Control device and air conditioner with simplified installation complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems require complex control units with controllers, sensors, and communication lines for refrigerant leakage detection and control, increasing installation complexity and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a housing containing a circuit board, processing chip, gas detection probe, and controllable switch elements, integrated to detect refrigerant leaks and control external devices directly, eliminating the need for separate controllers and communication lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex control unit with separate controller, sensor, and communication line is used for refrigerant leakage detection, then the detection and control functions can be realized, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the controller, sensor (gas detection probe), and communication functions into a single integrated control device. The circuit board assembly integrates the processing chip, gas detection probe, and controllable switch element into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing installation complexity while maintaining detection and control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The control device performs multiple functions within a single unit: it detects refrigerant gas concentration through the gas detection probe, processes the detection signal through the processing chip, and controls external devices through the controllable switch element. This multi-functional integration resolves the contradiction by providing complete detection and control capabilities without requiring multiple separate components
2Reliability
If a complex control unit with multiple components is installed, then the control functions are complete, but the space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control device merges the controller, sensor, and communication components into a single compact unit mounted on the indoor unit. The circuit board assembly integrates all necessary electronic components into one structure, significantly reducing the space required compared to installing separate components throughout the system while maintaining complete control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The gas detection probe is positioned within the housing of the control device, with its detection end extending toward the ventilation hole. The controllable switch element is mounted on the circuit board assembly which is itself housed within the indoor unit structure. This nested arrangement minimizes space requirements while preserving all control functions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Simplifies installation, reduces space requirements, and enhances assembly efficiency while providing effective refrigerant leakage response and safety measures.
Implementation Method 1
the gas detection probe is electrically connected with the processing chip; the processing chip is configured to acquire target gas information in an environment through the gas detection probe
Data Source
AI summary
A control device includes a housing and a circuit board assembly. The circuit board assembly includes a circuit board, a processing chip, a gas detection probe and a controllable switch element. The processing chip is configured to acquire target gas information in an environment through the gas detection probe. A control end of the controllable switch element is electrically connected to the processing chip. An output end of the controllable switch element is configured for electrical connection with an external device. The processing chip is configured to control switching on or off of the controllable switch element at least according to the target gas information, thereby controlling change of an electrical signal of the external device. An air conditioner having the control device is also disclosed.