Combined heat and power system, controller and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention discloses a combined heat and power (CHP) system, its controller, and control method. The CHP system includes a first heat source, and the control method includes the following steps: controlling the first heat source to supply hot water load until the hot water load is satisfied by the first heat source; when the hot water load is satisfied by the first heat source and there is a demand for heating load, changing the operating state of the first heat source to supply the heating load while ensuring the hot water load is satisfied; or, controlling the first heat source to supply heating load until the heating load is satisfied by the first heat source; when the heating load is satisfied by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water load, changing the operating state of the first heat source to supply the hot water load while ensuring the heating load is satisfied. The CHP system of this application can intelligently supply both hot water load and heating load.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heating technology, and in particular to a combined heat and power system, its controller, and control method. Background Technology

[0002] Combined heat and power (CHP) systems can supply heat for both hot water heating and heating. Since the hot water load and heating time required for both are uncertain, as are the load and duration of heating, intelligently adjusting the CHP system's operation to meet both loads is a problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a combined heat and power system and its controller and control method, which can ensure that the combined heat and power system can intelligently supply hot water load and heating load.

[0004] The specific technical solution of this invention is as follows:

[0005] A control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system, the CHP system including a first heat source, the control method comprising the following steps:

[0006] Control the supply of hot water load from the first heat source until the hot water load is satisfied by the first heat source;

[0007] When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the heating load is supplied while the hot water load is met.

[0008] or,

[0009] Control the first heat source to supply the heating load until the heating load is satisfied by the first heat source;

[0010] When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the hot water load is supplied while the heating load is met.

[0011] Preferably, the first heat source includes at least two first sub-heat sources connected in parallel, and the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes:

[0012] Increase the number of the first sub-heat sources in operation; and / or increase the operating power of at least some of the first sub-heat sources that are already in operation.

[0013] Preferably, if there are any non-operating first sub-heat sources, the number of non-operating first sub-heat sources to be turned on is determined based on the heating load demand or the hot water load demand, and the newly turned-on first sub-heat sources are used to supply the heating load or the hot water load, provided that the hot water load is satisfied.

[0014] Preferably, if all the first sub-heat sources are turned on and the total operating power of all the first sub-heat sources does not reach the total maximum rated power of all the first sub-heat sources, then the operating power of at least a portion of all the first sub-heat sources is increased.

[0015] Preferably, if there are non-operating first sub-heat sources, and the total operating power of the non-operating first sub-heat sources cannot meet the needs of the newly existing heating load or hot water load, and the total operating power of the already operating first sub-heat sources does not reach the total maximum rated power of the already operating first sub-heat sources, then the non-operating first sub-heat sources are turned on and the operating power of at least a portion of the already operating first sub-heat sources is increased.

[0016] Preferably, changing the operating state of the first heat source further includes: redistributing all the first sub-heat sources that are already in operation, so that a portion of them are supplied to the hot water load and a portion to the heating load.

[0017] Preferably, the first heat source includes at least two first sub-heat sources connected in parallel.

[0018] When the first heat source supplies the heating load and the heating load is a cold load with a demand for hot water, the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes:

[0019] The number of first sub-heat sources in cooling operation remains unchanged. If there are any first sub-heat sources that are not in operation, at least a portion of the first sub-heat sources that are not in operation will be used to supply the hot water load.

[0020] or,

[0021] When the first heat source supplies the hot water load and there is a demand for the heating load, and the heating load is a cooling load, the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes:

[0022] The number of first sub-heat sources in heating operation remains unchanged. If there are any first sub-heat sources that are not in operation, at least a portion of the first sub-heat sources that are not in operation will be used for cooling to supply the heating load.

[0023] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load;

[0024] If the operation of the first heat source is more advantageous than the operation of the second heat source,

[0025] When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the heating load is supplied while the hot water load is met.

[0026] or,

[0027] When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the hot water load is supplied while the heating load is met.

[0028] Preferably, if the heating load or hot water load cannot be met after the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source is executed, then the second heat source is operated.

[0029] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load;

[0030] When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed and the second heat source is operated to supply the heating load while ensuring that the hot water load is met.

[0031] or,

[0032] When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed and the second heat source is operated to supply hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met.

[0033] Preferably, the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source and operating the second heat source to supply hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met includes:

[0034] The first heat source is controlled to heat the water to a first preset temperature, and then the second heat source is controlled to heat the water a second time.

[0035] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load;

[0036] If the operation of the second heat source is more advantageous than the operation of the first heat source,

[0037] When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the second heat source is operated first, and the heating load is supplied on the basis of meeting the hot water load.

[0038] or,

[0039] When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water, the second heat source is operated first, and the hot water load is supplied on the basis that the heating load is met.

[0040] Preferably, if the heating load or the hot water load is not met after the step of prioritizing the operation of the second heat source is performed, the operating state of the first heat source is changed to supply the heating load or the hot water load.

[0041] Preferably, the first heat source includes a heat pump, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, and the second heat source includes a gas water heater, an electric water heater, or a heat pump.

[0042] Preferably, after performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source to supply the heating load on the basis of satisfying the hot water load, if the hot water load increases, the number of the first sub-heat sources operating to supply the heating load is reduced to supply the increased hot water load.

[0043] or,

[0044] After performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source to supply the hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met, if the heating load increases, the number of the first sub-heat sources used to supply the hot water load is reduced to supply the increased heating load.

[0045] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat source, wherein if the step of reducing the number of first sub-heat sources used to supply the hot water load is performed, the second heat source is operated to supply the hot water load;

[0046] Alternatively, if the step of reducing the number of the first sub-heat sources operating to supply the heating load is performed, then the second heat source is operated to supply the heating load.

[0047] A controller for a combined heat and power (CHP) system, wherein the controller performs the control method for a CHP system as described above.

[0048] A combined heat and power system, the combined heat and power system comprising: a controller as described above; a first heat source; and a first flow channel and a second flow channel respectively connected to the first heat source;

[0049] A first flow control device is used to control the flow rate of the fluid from the first heat source to the first flow channel and the second flow channel. The first flow channel and the second flow channel are used to provide heat to the first end and the second end, respectively. The first end is used to supply hot water load, and the second end is used to supply heating load.

[0050] Preferably, the first heat source includes a plurality of first sub-heat sources connected in parallel, the first flow control device includes a plurality of first sub-flow control devices, the first flow channel includes a plurality of first sub-flow channels, the second flow channel includes a plurality of second sub-flow channels, and the first sub-flow control device is used to control the flow rate of fluid diverted from the corresponding first sub-heat source to the corresponding first sub-flow channel and second sub-flow channel.

[0051] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes: a second heat source; and a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel that can be connected to the second heat source respectively;

[0052] The second flow control device is used to control the flow rate of the fluid from the second heat source to the third and fourth flow channels, the third and fourth flow channels being used to provide heat to the first end and the second end, respectively.

[0053] Preferably, the second heat source includes a plurality of second sub-heat sources connected in parallel, the second flow control device includes a plurality of second sub-flow control devices, the third flow channel includes a plurality of third sub-flow channels, the fourth flow channel includes a plurality of fourth sub-flow channels, and the second sub-flow control device is used to control the flow rate of fluid diverted from the corresponding second sub-heat source to the corresponding third sub-flow channel and the fourth sub-flow channel.

[0054] Preferably, the outlets of the second flow channel and the fourth flow channel are used to connect with the second end.

[0055] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes: a first heat exchange device having a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel, the second channel including the second heat exchange channel, the fourth channel including the first heat exchange channel, and the second channel being used to connect to the second end.

[0056] Preferably, the first heat exchange device includes a plate heat exchanger.

[0057] Preferably, the outlets of the first flow channel and the third flow channel are used to connect with the first end.

[0058] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat exchange device having a third heat exchange channel, wherein the first channel is used to connect with the third heat exchange channel.

[0059] Alternatively, the combined heat and power system may further include a third heat exchange device having a fourth heat exchange channel, the third channel being used to connect with the fourth heat exchange channel.

[0060] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat exchange device having a third heat exchange channel and a fourth heat exchange channel; the first channel is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel; the third channel is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel.

[0061] Preferably, the combined heat and power system further includes a second heat exchange device having a third heat exchange channel and a third heat exchange device having a fourth heat exchange channel, wherein the third heat exchange device is connected to the second heat exchange device; the first channel is used to connect to the third heat exchange channel; and the third channel is used to connect to the fourth heat exchange channel.

[0062] Preferably, the second heat exchange device has a first water storage chamber for storing water; the third heat exchange device has a second water storage chamber for storing water, and the first water storage chamber is connected to the second water storage chamber; the third heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the first water storage chamber; and the fourth heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the second water storage chamber.

[0063] The outlet of the second heat exchange device, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, can be connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange device, which is connected to the second water storage chamber.

[0064] The inlet of the second heat exchange device, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, is used to connect to a water source;

[0065] The outlet of the third heat exchange device, which is connected to the second water storage chamber, is used to supply hot water.

[0066] Preferably, in the step of activating at least a portion of the non-operational first sub-heat sources if any exist, and using the newly activated first sub-heat sources to supply the heating load while ensuring the hot water load is met, or to supply the hot water load while ensuring the heating load is met, the following steps are followed:

[0067] The first sub-flow control device includes a switching valve or a three-way valve disposed on the first sub-flow channel and the second sub-flow channel respectively.

[0068] Preferably, in the step of using the newly activated first sub-heat source to supply the heating load based on satisfying the hot water load, the on / off valve on the second sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is opened, and the on / off valve on the first sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is closed; or, the three-way valve corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is switched to a position that connects the second sub-flow channel to the first sub-heat source and disconnects the first sub-flow channel from the first sub-heat source.

[0069] Preferably, in the step of using the newly activated first sub-heat source to supply hot water load on the basis of satisfying the heating load, the on / off valve on the first sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is opened, and the on / off valve on the second sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is closed; or, the three-way valve corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is switched to a position that connects the first sub-flow channel to the first sub-heat source and disconnects the second sub-flow channel from the first sub-heat source.

[0070] Preferably, the second sub-flow control device includes a switching valve or a three-way valve disposed on the third sub-flow channel and the fourth sub-flow channel respectively.

[0071] Preferably, the second terminal includes at least one of the following: a fan coil unit, underfloor heating, a radiator, or an in-wall heat exchange device.

[0072] Preferably, the first heat source includes a heat pump, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, and the second heat source includes a gas water heater, an electric water heater, or a heat pump.

[0073] Preferably, the controller is used to communicate with the first heat source and the second heat source via power line carrier or serial communication.

[0074] Preferably, the controller is further configured to communicate with the first flow control device and the second flow control device via power line carrier communication or serial communication.

[0075] The technical solution of the present invention has the following significant beneficial effects:

[0076] The control method described above for the combined heat and power (CHP) system ensures that it can intelligently supply hot water and heating loads. Specifically, when one of the hot water or heating loads is preferentially satisfied by the first heat source, or when the first heat source is configured to preferentially satisfy one of the hot water or heating loads, and the other hot water or heating load reappears or occurs simultaneously, if the first heat source has surplus output load, it can change its operating state to supply the surplus output load to the other hot water or heating load or the load configured with lower priority, provided that the prior load or the load configured with higher priority continues to be satisfied. This avoids insufficient supply of the prior load by the first heat source due to the appearance of another load, or insufficient supply of the load configured with higher priority due to the simultaneous appearance of two loads. At the same time, it can also, to a certain extent, allow the first heat source to take into account subsequent loads or loads configured with lower priority, thus maximizing the utilization of the first heat source.

[0077] Specific embodiments of the invention are disclosed in detail below with reference to the description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of the invention can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not therefore limited in scope. Features described and / or shown for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0078] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0079] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the combined power supply system in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system under the second implementation method in this invention;

[0081] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in the third embodiment of the present invention;

[0082] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in the fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0083] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the control method for the combined heat and power system in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the control method for the combined heat and power system in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows:

[0086] 1. First heat source; 11. First sub-heat source; 2. First flow channel; 21. First sub-flow channel; 3. Second flow channel; 31. Second sub-flow channel; 4. First flow control device; 41. First sub-flow control device; 5. Second heat source; 6. Third flow channel; 7. Fourth flow channel; 8. Second end; 9. First heat exchange device; 10. Second heat exchange device; 12. Third heat exchange device; 13. First reflux flow channel; 14. Second reflux flow channel; 15. Third reflux flow channel; 16. Fourth reflux flow channel; 17. First end; 18. Controller; 19. Second flow control device; 20. First circulation pump; 22. Second circulation pump; 23. Water source. Detailed Implementation

[0087] The details of the present invention can be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the description of specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. Under the teachings of this invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of any possible modifications based on the invention, all of which should be considered within the scope of the invention. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, they can refer to mechanical or electrical connections, or internal communication between two elements, and can be direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0088] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0089] To ensure that the combined heat and power (CHP) system can intelligently supply hot water and heating loads, this application proposes a CHP system, its controller, and a control method. Specifically, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the combined heat and power system may include: a first heat source 1; a first flow channel 2 and a second flow channel 3 that are respectively connected to the first heat source 1; and a first flow control device 4 for controlling the flow rate of fluid from the first heat source 1 to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3. The first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3 are respectively used to provide heat to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8. The first terminal 17 is used to supply hot water load, and the second terminal 8 is used to supply heating load.

[0090] The first heat source 1 can be any type of device capable of providing heat, which can supply the provided heat to the first terminal 17 and / or to the second terminal 8 in the form of a fluid carried by a first flow channel 2. For example, the first heat source 1 can include a heat pump device, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, etc., and is not specifically limited to them in this application. It can also be any combination of the above-mentioned devices. The first flow control device 4 controls the flow rate of the fluid from the first heat source 1 to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3. For example, the first flow control device 4 can divert all the fluid to the first flow channel 2 or the second flow channel 3, or it can divert part of the fluid to the first flow channel 2 and another part of the fluid to the second flow channel 3. In addition, the first flow control device 4 can also achieve the function of flow control, that is, it can arbitrarily control the flow rate of the fluid separated to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3. The first flow control device 4 can be installed at the connection between the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3, directly controlling the flow rate of the first heat source 1 diverted to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3. Alternatively, there can be two first flow control devices 4, respectively installed on the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3, controlling the flow rate of the first heat source 1 diverted to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3 by controlling the flow rate of the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3, respectively. Through the first flow control device 4, the heat fluid provided by the first heat source 1 can be reasonably distributed, so that it supplies heat fluid with corresponding flow rates according to the specific different needs of the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8, thereby meeting the changing needs of the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8.

[0091] The first terminal 17 is used to supply hot water load and can be a device capable of outputting hot water for user use. Specifically, the first terminal 17 can be a water heating device that heats water and supplies the heated water to the user, or it can be a hot water output device, such as a faucet or shower head used in daily life, which can directly output a hot fluid, such as hot water, from the first heat source 1 through the first flow channel 2 to the user. The second terminal 8 is used to supply heating load. The second terminal 8 can be a heating device, for example, the second terminal 8 can include at least one of the following: fan coil, underfloor heating, radiator, wall heat exchange equipment, etc., and no specific limitation is made in this application.

[0092] As a feasible option, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the first heat source 1 may include multiple first sub-heat sources 11, which are connected in parallel. To enable independent control of the flow rate of fluid diverted from each of the multiple first sub-heat sources 11 to the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3, the first flow control device 4 may include multiple first sub-flow control devices 41. The first flow channel 2 includes multiple first sub-flow channels 21, and the second flow channel 3 includes multiple second sub-flow channels 31. The first sub-flow control device 41 is used to control the flow rate of fluid diverted from the corresponding first sub-heat source 11 to the corresponding first sub-flow channel 21 and the second sub-flow channel 31. For example, the first sub-flow channel 21 and the second sub-flow channel 31 can be connected to their respective first sub-heat source 11. The first sub-flow control device 41 can be located at the connection point of its corresponding first sub-flow channel 21 and the second sub-flow channel 31; alternatively, for one first sub-heat source 11, there may be two corresponding first sub-flow control devices 41, which are respectively located on the corresponding first sub-flow channel 21 and the second sub-flow channel 31. The downstream of multiple first sub-channels 21 can be merged into one channel and used to supply heat to the first end 17. Similarly, the downstream of multiple second sub-channels 31 can be merged into one channel and used to supply heat to the second end 8.

[0093] Furthermore, when both the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 require heat, but the required temperatures differ, multiple first sub-heat sources 11 connected in parallel can generate heat at different temperatures from some of the first sub-heat sources 11 in the first heat source 1, and then supply the heat to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively. For example, the hot water supplied by the first terminal 17 needs to reach a high temperature, such as above 80 degrees Celsius, but the hot water supplied by the second terminal 8 for heating only needs to reach about 65 degrees Celsius. In this case, some of the first sub-heat sources 11 in the first heat source 1 can generate a hot fluid with a temperature above 80 degrees Celsius, while the other part of the first sub-heat sources 11 can generate a hot fluid with a temperature of about 65 degrees Celsius, and then supply the heat to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively to meet their completely different temperature requirements.

[0094] For example, in hot weather, when the first terminal 17 supplies hot water and the second terminal 8 supplies cooling load, a portion of the first sub-heat source 11 can be in heating mode to generate hot fluid, which is then supplied to the first terminal 17 via the first sub-flow control device 41 to meet the hot water load of the first terminal 17. Meanwhile, another portion of the first sub-heat source 11 can be in cooling mode to generate cold fluid, which is then supplied to the second terminal 8 via the first sub-flow control device 41 to meet the cooling load of the second terminal 8. By coordinating multiple parallel first sub-heat sources 11 and the first sub-flow control device 41, the hot and cold fluids generated by different first sub-heat sources 11 can be supplied to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively, thus meeting completely different types of heat demands.

[0095] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in a third embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the combined heat and power system in this embodiment may include: a second heat source 5; a third flow channel 6 and a fourth flow channel 7 that are respectively connected to the second heat source 5. A second flow control device 19 is used to control the flow rate of fluid from the second heat source 5 to the third flow channel 6 and the fourth flow channel 7, which are respectively used to provide heat to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8.

[0096] The second heat source 5 can be any type of device capable of providing heat, which can supply the provided heat to the first terminal 17 and / or the second terminal 8 in the form of a fluid carried by a third flow channel 6. For example, the second heat source 5 may include a heat pump device, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, etc., and is not specifically limited to them in this application; it can also be any combination of the above-mentioned devices. The second flow control device 19 controls the flow rate of the fluid from the second heat source 5 to the third flow channel 6 and the fourth flow channel 7. The function and specific installation location of the second flow channel 3 control device can be similar to those of the first flow channel 2 control device, and will not be described again here. The second flow control device 19 can reasonably distribute the hot fluid provided by the second heat source 5, so that it supplies a corresponding flow rate of hot fluid according to the specific different needs of the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8, thereby meeting the changing needs of the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8.

[0097] Since the first heat source 1 can supply hot or cold fluid to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively, and the second heat source 5 can also supply hot or cold fluid to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively, the fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be reasonably distributed to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 under the control of the first flow control device 4 and the second flow control device 19. At the same time, the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can also be reasonably distributed to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8. This allows the different loads required by the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 to be reasonably and selectively met. In addition, the cooperation of the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can meet the load requirements of the first terminal 17 or the second terminal 8 to a greater extent at certain times, making the overall combined heat and power system more versatile.

[0098] Alternatively, the second heat source 5 may include multiple second sub-heat sources connected in parallel. The second flow control device 19 includes multiple second sub-flow control devices, the third flow channel 6 includes multiple third sub-flow channels, and the fourth flow channel 7 includes multiple fourth sub-flow channels. The second sub-flow control devices are used to control the flow rate of the fluid from the corresponding second sub-heat source to the corresponding third and fourth sub-flow channels. Similarly, by cooperating with multiple second sub-heat sources and second sub-flow control devices connected in parallel, some of the first sub-heat sources 11 in the first heat source 1 and another part of the first sub-heat sources 11 can generate heat at different temperatures, which are then supplied to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively; alternatively, hot and cold fluids generated by different second sub-heat sources can be delivered to the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 respectively to meet completely different types of heat demands.

[0099] As a feasible approach, in some implementations, the second sub-flow control device may only need to control the fluid generated by the corresponding second sub-heat source to flow completely into the third or fourth sub-flow channel to supply the subsequent heating or hot water load. In these cases, the second sub-flow control device may include a switching valve or a three-way valve respectively installed on the third and fourth sub-flow channels.

[0100] In one feasible implementation, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the outlets of the second flow channel 3 and the fourth flow channel 7 are connected to the second end 8, so that the fluids generated by the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be directly introduced into the second end 8 to provide the corresponding heat. The outlets of the first flow channel 2 and the third flow channel 6 are connected to the first end 17, so that the fluids generated by the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be directly introduced into the first end 17 to provide the corresponding heat.

[0101] In one feasible implementation, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the combined heat and power system in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the combined heat and power system may include: a first heat exchange device 9 having a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The second channel 3 may include a second heat exchange channel, and the fourth channel 7 includes a first heat exchange channel. The second channel 3 is used to connect with the second terminal 8. The fluid generated by the first heat source 1 flows through the second heat exchange channel of the first heat exchange device 9 before being transported to the second terminal 8, while the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 flows through the first heat exchange channel of the first heat exchange device 9. During this period, it can exchange heat with the fluid generated by the first heat source 1 flowing through the second heat exchange channel, thereby further increasing or decreasing the temperature of the fluid generated by the first heat source 1, which can be determined according to the needs of the second terminal 8.

[0102] In the above embodiments, when the temperature of the fluid generated by the first heat source 1 is not high enough or low enough, the temperature of the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be further increased or decreased to ultimately ensure that the temperature of the fluid input to the second terminal 8 meets the requirements. For example, when the first heat source 1 is a heat pump, its performance in producing high-temperature fluid is low when the weather temperature is low, making it difficult to produce a high-temperature hot fluid to meet the needs of the second terminal 8. In this case, the second heat source 5 can be a gas water heater or an electric water heater, which can still produce a high-temperature hot fluid. The hot fluid produced by the second heat source 5 further heats the slightly lower-temperature hot fluid produced by the first heat source 1, ultimately ensuring that the temperature of the fluid input to the second terminal 8 meets the requirements. Since heat pumps have a high energy efficiency ratio under many operating conditions (such as producing fluids with low temperatures), their use in conjunction with second heat sources such as gas water heaters or electric water heaters not only meets the needs of the second terminal 8 but also takes into account the energy efficiency ratio and economic benefits of the combined heat and power system. Similarly, when the weather temperature is high, the performance of the heat pump in producing cold fluid is low, and it is not easy to produce cold fluid with a lower temperature to meet the needs of the second terminal 8. At this time, the second heat source 5 can be a heat pump, which can produce cold fluid with a smaller flow rate but a lower temperature. The cold fluid produced by the second heat source 5 further reduces the temperature of the cold fluid produced by the first heat source 1, which has a slightly higher temperature but a larger flow rate, so that the temperature of the fluid input to the second terminal 8 finally meets the requirements.

[0103] To further improve the heat exchange efficiency between the fluid generated by the first heat source 1 flowing through the second heat exchange channel of the first heat exchange device 9 and the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 flowing through the first heat exchange device 9, the first heat exchange device 9 can be a plate heat exchanger. Furthermore, plate heat exchangers can also accommodate high flow rates of the heat exchange fluid.

[0104] In one feasible implementation, the combined heat and power system may include a second heat exchanger 10 having a third heat exchange channel, with a first channel 2 connected to the third heat exchange channel. In this configuration, the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be transported to the third heat exchange channel of the second heat exchanger 10 to exchange heat with the water in the second heat exchanger 10, thereby heating the water in the second heat exchanger 10. The heated water in the second heat exchanger 10 can then be supplied to users. Similarly, the combined heat and power system may include a third heat exchanger 12 having a fourth heat exchange channel, with a third channel 6 connected to the fourth heat exchange channel. The hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be transported to the fourth heat exchange channel of the third heat exchanger 12 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchanger 12, thereby heating the water in the third heat exchanger 12. The heated water in the third heat exchanger 12 can also be supplied to users. Of course, the interiors of the second heat exchanger 10 and the third heat exchanger 12 may be connected to a water source 23 for water replenishment.

[0105] In another feasible implementation, the combined heat and power system may include a second heat exchange device 10 having a third heat exchange channel and a fourth heat exchange channel; a first channel 2 is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel; and a third channel 6 is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel. In this method, the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be transported through the first channel 2 to the third heat exchange channel of the second heat exchange device 10 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchange device 12. The hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 is transported through the third channel 6 to the fourth heat exchange channel of the second heat exchange device 10 to exchange heat with the water in the second heat exchange device 10. The first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can simultaneously exchange heat with the water in the second heat exchange device 10, thereby further improving the heating rate of the water in the second heat exchange device 10 and reducing the user's waiting time.

[0106] In another feasible implementation, such as Figure 4As shown, the combined heat and power system may include a second heat exchanger 10 with a third heat exchange channel and a third heat exchanger 12 with a fourth heat exchange channel, the third heat exchanger 12 being connected to the second heat exchanger 10; a first channel 2 is used to connect to the third heat exchange channel; and a third channel 6 is used to connect to the fourth heat exchange channel. In this configuration, the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be transported to the third heat exchange channel of the second heat exchanger 10 to exchange heat with the water in the second heat exchanger 10, thereby heating the water in the second heat exchanger 10; the hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be transported to the fourth heat exchange channel of the third heat exchanger 12 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchanger 12, thereby heating the water in the third heat exchanger 12. The third heat exchanger 12 is connected to the second heat exchanger 10, allowing water from both to be supplied to the user simultaneously. Furthermore, the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 independently heat the third heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 10, respectively. Therefore, the degree of heating and the heating temperature of the water in the two can be completely different. Of course, the interiors of the second heat exchanger 10 and the third heat exchanger 12 can be connected to the water source 23 to replenish water.

[0107] In the above embodiments, further, such as Figure 4 As shown, the second heat exchanger 10 may have a first water storage chamber for storing water. The third heat exchanger 12 has a second water storage chamber for storing water. The first water storage chamber is connected to the second water storage chamber, thereby connecting the third heat exchanger 12 to the second heat exchanger 10. The third heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the first water storage chamber; the fourth heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the second water storage chamber. The outlet of the second heat exchanger 10, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, can be connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 12, which is connected to the second water storage chamber. The inlet of the second heat exchanger 10, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, is used to connect to the water source 23. The outlet of the third heat exchanger 12, which is connected to the second water storage chamber, is used to supply hot water.

[0108] In this structure, water from water source 23 first enters the first water storage chamber of the second heat exchanger 10. It is then initially heated to a first preset temperature by the hot fluid supplied to the third heat exchange channel via the first heat source 1. After the water in the third heat exchanger 12 is supplied to the user, the water at the first preset temperature in the first water storage chamber of the second heat exchanger 10 is replenished to the second water storage chamber of the third heat exchanger 12. Subsequently, the hot fluid supplied to the fourth heat exchange channel by the second heat source 5 further heats the water in the third heat exchanger 12 to a higher temperature. Through this heating method, the different capacities of the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be utilized in a tiered manner to improve the energy efficiency ratio of the entire combined heat and power system.

[0109] For example, when the first heat source 1 is a heat pump and the second heat source 5 is a gas water heater or an electric water heater, the heat pump has a high energy consumption and a high cost-performance advantage when producing a low-temperature hot fluid. However, when producing a high-temperature fluid, its energy consumption ratio will drop significantly and it will no longer have a high cost-performance ratio. Therefore, the heat pump can be used to preheat the water that has just been added to the first water storage chamber of the second heat exchange device 10 to the first preset temperature. Then, the hot fluid generated by the gas water heater or electric water heater can be used to reheat the water flowing into the third heat exchange device 12 to a higher temperature.

[0110] As a feasible option, such as Figure 4 As shown, the combined heat and power system may include: a first return channel 13 and a second return channel 14, which are respectively connected to the first heat source 1. The first return channel 13 and the second return channel 14 are respectively connected to the third heat exchange channel and the outlet of the second terminal 8 of the second heat exchange device 10. Similarly, the combined heat and power system may include: a fourth return channel 16, which is connected to the second heat source 5, and the fourth return channel 16 is connected to the outlet of the first heat exchange channel. The combined heat and power system may include: a third return channel 15, which is connected to the second heat source 5, and the third return channel 15 is connected to the outlet of the fourth heat exchange channel. In the above method, the fluid that has undergone heat exchange through the third heat exchange channel, the second terminal 8, the fourth heat exchange channel, and the first heat exchange channel can be recycled through the return channel. At the same time, the fluid after heat exchange still has a small amount of cooling or heating load, which is better than the fluid re-input from the outside. Therefore, the operating power of the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be reduced.

[0111] To drive the fluid to flow in the first flow channel 2 and the second flow channel 3, correspondingly, as follows: Figure 4 As shown, a first circulation pump 20 can be installed on the first flow channel 2 or the first return flow channel 13, and a second circulation pump 22 can be installed on the second flow channel 3 or the second return flow channel 14. Similarly, a third circulation pump can be installed on the third flow channel 6 or the third return flow channel 15, and a fourth circulation pump can be installed on the fourth flow channel 7 or the fourth return flow channel 16.

[0112] In the first embodiment of this application, Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system in a first embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system may include the following steps:

[0113] S101: Control the first heat source 1 to supply hot water load until the hot water load is satisfied by the first heat source 1.

[0114] S102: When the hot water load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for heating load, change the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply heating load while ensuring that the hot water load is met.

[0115] In this embodiment, when a hot water load occurs first, or when the first heat source 1 of the combined heat and power system is used to prioritize meeting the hot water load (for example, when the first terminal 17 requires a hot water load), the first heat source 1 is controlled to supply hot water to the first terminal 17 until the hot water load of the first terminal 17 is met by the first heat source 1. Hot water load can refer to the load required by a device capable of outputting hot water for user use when heating water, for example, the load required to maintain a set temperature of hot water supply, or the load required to maintain a set heating rate of water supply heating. Here, the hot water load being met by the first heat source 1 can specifically include the following situations: the heat power output by the first heat source 1 to the first terminal 17 per unit time through the hot fluid meets the demand of the first terminal 17 per unit time (for example, when the first terminal 17 requires hot water at a set temperature, the first heat source 1 can be in operation to ensure the supply of hot water at the set temperature). When the hot water load is met by the first heat source 1, and there is a demand for heating load—for example, when the second terminal 8 subsequently demands heating load, or when the demand for heating load from the second terminal 8 occurs simultaneously with the demand for hot water load from the first terminal 17—the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed. This allows the first heat source 1 to continue supplying heating load to the second terminal 8 while maintaining the hot water load. Heating load can refer to the load required by a heating system during heating operations, such as the load required to maintain a set temperature of heating fluid supply.

[0116] In the second embodiment of this application, Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the control method for the combined heat and power system in a second embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system may include the following steps:

[0117] S101: Control the first heat source 1 to supply the heating load until the heating load is satisfied by the first heat source 1.

[0118] S102: When the heating load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for hot water load, change the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met.

[0119] In this embodiment, when a heating load occurs first, or when the first heat source 1 of the combined heat and power system is used to prioritize meeting the heating load (e.g., when the second terminal 8 requires heating load), the first heat source 1 is controlled to supply heating load to the second terminal 8 until the heating load of the second terminal 8 is met by the first heat source 1. Specifically, meeting the heating load through the first heat source 1 can include the following situations: the heat power output by the first heat source 1 to the second terminal 8 per unit time through the hot fluid reaches the demand of the second terminal 8 per unit time (e.g., to maintain the indoor temperature gradually rising to the set temperature, the first heat source 1 can be in an operating state to ensure the rise of the indoor temperature). When the heating load is met by the first heat source 1, and there is a demand for hot water load (e.g., subsequently, the first terminal 17 requires hot water load, or the demand for heating load in the second terminal 8 occurs simultaneously with the demand for hot water load in the first terminal 17), the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed, so that while the heating load continues to be met, the first heat source 1 can also supply hot water load to the first terminal 17.

[0120] The control method described above for the combined heat and power (CHP) system ensures that the system can intelligently supply hot water and heating loads. Specifically, when one of the hot water or heating loads is preferentially satisfied by the first heat source 1, or when the first heat source 1 is configured to preferentially satisfy one of the hot water or heating loads, if the other hot water or heating load reappears or simultaneously, and if the first heat source 1 has a surplus output load, it can change its operating state to supply the surplus output load to the other of the reappearing hot water or heating load, or the load configured with a lower priority, provided that the prior load or the load configured with a higher priority continues to be satisfied. This avoids insufficient supply of the prior load by the first heat source 1 due to the appearance of another load, or insufficient supply of the load configured with a higher priority due to the simultaneous appearance of two loads. At the same time, it can also, to a certain extent, allow the first heat source 1 to take into account subsequent loads or loads configured with a lower priority, thus maximizing the utilization of the first heat source 1.

[0121] In the two embodiments described above, in step S201, when the first heat source 1 is a single heat source, changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 may specifically include: increasing the operating power of the first heat source 1, so that the increased power of the first heat source 1 supplies one of the hot water load and the heating load that appear afterward. The first flow control device 4 can divert the fluid corresponding to the increased power of the first heat source 1 to the corresponding flow channel of one of the hot water load and the heating load that appear afterward.

[0122] When the first heat source 1 includes at least two first sub-heat sources 11 connected in parallel, changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 may specifically include: increasing the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11; and / or increasing the operating power of at least some of the first sub-heat sources 11 that are already in operation.

[0123] Specifically, if there is an unoperated first sub-heat source 11, the number of unoperated first sub-heat sources 11 to be turned on is determined based on the demand for heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1, and the newly turned-on first sub-heat sources 11 are used to supply heating load on the basis of satisfying hot water load, or to supply hot water load on the basis of satisfying heating load. When the power of the non-operational first sub-heat source 11 is sufficient to meet the heating or hot water load demands of subsequent occurrences, the above method can be used to satisfy these demands, or those with lower priority than the first heat source 1. Since the newly activated first sub-heat source 11 is connected in parallel with the previously activated first sub-heat source 11, it can operate completely independently. Therefore, the operating mode (e.g., cooling or heating) or the temperature of the fluid produced (hot or cold) by the newly activated first sub-heat source 11 can differ from that of the previously activated first sub-heat source 11. This allows the supply of heating or hot water to subsequent occurrences or those with lower priority. These demands can be heat demands of a completely different type from those of the previously activated first sub-heat source 11, or temperature demands completely different from those of the previously activated first sub-heat source 11, thus ensuring that the operation of the previously activated first heat source 11 is not affected. Through the above steps, completely different temperature demands or different types of heat demands from the first terminal 17 and the second terminal 8 can be met.

[0124] In this approach, since the first sub-flow control device 41 only needs to control the fluid generated by the corresponding first sub-heat source 11 to flow completely into the first sub-flow channel 21 or the second sub-flow channel 31 to supply the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1, the first sub-flow control device 41 may include a switching valve or a three-way valve respectively installed on the first sub-flow channel 21 and the second sub-flow channel 31.

[0125] If all first sub-heat sources 11 are turned on, and the total operating power of all first sub-heat sources 11 does not reach the total maximum rated power of all first sub-heat sources 11, then at least a portion of the operating power of all first sub-heat sources 11 can be increased. This method allows for the satisfaction of heating or hot water loads that occur later or have a lower priority than those supplied by the first heat sources 11, provided all first sub-heat sources 11 are turned on. The first sub-flow control device 41 can divert the fluid corresponding to the increased power from the first sub-heat sources 11 to one of the corresponding flow channels of the later hot water load or heating load, thereby supplying one of the later hot water load or heating load.

[0126] If there is a non-operational first sub-heat source 11, and the total operating power of the non-operational first sub-heat source 11 cannot meet the demand of newly emerging heating or hot water loads, and the total operating power of the already operating first sub-heat sources 11 does not reach the total maximum rated power of the already operating first sub-heat sources 11, then the non-operational first sub-heat source 11 can be turned on and at least a portion of the operating power of the already operating first sub-heat sources 11 can be increased. When the power of the non-operational first sub-heat source 11 cannot meet the demand of subsequent heating or hot water loads, the above method can maximize the output power of the first heat source 1, thereby maximizing the satisfaction of the demand of subsequent heating or hot water loads or those with lower priority than the first heat source 1. In this step, the fluid corresponding to the power increased by the first sub-heat source 11 can be diverted to one of the subsequent hot water loads and heating loads that have a lower priority than the first heat source 1 through the first sub-flow control device 41. The fluid output from the newly activated first sub-heat source 11 can be transported to one of the subsequent hot water loads and heating loads that have a lower priority than the first heat source 1, and finally supplied to one of the subsequent hot water loads and heating loads that have a lower priority than the first heat source 1.

[0127] In the steps described above for changing the operating state of the first heat source 1, if the operating power of at least a portion of the first sub-heat sources 11 already in operation is increased, optionally, all the first sub-heat sources 11 already in operation can be redistributed so that some are supplied to the hot water load and some to the heating load. This avoids the need for the fluid output from a single first sub-heat source 11 to be divided into two parts by the first sub-flow control device 41 to supply the hot water load and the heating load respectively. Especially when the hot water load and the heating load require different fluid temperatures, the above method allows multiple first sub-heat sources 11 to be divided into two parts, and these two parts of the first sub-heat sources 11 can generate fluids of different temperatures to supply the hot water load and the heating load respectively.

[0128] If the first heat source 1 supplies a heating load and the heating load is a cooling load, and there is a demand for hot water load, changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 may include: maintaining the number of first sub-heat sources 11 in cooling mode unchanged; if there are non-operating first sub-heat sources 11, then at least some of the non-operating first sub-heat sources 11 are used to supply the hot water load. Alternatively, if the first heat source 1 supplies a hot water load and there is a demand for heating load, and the heating load is a cooling load, changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 may include: maintaining the number of first sub-heat sources 11 in heating mode unchanged; if there are non-operating first sub-heat sources 11, then at least some of the non-operating first sub-heat sources 11 are used for cooling to supply the heating load.

[0129] In the above scenario, the first heat source 1 includes a device capable of generating both cooling and heating loads, such as multiple heat pumps connected in parallel. When the cooling and heating loads of the fluids required for hot water and heating are different, the above method allows the multiple first sub-heat sources 11 to be divided into two parts. These two parts of the first sub-heat sources 11 operate in different modes, namely, a cooling mode and a heating mode, thereby generating fluids with different cooling and heating properties to supply the heating load and hot water load respectively.

[0130] Furthermore, the control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system may also include the following steps:

[0131] In the first embodiment, after performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply heating load while ensuring the hot water load is met, if the hot water load increases, the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 supplying the heating load is reduced to supply the increased hot water load. In the second embodiment, after performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply hot water load while ensuring the heating load is met, if the heating load increases, the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 supplying the hot water load is reduced to supply the increased heating load. Through the above steps, after the first heat source 1 simultaneously supplies both hot water load and heating load, if the hot water load or heating load that is preferentially supplied or configured as having higher priority increases, the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 corresponding to the subsequently supplied or configured as having lower priority heating load or hot water load is reduced to supply the preferentially supplied or configured as having higher priority hot water load or heating load. This ensures that the hot water loads or heating loads that are prioritized for supply or configured as high priority are always met first, and that there is no situation where the hot water loads or heating loads that are prioritized for supply or configured as high priority change later and cannot be met.

[0132] In step S102 of the first embodiment, when the combined heat and power system includes a second heat source 5, which can also be used to meet the heating load, if the operation of the first heat source 1 is more advantageous than the operation of the second heat source 5, then when the hot water load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for heating load, the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed, and the heating load is supplied while ensuring that the hot water load is met. Similarly, in step S102 of the second embodiment, when the combined heat and power system includes a second heat source 5, which can also be used to meet the hot water load, if the operation of the first heat source 1 is more advantageous than the operation of the second heat source 5, then when the heating load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed, and the hot water load is supplied while ensuring that the heating load is met. This advantage can be an energy efficiency ratio advantage or a cost-effectiveness advantage.

[0133] Through the above methods and steps, when the combined heat and power system has a second heat source 5 that can meet the heating or hot water loads that occur later or have a lower priority than the first heat source 1, the more advantageous first heat source 1 is preferentially used to supply these loads. When the advantage is an energy efficiency ratio advantage, the entire combined heat and power system can be more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly during operation; when the advantage is a cost-effectiveness advantage, the entire combined heat and power system can save on operating costs.

[0134] If, after the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 is executed, the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1 cannot be satisfied, then the second heat source 5 is operated to further supply the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1, thereby maximizing the satisfaction of the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1.

[0135] In step S102 of the first embodiment, under the premise that the combined heat and power system includes a second heat source 5 and the second heat source 5 can also be used to meet the heating load, when the hot water load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for heating load, the operating state of the first heat source 1 can be changed and the second heat source 5 can be operated to supply the heating load on the basis that the hot water load is met.

[0136] In the above steps, the power of the first heat source 1 can be increased, and the second heat source 5 can be operated, so that the combined increased power of the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be used to supply the heating load. Increasing the power of the first heat source 1 refers to increasing the overall power of the first heat source 1, which may include activating a first sub-heat source 11 that is not currently in operation, and / or increasing the power of at least a portion of the already operating first sub-heat source 11, or increasing the power of a single first heat source 1, etc. When the power of the first heat source 1 is increased, the fluid corresponding to the increased power of the first heat source 1 is diverted to the second flow channel 3 by the first flow control device 4 to supply the heating load. When the second heat source 5 is operated, in one feasible manner, the fluid corresponding to the power generated by the operation of the second heat source 5 is diverted to the fourth flow channel 7 by the second flow control device 19 to supply the heating load. In another feasible approach, a second heat source 5 is operated, and a second flow control device 19 diverts the fluid corresponding to the power generated by the second heat source 5 to further increase or decrease the temperature of the fluid generated by the first heat source 1, ultimately ensuring that the temperature of the fluid input to the second terminal 8 meets the requirements. Specifically, the fluid corresponding to the power increased by the first heat source 1 is diverted by the second flow control device 19, flows through the second heat exchange channel of the first heat exchange device 9, and then is delivered to the second terminal 8. Meanwhile, the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 is diverted by the second flow control device 19 into the first heat exchange channel of the first heat exchange device 9, where it can exchange heat with the fluid generated by the first heat source 1 flowing through the second heat exchange channel, thereby further increasing or decreasing the temperature of the fluid generated by the first heat source 1. Through this method, the heat or cold carried by the fluid generated by the second heat source 5 is delivered to the second terminal 8 through the fluid generated by the first heat source 1.

[0137] Similarly, in step S102 of the second embodiment, under the premise that the combined heat and power system includes a second heat source 5 and the second heat source 5 can also be used to meet the heating load, when the heating load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed and the second heat source 5 is operated, so that the hot water load is supplied on the basis that the heating load is met.

[0138] In the above steps, the power of the first heat source 1 can be increased, and the second heat source 5 can be operated, so that the combined increased power of the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 can be used to supply the hot water load. Similarly, the above-mentioned increase in the power of the first heat source 1 is to increase the overall power of the first heat source 1, which may include starting the first sub-heat source 11 that is not in operation, and / or increasing the power of at least part of the first sub-heat source 11 that is already in operation, or increasing the power of a single first heat source 1.

[0139] For example, hot water can be heated by using a first heat source 1 and a second heat source 5 together. The hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be transported through the first flow channel 2 to the third heat exchange channel of the second heat exchange device 10 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchange device 12; the hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be transported through the third flow channel 6 to the fourth heat exchange channel of the second heat exchange device 10 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchange device 12. Alternatively, the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be transported to the third heat exchange channel of the second heat exchange device 10 to exchange heat with the water in the second heat exchange device 10, thereby achieving the purpose of heating the water in the second heat exchange device 10; the hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be transported to the fourth heat exchange channel of the third heat exchange device 12 to exchange heat with the water in the third heat exchange device 12, thereby achieving the purpose of heating the water in the third heat exchange device 12. The heated water in the third heat exchange device 12 can then be supplied to the user.

[0140] For example, the first heat source 1 can be controlled to heat the water to a first preset temperature, and then the second heat source 5 can be controlled to heat the water a second time. For instance, a combined heat and power system may include a second heat exchanger 10 with a third heat exchange channel and a third heat exchanger 12 with a fourth heat exchange channel. The third heat exchanger 12 is connected to the second heat exchanger 10, and the second heat exchanger 10 has a first water storage chamber for storing water, while the third heat exchanger 12 has a second water storage chamber for storing water. The first water storage chamber and the second water storage chamber are connected, thus achieving the connection between the third heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 10. The third heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the first water storage chamber, and the fourth heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the second water storage chamber. The water stored in the chamber undergoes heat exchange. The outlet of the second heat exchange device 10, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, can be connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange device 12, which is connected to the second water storage chamber. The inlet of the second heat exchange device 10, which is connected to the first water storage chamber, is used to connect to the water source 23. When the outlet of the third heat exchange device 12, which is connected to the second water storage chamber, is used to supply hot water, the hot fluid generated by the first heat source 1 can be controlled to flow into the third heat exchange channel through the first flow channel 2, and the hot fluid generated by the second heat source 5 can be controlled to flow into the fourth heat exchange channel through the third flow channel 6. Through the above method, the different capabilities of the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 in generating hot fluid can be utilized in a tiered manner to improve the energy efficiency ratio of the entire combined heat and power system.

[0141] In step S102 of the first embodiment, if the operation of the second heat source 5 is more advantageous than the operation of the first heat source 1, when the hot water load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for heating load, the second heat source 5 is operated first, and the heating load is supplied on the basis that the hot water load is met. In step S102 of the second embodiment, if the operation of the second heat source 5 is more advantageous than the operation of the first heat source 1, when the heating load is met by the first heat source 1 and there is a demand for hot water load, the second heat source 5 is operated first, and the hot water load is supplied on the basis that the heating load is met.

[0142] By using the above method, when there is a heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1, the more advantageous heat source can be prioritized to supply the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1. This can make the overall energy consumption ratio of the entire combined heat and power system higher, and more energy-saving and environmentally friendly; or, it can make the overall cost-effectiveness of the entire combined heat and power system higher, and save operating costs.

[0143] After the above steps, if the heating load or hot water load is not met after the step of prioritizing the operation of the second heat source 5, the operating state of the first heat source 1 is changed to supply the heating load or hot water load, so that the heating load or hot water load that appears later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1 can be met to the greatest extent possible.

[0144] Furthermore, when the combined heat and power system includes a second heat source 5, in the first embodiment, after performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply the heating load while ensuring the hot water load is met, if the hot water load increases, the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 supplying the heating load is reduced to supply the increased hot water load. If the step of reducing the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 used to supply the hot water load is executed, the second heat source 5 can be operated to supply the hot water load. In the second embodiment, after performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source 1 to supply the hot water load while ensuring the heating load is met, if the heating load increases, the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 used to supply the hot water load is reduced to supply the increased heating load. If the step of reducing the number of operating first sub-heat sources 11 used to supply the heating load is executed, the second heat source 5 is operated to supply the heating load.

[0145] Through the above steps, when a heating or hot water load that occurs later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1 exists, if the priority hot water load or heating load that is supplied or has a higher priority than the first heat source 1 increases, the operating state of the first heat source 1 will be changed first, so that the priority hot water load or heating load that is supplied or has a higher priority than the first heat source 1 can be satisfied as much as possible through the first heat source 1 alone. By operating the second heat source 5, the reduction in the heating or hot water load that occurs later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1 can be compensated for. In this way, the first heat source 1 can satisfy the priority hot water load or heating load, and at the same time, by operating the second heat source 5, the heating or hot water load that occurs later or has a lower priority than the first heat source 1 can be satisfied. It can also avoid the need for subsequent diversion of the second heat source 5 as much as possible.

[0146] The controller 18 of the combined heat and power (CHP) system in this application can execute the control method of the CHP system described above. Further, the CHP system in the embodiments of this application may include a controller 18 that executes the control method of the CHP system described above. As a feasible implementation, the controller 18 can be used to communicate with the first heat source 1 and the second heat source 5 via power line carrier communication or serial communication. The controller 18 can also be used to communicate with the first flow control device 4 and the second flow control device 19 via power line carrier communication or serial communication. Of course, in other feasible implementations, the controller 18 can communicate with the first heat source 1, the second heat source 5, the first flow control device 4, and the second flow control device 19 through other existing methods, such as electrical connection, wired or wireless transmission, etc.

[0147] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified element, component, part, or step, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute “may” include is optional. Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “an” used to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0148] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system includes a first heat source, a first flow channel and a second flow channel that can be connected to the first heat source respectively; a first flow control device for controlling the flow rate of fluid from the first heat source to the first flow channel and the second flow channel, the first flow channel and the second flow channel for providing heat to a first terminal and a second terminal respectively, the first terminal for supplying hot water load and the second terminal for supplying heating load. A second heat source; a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel that can be connected to the second heat source respectively; A second flow control device is used to control the flow rate of fluid from the second heat source diverted to a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel, the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel being used to provide heat to the first end and the second end, respectively; a second heat exchange device having a third heat exchange channel and a third heat exchange device having a fourth heat exchange channel, the third heat exchange device being connected to the second heat exchange device; the first flow channel being used to connect to the third heat exchange channel; the third flow channel being used to connect to the fourth heat exchange channel; the second heat exchange device having a first water storage chamber for storing water; the third heat exchange device having a... The system includes a second water storage chamber for storing water, and the first water storage chamber is connected to the second water storage chamber. A third heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the first water storage chamber. A fourth heat exchange channel can exchange heat with the water stored in the second water storage chamber. The outlet of the second heat exchange device, connected to the first water storage chamber, is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange device, also connected to the second water storage chamber. The inlet of the second heat exchange device, connected to the first water storage chamber, is used to connect to a water source. The outlet of the third heat exchange device, connected to the second water storage chamber, is used to supply hot water. The control method for the combined heat and power system includes the following steps: Control the supply of hot water load from the first heat source until the hot water load is satisfied by the first heat source; When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the heating load is supplied while the hot water load is met. or, Control the first heat source to supply the heating load until the heating load is satisfied by the first heat source; When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the hot water load is supplied while the heating load is met.

2. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat source includes at least two first sub-heat sources connected in parallel, and the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes: Increase the number of the first sub-heat sources in operation; and / or increase the operating power of at least some of the first sub-heat sources that are already in operation.

3. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 2, characterized in that, If there are any non-operational first sub-heat sources, the number of non-operational first sub-heat sources to be activated is determined based on the heating load demand or the hot water load demand, and the newly activated first sub-heat sources are used to supply the heating load or the hot water load, provided that the hot water load is satisfied.

4. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 2, characterized in that, If all the first sub-heat sources are turned on, and the total operating power of all the first sub-heat sources does not reach the total maximum rated power of all the first sub-heat sources, then increase the operating power of at least a portion of all the first sub-heat sources.

5. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 2, characterized in that, If there are non-operating first sub-heat sources, and the total operating power of the non-operating first sub-heat sources cannot meet the needs of the newly existing heating load or hot water load, and the total operating power of the already operating first sub-heat sources does not reach the total maximum rated power of the already operating first sub-heat sources, then the non-operating first sub-heat sources are turned on and at least a portion of the operating power of the already operating first sub-heat sources is increased.

6. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The change in the operating state of the first heat source further includes: redistributing all the first sub-heat sources that are already in operation, so that a portion of them are supplied to the hot water load and a portion to the heating load.

7. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat source includes at least two first sub-heat sources connected in parallel. When the first heat source supplies the heating load and the heating load is a cold load with a demand for hot water, the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes: The number of first sub-heat sources in cooling operation remains unchanged. If there are any first sub-heat sources that are not in operation, at least a portion of the first sub-heat sources that are not in operation will be used to supply the hot water load. or, When the first heat source supplies the hot water load and there is a demand for the heating load, and the heating load is a cooling load, the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source includes: The number of first sub-heat sources in heating operation remains unchanged. If there are any first sub-heat sources that are not in operation, at least a portion of the first sub-heat sources that are not in operation will be used for cooling to supply the heating load.

8. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system also includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load; If the operation of the first heat source is more advantageous than the operation of the second heat source, When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the heating load is supplied while the hot water load is met. or, When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed so that the hot water load is supplied while the heating load is met.

9. The control method for a combined heat and power system according to claim 8, characterized in that, If the heating load or hot water load cannot be met after the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source is executed, then the second heat source is operated.

10. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system also includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load; When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed and the second heat source is operated to supply the heating load while ensuring that the hot water load is met. or, When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water load, the operating state of the first heat source is changed and the second heat source is operated to supply hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met.

11. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The step of changing the operating state of the first heat source and operating the second heat source to supply hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met includes: The first heat source is controlled to heat the water to a first preset temperature, and then the second heat source is controlled to heat the water a second time.

12. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system also includes a second heat source, which is used to at least meet the hot water load or the heating load; If the operation of the second heat source is more advantageous than the operation of the first heat source, When the hot water load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for the heating load, the second heat source is operated first, and the heating load is supplied on the basis of meeting the hot water load. or, When the heating load is met by the first heat source and there is a demand for hot water, the second heat source is operated first, and the hot water load is supplied on the basis that the heating load is met.

13. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 12, characterized in that, If, after performing the step of prioritizing the operation of the second heat source, the heating load or the hot water load is not met, the operating state of the first heat source is changed to supply the heating load or the hot water load.

14. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first heat source includes a heat pump, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, and the second heat source includes a gas water heater, an electric water heater, or a heat pump.

15. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to any one of claims 2 to 5 and 7, characterized in that, After performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source and supplying the heating load on the basis of satisfying the hot water load, if the hot water load increases, the number of the first sub-heat sources operating to supply the heating load is reduced to supply the increased hot water load. or, After performing the step of changing the operating state of the first heat source to supply the hot water load while ensuring that the heating load is met, if the heating load increases, the number of the first sub-heat sources used to supply the hot water load is reduced to supply the increased heating load.

16. The control method for a combined heat and power (CHP) system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system also includes a second heat source. If the step of reducing the number of first sub-heat sources used to supply the hot water load is performed, the second heat source is operated to supply the hot water load. Alternatively, if the step of reducing the number of the first sub-heat sources operating to supply the heating load is performed, then the second heat source is operated to supply the heating load.

17. A controller for a combined heat and power (CHP) system, characterized in that, The controller of the combined heat and power system executes the control method of the combined heat and power system as described in any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A combined heat and power (CHP) system, characterized in that, The combined power supply system includes: a controller for the combined power supply system as described in claim 17.

19. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first heat source includes multiple first sub-heat sources connected in parallel. The first flow control device includes multiple first sub-flow control devices. The first flow channel includes multiple first sub-flow channels. The second flow channel includes multiple second sub-flow channels. The first sub-flow control device is used to control the flow rate of fluid from the corresponding first sub-heat source to the corresponding first sub-flow channel and second sub-flow channel.

20. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The second heat source includes multiple second sub-heat sources connected in parallel. The second flow control device includes multiple second sub-flow control devices. The third flow channel includes multiple third sub-flow channels. The fourth flow channel includes multiple fourth sub-flow channels. The second sub-flow control device is used to control the flow rate of fluid from the corresponding second sub-heat source to the corresponding third and fourth sub-flow channels.

21. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The outlets of the second flow channel and the fourth flow channel are used to connect with the second end.

22. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system further includes: a first heat exchange device having a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel, the second channel including the second heat exchange channel, the fourth channel including the first heat exchange channel, and the second channel being used to connect to the second end.

23. The combined heat and power system according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first heat exchange device includes a plate heat exchanger.

24. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The outlets of the first flow channel and the third flow channel are used to connect with the first end.

25. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system also includes a second heat exchange device with a third heat exchange channel, wherein the first channel is used to connect with the third heat exchange channel. Alternatively, the combined heat and power system may further include a third heat exchange device having a fourth heat exchange channel, the third channel being used to connect with the fourth heat exchange channel.

26. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The combined heat and power system further includes a second heat exchange device having a third heat exchange channel and a fourth heat exchange channel; the first channel is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel; the third channel is used to communicate with the third heat exchange channel.

27. The combined heat and power system according to claim 19, characterized in that, If there are any non-operational first sub-heat sources, then at least a portion of the non-operational first sub-heat sources are activated, and the newly activated first sub-heat sources are used to supply the heating load, or to supply the hot water load, based on satisfying the hot water load. The first sub-flow control device includes a switching valve or a three-way valve disposed on the first sub-flow channel and the second sub-flow channel respectively.

28. The combined heat and power system according to claim 27, characterized in that, In the step of using the newly activated first sub-heat source to supply the heating load on the basis of satisfying the hot water load, the on / off valve on the second sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is opened, and the on / off valve on the first sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is closed; or, the three-way valve corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is switched to a position that connects the second sub-flow channel with the first sub-heat source and disconnects the first sub-flow channel from the first sub-heat source.

29. The combined heat and power system according to claim 27, characterized in that, In the step of using the newly activated first sub-heat source to supply hot water load on the basis of satisfying the heating load, the on / off valve on the first sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is opened, and the on / off valve on the second sub-flow channel corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is closed; or, the three-way valve corresponding to the newly activated first sub-heat source is switched to a position that connects the first sub-flow channel to the first sub-heat source and disconnects the second sub-flow channel from the first sub-heat source.

30. The combined heat and power system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The second sub-flow control device includes a switching valve or a three-way valve installed at the connection between the third and fourth sub-flow channels.

31. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The second terminal includes at least one of the following: fan coil unit, floor heating, radiator, or in-wall heat exchange equipment.

32. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first heat source includes a heat pump, a gas water heater, or an electric water heater, and the second heat source includes a gas water heater, an electric water heater, or a heat pump.

33. The combined heat and power system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The controller is used to communicate with the first heat source and the second heat source via power line carrier or serial communication.

34. The combined heat and power system according to claim 33, characterized in that, The controller is also used to communicate with the first flow control device and the second flow control device via power line carrier or serial communication.

Images