Central air conditioning heat pump system with cooling device

Abstract

A central air conditioning heat pump system includes a main heat exchange system and a cooling device. The main heat exchange system includes a compressor, a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger. The cooling device includes a cooling tower and a cooling heat exchanger. When the air conditioning heat pump system is selected to operate in a combined air conditioning mode, refrigerant can be cooled by water and ambient air in the cooling device and the second heat exchanger, respectively.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a central air conditioning heat pump system, which can save a significant amount of energy when operating in heat pump mode. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional air conditioning and heat pump systems can be broadly classified into two main types. The first type consists of air conditioning and heat pump systems that directly heat or cool the air in an indoor space. Examples of this type are window air conditioners and / or heat pump units, which controllably draw air from the indoor space and directly heat or cool it. After being heated or cooled, the air is then returned to the indoor space.

[0003] The second type is a central air conditioning heat pump system, in which the heat exchange medium (usually water) is used to heat or cool the air in the indoor space. As shown in Figures 1 to 5, a central air conditioning heat pump system includes a main heat exchange system 10P and a heat transfer system 20P. The main heat exchange system 10P includes a housing 11P, a compressor 12P, at least one heat exchanger 13P, a gas-liquid heat exchanger 14P, and a fan assembly 15P. The main heat exchange system 10P is typically installed on the roof of a building, allowing it to absorb heat from the ambient air or release heat into the ambient air. A predetermined amount of refrigerant can circulate through the compressor 12P, heat exchanger 13P, gas-liquid heat exchanger 14P, and other components to perform multiple heat exchange processes.

[0004] On the other hand, the heat transfer system 20P includes a water pump 21P and a water pipe system 22P connected to the water pump 21P. The water pipe system 22P is configured to deliver water to different designated indoor spaces within the building. The water circulating in the heat transfer system 20P is arranged to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the gas-liquid heat exchanger 14P of the main heat exchange system 10P. Furthermore, the heat transfer system 20P may also include a fresh air supply unit 23P connected to the water pipe system 22P. As shown in Figure 5, the fresh air supply unit 23P typically includes a support frame 231P, a centrifugal fan 232P housed within the support frame 231P, and a fresh air heat exchanger 233P also housed within the support frame 231P. The support frame 231P has an air inlet 2311P through which ambient air can be drawn into the fresh air supply unit 23P.

[0005] The refrigerant circulating in the main heat exchange system 10 is arranged to absorb heat from the ambient air and release it into water circulating through the gas-liquid heat exchanger 14P. The water, after absorbing heat from the refrigerant, is then pumped to various terminal devices, such as the fresh air supply unit 23P. The purpose of the terminal devices is to regulate and ventilate the air entering and leaving designated indoor spaces. Multiple terminal devices may exist within the heat transfer system 20P, which may include the aforementioned fresh air supply unit 23P or other air handling equipment.

[0006] Water supplied to the fresh air supply unit 23P is arranged to exchange heat with ambient air in the fresh air heat exchanger 233P. The water is arranged to release heat into the air. The heated air can be supplied to designated indoor spaces, providing fresh air to the indoor environment. Heating the ambient air is necessary because the temperature of the ambient air is usually very low, which is precisely why central air conditioning heat pump systems are used to generate heat in indoor spaces.

[0007] Although the aforementioned air conditioning heat pump systems have been widely used around the world for many years, these systems still suffer from a common drawback of relatively low coefficient of performance (COP), which can be defined as the ratio of heat energy supplied to or removed from the storage unit to the required operating energy.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to develop an air conditioning heat pump system with significantly improved COP. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Some variations of the present invention provide an air conditioning heat pump system that can save a significant amount of energy when the air conditioning heat pump system is in operation.

[0010] Some variations of the present invention provide an air conditioning heat pump system that, when operating in integrated air conditioning mode, can selectively utilize cooling water in a cooling tower to reduce the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0011] Some variations of the present invention provide an air conditioning heat pump system in which the refrigerant can be cooled by a heat exchanger (air-cooled) or a cooling tower (water-cooled).

[0012] Certain variations of the present invention provide an air conditioning heat pump system that, for a given task, generates more heat energy to the indoor space compared to the conventional air conditioning heat pump system described above.

[0013] In one aspect of the present invention, a central air conditioning heat pump system for a heat-dissipating system is provided, comprising:

[0014] Multiple connecting pipes;

[0015] A main heat exchange system, which includes:

[0016] A compressor, which has a compressor outlet and a compressor inlet;

[0017] A first heat exchanger is connected to the compressor via at least one connecting pipe; and

[0018] A second heat exchanger is connected to the compressor and the first heat exchanger via at least one connecting pipe;

[0019] A refrigerant storage tank; and

[0020] A cooling device, comprising:

[0021] A cooling tower, comprising:

[0022] A cooling tower shell having a cooling tower air inlet and a cooling tower air outlet;

[0023] A fan is installed near the air outlet of the cooling tower;

[0024] A water storage tank is installed inside the cooling tower shell to store a predetermined amount of cooling water;

[0025] A water distributor is installed inside the cooling tower shell and connected to a water storage tank via at least one connecting pipe. The water distributor includes at least one nozzle configured to spray water in a predetermined direction.

[0026] A pump, connected between the water storage tank and the water distributor, pumps the cooling water from the storage tank to the water distributor; and

[0027] A cooling heat exchanger is installed inside the cooling tower shell and connected to a second heat exchanger, a first heat exchanger and a refrigerant storage tank via at least one connecting pipe. A water distributor is used to spray cooling water onto the cooling heat exchanger so that the refrigerant flowing through the cooling heat exchanger exchanges heat with the cooling water.

[0028] The air conditioning heat pump system selectively operates between a combined air conditioning mode and a heat pump mode. In the combined air conditioning mode, a predetermined amount of refrigerant vapor leaves the compressor and flows into the second heat exchanger, releasing heat energy. After leaving the second heat exchanger, the refrigerant flows to the cooling heat exchanger, further releasing a predetermined amount of heat energy to the water circulating in the cooling unit. The refrigerant then leaves the cooling heat exchanger and flows into the first heat exchanger, absorbing heat energy from the heat distribution system. After leaving the first heat exchanger, the refrigerant returns to the compressor, thus completing one air conditioning cycle.

[0029] In the heat pump mode, a predetermined amount of vapor refrigerant leaves the compressor and flows into the first heat exchanger, releasing heat energy to the heat distribution system. After leaving the first heat exchanger, the refrigerant flows into the refrigerant storage tank for temporary storage. After leaving the refrigerant storage tank, the refrigerant flows into the second heat exchanger and absorbs heat energy from the ambient air. After leaving the second heat exchanger, the refrigerant flows back to the compressor, thus completing one heat pump cycle. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 is a top view of the main casing of a traditional central air conditioning heat pump system.

[0031] Figure 2 is a top-section sectional view of the main casing of a traditional central air conditioning heat pump system.

[0032] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the main casing of a traditional central air conditioning heat pump system along plane AA in Figure 1.

[0033] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the main heat exchange system of a traditional central air conditioning heat pump system.

[0034] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the heat transfer system of a traditional central air conditioning heat pump system.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a top view of a central air conditioning heat pump system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a central air conditioning heat pump system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a central air conditioning heat pump system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing the flow path of the refrigerant. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The following detailed description of preferred embodiments represents the preferred mode for carrying out the invention. The description should not be construed in any limiting sense; it is presented for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention.

[0039] It should be understood that the terms "installation," "connection," "coupling," and "fixed" in the following description refer to the connection relationships shown in the drawings to facilitate understanding of the invention. For example, a connection can refer to a permanent connection or a detachable connection. Furthermore, a "connection" can also be a direct connection or an indirect connection, or a connection via other auxiliary components. Therefore, the above terms should not constitute a limitation on the actual connection of the elements of the invention.

[0040] It should be understood that the terms "length," "width," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "external," and "internal" refer to the orientation or positioning relationship in the accompanying drawings to facilitate understanding of the invention, but do not limit the actual position or orientation of the invention. Therefore, the above terms should not constitute a limitation on the actual position of the elements of the invention.

[0041] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," "an," "a," and "a" in the following description all refer to "at least one" or "one or more" in the embodiments. Specifically, the term "an" may refer to "one" in one embodiment and "more than one" in another embodiment. Therefore, the above terms should not be construed as limiting the actual numerical values ​​of the elements of the present invention.

[0042] like Figures 6 to 8 The diagram illustrates a central air conditioning heat pump system according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. Generally, the central air conditioning heat pump system of the present invention may include multiple connecting pipes 100, a main heat exchange system 200, and a cooling device 300. A predetermined amount of refrigerant can circulate through the components of the main heat exchange system 200 (described below), while a predetermined amount of water can circulate through the components of the cooling device 300 (described below). The refrigerant and water can circulate between the components through the multiple connecting pipes 100.

[0043] The main heat exchange system 200 may include a main housing 201, a compressor 202, a first heat exchanger 203, and a second heat exchanger 204. The cooling device 300 may include a cooling tower 31, a cooling heat exchanger 32 supported by the cooling tower 31, and a pump 33 connected to the cooling tower 31.

[0044] The compressor 202 is supported in the main housing 201 and may have a compressor outlet 207 and a compressor inlet 208. A first heat exchanger 203 may be supported in the main housing 201 and connected to the compressor 202 via at least one connecting pipe 100. A second heat exchanger 204 may be supported in the main housing 201 and connected to the compressor 202 and the first heat exchanger 203 via at least one connecting pipe 100.

[0045] The cooling tower 31 of the cooling device 300 may include a cooling tower shell 311, which has a cooling tower air inlet 3111, a cooling tower air outlet 3112, and a water storage tank 312, which is disposed at the bottom of the cooling tower shell 311 for storing a predetermined amount of cooling water, a water distributor 313, and a fan 314.

[0046] A water distributor 313 may be disposed at the upper part of the cooling tower shell 311 and below the fan 314. The water distributor 313 may include at least one nozzle 3131, which may be configured to spray water in a predetermined direction. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the water distributor 313 may be configured to spray water onto a cooling heat exchanger 32. Therefore, the cooling heat exchanger 32 may be disposed within the cooling tower shell 311 below the water distributor 313.

[0047] A fan 314, supported within the cooling tower housing 311, draws ambient air from the cooling tower inlet 3111 to the cooling tower outlet 3112. Cooling water collected in the water tank 312 can be pumped back to the water distributor 313 for reuse. Simultaneously, a predetermined amount of air is drawn in from the cooling tower inlet 3111 and exchanges heat with the cooling water flowing through the cooling heat exchanger 32 to lower the cooling water temperature, allowing it to be reused in another cooling cycle. After absorbing heat from the cooling water, the air is discharged from the cooling tower housing 311 through the cooling tower outlet 3112.

[0048] The central air conditioning heat pump system selectively operates between a combined air conditioning mode and a heat pump mode. In the combined air conditioning mode, a predetermined amount of vaporized refrigerant leaves the compressor 202 and flows into the second heat exchanger 204, releasing heat energy. After leaving the second heat exchanger 204, the refrigerant flows into the cooling heat exchanger 32, further releasing a predetermined amount of heat energy to the water circulating in the cooling tower 31. The refrigerant then leaves the cooling heat exchanger 32 and flows into the first heat exchanger 203, absorbing heat energy from the heat distribution system connected to the designated indoor space. After leaving the first heat exchanger 203, the refrigerant flows back to the compressor 202, thus completing one air conditioning cycle.

[0049] When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in heat pump mode, a predetermined amount of refrigerant vapor leaves the compressor 202 and flows into the first heat exchanger 203, releasing heat energy to the heating system connected to the designated indoor space. After leaving the first heat exchanger 203, the refrigerant flows into the second heat exchanger 204 and absorbs heat energy from the ambient air. After leaving the second heat exchanger 204, the refrigerant flows back to the compressor 202, thus completing one heat pump cycle.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the main housing 201 of the main heat exchange system 200 can be installed on the roof of a building. The central air conditioning heat pump system of the present invention can be arranged to provide air conditioning and heating to designated indoor spaces within a building. The main housing 201 may have an air conditioning cooling chamber 223. The cooling tower housing 311 of the cooling tower 31 can be connected to the main housing 201. The main housing 201 and the cooling tower housing 311 can be separated by a partition 225. Figure 7 As shown, the compressor 202, the first heat exchanger 203 and the second heat exchanger 204 can be supported in the air conditioning cooling chamber 223 of the main housing 201.

[0051] Compressor 202 can be configured to pressurize the refrigerant flowing through it. It is set as the starting point of the refrigerant cycle in a typical air conditioning cycle or heat pump cycle.

[0052] The first heat exchanger 203 may have a first connection port 226 and a second connection port 227, and is configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant and another working fluid, such as water. When the air conditioning heat pump system operates in integrated air conditioning mode, the first heat exchanger 203 may be configured as an evaporator (i.e., converting the refrigerant into a gaseous or vaporous state). In this preferred embodiment, the first heat exchanger 203 may be configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat exchange system to extract heat energy from a designated space. This extracted heat energy will be absorbed by the refrigerant, which will be heated and turn into a vapor or gaseous state. The first connection port 226 and the second connection port 227 may serve as the inlet or outlet for the refrigerant through the first heat exchanger 203.

[0053] Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 203 may further have a third connection port 228 and a fourth connection port 229. The third connection port 228 and the fourth connection port 229 may be connected to the heat cloth system and serve as the inlet and outlet of water and / or refrigerant circulating through the heat cloth system, respectively.

[0054] When the air conditioning heat pump system operates in heat pump mode, the first heat exchanger 203 is configured as a condenser (that is, converting the refrigerant into a liquid state). Therefore, the configuration of the first heat exchanger 203 allows heat exchange between the refrigerant and the water or refrigerant flowing through the heat exchange system to extract heat energy from the refrigerant. This extracted heat energy is then absorbed and distributed by the heat exchange system.

[0055] A central air conditioning heat pump system may include two second heat exchangers 204 connected in parallel. Each second heat exchanger 204 may have a first port 230 and a second port 231, and may be configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and another working fluid, such as air. When the central air conditioning heat pump system operates in integrated air conditioning mode, the second heat exchanger 204 may be configured as a condenser (i.e., converting the refrigerant into a liquid state). In this preferred embodiment, the second heat exchanger 204 may be configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and ambient air drawn in by the fan 24 in order to extract heat energy from the refrigerant. Each first port 230 and second port 231 may serve as the inlet or outlet for refrigerant flow through the corresponding second heat exchanger 204. The two second heat exchangers 204 may have identical structures. Figure 6 As shown, the fan 24 can be supported by the main housing 201.

[0056] When the central air conditioning heat pump system operates in heat pump mode, the second heat exchanger 204 can be configured as an evaporator (that is, converting the refrigerant into a gaseous or vaporous state). Therefore, the second heat exchanger 204 allows the refrigerant to exchange heat with the ambient air in order to extract heat energy from the ambient air.

[0057] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a refrigerant storage tank 25 having a liquid inlet 251 and a liquid outlet 252, wherein the refrigerant storage tank 25 may be connected to a first heat exchanger 203, a second heat exchanger 204, and a cooling device 300. The refrigerant storage tank 25 may be configured to temporarily store refrigerant at a predetermined pressure.

[0058] Importantly, the compressor 202, the first heat exchanger 203 and the second heat exchanger 204 of the main heat exchange system 200, and the cooling device 300 can be arranged and connected via multiple connecting pipes 100 in some configurations. Figure 8 An exemplary setup is shown.

[0059] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a switching device 232 connected between the first heat exchanger 203 and the second heat exchanger 204 for changing the flow path of the refrigerant. Specifically, the switching device 232 may have a first connecting valve 233, which has first to fourth connection ports 2331, 2332, 2333, and 2334. The first connecting valve 233 may be configured to switch between an air conditioning switching mode and a heat pump switching mode. In the air conditioning switching mode, switching the first connecting valve 233 allows the first connection port 2331 to be connected to the second connection port 2332, allowing the refrigerant to flow from the first connection port 2331 to the second connection port 2332, while the third connection port 2333 can be connected to the fourth connection port 2334, allowing the refrigerant to flow from the third connection port 2333 to the fourth connection port 2334.

[0060] In the heat pump switching mode, the first connecting valve 233 can switch so that the first connection port 2331 can be connected to the fourth connection port 2334, allowing the refrigerant to flow from the first connection port 2331 to the fourth connection port 2334, while the second connection port 2332 can be connected to the third connection port 2333, allowing the refrigerant to flow from the second connection port 2332 to the third connection port 2333.

[0061] like Figure 8 As shown, the first connection port 2331 can be connected to the compressor outlet 207 of the compressor 202. The second connection port 2332 can be connected to the second port 231 of the second heat exchanger 204. The third connection port 2333 can be connected to the cooling heat exchanger 32, the first heat exchanger 203, the refrigerant storage tank 25, and the second heat exchanger 204 via multiple auxiliary components (described below). The fourth connection port 2334 can be connected to the second communication port 227 of the first heat exchanger 203.

[0062] Cooling heat exchanger 32 may have a cooling inlet 321 and a cooling outlet 322. Refrigerant may be directed into cooling heat exchanger 32 through cooling inlet 321 and out of cooling heat exchanger 32 through cooling outlet 322. Second heat exchanger 204 may be connected to cooling heat exchanger 32, first heat exchanger 203, and refrigerant storage tank 25 via several other components. For clarity, after flowing through first port 230, refrigerant may enter path 1 or path 2, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Path 2 can connect the first port 230 to the cooling inlet 321 of the cooling heat exchanger 32, so that the refrigerant leaving the first port 230 can be guided through path 2 to the cooling inlet 321 of the cooling heat exchanger 32.

[0063] Path 1 can branch into Path 3 and Path 4. Refrigerant flowing from the first port 230 can enter Path 1 and be directed to Path 3, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Path 3 guides refrigerant through liquid inlet 251 into refrigerant storage tank 25. Path 4 connects path 1 to liquid outlet 252 of refrigerant storage tank 25, allowing refrigerant from liquid outlet 252 to flow through path 4 and reach path 1.

[0064] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a first one-way valve 236 connected between the first port 230 of the second heat exchanger 204 and the first connection port 226 of the first heat exchanger 203. Specifically, the first one-way valve 236 may be connected in path 4 and may restrict the flow of refrigerant in a predetermined direction. In this preferred embodiment, the first one-way valve 236 may be configured to allow refrigerant to flow only through paths 4 and 1 from the liquid outlet 252 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 to the first port 230 of the second heat exchanger 204.

[0065] The main heat exchange system 200 may also include a filter 238 connected to the liquid outlet 252 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 in path 4. The filter 238 may be configured to filter out unwanted substances from the refrigerant passing through it. The refrigerant flowing out of the liquid outlet 252 may pass sequentially through the filter 238 in path 4, path 1, and finally reach the first port 230 of the second heat exchanger 204.

[0066] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include an expansion valve 239 connected to a filter 238 in path 4. The expansion valve 239 may be configured to control and regulate the flow rate of refrigerant passing through the expansion valve. Therefore, refrigerant can be directed through the filter 238 and the expansion valve 239 after passing through path 4.

[0067] On the other hand, after leaving the cooling outlet 322 of the cooling heat exchanger 32, the refrigerant can enter path 5 or path 6, such as... Figure 8As shown. The main heat exchange system 200 may also include a second check valve 237, which connects the cooling outlet 322 and the liquid inlet 251 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 in path 5. The second check valve 237 may be configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the cooling outlet 322 through path 5 toward the liquid inlet 251.

[0068] The main heat exchange system 200 further includes a first electronic two-way valve 27, connected to a cooling outlet 322 and a third connection port 2333 in path 6. The first electronic two-way valve 27 can be selectively opened or closed to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through it. Refrigerant from the cooling outlet 322 can be selectively directed to flow through the first electronic two-way valve 27 in path 6.

[0069] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a second electronic two-way valve 28, which connects the first port 230 of the second heat exchanger 204 to the liquid inlet 251 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 in path 3. The second electronic two-way valve 28 can be selectively opened or closed to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through it. Refrigerant from the first port 230 can be selectively directed to flow through the second electronic two-way valve 28 and through path 3 into the liquid inlet 251 of the refrigerant storage tank 25.

[0070] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a third electronic two-way valve 290 connected to the cooling inlet 321 of the cooling heat exchanger 32 in the first port 230 and path 2. The third electronic two-way valve 290 can be selectively opened or closed to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through it.

[0071] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a third check valve 240, connected via path 7 to the first connection port 226 of the expansion valve 239, the first check valve 236, and the first heat exchanger 203, as shown below. Figure 8 As shown. The third check valve 240 can be configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the expansion valve 239 via path 4 toward the first connection port 226 via path 7.

[0072] The main heat exchange system 200 may further include a fourth check valve 264, connecting the first port 226 of the first heat exchanger 203 and the liquid inlet 251 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 via path 8, such as Figure 8 As shown. The fourth check valve 264 can also be connected to the third check valve 240 in path 7, and the second check valve 237 in path 5 connected to the cooling outlet 322, and the first electronic two-way valve 27 connected in parallel thereto.

[0073] The heat exchange system can be used to recover heat energy generated by the main heat exchange system 200 and distribute the heat energy to designated indoor spaces through at least one terminal device. One such terminal device can be a ventilation device. When the central air conditioning heat pump system operates in heat pump mode, the ventilation device can be used to deliver ambient air to the indoor spaces.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the installation of the cooling tower 31 can reduce the temperature of the refrigerant circulating in the cooling heat exchanger 32.

[0075] The cooling tower shell 311 may have a rectangular cross-section and have a top side 3113, a bottom side, and multiple peripheral sides 3114. Obviously, the cooling tower shell 311 may be implemented with various cross-sections to adapt to different operating environments.

[0076] Pump 33 can be connected between water storage tank 312 and water distributor 313 to circulate cooling water between water storage tank 312 and water distributor 313.

[0077] like Figure 8 As shown, the cooling tower shell 311 may also include a water shield 315 disposed above the water distributor 313 to prevent water from accidentally reaching the fan 314. The water shield 315 may also be configured to guide or reflect water flow toward the cooling heat exchanger 32 to ensure that there is sufficient water supply to the cooling heat exchanger 32 for heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing therein.

[0078] The main heat exchange system 200 may also include a temperature sensor 280 disposed at the liquid outlet 252 of the refrigerant storage tank 25 for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the liquid outlet 252. The operating mode of the present invention may depend on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 280.

[0079] The operation of this invention is as follows: The aforementioned central air conditioning heat pump system involves refrigerant flow circulation and water flow circulation. The refrigerant can flow through the various components of the main heat exchange system 200, while the water can flow through the various components of the cooling device 300.

[0080] When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in integrated air conditioning mode, it is configured to generate cool air for designated indoor spaces. Refrigerant circulation begins at compressor 202. Superheated or vaporized refrigerant can be arranged to exit compressor 202 through compressor outlet 207. The first connecting valve 233 can be switched to air conditioning switching mode. Furthermore, the third electronic two-way valve 290 can be opened, while the first electronic two-way valve 27 and the second electronic two-way valve 28 can be closed. After leaving compressor 202, the refrigerant flows through the first connection port 2331 and the second connection port 2332 of the first connecting valve 233, and then flows into the second heat exchanger 204 through the second port 231. The refrigerant can then exchange heat with a coolant such as ambient air to release heat energy into the ambient air (air cooling).

[0081] The refrigerant is then guided out of the second heat exchanger 204 through the first port 230. After leaving the second heat exchanger 204, the refrigerant flows through the third electronic two-way valve 290 in path 2 and enters the cooling heat exchanger 32 through the cooling inlet 321. At this point, the refrigerant can be prevented from entering path 1 by the second electronic two-way valve 28 and the first one-way valve 236. The refrigerant can be arranged to further release heat energy into the cooling water circulating in the cooling tower 31. The heat energy released into the cooling water can be carried away by ambient air drawn in by the cooling tower air inlet 3111.

[0082] Then, the refrigerant leaving the cooling heat exchanger 32 through cooling outlet 322 can be guided through the second one-way valve 237 in path 5 and into the refrigerant storage tank 25 via liquid inlet 251. The refrigerant then leaves the refrigerant storage tank 25 through liquid outlet 252, flows through filter 238, expansion valve 239 in path 4, and the third one-way valve 240 in path 7, and finally enters the first heat exchanger 203 through the first connection port 226. The refrigerant entering the first heat exchanger 203 can be arranged to exchange heat with the medium circulating in the heat distribution system to absorb heat energy. The refrigerant can then leave the first heat exchanger 203 through the second connection port 227. The refrigerant can then be guided through the fourth connection port 2334 and the third connection port 2333 of the first connecting valve 233, and finally return to the compressor 202 through compressor inlet 208. This completes one refrigerant cycle in the integrated air conditioning mode.

[0083] It is worth mentioning that the cooling heat exchanger 32 can be used to further cool the refrigerant temperature by exchanging heat with cooling water from the water distributor 313. The pump 33 can pump cooling water to circulate between the water distributor 313 and the water storage tank 312. Specifically, cooling water in the water storage tank 312 can be pumped to the water distributor 313 for spraying onto the cooling heat exchanger 32. The cooling water can be arranged to exchange heat with the refrigerant circulating in the cooling heat exchanger 32. Then, after absorbing heat energy from the refrigerant, the cooling water can enter a cooling zone 316, which is a space formed between the cooling heat exchanger 32 and the water storage tank 312, allowing ambient air drawn in from the cooling tower inlet 3111 to exchange heat with the cooling water. The cooling water is then cooled and collected in the water storage tank 312 for another cooling cycle.

[0084] From the above description, those skilled in the art will understand that the refrigerant circulating in the main heat exchange system 200 of the present invention can be cooled separately or simultaneously by the second heat exchanger 204 and the cooling heat exchanger 32. When the water supply is interrupted, the fan 314 and the pump 33 can also be turned off, so that the refrigerant is cooled only by the second heat exchanger 204.

[0085] It should be noted that the integrated air conditioning mode means that the refrigerant circulating in the main heat exchange system 200 can be cooled by water (cooling tower 31) and air (second heat exchanger 204).

[0086] When the temperature detected by temperature sensor 280 is below a predetermined threshold, the refrigerant can be cooled solely by the second heat exchanger 204. This operating mode can be referred to as air-cooled air conditioning mode. When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in air-cooled air conditioning mode, it is configured to generate cool air for the designated indoor space. The refrigerant circulation begins from compressor 202. Superheated or vaporized refrigerant can be arranged to leave compressor 202 through compressor outlet 207. The first connecting valve 233 can be switched to air conditioning switching mode. Furthermore, the third electronic two-way valve 290 can be closed, the first electronic two-way valve 27 can be closed, and the second electronic two-way valve 28 can be opened. Refrigerant leaves the compressor.

[0087] After 202, the refrigerant can flow through the first connection port 2331 and the second connection port 2332 of the first connecting valve 233, and then flow into the second heat exchanger 204 through the second port 231. Then, the refrigerant can exchange heat with coolant such as ambient air in order to release heat energy into the ambient air.

[0088] Then, the refrigerant is guided out of the second heat exchanger 204 through the first port 230. After leaving the second heat exchanger 204, the refrigerant is guided through path 1, into path 3, and through the second electronic two-way valve 28. At this time, since the third electronic two-way valve 290 is closed, refrigerant is prevented from entering the cooling heat exchanger 32.

[0089] Refrigerant flowing through the second electronic two-way valve 28 can be arranged to enter the refrigerant storage tank 25 via liquid inlet 251. After leaving the refrigerant storage tank 25 via liquid outlet 252, the refrigerant flows through filter 238, expansion valve 239 in path 4, and third check valve 240 in path 7, and finally enters the first heat exchanger 203 through the first connection port 226. The refrigerant entering the first heat exchanger 203 can be arranged to exchange heat with the medium circulating in the heat exchange system to absorb heat energy. The refrigerant can be guided to leave the first heat exchanger 203 through the second connection port 227. The refrigerant can then be guided to flow through the fourth connection port 2334 and the third connection port 2333 of the first connecting valve 233, and finally return to the compressor 202 through the compressor inlet 208. This completes one refrigerant cycle in the air-cooled air conditioning mode. In this refrigerant cycle, the refrigerant can be cooled only by the ambient air flowing through the second heat exchanger 204.

[0090] When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in heat pump mode, it is configured to generate heat energy to the designated indoor space. The corresponding refrigerant cycle also starts from compressor 202. Superheated or vaporized refrigerant can be arranged to leave compressor 202 through compressor outlet 207. The first connecting valve 233 can be switched to heat pump mode. In addition, the first to third electronic two-way valves 27, 28, and 290 can all be closed.

[0091] After leaving compressor 202, the refrigerant flows through first connection port 2331 and fourth connection port 2334, and enters first heat exchanger 203 through second connection port 227. The refrigerant then exchanges heat with the heat exchange system, releasing heat energy into the heat exchange medium circulating in first heat exchanger 203. After releasing heat energy, the refrigerant can convert to a liquid state. The refrigerant can then be guided out of first heat exchanger 203 through first connection port 226. The refrigerant leaving first heat exchanger 203 can then flow through fourth check valve 264 in path 8 and into refrigerant storage tank 25 through liquid inlet 251. The second check valve 237 prevents refrigerant from flowing into cooling heat exchanger 32.

[0092] When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in heat pump mode, fan 314 and pump 33 can be turned off. Additionally, cooling water can be discharged from cooling tower 31. The refrigerant is then guided out of refrigerant storage tank 25 through liquid outlet 252, flowing through filter 238, expansion valve 239 in path 4, and first check valve 236. The refrigerant can then be guided through corresponding first port 230 to the second heat exchanger 204 to absorb heat energy from the ambient air. The refrigerant can then leave the second heat exchanger 204 through second port 231 and can be guided through the second connection port 2332 and third connection port 2333 of the first connecting valve 233, finally returning to compressor 202 through compressor inlet 208. This completes one refrigerant cycle in heat pump mode.

[0093] The central air conditioning heat pump system can also operate in defrost mode. Defrost mode is used to remove frost that forms on the second heat exchanger 204 when the central air conditioning heat pump system operates in heat pump mode. In defrost mode, the corresponding refrigerant cycle also begins from compressor 202. Superheated or vaporized refrigerant can be arranged to leave compressor 202 through compressor outlet 207. The first connecting valve 233 can be switched to air conditioning switching mode. Furthermore, the first and third electronic two-way valves 27 and 290 can be closed, while the second electronic two-way valve 28 can be opened.

[0094] After leaving compressor 202, the refrigerant can pass through first connection port 2331 and second connection port 2332, and enter second heat exchanger 204 through second port 231 to release heat energy and defrost second heat exchanger 204. The refrigerant can leave second heat exchanger 204 through first port 230 and can be guided through second electronic two-way valve 28 connected in path 3, and flow into refrigerant storage tank 25 through liquid inlet 251. Then, the refrigerant is guided out of refrigerant storage tank 25 through liquid outlet 252, flows through filter 238 and expansion valve 239 in path 4. Then, the refrigerant can be guided through third check valve 240 in path 7 and enter first heat exchanger 203 through first connection port 226. After leaving first heat exchanger 203 through second connection port 227, the refrigerant can be guided through fourth connection port 2334 and third connection port 2333 of first connecting valve 233, and finally return to compressor 202 through compressor inlet 208. This completes one refrigerant cycle in defrost mode.

[0095] Although the invention has been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments and several alternatives, the invention is not limited to the specific description contained herein. Other alternatives or equivalents may also be used to implement the invention.

Claims

1. Central air conditioning heat pump system, used in heat distribution systems, includes: Multiple connecting pipes; A main heat exchange system, which includes: A compressor having a compressor outlet and a compressor inlet; A first heat exchanger is connected to the compressor via at least one of the connecting pipes, the first heat exchanger having a first connection port and a second connection port; A second heat exchanger is connected to the compressor and the first heat exchanger via at least one of the connecting pipes, the second heat exchanger having a first port and a second port; A refrigerant storage tank having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet; A cooling device, comprising: A cooling tower, comprising: A cooling tower shell, which has a cooling tower air inlet and a cooling tower air outlet; A fan is installed near the air outlet of the cooling tower; A water storage tank is installed inside the cooling tower shell to store a predetermined amount of cooling water; A water distributor is disposed inside the cooling tower shell and connected to the water storage tank via at least one of the connecting pipes. The water distributor includes at least one nozzle configured to spray water in a predetermined direction. A pump, connected between the water storage tank and the water distributor, pumps the cooling water from the water storage tank to the water distributor; and A cooling heat exchanger is disposed within the cooling tower shell and connected to a second heat exchanger, a first heat exchanger, and a refrigerant storage tank via at least one connecting pipe. The cooling heat exchanger has a cooling inlet and a cooling outlet. A water distributor sprays cooling water onto the cooling heat exchanger, allowing the refrigerant flowing through the cooling heat exchanger to exchange heat with the cooling water. This air conditioning heat pump system selectively operates between a combined air conditioning mode and a heat pump mode. In the combined air conditioning mode, a predetermined amount of vaporized refrigerant leaves the compressor and flows into the second heat exchanger, releasing heat energy. After leaving the second heat exchanger, the refrigerant flows to the cooling heat exchanger, further releasing a predetermined amount of heat energy to the water circulating in the cooling unit. The refrigerant then leaves the cooling heat exchanger and flows to the first heat exchanger, absorbing heat energy from the heat distribution system. Finally, the refrigerant leaves the first heat exchanger and flows back to the compressor, thus completing one air conditioning cycle. In the heat pump mode, a predetermined amount of vapor refrigerant leaves the compressor and flows into the first heat exchanger, releasing heat energy into the heat distribution system. After leaving the first heat exchanger, the refrigerant flows into the refrigerant storage tank for temporary storage. After leaving the refrigerant storage tank, the refrigerant flows to the second heat exchanger and absorbs heat energy from the ambient air. The refrigerant leaves the second heat exchanger and flows back to the compressor, thus completing one heat pump cycle.

2. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a switching device connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the switching device having a first connecting valve having first to fourth connection ports, the first connecting valve being configured to switch between an air conditioning switching mode and a heat pump switching mode, wherein, In the air conditioning switching mode, the switching of the first connecting valve connects the first connection port to the second connection port, and the third connection port connects to the fourth connection port. In the heat pump switching mode, the switching of the first connecting valve connects the first connection port to the fourth connection port, and the second connection port connects to the third connection port.

3. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 2, wherein the first connection port is connected to the compressor outlet of the compressor, the second connection port is connected to the second port of the second heat exchanger, the third connection port is connected to the cooling heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger, the refrigerant storage tank and the second heat exchanger, and the fourth connection port is connected to the second communication port of the first heat exchanger.

4. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 3, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a first check valve connected to a first port of the second heat exchanger and a liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the first check valve being configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank toward the first port of the second heat exchanger.

5. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 4, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a second check valve connecting the cooling outlet of the cooling heat exchanger and the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the second check valve being configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the cooling outlet of the cooling heat exchanger toward the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank.

6. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 5, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a first electronic two-way valve connecting the cooling outlet of the cooling heat exchanger and the third connection port of the connecting valve, the first electronic two-way valve selectively opening or closing to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through therethrough.

7. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 6, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a second electronic two-way valve connected to the first port of the second heat exchanger and the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the second electronic two-way valve selectively opening or closing to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through therethrough.

8. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 7, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a third electronic two-way valve connected between the first port of the second heat exchanger and the cooling inlet of the cooling heat exchanger, the third electronic two-way valve selectively opening or closing to selectively allow refrigerant to pass through therethrough.

9. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 8, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a third check valve connecting the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank and the first connection port of the first heat exchanger, the third check valve being configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank toward the first connection port.

10. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 9, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a fourth one-way valve connecting the first port of the first heat exchanger and the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the fourth one-way valve being configured to allow refrigerant to flow only from the first port toward the liquid inlet.

11. The central air conditioning heat pump system of claim 10, wherein the cooling tower housing further includes a water shield disposed above the water distributor to prevent water from accidentally reaching the fan.

12. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 11, wherein the main heat exchange system further includes a temperature sensor disposed at the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the liquid outlet.

13. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 12, wherein, When the central air conditioning heat pump system is in integrated air conditioning mode, the first connecting valve switches to air conditioning switching mode, the third electronic two-way valve opens, and the first electronic two-way valve and the second electronic two-way valve close. The refrigerant is guided to flow sequentially through the compressor outlet, the first connection port, the second connection port, the second port of the second heat exchanger, the first port of the second heat exchanger, the third electronic two-way valve, the cooling inlet of the cooling heat exchanger, the cooling outlet of the cooling heat exchanger, the second one-way valve, the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the third one-way valve, the first connecting port of the first heat exchanger, the second connecting port of the first heat exchanger, the fourth connection port, the third connection port, and then back to the compressor through the compressor inlet.

14. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 12, selectively operating in air-cooled air conditioning mode, wherein in the air-cooled air conditioning mode, a predetermined amount of vapor refrigerant is set to leave the compressor, be guided into the second heat exchanger and release heat energy, after leaving the second heat exchanger, be guided into the first heat exchanger and have heat energy absorbed by the heat cloth system, and after leaving the first heat exchanger, be guided back to the compressor, thus completing the air-cooled air conditioning cycle.

15. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 12, wherein when the central air conditioning heat pump system is in air-cooled air conditioning mode, the connecting valve switches to air conditioning switching mode, the third electronic two-way valve is closed, the first electronic two-way valve is closed, and the second electronic two-way valve is open, and the refrigerant is guided to flow sequentially through the compressor outlet of the compressor, the first connection port, the second connection port, the second port of the second heat exchanger, the first port of the second heat exchanger, the second electronic two-way valve, the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the third one-way valve, the first connection port of the first heat exchanger, the second connection port of the first heat exchanger, the fourth connection port, the third connection port, and then back to the compressor through the compressor inlet.

16. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 12, wherein when the central air conditioning heat pump system is in heat pump mode, the connecting valve switches to heat pump switching mode, the first to third electronic two-way valves are all closed, and the refrigerant is guided to flow sequentially through the compressor outlet of the compressor, the first connection port, the fourth connection port, the second connection port of the first heat exchanger, the first connection port of the first heat exchanger, the fourth one-way valve, the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the first one-way valve, the first port of the second heat exchanger, the second port of the second heat exchanger, the second connection port, the third connection port, and then flows back to the compressor through the compressor inlet.

17. The central air conditioning heat pump system according to claim 12, selectively operating in defrost mode, wherein when the central air conditioning heat pump system is in defrost mode, the first connecting valve switches to air conditioning switching mode, the first electronic two-way valve and the third electronic two-way valve are closed, while the second electronic two-way valve is open, and the refrigerant is guided to flow sequentially through the compressor outlet of the compressor, the first connection port, the second connection port, the second port of the second heat exchanger, the first port of the second heat exchanger, the second electronic two-way valve, the liquid inlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the liquid outlet of the refrigerant storage tank, the third one-way valve, the first connecting port of the first heat exchanger, the second connecting port of the first heat exchanger, the fourth connection port, the third connection port, and then back to the compressor through the compressor inlet.

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