Multi-split system with partitioned control and self-identification control method thereof
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-split systems are limited in their ability to perform partitioned cooling or heating functions in different areas, requiring multiple sets of equipment and resulting in high costs and inefficient energy use. Additionally, the existing systems face challenges during defrosting, which can lead to reduced effective heating time, liquid shock to compressors, and increased energy waste.
Innovation Solution
A multi-split system with partitioned control and a self-identification control method, which includes a compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, and two indoor unit sets connected through four-way valves. This system allows independent control of heating and cooling modes for each indoor unit set, enabling efficient partitioned control and self-identification of indoor unit sets. The self-identification control method involves detecting temperature parameters to classify indoor units into sets, optimizing system operation and reducing equipment costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single multi-split system is used for both cooling and heating in all areas, then equipment cost is reduced, but partitioned control capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the indoor units into two independent sets (first indoor unit set and second indoor unit set), each with independent four-way valves and control capabilities. This segmentation enables different areas to operate in different modes (cooling/heating) simultaneously while using a single shared compressor and outdoor heat exchanger, thus achieving partitioned control without requiring multiple complete equipment sets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the single multi-split system universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: it can provide cooling to one area while heating another area simultaneously, or perform defrosting operations on the outdoor heat exchanger while maintaining heating in indoor units. The four-way valves and control system are designed to handle multiple operational modes through a single equipment platform.
2Reliability
If the heating system reverses four-way valves to defrost, then defrosting function is achieved, but effective heating time is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the indoor units into two independent sets with independent four-way valves. During defrosting, only the first indoor unit set needs to reverse its four-way valve while the second indoor unit set continues heating normally. This segmentation allows defrosting operations to be isolated to specific areas, preventing system-wide mode switching and maintaining continuous heating in areas that require it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the second indoor unit set as an intermediary heat source during defrosting operations. When the first indoor unit set requires defrosting, the second indoor unit set's heating output compensates for the temporary loss of heating capacity, allowing the first set to reverse four-way valves without affecting overall heating availability in the building.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the indoor unit fan is not started during defrosting to protect from cold wind, then user comfort is improved, but liquid refrigerant returns to compressor causing liquid shock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the refrigerant flow paths by having independent four-way valves for each indoor unit set. During defrosting of the first indoor unit set, the second indoor unit set's fan can operate normally, creating a separate refrigerant circulation path that prevents liquid refrigerant accumulation and subsequent liquid shock to the compressor, while still providing cold wind protection in the first set's area.
Solution Approach 2:
The second indoor unit set acts as an intermediary refrigerant pathway during defrosting operations. Its operating fan and open refrigerant circuit provide an alternative route for refrigerant flow, preventing liquid refrigerant from accumulating and returning to the compressor through the defrosting first set's closed circuit, thus protecting compressor reliability while maintaining user comfort in both areas.
4Reliability
If four-way valves are reversed during defrosting, then defrosting is achieved, but refrigerant impact noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the defrosting operation to only affect the first indoor unit set while the second set continues normal heating operation. This localized approach confines refrigerant flow changes and associated impact noises to a specific area, reducing overall noise levels compared to system-wide four-way valve reversal, while maintaining effective defrosting capability where needed.
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
The proposed system achieves efficient partitioned control, allowing for independent cooling and heating in different areas, which reduces costs and improves efficiency. Additionally, it optimizes defrosting processes, preventing liquid shock to compressors and reducing energy waste, thereby enhancing the system's reliability and energy-saving performance.
Implementation Method 1
by independently adjusting the power on/off actions of the second four-way valve and the third four-way valve, a heating mode or a cooling mode of each indoor unit set is controlled correspondingly and independently
Implementation Method 2
an outdoor heat exchanger, wherein an output end of the compressor is in communication with first interfaces of the first four-way valve, the second four-way valve and the third four-way valve respectively, a third interface of the first four-way valve is in communication with one end of the outdoor heat exchanger
Implementation Method 3
a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, two indoor unit sets, a first four-way valve, a second four-way valve, and a third four-way valve
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a multi-split system with partitioned control. An output end of a compressor is in communication with first interfaces of a first four-way valve, a second four-way valve, and a third four-way valve respectively, a third interface of the first four-way valve is in communication with one end of an outdoor heat exchanger, a second interface of the second four-way valve is in communication with one end of one indoor unit set therein, a third interface of the third four-way valve is in communication with one end of the other indoor unit set, and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger and the other ends of the indoor unit sets are in communication with each other in a convergence manner; the remaining interfaces of the second four-way valve and the third four-way valve are all in communication with an air return end of the compressor.