, is divided into two parts. One part of the refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through the four-way valve 500 on the right side for heat exchange and condensation. At this time, the main electronic expansion valve 600 and the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 are open. Therefore, the condensed refrigerant enters each indoor unit 100 through the main electronic expansion valve 600 and the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 for evaporation. The other part of the refrigerant enters through the four-way valve in the middle. The refrigerant 500 enters the water tank 300 for heat exchange and condensation, thereby heating and storing energy in the water in the water tank 300. At this time, the first electronic expansion valve 800 and the second electronic expansion valve 700 are in the open state. Therefore, the condensed refrigerant enters each indoor unit 100 for evaporation through the first electronic expansion valve 800 and the second electronic expansion valve 700. Finally, all the refrigerant that has been evaporated in the indoor unit 100 will re-enter the compressor 400 through the four-way valve 500 on the left side, forming a cycle.

[0070] It should be noted that the refrigerant flow direction in the case of heating and partial heat recovery is different in that the refrigerant flow direction in the branch where the indoor unit 100 and the outdoor heat exchanger 200 are located is opposite to the refrigerant flow direction in the case of cooling and partial heat recovery. The embodiments of this application will not elaborate on this.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4, when the heat recovery system is in cooling and full heat recovery mode and the main electronic expansion valve 600 is open, the refrigerant, after being compressed by the compressor 400, enters the water tank 300 through the four-way valve 500 in the middle position for heat exchange and condensation, thereby heating the water in the water tank 300. At this time, the first electronic expansion valve 800, the main electronic expansion valve 600, and the branch electronic expansion valve 700 are all open. Therefore, the condensed refrigerant will be divided into two parts. One part of the refrigerant enters each indoor unit 100 through the branch electronic expansion valve 700 for evaporation. Finally, the evaporated refrigerant will re-enter the compressor 400 through the four-way valve 500 on the left side, forming a cycle. At the same time, the other part of the refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through the main electronic expansion valve 600 for evaporation. Finally, the evaporated refrigerant will re-enter the compressor 400 through the four-way valve 500 on the right side, forming a cycle.

[0072] It should be noted that the refrigerant flow direction in the case of heating and requiring full heat recovery, and with the main electronic expansion valve 600 open, differs from that in the case of cooling and requiring full heat recovery, and with the main electronic expansion valve 600 open. The embodiments of this application will not elaborate on this.

[0073] As shown in Figure 5, when the heat recovery system is in cooling and full heat recovery mode and the main electronic expansion valve 600 is closed, the refrigerant, after being compressed by the compressor 400, enters the water tank 300 through the four-way valve 500 in the middle position for heat exchange and condensation, thereby heating the water in the water tank 300. At this time, the first electronic expansion valve 800 and the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 are open, while the main electronic expansion valve 600 is closed. Therefore, after condensation, all the refrigerant enters each indoor unit 100 through the secondary electronic expansion valve 700 for evaporation. Finally, the evaporated refrigerant re-enters the compressor 400 through the four-way valve 500 on the left, forming a cycle. Because the main electronic expansion valve 600 is closed, the condensed refrigerant does not enter the outdoor heat exchanger 200 through the main electronic expansion valve 600.

[0074] Based on the hardware structure of the heat recovery system in the above embodiments, the following presents various embodiments of the control method of the heat recovery system of this application.

[0075] As shown in Figure 6, Figure 6 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application; the control method for the heat recovery system may include, but is not limited to, steps S610, S620 and S630.

[0076] Step S610: Determine that the indoor unit is in cooling mode, and obtain the water tank temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature;

[0077] Step S620: When the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to the set temperature, determine the target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature, wherein the upper limit of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature.

[0078] Step S630: When the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, the outdoor unit continues to heat the water tank to enable the water tank to perform active heat recovery.

[0079] In one embodiment, firstly, when it is determined that the indoor unit is in cooling mode, the embodiment of this application acquires the water tank temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; then, if the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to the set temperature, it indicates that the water tank has no need for hot water production or the need for hot water production is very small. In this case, the embodiment of this application determines a target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature. Since the upper limit of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature, it is equivalent to raising the original set temperature; next, the embodiment of this application compares the water tank temperature with the target temperature range. If the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, it indicates that the water tank can continue to store energy. Then, the heat recovery system will continue to heat the water tank through the outdoor unit to enable the water tank to perform active heat recovery function.

[0080] It is understood that the aforementioned set temperature can be the water tank temperature set by the user, and the embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the value of the set temperature.

[0081] It should be noted that the target temperature range mentioned above is determined by the outdoor ambient temperature, which makes the target temperature range more reasonable. This not only better ensures the normal operation of the system, but also allows the water tank temperature to be further increased for energy storage.

[0082] Additionally, if the water tank temperature falls below the target temperature range, it may indicate that the water tank has no more energy to produce hot water, meaning it cannot be further heated and stored. In this case, the heat recovery system will stop heating the water tank via the outdoor unit.

[0083] In one embodiment, determining that the indoor unit is in cooling mode in step S610 can be specifically defined as: determining that the indoor unit is in cooling mode and that the continuous cooling duration is greater than or equal to a preset duration; that is, the above process will only be executed when the unit is continuously cooling.

[0084] Additionally, as shown in Figure 7, which is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application; the determination of the target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature in step S620 may include, but is not limited to, steps S710, S720, and S730.

[0085] Step S710: Determine the first interval corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature;

[0086] Step S720: Determine the second zone corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature;

[0087] Step S730: Determine the intersection of the first interval and the second interval to obtain the target temperature interval.

[0088] In one embodiment, in order to make the target temperature range set more reasonably, firstly, the embodiments of this application will determine a first range under the global mode, that is, the mode is universal. At the same time, a second range will be generated separately for the cooling and hot water mixing mode to be executed later. Then, the intersection of the first range and the second range will be determined, and this intersection is the target temperature range.

[0089] In one embodiment, the embodiments of this application can determine the upper limit value of a first interval and the upper limit value of a second interval. Then, the upper limit value with the smallest value is selected from the two upper limit values ​​and used as the upper limit value of the target temperature interval. This setting method avoids setting the upper limit value of the target temperature interval to be too high, reducing the likelihood of system malfunctions.

[0090] It should be noted that the process of determining the first interval in step S710 above can be performed in different ways depending on the scenario, including but not limited to the two scenarios shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9, as detailed below:

[0091] As shown in Figure 8, Figure 8 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application; regarding the above step S710, it may include, but is not limited to, steps S810 and S820.

[0092] Step S810: When the water tank reaches the temperature and stops, determine the highest first water temperature value corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0093] Step S820: Determine the upper limit of the first water temperature based on the highest value of the first water temperature and the pre-compensation value, and obtain the first interval based on the upper limit of the first water temperature.

[0094] In one embodiment, if the water tank is in a temperature-controlled shutdown state, the highest water temperature value corresponding to the global mode can be determined first based on the outdoor ambient temperature. In order to reserve a certain temperature fluctuation range, the embodiment of this application can also generate a pre-compensation value and use the pre-compensation value to lower the highest water temperature value to obtain the upper limit of the first water temperature. Then, the embodiment of this application can obtain a first interval that is less than or equal to the upper limit of the first water temperature.

[0095] It should be noted that the aforementioned pre-compensation value can be negative compensation, meaning the upper limit of the first water temperature is less than the highest value of the first water temperature, or it can be zero, meaning the upper limit of the first water temperature is equal to the highest value of the first water temperature.

[0096] As shown in Figure 9, Figure 9 is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application; regarding the above step S710, it may include, but is not limited to, steps S910 and S920.

[0097] Step S910: When the water tank is not in the temperature-reached shutdown state, determine the highest first water temperature value corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0098] Step S920: Obtain the first interval based on the highest value of the first water temperature.

[0099] In one embodiment, if the water tank is not in the temperature-reached shutdown state, the highest water temperature value corresponding to the global mode can be determined first based on the outdoor ambient temperature, and then a first interval less than or equal to the highest water temperature value can be generated.

[0100] Additionally, as shown in Figure 10, which is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application, step S720 may include, but is not limited to, steps S1010 and S1020.

[0101] Step S1010: Determine the highest and lowest water temperature values ​​corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0102] Step S1020: Determine the second interval based on the second highest water temperature value and the second lowest water temperature value.

[0103] In one embodiment, since it is required to operate in a cooling and hot water production mode, in order to ensure that the water tank has the energy required in the cooling and hot water production mode, the embodiments of this application will determine the second maximum water temperature value and the second minimum water temperature value based on the outdoor ambient temperature, and take the interval between the second minimum water temperature value and the second maximum water temperature value as the second interval.

[0104] It should be noted that the heat pump can only operate to heat the water tank when the water tank temperature is within a suitable temperature range; otherwise, the water tank will not have any heat pump power. This temperature range is defined by the second minimum and second maximum water temperatures. In other words, the water tank heat pump will only have power when the water tank temperature is between the second minimum and second maximum water temperatures.

[0105] It is understandable that the second highest and second lowest water temperatures are related to the outdoor ambient temperature, and different outdoor ambient temperatures can correspond to different second highest and second lowest water temperatures.

[0106] In one embodiment, the above-mentioned heating of the water tank by the outdoor unit includes, but is not limited to, the following two situations, which are detailed below:

[0107] The first scenario: When the water tank has reached its operating temperature and is in a shutdown state, the valve assembly is switched so that the compressor's discharge port is connected to the water tank's heat exchange coil through the valve assembly. Specifically, if the water tank has already been shut down, and reheating the water tank is required, the valve assembly, such as a four-way valve, needs to be switched so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor's discharge port enters the water tank's heat exchange coil for heat exchange and condensation.

[0108] The second scenario: When the water tank is not in the temperature-reaching shutdown state, the valve assembly is maintained so that the compressor's exhaust port is connected to the water tank's heat exchange coil through the valve assembly. Specifically, if the water tank is not shut down, it indicates that the compressor's exhaust port and the water tank are always connected. In this case, embodiments of this application can maintain the valve assembly, such as a four-way valve, so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor's exhaust port continues to enter the water tank's heat exchange coil through the valve assembly for heat exchange and condensation.

[0109] In one embodiment, after the water tank continues to be heated by the outdoor unit, the method further includes one of the following: modifying the set temperature to the upper limit of the target temperature range; and disabling the electric heating device of the water tank.

[0110] Additionally, as shown in Figure 11, which is a flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in another embodiment of this application, after the water tank is heated by the outdoor unit, the method may include, but is not limited to, steps S1110 and S1120.

[0111] Step S1110: Determine that the preset exit conditions have been met;

[0112] Step S1120: Stop heating the water tank through the outdoor unit.

[0113] Specifically, the preset exit conditions include at least one of the following: no active heat recovery indicator signal is received from the outdoor unit; a command to shut down the energy storage function of the water tank is received; a command to force the electric heating function to start is received; a mode switching command is received from the water tank; the lower temperature of the water tank is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range; a new set temperature is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range is received; a command to exit the cooling or dehumidification mode from the outdoor unit is received; the upper temperature of the water tank is less than a first threshold and the lower temperature of the water tank is less than the minimum of a second threshold and a third threshold, wherein the first threshold is determined by the set temperature, the second threshold is a constant value, and the third threshold is determined by the upper limit of the first water temperature; or a shutdown command is received.

[0114] Based on the control methods of the heat recovery system in the above embodiments, the overall embodiments of the control methods of the heat recovery system of this application are presented below.

[0115] In one embodiment, the heat recovery system has the following operating modes: cooling, heating, hot water production, cooling + hot water production, and heating + hot water production. When the system is in cooling mode, the indoor and outdoor units are conventional cooling systems and do not perform heat recovery. Therefore, this application provides an active heat recovery function (energy storage function) in cooling mode, storing heat in a water tank to achieve heat recovery. The specific control scheme is as follows:

[0116] As shown in Figure 12, Figure 12 is an overall flowchart of a control method for a heat recovery system provided in an embodiment of this application; the control method for the heat recovery system may include, but is not limited to, the following control logic:

[0117] (i) When the water tank reaches the set temperature and the machine stops (that is, when the water tank temperature Tk reaches the user-set temperature Ts and the machine has stopped).

[0118] Judge the following condition one:

[0119] (1) The outdoor unit is running in cooling (dehumidification) mode and has been running continuously for time1, where time1 is the controller preset parameter;

[0120] (2) The water tank temperature Tk is less than Tstop-T5L_TsTstopOffset, where Tstop is the Tstop in the global mode corresponding to the outdoor ambient temperature T4, and T5L_TsTstopOffset is also a preset parameter of the controller, which can be 0 or a positive number;

[0121] (3) The heat pump meets the requirements of Tstop and T_tankmin corresponding to T4 in the cooling + hot water mode, and the heat pump is in the operating range. Here, Tstop is the Tstop of the outdoor ambient temperature T4 in the cooling + hot water mode.

[0122] (4) The user-defined temperature Ts < Tstop is satisfied.

[0123] Once all the above conditions are met, the water tank enters the active heat recovery (energy storage) mode.

[0124] (ii) When the indoor unit is in hot water production (energy saving, hybrid) mode and reaches the user-set water temperature Ts (or close to the set temperature Ts), the energy saving mode is a mode that does not require electric heating, and the hybrid mode is a mode that uses electric heating in conjunction with a heat pump, with the heat pump heating being the main mode.

[0125] Judge the following condition two:

[0126] (1) The outdoor unit operates in cooling + hot water mode;

[0127] (2) The water tank temperature Tk is less than the outdoor ambient temperature T4 corresponding to Tstop in the global mode;

[0128] (3) The heat pump meets the requirements of Tstop and T_tankmin corresponding to T4 in the cooling + hot water mode, and the heat pump is in the operating range. Here, Tstop is the Tstop of the outdoor ambient temperature T4 in the cooling + hot water mode.

[0129] Once all the above conditions are met, the water tank enters the active heat recovery (energy storage) mode.

[0130] It should be noted that Tstop and T_tankmin requirements are explained as follows: The heat pump can only operate to heat the water tank if the tank temperature Tk is within a suitable temperature range; otherwise, the water tank has no heat pump power required. This temperature range is defined by Tstop and T_tankmin, meaning that the water tank heat pump only has power required when T_tankmin < Tk < Tstop. Furthermore, Tstop and T_tankmin are related to the outdoor ambient temperature; different outdoor ambient temperatures correspond to different Tstop and T_tankmin values.

[0131] Additionally, it should be noted that the difference between Condition 1 and Condition 2 is as follows: Condition 1 only enters the judgment process after the water tank reaches the required temperature and the unit stops. If the judgment condition is met at this time, the air conditioning unit needs to switch from the cooling (dehumidification) mode to the cooling + hot water mode. The switching process may require stopping the unit and cutting the four-way valve, which is a complex process. Condition 2 does not require this switching process. Also, the judgment modes of the two conditions are different, one is the cooling mode and the other is the cooling + hot water mode.

[0132] (III) The water tank enters the active heat recovery (energy storage) mode and operates as follows:

[0133] (1) Change the set temperature Ts to the Tstop value corresponding to the outdoor ambient temperature T4;

[0134] (2) The energy required to produce hot water needs to be supplied to the outdoor unit;

[0135] (3) Water tank operation energy-saving mode, that is, electric heating is not started;

[0136] (4) When the water tank enters the energy storage control, the water tank electric heating is not allowed to be turned on.

[0137] (iv) The prerequisites for the water tank to enter the active heat recovery (energy storage) mode include the following:

[0138] Both the water tank and the outdoor unit controller for heat recovery are marked with indicators indicating whether active heat recovery is enabled. The following scenarios exist:

[0139] (1) If the water tank has an active heat recovery function but the outdoor unit does not have an active heat recovery function, then the whole system does not have this function.

[0140] (2) If the water tank has no active heat recovery function, but the outdoor unit has an active heat recovery function, then the whole system does not have this function.

[0141] (3) If the water tank does not have an active heat recovery function and the outdoor unit does not have an active heat recovery function, then the whole system does not have this function.

[0142] (4) If the water tank has an active heat recovery function and the outdoor unit has an active heat recovery function, then the whole system has this function.

[0143] Only if the entire system has this function will the above steps (i), (ii), and (iii) be executed.

[0144] Whether the water tank and outdoor unit have active heat recovery function can be selected through preset parameters or engineering mode.

[0145] (v) The unit shall deactivate the active heat recovery function if the following conditions are met:

[0146] (1) No active heat recovery indicator was received from the outdoor unit;

[0147] (2) The water tank's energy storage function is off;

[0148] (3) Turn on the forced electric heating function;

[0149] (4) Water tank mode switching, except for energy-saving and hybrid modes;

[0150] (5) If the temperature at the bottom of the water tank T5L ≥ Tstop, the water tank will not need to produce hot water.

[0151] (6) Set the temperature Ts ≥ Tstop;

[0152] (7) The outdoor unit exits cooling or dehumidification mode;

[0153] (8) The temperature at the top of the water tank T5U < Ts-1 and the temperature at the bottom of the water tank T5L < Min(33, Tstop-T5L_TsTstopOffset-2), where Ts-1 corresponds to the first threshold mentioned above, 33 corresponds to the second threshold mentioned above, and T5L_TsTstopOffset-2 corresponds to the third threshold mentioned above.

[0154] (9) Power off.

[0155] Based on the control methods of the heat recovery system in the above embodiments, the following presents various embodiments of the controller, heat recovery system, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product of this application.

[0156] As shown in Figure 13, which is a schematic diagram of a controller for executing a control method for a heat recovery system according to an embodiment of this application, the controller 900 implemented in this application includes: a processor 910, a memory 920, and a computer program stored in the memory 920 and executable on the processor 910. In Figure 13, a processor 910 and a memory 920 are used as an example.

[0157] The processor 910 and the memory 920 can be connected via a bus or other means. Figure 13 shows an example of a connection via a bus.

[0158] Memory 920, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, memory 920 may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory 920 may optionally include remotely located memories 920 relative to processor 910, which can be connected to controller 900 via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will understand that the device structure shown in FIG13 does not constitute a limitation on the controller 900, and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0160] In the controller 900 shown in Figure 13, the processor 910 can be used to call the control program stored in the memory 920, thereby implementing the control method of the heat recovery system described above. Specifically, the non-transitory software program and instructions required to implement the control method of the heat recovery system in the above embodiment are stored in the memory 920. When executed by the processor 910, the control method of the heat recovery system in the above embodiment is executed.

[0161] It is worth noting that since the controller 900 of the embodiments of this application can execute the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments, the specific implementation and technical effects of the controller 900 of the embodiments of this application can be referred to the specific implementation and technical effects of the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments.

[0162] Furthermore, one embodiment of this application also provides a heat recovery system, which includes the controller described in the above embodiment.

[0163] It is worth noting that, since the heat recovery system of the embodiments of this application includes the controller of the above embodiments, and the controller of the above embodiments is capable of executing the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments, the specific implementation method and technical effect of the heat recovery system of the embodiments of this application can refer to the specific implementation method and technical effect of the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments.

[0164] Furthermore, one embodiment of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions for performing the control method of the heat recovery system described above. Exemplarily, the method steps described in Figures 6 to 12 above are performed.

[0165] It is worth noting that, since the computer-readable storage medium of the embodiments of this application can execute the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments, the specific implementation and technical effects of the computer-readable storage medium of the embodiments of this application can be referred to the specific implementation and technical effects of the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments.

[0166] Furthermore, one embodiment of this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program or computer instructions, which are stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a computer device reads the computer program or computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer program or computer instructions, causing the computer device to perform the control method of the heat recovery system described above. Exemplarily, the method steps described in Figures 6 to 12 above are performed.

[0167] It is worth noting that since the computer program product of the embodiments of this application can execute the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments, the specific implementation method and technical effect of the computer program product of the embodiments of this application can refer to the specific implementation method and technical effect of the control method of the heat recovery system of any of the above embodiments.

[0168] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps and systems in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, and suitable combinations thereof. Some or all of the physical components can be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software can be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.

[0169] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, and "more than" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0170] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, instruments, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the instrument embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the shown or discussed mutual couplings, direct couplings, or communication connections may be through some interfaces; indirect couplings or communication connections between instruments or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. Units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and components shown as units may or may not be physical units, i.e., they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0171] It should also be understood that the various implementation methods provided in the embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily to achieve different technical effects.

[0172] The above provides a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of this application. However, this application is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent modifications or substitutions without departing from the spirit of this application. All such equivalent modifications or substitutions are included within the scope defined by the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A control method for a heat recovery system, wherein, The heat recovery system includes an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a water tank, and the outdoor unit, the indoor unit, and the water tank are connected by refrigerant pipes; the method includes: Determine that the indoor unit is in cooling mode, and obtain the water tank temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; When the water tank temperature is greater than or equal to the set temperature, a target temperature range is determined based on the outdoor ambient temperature, wherein the upper limit of the target temperature range is greater than the set temperature; and When the water tank temperature meets the target temperature range, the outdoor unit continues to heat the water tank to enable the water tank to perform active heat recovery.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Determining the target temperature range based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes: The first interval corresponding to the global mode is determined based on the outdoor ambient temperature. Based on the outdoor ambient temperature, a second zone corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode is determined; and The intersection of the first interval and the second interval is determined to obtain the target temperature range.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The step of determining the first interval corresponding to the global mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes one of the following: When the water tank is in the temperature-reached shutdown state, the first maximum water temperature value corresponding to the global mode is determined according to the outdoor ambient temperature. The first upper limit value of water temperature is determined according to the first maximum water temperature value and the pre-compensation value. The first interval is obtained based on the first upper limit value of water temperature. When the water tank is not in the temperature-reached shutdown state, the highest first water temperature value corresponding to the global mode is determined based on the outdoor ambient temperature, and the first interval is obtained based on the highest first water temperature value.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The step of determining the second interval corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes: Based on the outdoor ambient temperature, determine the second highest and second lowest water temperature values ​​corresponding to the cooling and hot water production mode; and The second interval is determined based on the highest and lowest values ​​of the second water temperature.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, Determining that the indoor unit is in cooling mode includes: It is determined that the indoor unit is in cooling mode and the continuous cooling duration is greater than or equal to a preset duration.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The outdoor unit is equipped with a compressor and a valve assembly. The compressor is connected to the indoor unit and the water tank through the valve assembly. Continuing to heat the water tank through the outdoor unit includes one of the following: When the water tank reaches the temperature and stops, the valve assembly is switched so that the exhaust port of the compressor is connected to the heat exchange coil of the water tank through the valve assembly; When the water tank is not in the temperature-reached shutdown state, the valve assembly is maintained so that the compressor's exhaust port is connected to the heat exchange coil of the water tank through the valve assembly.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, After the water tank is further heated by the outdoor unit, the method further includes one of the following: Modify the set temperature to the upper limit of the target temperature range; The electric heating device of the water tank must not be turned on.

8. The method according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein, After the outdoor unit continues to heat the water tank, the method further includes: When a preset exit condition is met, heating of the water tank by the outdoor unit is stopped. The preset exit condition includes at least one of the following: No active heat recovery indicator signal was received from the outdoor unit; Received a command to shut down the energy storage function of the water tank; Received a command to force the electric heating function to be turned on; Received the mode switching command for the water tank; The received water temperature at the bottom of the tank is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range; The received new set temperature is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the target temperature range; Receives a command from the outdoor unit to exit cooling or dehumidification mode; The temperature at the top of the water tank is less than a first threshold, and the temperature at the bottom of the water tank is less than the minimum of a second threshold and a third threshold, wherein the first threshold is determined by the set temperature, the second threshold is a constant value, and the third threshold is determined by the first upper limit of the water temperature; and Power off command received.

9. A controller comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes a control method for a heat recovery system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 when running the computer program.

10. A heat recovery system, comprising the controller as described in claim 9.

11. A computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, wherein the computer-executable instructions are configured to perform a control method for a heat recovery system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. A computer program product comprising a computer program or computer instructions, wherein, The computer program or the computer instructions are stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The processor of the computer device reads the computer program or the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer program or the computer instructions, causing the computer device to perform the control method of the heat recovery system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

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