Refrigeration cycle system and refrigerant recovery device

Abstract

A refrigeration cycle system is proposed that can recover more refrigerant than when the refrigerant is stored in an outdoor unit. The refrigeration cycle system 1 includes a refrigeration cycle device (100) and a refrigerant storage unit (200). The refrigeration cycle device (100) includes an indoor unit (110), an outdoor unit (120), a gas-side connecting pipe (131), and a liquid-side connecting pipe (132). The refrigerant storage unit (200) stores the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage (150). The refrigerant storage unit (200) is connected to the refrigerant circulation passage (150) through a first storage unit pipe (221) and a second storage unit pipe (222). The first storage unit pipe (221) connects the first refrigerant pipe (121b) of the outdoor refrigerant flow path (121) with the refrigerant storage unit (200), or connects the gas-side connecting pipe (131) with the refrigerant storage unit (200). The second storage unit pipe (222) allows the second refrigerant pipe (121c) of the outdoor refrigerant flow path (121) to communicate with the refrigerant storage unit (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigeration cycle system and a refrigerant recovery device. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-009692) discloses an air conditioner (refrigeration cycle device) that recovers the refrigerant in the indoor unit to the outdoor unit when refrigerant leakage in the indoor unit is detected. Summary of the invention

[0003] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0004] The refrigeration cycle device of Patent Document 1 stores the refrigerant in the outdoor unit, and therefore the amount of refrigerant that can be stored is limited.

[0005] The present disclosure proposes a refrigeration cycle system capable of recovering more refrigerant than a case where the refrigerant is stored in an outdoor unit.

[0006] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0007] The refrigeration cycle system of the first aspect includes a refrigeration cycle device and a refrigerant storage unit. The refrigeration cycle device includes: an indoor unit having an indoor refrigerant flow path; an outdoor unit having an outdoor refrigerant flow path; and a gas-side connecting pipe and a liquid-side connecting pipe, the gas-side connecting pipe and the liquid-side connecting pipe connecting the indoor refrigerant flow path and the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The refrigerant storage unit stores the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path formed by the indoor refrigerant flow path, the outdoor refrigerant flow path, the gas-side connecting pipe, and the liquid-side connecting pipe.

[0008] The outdoor refrigerant flow path includes: a first compressor; an outdoor heat exchanger; an outdoor expansion mechanism; a flow path switching mechanism; a gas side connection portion connected to a gas side connecting pipe; a liquid side connection portion connected to a liquid side connecting pipe; a first refrigerant pipe connected to the flow path switching mechanism and the gas side connection portion; a second refrigerant pipe connected to the outdoor heat exchanger and the outdoor expansion mechanism; and a third refrigerant pipe connected to the outdoor expansion mechanism and the liquid side connection portion. The refrigerant storage portion is connected to the refrigerant circulation passage through the first pipe and the second pipe. The first pipe connects the first refrigerant pipe to the refrigerant storage portion, or connects the gas side connecting pipe to the refrigerant storage portion. The second pipe connects the second refrigerant pipe to the refrigerant storage portion.

[0009] The refrigeration cycle system can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path in a refrigerant storage unit provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device through the first pipe and the second pipe. Therefore, the refrigeration cycle system can store more refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit than when storing the refrigerant in the outdoor refrigerant flow path.

[0010] The refrigeration cycle system according to the second aspect is the refrigeration cycle system according to the first aspect, and includes a plurality of refrigeration cycle devices.

[0011] The refrigeration cycle system can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path in a refrigerant storage unit provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device. Therefore, even if the refrigerant circulation path is filled with a large amount of refrigerant due to the presence of a plurality of refrigeration cycle devices, the refrigeration cycle system can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit.

[0012] A refrigeration cycle system according to a third aspect is the refrigeration cycle system according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the refrigeration cycle device includes a plurality of indoor units.

[0013] The refrigeration cycle system can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path in a refrigerant storage unit provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device. Therefore, even if the refrigerant circulation path is filled with a large amount of refrigerant due to the presence of a plurality of indoor units, the refrigeration cycle system can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit.

[0014] The refrigeration cycle system of the fourth aspect is the refrigeration cycle system of any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a first opening and closing valve and a second opening and closing valve. The first opening and closing valve allows or blocks the flow of the refrigerant between the first refrigerant pipe and the refrigerant storage unit, or between the gas-side connecting pipe and the refrigerant storage unit. The second opening and closing valve allows or blocks the flow of the refrigerant between the second refrigerant pipe and the refrigerant storage unit.

[0015] The refrigeration cycle system of the fifth viewpoint further includes a first control unit on the basis of the refrigeration cycle system of the fourth viewpoint. The first control unit controls the first compressor, the outdoor expansion mechanism and the flow switching mechanism. The flow switching mechanism takes a first state in which the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, or a second state in which the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator. The first control unit performs a first control and a second control. In the first control, the first control unit stores the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit by setting the flow switching mechanism to the first state, setting the outdoor expansion mechanism to the closed state, and operating the first compressor. In the second control, if the first control ends, the first control unit operates the first compressor and sets the first on-off valve to the open state to store the gas refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit.

[0016] The refrigeration cycle system can automatically store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage portion by causing the first control portion to execute the first control and the second control.

[0017] The refrigeration cycle system of the sixth aspect is based on the refrigeration cycle system of the fifth aspect, and the first control unit performs the third control. In the third control, the first control unit sets the flow path switching mechanism to the second state, sets the outdoor expansion mechanism to the open state, and operates the first compressor, so that the refrigerant inside the refrigerant storage unit is filled into the refrigerant circulation path.

[0018] This refrigeration cycle system can fill the refrigeration cycle passage of the refrigeration cycle device with the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage portion.

[0019] The refrigeration cycle system of the seventh aspect is the refrigeration cycle system of the sixth aspect, wherein the second pipe has a check valve and a pressure reducer. The check valve restricts the flow of the refrigerant from the refrigerant storage unit to the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The pressure reducer is provided in parallel with the check valve.

[0020] In the present refrigeration cycle system, the refrigerant flowing from the refrigerant storage unit into the second pipe and filling the refrigerant circulation path in the third control is decompressed to a predetermined pressure by the pressure reducer. Therefore, even if the refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circulation path flows into the outdoor heat exchanger without being decompressed by the outdoor expansion mechanism, it can be fully evaporated by the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0021] A refrigeration cycle system according to an eighth aspect is the refrigeration cycle device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the second pipe has an expansion mechanism that can be fully closed.

[0022] In this refrigeration cycle system, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing in from the second pipe can be lowered compared to a case where no expansion mechanism is provided. Therefore, the pressure resistance of the storage container can be set lower, and the manufacturing cost of the storage container can be suppressed low.

[0023] The refrigeration cycle system of the ninth aspect is the refrigeration cycle system of any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the outdoor unit further comprises a liquid-side branch pipe connected to the first refrigerant pipe and the second storage pipe communicates with the liquid-side branch pipe.

[0024] The refrigeration cycle system of the tenth aspect is the refrigeration cycle system of the ninth aspect, wherein the outdoor unit further comprises a gas-side branch pipe, the gas-side branch pipe is connected to the second refrigerant pipe, and the first pipe is connected to the gas-side branch pipe.

[0025] A refrigeration cycle system according to an eleventh aspect is the refrigeration cycle system according to the tenth aspect, wherein the first pipe is connected to the gas-side connection portion.

[0026] In the refrigeration cycle system, since it is not necessary to provide a gas-side branch pipe in the refrigeration cycle, the manufacturing cost can be suppressed compared with the case of using a refrigeration cycle device provided with a gas-side branch pipe.

[0027] The refrigeration cycle system of the twelfth aspect is based on the refrigeration cycle system of the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, wherein the outdoor unit has four outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves allow or block the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves are arranged on the first refrigerant piping, the third refrigerant piping, the gas side branch piping, and the liquid side branch piping.

[0028] The refrigeration cycle system of the thirteenth aspect is based on the refrigeration cycle system of the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, and the outdoor unit has three outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve is arranged between the flow path switching mechanism of the first refrigerant piping and the connection part of the gas side branch piping, the third refrigerant piping, and the liquid side branch piping.

[0029] The refrigeration cycle system of the fourteenth aspect is based on the refrigeration cycle system of the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, and the outdoor unit has two outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve is arranged between the connection part of the flow path switching mechanism of the first refrigerant piping and the gas side branch piping, and between the connection part of the outdoor heat exchanger of the second refrigerant piping and the liquid side branch piping.

[0030] The refrigeration cycle system of the fifteenth aspect is the refrigeration cycle system of any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, wherein the indoor refrigerant flow path has an indoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit has a detection unit for detecting refrigerant leakage. If the detection unit detects refrigerant leakage, the first control unit performs the first control.

[0031] According to this feature, the refrigeration cycle system detects the leakage of the refrigerant in the indoor unit as an opportunity to make the first control unit perform the first control. Therefore, even if the refrigerant leaks in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can be automatically stored in the refrigerant storage unit, thereby preventing the refrigerant from being released into the atmosphere.

[0032] A refrigeration cycle system according to a sixteenth aspect is the refrigeration cycle system according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, wherein the refrigerant is flammable or toxic.

[0033] Even if a flammable or toxic refrigerant leaks, the refrigeration cycle system can automatically store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit, thereby preventing contamination of the air-conditioned space due to the refrigerant leakage.

[0034] The refrigerant recovery device of the seventeenth aspect recovers the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle system of any one of the first to sixteenth aspects. The refrigerant recovery device comprises a recovery container, a second compressor and a second control unit. The recovery container stores the refrigerant. The second compressor causes a predetermined pressure to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit of the refrigeration cycle system. The second control unit controls the second compressor. The second control unit controls the second compressor so as to recover the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path of the refrigeration cycle system to the recovery container.

[0035] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device can recover the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit into the recovery container.

[0036] The refrigerant recovery device of the eighteenth aspect is based on the refrigerant recovery device of the seventeenth aspect, and the second control unit performs the fourth control and the fifth control. If the fourth control is completed, the second control unit performs the fifth control. In the fourth control, the second control unit controls the second compressor and causes the discharge pressure of the second compressor to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit, so that the refrigerant flows into the recovery container. In the fifth control, the second control unit controls the second compressor and causes the suction pressure of the second compressor to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit, so that the refrigerant flows into the recovery container.

[0037] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device can recover the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit into the recovery container.

[0038] The refrigerant recovery device of the nineteenth aspect is based on the refrigerant recovery device of the seventeenth aspect or the eighteenth aspect, and the refrigerant recovery device further includes a first switching valve, a second switching valve and a third switching valve. The first switching valve selectively connects the recovery container with the refrigerant storage unit and the third switching valve. The second switching valve selectively connects the suction side of the second compressor with the recovery container and the refrigerant storage unit. The third switching valve selectively connects the discharge side of the second compressor with the first switching valve and the refrigerant storage unit.

[0039] In the fourth control, the second control unit communicates the recovery container with the refrigerant storage unit through the first switching valve, communicates the suction side of the second compressor with the recovery container through the second switching valve, and communicates the discharge side of the second compressor with the refrigerant storage unit through the third switching valve.

[0040] In the fifth control, the second control unit connects the recovery container with the third switching valve through the first switching valve, connects the suction side of the second compressor with the refrigerant storage unit through the second switching valve, and connects the discharge side of the second compressor with the first switching valve through the third switching valve.

[0041] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device can change the connection with the recovery container, the refrigerant storage unit, and the second compressor by switching the switching valve. Therefore, in the refrigerant recovery device, when the fifth control is executed after the fourth control is completed, it is not necessary to change the connection of the refrigerant recovery connection pipe connecting the refrigerant storage unit and the refrigerant recovery device. Thus, the second control unit can continuously and automatically execute the fourth control and the fifth control. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigeration cycle system 1.

[0043] Figure 2 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigerant recovery device 5 .

[0044] Figure 3 3 is a control block diagram of the first control unit 140 .

[0045] Figure 4 This is a control block diagram of the second control unit 580 .

[0046] Figure 5 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant storage operation.

[0047] Figure 6 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant storage operation.

[0048] Figure 7 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant charging operation.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant recovery operation.

[0050] Fig. 9 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant recovery operation.

[0051] Fig.10 It is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to modification 1A.

[0052] Fig.11 It is a schematic configuration diagram of the refrigerant storage unit 201 according to Modification 1B.

[0053] Fig.12 It is a schematic structural diagram of the refrigerant storage unit 202 of modification 1C.

[0054] Fig.13 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant storage operation (Variant 1D).

[0055] Fig.14 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant charging operation (Variant 1E).

[0056] Fig.15 It is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to modification 1G.

[0057] Fig.16 It is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to modification 1H.

[0058] Fig.17 It is a schematic structural diagram showing the refrigeration cycle system 2.

[0059] Fig.18 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigerant recovery device 6 .

[0060] Fig.19 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant recovery operation.

[0061] Fig. 20 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant recovery operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] <First embodiment>

[0063] (1) Overall structure

[0064] A refrigeration cycle system 1 and a refrigerant recovery device 5 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 1 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigeration cycle system 1. Figure 2 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigerant recovery device 5 .

[0065] The refrigeration cycle system 1 includes a refrigeration cycle device 100A and a refrigeration cycle device 100B, a refrigerant storage unit 200, two first connecting pipes 310, and two second connecting pipes 320. The refrigerant storage unit 200 stores the refrigerant filled in the refrigeration cycle devices 100A and 100B. Each refrigeration cycle device 100 is connected to the refrigerant storage unit 200 through the first connecting pipe 310 and the second connecting pipe 320.

[0066] Figure 1 The state where the refrigerant storage unit 200 is mounted on the refrigeration cycle apparatuses 100A and 100B is shown. In addition, the number of refrigeration cycle apparatuses 100 included in the refrigeration cycle system 1 is not limited to two, and may be one, or may be three or more.

[0067] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B have the same equipment and the same functions. Therefore, in the following description of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 will be described. In the description where it is necessary to distinguish between the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, "A" or "B" is added to the reference numerals of the equipment constituting each apparatus to distinguish them.

[0068] The refrigerant recovery device 5 can recover the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200. The refrigerant recovery device 5 is connected to the refrigeration cycle system 1 via a refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600.

[0069] In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding structures among the embodiments and modifications, and the description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

[0070] (2) Detailed structure

[0071] (2-1) Refrigeration cycle system

[0072] (2-1-1) Refrigeration cycle device

[0073] The refrigeration cycle device 100 is an air conditioning device that uses a vapor compression refrigeration cycle to cool and heat an air-conditioned space (not shown). The refrigeration cycle device 100 includes an indoor unit 110, an outdoor unit 120, a gas-side connecting pipe 131, a liquid-side connecting pipe 132, and a first control unit 140. The refrigeration cycle device 100 is a multi-connected air conditioning device for a building having two indoor units 110. The number of indoor units 110 included in the refrigeration cycle device 100 is not limited to two, and may be one, or may be three or more.

[0074] As described in detail later, the indoor unit 110 has an indoor refrigerant flow path 111, and the outdoor unit 120 has an outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The indoor refrigerant flow path 111, the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, the gas side connecting pipe 131, and the liquid side connecting pipe 132 form a refrigerant circulation passage 150. The refrigerant circulation passage 150 is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 is not limited, and for example, it is a fluorinated hydrocarbon refrigerant such as R32 with a slight flammability (A2L). The refrigerant may be flammable or toxic. In addition, the refrigeration cycle device 100 is not limited to an air-conditioning device, and may be, for example, a cold storage, a freezer, a water heater, a floor heating device, etc.

[0075] (2-1-1-1) Indoor unit

[0076] The indoor unit 110 is installed in the air-conditioned space and includes an indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and a detector 116 .

[0077] The indoor refrigerant flow path 111 constitutes a part of the refrigerant circulation passage 150. The indoor refrigerant flow path 111 is formed by connecting the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the indoor expansion mechanism 113 through refrigerant piping.

[0078] The indoor heat exchanger 112 performs heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the air in the air-conditioning target space. The indoor heat exchanger 112 functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant during cooling operation, and functions as a radiator of the refrigerant during heating operation. One end of the indoor heat exchanger 112 is connected to the gas side connection portion 114 through a refrigerant pipe. The other end of the indoor heat exchanger 112 is connected to the indoor expansion mechanism 113 through a refrigerant pipe.

[0079] The indoor expansion mechanism 113 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circulation passage 150. The indoor expansion mechanism 113 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is adjusted by an actuator (not shown). The indoor expansion mechanism 113 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the liquid side connection part 115 through the refrigerant piping. The opening of the indoor expansion mechanism 113 is controlled by the first control unit 140.

[0080] The gas-side connection portion 114 is one end of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111. The gas-side connection portion 114 is connected to the gas-side communication pipe 131.

[0081] The liquid-side connection portion 115 is the other end of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111. The liquid-side communication pipe 132 is connected to the liquid-side connection portion 115.

[0082] The detection unit 116 detects leakage of refrigerant from the refrigerant circulation passage 150. The detection unit 116 is provided inside the shell (not shown) of the indoor unit 110. The detection unit 116 is not particularly limited in form as long as it can detect leakage of refrigerant from the refrigerant circulation passage 150. It may be a sensor for detecting refrigerant, or it may detect leakage of refrigerant through a sudden change in the air temperature inside the shell of the indoor unit 110 or the temperature of the piping. If the detection unit 116 detects leakage of refrigerant, it sends a signal indicating the leakage of refrigerant to the first control unit 140.

[0083] (2-1-1-2) Outdoor unit

[0084] The outdoor unit 120 is arranged outside the air-conditioned space. The outdoor unit 120 is installed, for example, on the roof of a building in which the refrigeration cycle device 100 is installed, or is installed adjacent to the building. The outdoor unit 120 has an outdoor refrigeration flow path 121, a gas side branch pipe 128, a liquid side branch pipe 129, and an outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130.

[0085] The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 constitutes a part of the refrigerant circulation passage 150. The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 is formed by connecting the first compressor 122, the outdoor heat exchanger 123, the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, the flow path switching mechanism 125, the gas side connection part 126 and the liquid side connection part 127 through the refrigerant piping 121a. The refrigerant piping 121a includes a first refrigerant piping 121b, a second refrigerant piping 121c and a third refrigerant piping 121d.

[0086] The first compressor 122 draws low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle from the suction pipe 122a, compresses the refrigerant through a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the compressed refrigerant to the discharge pipe 122b. The operation of the first compressor 122 is controlled by the first control unit 140.

[0087] The outdoor heat exchanger 123 performs heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the indoor heat exchanger 123 and the air (heat source air) at the installation location of the outdoor unit 120. The outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as a radiator of the refrigerant during cooling operation, and functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant during heating operation. One end of the outdoor heat exchanger 123 is connected to the flow path switching mechanism 125 through a refrigerant piping. The other end of the outdoor heat exchanger 123 is connected to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 through a refrigerant piping.

[0088] The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circulation passage 150. The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is adjusted by an actuator (not shown). The opening of the indoor expansion mechanism 113 is controlled by the first control unit 140. The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the liquid side connection part 127 through the refrigerant piping.

[0089] The flow switching mechanism 125 changes the state of the refrigerant circulation passage 150 between a first state and a second state by switching the flow direction of the refrigerant. When the refrigerant circulation passage 150 is in the first state, the outdoor heat exchanger 123 acts as a radiator of the refrigerant, and the indoor heat exchanger 112 acts as an evaporator of the refrigerant. When the refrigerant circulation passage 150 is in the second state, the outdoor heat exchanger 123 acts as an evaporator of the refrigerant, and the indoor heat exchanger 112 acts as a radiator of the refrigerant. The flow switching mechanism 125 is controlled by the first control unit 140. In the present embodiment, the flow switching mechanism 125 is a four-way reversing valve. However, the flow switching mechanism 125 is not limited to a four-way reversing valve. For example, the flow switching mechanism 125 can also be constructed by combining a plurality of solenoid valves and refrigerant pipes in a manner that enables switching of the flow direction of the refrigerant as described below.

[0090] During cooling operation, the flow switching mechanism 125 sets the state of the refrigerant circulation passage 150 to the first state. In other words, during cooling operation, the flow switching mechanism 125 connects the suction pipe 122a to the gas side connection portion 126 and connects the discharge pipe 122b to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 (see Figure 1 In heating operation, the flow switching mechanism 125 sets the state of the refrigerant circulation passage 150 to the second state. In other words, in heating operation, the flow switching mechanism 125 connects the suction pipe 122a with the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and connects the discharge pipe 122b with the gas side connection portion 126 (see Figure 1 ) as a solid line within the flow path switching mechanism 125.

[0091] The gas-side connection portion 126 is one end of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The gas-side connection portion 126 is connected to the gas-side communication pipe 131.

[0092] The liquid-side connection portion 127 is the other end of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The liquid-side communication pipe 132 is connected to the liquid-side connection portion 127.

[0093] The first refrigerant pipe 121 b connects the flow path switching mechanism 125 and the gas-side connection portion 126 .

[0094] The second refrigerant pipe 121 c connects the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 .

[0095] The third refrigerant pipe 121 d connects the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 and the liquid-side connecting portion 127 .

[0096] The gas-side branch pipe 128 is a pipe that connects the first refrigerant pipe 121b and the refrigerant storage unit 200. In the present embodiment, one end of the gas-side branch pipe 128 is connected to the first refrigerant pipe 121b. The other end of the gas-side branch pipe 128 is connected to the first storage unit pipe 221 through the first connecting pipe 310.

[0097] The liquid-side branch pipe 129 is a pipe that connects the second refrigerant pipe 121c and the refrigerant storage unit 200. In this embodiment, one end of the liquid-side branch pipe 129 is connected to the second refrigerant pipe 121c. The other end of the liquid-side branch pipe 129 is connected to the second storage unit pipe 222 via the second connecting pipe 320.

[0098] The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130 is provided at a predetermined position of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, the gas side branch pipe 128 or the liquid side branch pipe 129, and allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, the gas side branch pipe 128 or the liquid side branch pipe 129. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130 is manually opened and closed. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130 is closed, for example, when the refrigeration cycle device 100 is installed, in order to prevent the refrigerant sealed in the outdoor unit 120 from leaking to the outside. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130 is opened after the refrigeration cycle device 100 is installed.

[0099] The refrigeration cycle device 100 includes four outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 are provided in the first refrigerant pipe 121b, the third refrigerant pipe 121d, the gas-side branch pipe 128, and the liquid-side branch pipe 129.

[0100] (2-1-1-3) Gas-side connecting pipe and liquid-side connecting pipe

[0101] The gas-side communication pipe 131 and the liquid-side communication pipe 132 connect the indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 .

[0102] The gas-side communication pipe 131 is connected to the gas-side connection portion 114 of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and the gas-side connection portion 126 of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 .

[0103] The indoor refrigerant flow path 111 is connected to a liquid-side connection portion 115 of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and a liquid-side connection portion 127 of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 .

[0104] (2-1-1-4) First Control Unit

[0105] The first control unit 140 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigeration cycle device 100 and the refrigerant storage unit 200. The first control unit 140 is electrically connected to the indoor expansion mechanism 113, the detection unit 116, the first compressor 122, the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, the flow path switching mechanism 125, and the storage unit on-off valve 230 described later so as to be able to exchange control signals and information. Figure 3 1 is a control block diagram of the first control unit 140. In the present embodiment, the first control unit 140 is provided inside a casing (not shown) of the outdoor unit 120. The first control unit 140 may be provided at any location other than the casing of the outdoor unit 120.

[0106] The first control unit 140 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigeration cycle device 100 and the refrigerant storage unit 200, thereby performing air conditioning operation, refrigerant storage operation and refrigerant filling operation. The air conditioning operation includes cooling operation and heating operation. The refrigerant storage operation is an operation for storing the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 in the refrigerant storage unit 200. The refrigerant filling operation is an operation for filling the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200 into the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0107] The refrigeration cycle device 100A has a first control unit 140A, and the refrigeration cycle device 100B has a first control unit 140B. The first control unit 140A and the first control unit 140B cooperate with each other to perform air conditioning operation, refrigerant storage operation, and refrigerant filling operation. Therefore, the first control unit 140A and the first control unit 140B are collectively referred to as the first control unit 140 below.

[0108] The control of the refrigeration cycle device 100 during the cooling operation and the heating operation will be described. The details of the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant charging operation will be described below.

[0109] (Cooling operation)

[0110] If the refrigeration cycle device 100 is instructed to perform cooling operation, the first control unit 140 controls the flow path switching mechanism 125 to the first state so that the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 is the first state. Figure 1 The state is shown by the middle dotted line, and the first compressor 122 is operated.

[0111] If the first compressor 122 is operated, the low-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is compressed into a high-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, and is condensed into a high-pressure liquid refrigerant by heat exchange with the heat source air. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is sent to the indoor unit 110 via the fully opened indoor expansion mechanism 113 and the liquid side connecting pipe 132. The gas-liquid two-phase state refrigerant sent to the indoor unit 110 is a refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state by being decompressed to near the suction pressure of the first compressor 122 in the indoor expansion mechanism 113 whose opening is narrowed, and is sent to the indoor heat exchanger 112. The gas-liquid two-phase state refrigerant exchanges heat with the air in the air-conditioned space in the indoor heat exchanger 112 and evaporates to become a low-pressure gas refrigerant. The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit 120 via the gas-side communication pipe 131, and is sucked into the first compressor 122 again via the flow path switching mechanism 125. The air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 112 is cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing in the indoor heat exchanger 112. The air cooled in the indoor heat exchanger 112 is blown out to the air-conditioned space.

[0112] (Heating operation)

[0113] If the refrigeration cycle device 100 is instructed to perform the heating operation, the first control unit 140 controls the flow path switching mechanism 125 to the state in which the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 is the second state. Figure 1 The state shown by the solid line in the middle is achieved, and the first compressor 122 is operated.

[0114] If the first compressor 122 is operated, the low-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is compressed into the high-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the indoor unit 110 via the flow switching mechanism 125 and the gas-side connecting pipe 131. The refrigerant sent to the indoor unit 110 is sent to the indoor heat exchanger 112 and heat-exchanged with the air in the air-conditioned space to be condensed into a high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 112 is heated by the heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing in the indoor heat exchanger 112. The heated air in the indoor heat exchanger 112 is blown out to the air-conditioned space. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 112 is sent to the outdoor unit 120 via the fully opened indoor expansion mechanism 113 and the liquid-side connecting pipe 132. The refrigerant sent to the outdoor unit 120 is decompressed to near the suction pressure of the first compressor 122 in the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 whose opening is narrowed, and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger 123. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant exchanges heat with the heat source air in the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and evaporates to become a low-pressure gas refrigerant. The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sucked into the first compressor 122 again via the flow path switching mechanism 125.

[0115] The first control unit 140 is implemented by a computer. The first control unit 140 includes a control operation device and a storage device (both are omitted in the figure). A processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used in the control operation device. The control operation device reads a program stored in the storage device and performs a prescribed image processing or operation processing according to the program. In addition, the control operation device can write the operation result to the storage device according to the program, and can read the information stored in the storage device according to the program. The storage device can be used as a database. The specific functions implemented by the first control unit 140 will be described later.

[0116] In addition, the structure of the first control unit 140 described here is only an example, and the functions of the first control unit 140 described below may be implemented by software, by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0117] (2-1-2) Refrigerant storage unit

[0118] The refrigerant storage unit 200 stores the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 by a storage operation described later, and fills the stored refrigerant into the refrigerant circulation path 150 by a filling operation described later. The refrigerant storage unit 200 is connected to the refrigeration cycle device 100. The refrigerant storage unit 200 includes a storage container 210, a storage unit piping 220, and a storage unit on-off valve 230.

[0119] In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the storage section piping 220 and the storage section on-off valve 230 for storing the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the storage section piping 220 and the storage section on-off valve 230 for storing the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, "A" or "B" is marked on their respective figure marks to distinguish them.

[0120] (2-1-2-1) Storage Container

[0121] The storage container 210 is a container for storing the refrigerant filled in the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 .

[0122] (2-1-2-2) Storage section opening and closing valve

[0123] The storage section on-off valve 230 is provided in the storage section piping 220. The storage section on-off valve 230 allows or blocks the communication of the storage section piping 220. The storage section on-off valve 230 is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to be opened and closed by the first control unit 140.

[0124] The storage part opening and closing valve 230 includes a first storage part opening and closing valve 231 , a second storage part opening and closing valve 232 , a third storage part opening and closing valve 233 , and a fourth storage part opening and closing valve 234 .

[0125] The first storage portion on-off valve 231 is an example of a first on-off valve. The second storage portion on-off valve 232 is an example of a second on-off valve.

[0126] (2-1-2-3) Storage Piping

[0127] The storage part pipe 220 includes a first storage part pipe 221 , a second storage part pipe 222 , a third storage part pipe 223 , and a fourth storage part pipe 224 .

[0128] The first storage section pipe 221 is a pipe for communicating the first refrigerant pipe 121b of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 with the storage container 210. One end of the first storage section pipe 221 is connected to the storage container 210. The other end of the first storage section pipe 221 is connected to the gas side branch pipe 128 via the first connecting pipe 310. The first storage section pipe 221 is provided with a first storage section on-off valve 231. The first storage section pipe 221 is an example of a first pipe.

[0129] The second storage section pipe 222 is a pipe for communicating the second refrigerant pipe 121c of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 with the storage container 210. One end of the second storage section pipe 222 is connected to the storage container 210. The other end of the second storage section pipe 222 is connected to the liquid side branch pipe 129 via the second connecting pipe 320. The second storage section pipe 222 is provided with a second storage section on-off valve 232. The second storage section pipe 222 is an example of a second pipe.

[0130] The third storage section piping 223 is a piping for communicating the refrigerant recovery device 5 with the storage container 210. One end of the third storage section piping 223 is connected to the storage container 210. The other end of the third storage section piping 223 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation described later. The third storage section piping 223 is provided with a third storage section on-off valve 233.

[0131] The fourth storage section piping 224 is a piping for communicating the refrigerant recovery device 5 with the storage container 210. One end of the fourth storage section piping 224 is connected to the storage container 210. The other end of the fourth storage section piping 224 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 during the refrigerant storage operation described later. The fourth storage section piping 224 is provided with a fourth storage section on-off valve 234.

[0132] (2-1-3) First connecting pipe

[0133] The first connecting pipe 310 is a pipe that connects the first refrigerant pipe 121b and the first storage unit pipe 221. One end of the first connecting pipe 310 is connected to the gas-side branch pipe 128. The other end of the first connecting pipe 310 is connected to the first storage unit pipe 221.

[0134] (2-1-4) Second connecting pipe

[0135] The second connecting pipe 320 is a pipe that connects the second refrigerant pipe 121c and the second storage pipe 222. One end of the second connecting pipe 320 is connected to the liquid-side branch pipe 129. The other end of the second connecting pipe 320 is connected to the second storage pipe 222.

[0136] (2-2) Refrigerant recovery device

[0137] The refrigerant recovery device 5 stores the refrigerant filled in the refrigeration cycle device 100 through the refrigerant recovery operation described later. The refrigerant recovery device 5 includes a recovery container 510, a second compressor 520, a heat exchanger 530, a switching valve 540, a check valve 550, a recovery device piping 560, a recovery device on-off valve 570, and a second control unit 580.

[0138] (2-2-1) Recycling Container

[0139] The recovery container 510 is a container for recovering the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 of the refrigeration cycle system 1. The recovery container 510 is, for example, a storage bottle for recovering the refrigerant. The recovery container 510 may be detachable from the refrigerant recovery device 5.

[0140] (2-2-2) Compressor

[0141] The second compressor 520 sucks the refrigerant from the suction pipe 520a, compresses the refrigerant through a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the compressed refrigerant to the discharge pipe 520b. The operation of the second compressor 520 is controlled by the second control unit 580.

[0142] (2-2-3) Heat exchanger

[0143] The heat exchanger 530 performs heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchanger 530 and the air at the installation location of the refrigerant recovery device 5. The heat exchanger 530 functions as a radiator for condensing the gas refrigerant into liquid refrigerant in the second refrigerant recovery operation described later. In addition, in order to promote heat exchange in the heat exchanger 530, the refrigerant recovery device 5 may further include a blower fan for blowing air to the heat exchanger 530.

[0144] (2-2-4) Switching valve

[0145] The switching valve 540 is a three-way valve having a first port P1, a second port P2, and a third port P3. The switching valve 540 switches between three states: a first state in which the first port P1 is connected to the second port P2, a second state in which the first port P1 is connected to the third port P3, and a third state in which the second port P2 is connected to the third port P3. The switching valve 540 is controlled by the second control unit 580.

[0146] (2-2-5) Check valve

[0147] The check valve 550 is provided in the recovery device piping 560. The check valve 550 is a valve that restricts the flow from one end to the other end of the recovery device piping 560 and allows the flow from the other end to one end.

[0148] (2-2-6) Recovery device on-off valve

[0149] The recovery device on-off valve 570 is provided on the recovery device piping 560. The recovery device on-off valve 570 allows or blocks the communication of the recovery device piping 560. The recovery device on-off valve 570 is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to open and close by the second control unit 580.

[0150] The recovery device on-off valve 570 includes a first recovery device on-off valve 571 , a second recovery device on-off valve 572 , a third recovery device on-off valve 573 , and a fourth recovery device on-off valve 574 .

[0151] (2-2-7) Recovery device piping

[0152] The recovery device pipe 560 includes a first recovery device pipe 561 , a second recovery device pipe 562 , a third recovery device pipe 563 , a fourth recovery device pipe 564 , a fifth recovery device pipe 565 , and a sixth recovery device pipe 566 .

[0153] One end of the first recovery device piping 561 is connected to the recovery container 510. The other end of the first recovery device piping 561 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant charging operation described later. The first recovery device piping 561 is provided with a first recovery device on-off valve 571.

[0154] One end of the second recovery pipe 562 is connected to the recovery container 510. The other end of the second recovery pipe 562 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600 during the first refrigerant recovery operation described below. The second recovery pipe 562 is provided with a second recovery opening and closing valve 572.

[0155] One end of the third recovery device piping 563 is connected to the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520. The other end of the third recovery device piping 563 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation described later. The third recovery device piping 563 is provided with a third recovery device on-off valve 573.

[0156] One end of the fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520. The other end of the fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to one end of the heat exchanger 530. The fourth recovery device piping 564 is provided with a switching valve 540. The fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the switching valve 540. The switching valve 540 selectively connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520 with the sixth recovery device piping 566 and the heat exchanger 530.

[0157] One end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 is connected to the other end of the heat exchanger 530. The other end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 is connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation described later. The fifth recovery device piping 565 is provided with a check valve 550. The check valve 550 restricts the flow of refrigerant from the end connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 to the end connected to the heat exchanger 530, and allows the flow of refrigerant from the end connected to the heat exchanger 530 to the end connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600. The end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 is provided with a fourth recovery device on-off valve 574.

[0158] One end of the sixth recovery device piping 566 is connected to the third port P3 of the switching valve 540. The other end of the sixth recovery device piping 566 is connected between the end portion connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 and the check valve 550. In other words, the sixth recovery device piping 566 is connected in parallel with the heat exchanger 530 and the check valve 550.

[0159] (2-2-8) Second Control Unit

[0160] The second control unit 580 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigerant recovery device 5 while cooperating with the first control unit 140 of the refrigeration cycle system 1. The second control unit 580 is electrically connected to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, the storage unit on-off valve 230, the second compressor 520, the switching valve 540, and the recovery device on-off valve 570 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 in a manner that control signals or information can be exchanged. Figure 4 2 is a control block diagram of the second control unit 580. In the present embodiment, the second control unit 580 is disposed inside the casing (not shown) of the refrigerant recovery device 5. The second control unit 580 may be disposed at any location other than the casing of the refrigerant recovery device 5.

[0161] The second control unit 580 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigerant recovery device 5 while cooperating with the first control unit 140, thereby performing the refrigerant recovery operation. The refrigerant recovery operation is an operation for recovering the refrigerant recovered to the refrigerant storage unit 200 to the refrigerant recovery device 500. The details of the refrigerant recovery operation will be described below.

[0162] The second control unit 580 is implemented by a computer. The second control unit 580 includes a control operation device and a storage device (both are omitted in the figure). A processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used in the control operation device. The control operation device reads a program stored in the storage device and performs a prescribed image processing or operation processing according to the program. In addition, the control operation device can write the operation result to the storage device according to the program, and can read the information stored in the storage device according to the program. The storage device can be used as a database. The specific functions implemented by the second control unit 580 will be described later.

[0163] In addition, the structure of the second control unit 580 described here is only an example, and the functions of the second control unit 580 described below may be implemented by software, by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0164] (3) Action

[0165] (3-1) Operation of the refrigeration cycle system

[0166] The refrigerant storing operation and the refrigerant charging operation executed by the first control unit 140 of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 will be described.

[0167] (3-1-1) Refrigerant storage operation

[0168] The refrigerant storage operation is an operation for storing the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 in the refrigerant storage section 200. The refrigerant storage operation is performed, for example, when the refrigerant leaks from the refrigerant circulation passage 150 to further suppress the refrigerant leakage. The first control unit 140 starts the refrigerant storage operation, for example, upon receiving a signal indicating a refrigerant leakage sent from the detection unit 116 that detects the refrigerant leakage. In the following description, the case where the refrigerant leaks from the indoor heat exchanger 112A in one of the indoor units 110A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A is taken as an example. The refrigerant storage operation includes a first refrigerant storage operation and a second refrigerant storage operation performed after the first refrigerant storage operation is completed. The first refrigerant storage operation is an example of the first control. The second refrigerant storage operation is an example of the second control.

[0169] (First refrigerant storage operation)

[0170] The first refrigerant storage operation is an operation for storing mainly liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 . Figure 5 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant storage operation.

[0171] During the first refrigerant storage operation, the first control unit 140 sets the indoor expansion mechanism 113A to an open state for all indoor units 110A. In addition, the first control unit 140 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A to a closed state, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to a first state, and operates (opens) the first compressor 122 for the outdoor unit 120A. Furthermore, the first control unit 140 sets the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232A to an open state for the refrigerant storage unit 200, and sets the storage unit opening and closing valves 230 other than the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232A to a closed state. Specifically, the first control unit 140 sets the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231A, the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231B, the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232B, the third storage unit opening and closing valve 233, and the fourth storage unit opening and closing valve 234 to a closed state.

[0172] By executing the first refrigerant storage operation, Figure 5 As shown by the middle arrow, the refrigerant in the indoor refrigerant flow path 111A is sucked in through the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A. The refrigerant sucked in by the first compressor 122A is discharged from the first compressor 122A and passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125A and the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 123A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid-side branch pipe 129A. The refrigerant flowing into the liquid-side branch pipe 129A flows into the storage container 210 through the second storage section pipe 222A. The storage section on-off valves 230 other than the second storage section on-off valve 232A of the refrigerant storage section 200 are all in a closed state, so the inflowing refrigerant is stored in the storage container 210.

[0173] After executing the first refrigerant storage operation for a preset predetermined time T1, the first control unit 140 ends the first refrigerant storage operation and starts the second refrigerant storage operation. The predetermined time T1 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150A to be stored in the storage container 210, for example.

[0174] (Second refrigerant storage operation)

[0175] The second refrigerant storage operation is an operation for storing, in the storage container 210 , mainly gas refrigerant that cannot be fully stored in the storage container 210 even by executing the first refrigerant storage operation and remains in the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 . Figure 6 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant storage operation.

[0176] During the second refrigerant storage operation, the first control unit 140A opens the first storage unit on-off valve 231A for the refrigerant storage unit 200. The first refrigerant storage operation is maintained for the other devices.

[0177] By performing the second refrigerant storage operation, Figure 6 As shown by the middle arrow, among the refrigerants stored in the storage container 210, the gas refrigerant passes through the first storage section opening and closing valve 231A and flows into the first storage section piping 221A. The refrigerant flowing into the first storage section piping 221A is sent to the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121A, passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125A, and is sucked into the first compressor 122A. The refrigerant sucked into the first compressor 122A is discharged from the first compressor 122A and passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch piping 129A. The refrigerant flowing into the liquid side branch piping 129A returns to the storage container 210 through the second storage section piping 222A.

[0178] The first control unit 140 terminates the second refrigerant storage operation after executing the second refrigerant storage operation for a preset predetermined time T2. The predetermined time T2 is set to, for example, a length that allows the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerant circulation passage 150A to be recovered to the storage container 210 after executing the first refrigerant storage operation.

[0179] As described above, when the first control unit 140 executes the refrigerant storage operation, even if the refrigerant leaks from the refrigerant circulation passage 150A, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150A is also stored in the storage container 210 , so that the refrigerant leakage is further suppressed.

[0180] (3-1-2) Refrigerant charging operation

[0181] The refrigerant filling operation is an operation for filling the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200 into the refrigerant circulation path 150. The refrigerant filling operation is performed, for example, when refrigerant is filled into the refrigeration cycle device 100 after a refrigerant leak is repaired. In the following description, the case of filling the refrigeration cycle device 100A with refrigerant is described as an example. Figure 7 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant filling operation. The refrigerant filling operation is an example of the third control.

[0182] During the refrigerant filling operation, the first control unit 140 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A to the open state, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to the second state, and operates (turns on) the first compressor 122A for the outdoor unit 120A. In addition, the first control unit 140 sets the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231A and the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232A to the open state, and sets the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231B, the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232B, the third storage unit opening and closing valve 233, and the fourth storage unit opening and closing valve 234 to the closed state for the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0183] By performing a refrigerant charging operation, such as Figure 7 As shown by the middle arrow, the discharge pressure of the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A acts on the storage container 210 via the flow switching mechanism 125, the gas-side branch pipe 128A, and the first storage portion pipe 221A. Due to the discharge pressure acting on the storage container 210, the refrigerant in the storage container 210 flows into the second storage portion pipe 222A and is filled into the refrigerant circulation passage 150 via the liquid-side branch pipe 129.

[0184] The first control unit 140 performs the refrigerant filling operation for a predetermined time T3, and then terminates the refrigerant filling operation. The predetermined time T3 is set to a length that allows the refrigerant stored in the storage container 210 to be filled into the refrigerant circulation path 150, for example.

[0185] (3-2) Operation of the refrigerant recovery device

[0186] The refrigerant recovery operation executed by the second control unit 580 of the refrigerant recovery device 5 will be described.

[0187] (3-2-1) Refrigerant recovery operation

[0188] The refrigerant recovery operation is an operation performed to recover the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle system 1. The refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant when, for example, the refrigeration cycle system 1 is repaired, moved, or removed. The refrigerant recovery operation includes a first refrigerant recovery operation and a second refrigerant recovery operation performed after the first refrigerant recovery operation is completed. Figure 8 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant recovery operation. Fig. 9 1 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant recovery operation. The first refrigerant recovery operation is an example of the fourth control. The second refrigerant recovery operation is an example of the fifth control.

[0189] (First refrigerant recovery operation)

[0190] The first refrigerant recovery operation is an operation for recovering the refrigerant, which is mainly liquid refrigerant, in the storage container 210 .

[0191] When executing the first refrigerant recovery operation, if Figure 8 As shown, the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigeration recovery device 5 are connected through the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600. Specifically, the first recovery device pipe 561 is connected to the fourth storage unit pipe 224 through the first refrigerant recovery connection pipe 610. The second recovery device pipe 562 is connected to the third recovery device pipe 563 through the second refrigerant recovery connection pipe 620. The fourth recovery device pipe 564 is connected to the third storage unit pipe 223 through the third refrigerant recovery connection pipe 630. The connection between the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigerant recovery device 5 through the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600 is performed by a person (operator, etc.).

[0192] During the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 580 operates (opens) the second compressor 520 of the refrigerant recovery device 5, sets the switching valve 540 to the second state, and sets all the recovery device on-off valves 570 to the open state. In addition, the second control unit 580 cooperates with the first control unit 140 to close the first storage unit on-off valve 231 and the second storage unit on-off valve 232 of the refrigerant storage unit 200, and sets the third storage unit on-off valve 233 and the fourth storage unit on-off valve 234 to the open state.

[0193] By executing the first refrigerant recovery operation, such as Figure 8 As shown by the middle arrow, the discharge pressure of the second compressor 520 of the refrigerant recovery device 5 acts on the storage container 210 via the sixth recovery device piping 566, the fifth recovery device piping 565, the third refrigerant recovery connecting piping 630, and the third storage unit piping 223. Due to the discharge pressure acting on the storage container 210, the refrigerant in the storage container 210 is recovered by the recovery container 510 via the fourth storage unit piping 224, the first refrigerant recovery connecting piping 610, and the first recovery device piping 561.

[0194] After the second control unit 580 performs the first refrigerant recovery operation for a preset predetermined time T4, the first refrigerant recovery operation is terminated and the second refrigerant recovery operation is started. The predetermined time T4 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in the storage container 210 to be recovered to the recovery container 51, for example.

[0195] (Second refrigerant recovery operation)

[0196] The second refrigerant recovery operation is an operation for recovering, into the recovery container 510, mainly gas refrigerant remaining in the storage container 210 and liquid and gas refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 that cannot be fully recovered by executing the first refrigerant recovery operation.

[0197] When executing the second refrigerant recovery operation, if Fig. 9 As shown, the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigeration recovery device 5 are connected via the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600. Specifically, the first recovery device pipe 561 is connected to the fourth recovery device pipe 564 via the fifth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 650. The third recovery device pipe 563 is connected to the third storage unit pipe 223 via the fourth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 640. The connection between the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigerant recovery device 5 via the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600 is performed by a person (operator, etc.).

[0198] During the second refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 580 operates the second compressor 520 for the refrigerant recovery device 5 and sets the switching valve 540 to the first state. In addition, the second control unit 580 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 to the open state for all the refrigeration cycle devices 100. In addition, the second control unit 580 sets the recovery device on-off valves 570 other than the second recovery device on-off valve 572 to the open state for the refrigerant recovery device 5. In addition, the second control unit 580 cooperates with the first control unit 140 to set the fourth storage unit on-off valve 234 to the closed state for the refrigerant storage unit 200, and sets the storage unit on-off valves 230 other than the fourth storage unit on-off valve 234 to the open state.

[0199] By performing the second refrigerant recovery operation, such as Fig. 9As shown by the middle arrow, the suction pressure of the second compressor 520 of the refrigerant recovery device 5 acts on the storage container 210 via the third recovery device piping 563, the fourth refrigerant recovery connection piping 640, and the third storage unit piping 223. The suction pressure acting on the storage container 210 also acts on the refrigerant circulation path 150 via the first storage unit piping 21, the gas side branch piping 128, the second storage unit piping 222, and the liquid side branch piping 129. Due to the acting suction pressure, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation circuit 150 flows into the storage container 210 via the first storage unit piping 221, the gas side branch piping 128, the second storage unit piping 222, and the liquid side branch piping 129. The refrigerant flowing into the storage container 210 flows into the refrigerant recovery device 5 via the fourth refrigerant recovery connection piping 640. The refrigerant flowing into the refrigerant recovery device 5 is sucked into the second compressor 520 via the third recovery device piping 563. The refrigerant discharged from the second compressor 520 passes through the fourth refrigerant recovery connecting pipe 640, the heat exchanger 530, the fifth refrigerant recovery connecting pipe 650, the check valve 550, the fifth refrigerant recovery connecting pipe 650, and the first recovery device pipe 561, and is recovered to the recovery container 510. The refrigerant discharged from the second compressor 520 exchanges heat with the air of the installation location of the refrigerant recovery device 5 while passing through the heat exchanger 530 and condenses, so that mainly liquid refrigerant is recovered in the recovery container 510.

[0200] The second control unit 580 performs the second refrigerant recovery operation for a preset predetermined time T5 and then terminates the second refrigerant recovery operation. The predetermined time T5 is set to a length that allows the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 to be recovered to the recovery container 510, for example.

[0201] (4) Features

[0202] (4-1)

[0203] The refrigeration cycle system 1 includes a refrigeration cycle device 100 and a refrigerant storage unit 200. The refrigeration cycle device 100 includes an indoor unit 110 having an indoor refrigerant flow path 111, an outdoor unit 120 having an outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, and a gas-side communication pipe 131 and a liquid-side communication pipe 132 connecting the indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The refrigerant storage unit 200 stores the refrigerant in a refrigerant circulation path 150 formed by the indoor refrigerant flow path 111, the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, the gas-side communication pipe 131, and the liquid-side communication pipe 132.

[0204] The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 includes: a first compressor 122, an outdoor heat exchanger 123; an outdoor expansion mechanism 124; a gas side connection portion 126 connected to a gas side communication pipe 131; a liquid side connection portion 127 connected to a liquid side communication pipe 132; a first refrigerant pipe 121b connecting the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 and the gas side connection portion 126; a second refrigerant pipe 121c connecting the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 124; and a third refrigerant pipe 121d connecting the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 and the liquid side connection portion 127. The refrigerant storage portion 200 is connected to the refrigerant circulation passage 150 through the first storage portion pipe 221 and the second storage portion pipe 222.

[0205] The first storage unit pipe 221 allows the first refrigerant pipe 121b to communicate with the refrigerant storage unit 200 or allows the gas-side communication pipe 131 to communicate with the refrigerant storage unit 200. The second storage unit pipe 222 allows the second refrigerant pipe 121c to communicate with the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0206] In a refrigeration cycle device of the prior art, when a refrigerant leak is detected in an indoor unit, the refrigerant in the indoor unit is recovered to an outdoor unit. However, the amount of refrigerant that can be stored in the refrigerant flow path of the outdoor unit is limited. In particular, in recent years, with the development of technology, the outdoor unit and the outdoor heat exchanger for the outdoor unit have become compact, and the amount of refrigerant that can be stored in the outdoor unit has decreased.

[0207] The refrigeration cycle system 1 of the embodiment of the present disclosure can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 in the refrigerant storage unit 200 provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device 100 through the first storage unit piping 221 and the second storage unit piping 222. Therefore, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can store more refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 than in the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121.

[0208] (4-2)

[0209] The refrigeration cycle system 1 includes a plurality of refrigeration cycle devices 100 .

[0210] The refrigeration cycle system 1 can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 in the refrigerant storage unit 200 provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device 100. Therefore, even if the refrigerant circulation path 150 is filled with a large amount of refrigerant due to the presence of a plurality of refrigeration cycle devices 100, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0211] (4-3)

[0212] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 includes a plurality of indoor units 110 .

[0213] In the case of a refrigeration cycle device in which a plurality of indoor units are provided for one outdoor unit, such as a multi-split type used in a building, the connecting pipes for connecting the outdoor unit and the plurality of indoor units are longer than those in a refrigeration cycle device in which one indoor unit is provided for one outdoor unit, and since the solvent in the refrigerant circulation passage of the indoor unit as a whole is also increased, the amount of refrigerant filled is also increased.

[0214] The refrigeration cycle system 1 can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 in the refrigerant storage unit 200 provided separately from the refrigeration cycle device 100. Therefore, even if the refrigerant circulation path 150 is filled with a large amount of refrigerant due to the plurality of indoor units 110, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0215] (4-4)

[0216] The refrigeration cycle system 1 further includes a first storage section opening and closing valve 231 and a second storage section opening and closing valve 232. The first storage section opening and closing valve 231 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the first refrigerant pipe 121b and the refrigerant storage section 200, or between the gas-side communication pipe 131 and the refrigerant storage section 200. The second storage section opening and closing valve 232 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the second refrigerant pipe 121c and the refrigerant storage section 200.

[0217] (4-5)

[0218] The refrigeration cycle system 1 also includes a first control unit 140. The first control unit 140 controls the first compressor 122, the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, and the flow switching mechanism 125. The flow switching mechanism 125 takes a first state in which the outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as a condenser, or a second state in which the outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as an evaporator. The first control unit 140 performs a refrigerant storage operation including a first refrigerant storage operation and a second refrigerant storage operation. After the first refrigerant storage operation is completed, the first control unit 140 performs the second refrigerant storage operation. In the first refrigerant storage operation, the first control unit 140 stores the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 by setting the flow switching mechanism 125 to the first state, setting the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 to the closed state, and operating the first compressor 122. In the second refrigerant storage operation, the first controller 140 operates the first compressor 122 and opens the first storage unit on-off valve 231 to store the gas refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 .

[0219] According to this feature, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can automatically store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 by causing the first control unit 140 to execute the refrigerant storage operation.

[0220] (4-6)

[0221] The first control unit 140 performs a refrigerant filling operation. In the refrigerant filling operation, the first control unit 140 sets the flow switching mechanism 125 to the second state, sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 to the open state, and operates the first compressor 122 to fill the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 into the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0222] According to this feature, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can charge the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage portion 200 into the refrigeration cycle passage 150 of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 .

[0223] (4-7)

[0224] The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 further includes a liquid-side branching pipe 129 . The liquid-side branching pipe 129 is connected to the first refrigerant pipe 121 b . The second storage unit pipe 222 communicates with the liquid-side branching pipe 129 .

[0225] (4-8)

[0226] The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 further includes a gas-side branch pipe 128 . The gas-side branch pipe 128 is connected to the second refrigerant pipe 121 c . The first storage unit pipe 221 is in communication with the gas-side branch pipe 128 .

[0227] (4-9)

[0228] The outdoor unit 120 has four outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 allow or block the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 are provided in the first refrigerant piping 121b, the third refrigerant piping 121d, the gas side branch piping 128, and the liquid side branch piping 129.

[0229] By closing the outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130 , it is possible to suppress leakage of the refrigerant sealed in the outdoor unit 120 to the outside during installation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 .

[0230] (4-10)

[0231] The indoor refrigerant flow path 111 includes an indoor heat exchanger 112. The indoor unit 110 includes a detector 116 for detecting leakage of the refrigerant. When the detector 160 detects leakage of the refrigerant, the first controller 140 performs the first refrigerant storage operation.

[0232] According to this feature, the refrigeration cycle system 1 causes the first control unit 140 to perform the refrigerant storage operation when the refrigerant leakage in the indoor unit 110 is detected. Thus, even if the refrigerant leaks in the indoor unit 110, the refrigerant can be automatically stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200, thereby preventing the refrigerant from being released into the atmosphere.

[0233] (4-11)

[0234] Refrigerants are flammable or toxic.

[0235] Even if a flammable or toxic refrigerant leaks, the refrigeration cycle system 1 can automatically store the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit 200 , thereby preventing contamination of the air-conditioned space due to the refrigerant leakage.

[0236] (4-12)

[0237] The refrigerant recovery device 5 recovers the refrigerant of the above-mentioned refrigeration cycle system 1. The refrigerant recovery device 5 includes a recovery container 510, a second compressor 520, and a second control unit 580. The recovery container 510 stores the refrigerant. The second compressor 520 causes a predetermined pressure to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit 200 of the refrigeration cycle system 1. The second control unit 580 controls the second compressor 520. The second control unit 580 controls the second compressor 520 so as to recover the refrigerant of the refrigerant circulation passage 150 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 to the recovery container 510.

[0238] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device 5 can recover the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200 into the recovery container 510. In particular, the refrigerant recovery device 5 can recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant storage unit 200 storing the refrigerant of a plurality of refrigeration cycle devices 100. Therefore, even in a refrigeration cycle system 1 having a plurality of indoor units 110 such as a multi-unit type for a building, the refrigerant can be recovered in a shorter time than when the refrigerant recovery operation is performed for each refrigeration cycle device 100.

[0239] (4-13)

[0240] The second control unit 580 performs a refrigerant recovery operation including a first refrigerant recovery operation and a second refrigerant recovery operation. After the first refrigerant recovery operation is completed, the second control unit 580 performs the second refrigerant recovery operation. In the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 580 controls the second compressor 520 and causes the discharge pressure of the second compressor 520 to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit 200, so that the refrigerant flows into the recovery container 510. In the second refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 580 controls the second compressor 520 and causes the suction pressure of the second compressor 520 to act on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit 200, so that the refrigerant flows into the recovery container 510.

[0241] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device 5 can automatically recover the refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200 into the recovery container 510 by causing the second control unit 580 to execute the refrigerant recovery operation.

[0242] (5) Modification

[0243] (5-1) Modification 1A

[0244] In the above embodiment, the first storage unit pipe 221 connects the first refrigerant pipe 121b to the refrigerant storage unit 200 via the first connecting pipe 310 and the gas-side branch pipe 128. However, the communication between the refrigerant storage unit 200 and the refrigerant circulation passage 150 is not limited to this. Fig.10 It is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to modification 1A.

[0245] In the refrigeration cycle system 1 of Modification 1A, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 does not include the gas-side branch pipe 128 . In the refrigeration cycle system 1 of Modification 1A, the first connection pipe 310 having one end connected to the first storage unit pipe 221 is connected to the gas-side connection portion 126 at the other end.

[0246] In the refrigeration cycle system 1 of the modification 1A, the gas-side branch pipe 128 and the outdoor refrigerant flow path shutoff valve 130 provided in the gas-side branch pipe 128 are not required, so that an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed compared with the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0247] Although not shown in the drawings, the first storage portion pipe 221 may be connected to the gas-side communication pipe 131 .

[0248] (5-2) Modification 1B

[0249] The refrigerant storage unit 200 is not limited to the form described in the above embodiment. Fig.11 It is a schematic configuration diagram of the refrigerant storage unit 201 according to Modification 1B.

[0250] The difference between the refrigerant storage unit 200 and the refrigerant storage unit 201 lies in the second storage unit piping 222. Specifically, the second storage unit piping 222 includes a check valve 241 and a pressure reducer 242 connected in parallel to each other.

[0251] The check valve 241 allows the flow of refrigerant from the end of the second storage section piping 222 connected to the liquid side branch piping 129 to the second storage section on-off valve 232 , and restricts the flow of refrigerant from the second storage section on-off valve 232 to the end connected to the liquid side branch piping 129 .

[0252] The check valve 241 and the pressure reducer 242 are provided to prevent the refrigerant filled into the refrigerant circulation passage 150 from the refrigerant storage section 201 via the second storage section piping 222 and the liquid side branch piping 129 during the refrigerant filling operation from flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 123 without being reduced in pressure in the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, thereby preventing the refrigerant from fully evaporating in the outdoor heat exchanger 123.

[0253] According to the refrigerant storage unit 201, the refrigerant that flows from the refrigerant storage unit 201 into the second storage unit piping 222 and is filled into the refrigerant circulation path 150 during the refrigerant filling operation is decompressed to a predetermined pressure in the pressure reducer 242. Therefore, during the refrigerant filling operation, the refrigerant filled into the refrigerant circulation path 150 can be fully evaporated by the outdoor heat exchanger 123 even if it flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 123 without being decompressed by the outdoor expansion mechanism 124.

[0254] Furthermore, since the refrigerant storage unit 201 includes the check valve 241 provided in parallel with the pressure reducer 242 , the refrigerant from the liquid-side branch pipe 129 can flow into the storage container 210 without being decompressed during the refrigerant storage operation.

[0255] (5-3) Modification 1C

[0256] Fig.12 1 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the refrigerant storage unit 202 according to the modification 1C. The refrigerant storage unit 200 is different from the refrigerant storage unit 202 in that the second storage unit on-off valve 232 is an expansion mechanism 250 .

[0257] The expansion mechanism 250 is an expansion mechanism that can fully close and regulate the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing in the second storage section piping 222. The expansion mechanism 250 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is regulated by an actuator (not shown). The opening of the expansion mechanism 250 is controlled by the first control unit 140. Specifically, the first control unit 140 controls the opening of the expansion mechanism 250 during the refrigerant storage operation to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing in from the liquid-side branch piping 129. In addition, in the refrigeration cycle system 1 using the refrigerant storage section 202 of the modified example 1C, the expansion mechanism 250 is opened and closed by the first control unit 140 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation.

[0258] According to the refrigerant storage unit 202, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing from the second storage unit pipe 222 can be lowered compared to the case where the expansion mechanism 250 is not provided. Therefore, the pressure resistance of the storage container 210 can be set lower, and the manufacturing cost of the storage container 210 can be suppressed low.

[0259] (5-4) Modification 1D

[0260] In the refrigeration cycle system 1 of Modification 1D, the first control unit 140 performs the refrigerant storage operation by operating the first compressor 122B of the refrigeration cycle device 100B without operating the first compressor 122A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A. Fig.13 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant storage operation performed in the refrigeration cycle system 1 of the modification 1D. The refrigerant storage operation performed by the first control unit 140 in the refrigeration cycle system 1 of the modification 1D is performed after the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle device 100B passes through the refrigerant storage unit 200 and is recovered by the refrigerant recovery device 5 to the recovery container 510. Hereinafter, the description will be started from the state after the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle device 100B passes through the refrigerant storage unit 200 and is recovered by the refrigerant recovery device 5 to the recovery container 510.

[0261] During the refrigerant storage operation, the first control unit 140 sets the indoor expansion mechanism 113A to an open state for all indoor units 110, and does not operate the first compressor 122A (turns off). In addition, the first control unit 140 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A to an open state for the outdoor unit 120A, and sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to a first state. In addition, the first control unit 140 sets the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231A, the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231B, the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232A, the third storage unit opening and closing valve 233, and the fourth storage unit opening and closing valve 234 to an open state for the refrigerant storage unit 200, and sets the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232B to a closed state. The operation of the storage unit opening and closing valve 230 may also be performed by a person (operator, etc.).

[0262] During the refrigerant storage operation, the first control unit 140 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B of the outdoor unit 120B to the closed state, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125B to the first state, and operates (turns on) the first compressor 122B.

[0263] By executing the refrigerant storage operation of Modification D, the suction pressure of the first compressor 121B acts on the storage container 210 via the gas-side branch pipe 128B and the first storage portion pipe 221B. At the same time, the suction pressure of the first compressor 122B acts on the storage container 210 via the second storage portion pipe 222. Fig.13 As shown, the suction pressure of the first compressor 122B through the storage container 210 acts on the indoor refrigerant flow path 111A, so the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 is stored in the storage container 210 via the gas side branch pipe 128A and the first storage section pipe 221 or the liquid side branch pipe 129A and the second storage section pipe 222.

[0264] Thus, in the refrigeration cycle system 1 of the modification 1D, even if the first compressor 122A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A does not operate, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150A can be stored in the storage container 210 by the first compressor 122B. Therefore, even if the first compressor 122 of any of the plurality of refrigeration cycle devices 100 connected to the same refrigerant storage unit 200 cannot operate due to a malfunction or the like, the refrigerant can be stored. In addition, since the refrigerant recovery operation to the recovery container 510 performed later by the refrigerant recovery device 5 is the same as the above-mentioned operation, the description thereof is omitted.

[0265] (5-5) Modification 1E

[0266] The refrigerant filling operation executed by the first control unit 140 is not limited to the above-described mode. In the following description, a case where the refrigerant is filled into the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is described as an example. Fig.14 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the refrigerant charging operation performed in the refrigeration cycle system 1 according to the modification 1E.

[0267] During the refrigerant filling operation, the first control unit 140 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the refrigeration cycle device 100A to an open state, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to a first state, and operates (turns on) the first compressor 122A for the outdoor unit 120A. In addition, the first control unit 140 sets the first storage unit on-off valve 231A to an open state, and sets the first storage unit on-off valve 231B, the second storage unit on-off valve 232A, the second storage unit on-off valve 232B, the third storage unit on-off valve 233, and the fourth storage unit on-off valve 234 to a closed state for the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0268] By performing a refrigerant charging operation, such as Fig.14 As shown by the middle arrow, the suction pressure of the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A acts on the storage container 210 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, the gas-side branch pipe 128A, and the first storage portion pipe 221A. Due to the suction pressure acting on the storage container 210, the refrigerant in the storage container 210 flows into the first storage portion pipe 221A and is filled into the refrigerant circulation passage 150 via the gas-side branch pipe 128.

[0269] (5-6) Modification 1F

[0270] The first control unit 140 sets the indoor expansion mechanism 113 to an open state for all indoor units 110 during the refrigerant storage operation, but the indoor expansion mechanism 113 may be set to a closed state only for the indoor unit 100 where the refrigerant is leaking. For example, in the case where a large opening occurs in a part of the indoor heat exchanger 112, causing the refrigerant to leak rapidly, the first control unit 140 of the modified example 1F sets the indoor expansion mechanism 113 of the indoor unit 110 where the leak occurs to a closed state. Thus, according to the first control unit 140 of the modified example 1F, the refrigerant can be stored in the refrigerant storage unit 200 while suppressing a large amount of refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150 from leaking from the indoor heat exchanger 112.

[0271] (5-7) Modification 1G

[0272] The position where the outdoor refrigerant flow path shutoff valve 130 is disposed is not limited to the above-mentioned position. Fig.151 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to a modification example 1G. The refrigeration cycle device 100 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 according to the modification example 1G has three outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 are provided between the connection portion between the flow path switching mechanism 125 of the first refrigerant piping 121b and the gas side branch piping 128, the third refrigerant piping 121d, and the liquid side branch piping 129. Thus, according to the refrigeration cycle device 100 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 according to the modification example 1G, the number of outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 can be reduced compared to the above-mentioned embodiment, and therefore, an increase in manufacturing cost is suppressed.

[0273] (5-8) Modification 1H

[0274] Fig.16 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigeration cycle system 1 according to a modification example 1H. The refrigeration cycle device 100 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 according to the modification example 1H has two outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130. The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 are provided between the connection portion of the flow path switching mechanism 125 and the gas-side branching pipe 128 of the first refrigerant piping 121b, and between the connection portion of the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the liquid-side branching pipe 129 of the second refrigerant piping 121c. Thus, according to the refrigeration cycle device 100 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 according to the modification example 1H, the number of outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130 can be reduced compared with the above-mentioned embodiment and the modification example 1G, and therefore, an increase in manufacturing cost is suppressed.

[0275] <Second embodiment>

[0276] (1) Overall structure

[0277] A refrigeration cycle system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described focusing on differences from the refrigeration cycle system 1 . Fig.17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigeration cycle system 2. The refrigeration cycle system 2 includes a refrigeration cycle device 101A and a refrigeration cycle device 101B, a refrigerant storage unit 201, a first connecting pipe 311, and a second connecting pipe 321. Each refrigeration cycle device 101 is connected to the refrigerant storage unit 201 through the first connecting pipe 311 and the second connecting pipe 321.

[0278] As described in detail later, the differences between the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigeration cycle system 2 lie in the positions of the first storage section on-off valve 231 and the second storage section on-off valve 232, the number of the first storage section piping 221, the second storage section piping 222 and the outdoor refrigerant flow stop valve 130, and the shapes of the first connecting piping 311 and the second connecting piping 322.

[0279] (2) Detailed structure

[0280] (2-1) Refrigeration cycle system

[0281] (2-1-1) Refrigeration cycle device

[0282] The difference between the refrigeration cycle device 100 and the refrigeration cycle device 101 is that the refrigeration cycle device 101 has the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231 and the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232 that the refrigerant storage unit 200 has in the refrigeration cycle system 1. In the refrigeration cycle device 101, the first storage unit opening and closing valve 231 is provided in the gas side branch pipe 128 as a substitute for the outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130. In addition, the second storage unit opening and closing valve 232 is provided in the liquid side branch pipe 129 as a substitute for the outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve 130. Therefore, the outdoor unit 120 of the refrigeration cycle device 101 has two outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves 130.

[0283] (2-1-2) Refrigerant storage unit

[0284] The refrigerant storage unit 200 is different from the refrigerant storage unit 201 in that the refrigerant storage unit 201 has one first storage unit pipe 221 and one second storage unit pipe 222 , and does not have the first storage unit on-off valve 231 and the second storage unit on-off valve 232 .

[0285] (2-1-3) First connecting pipe

[0286] The first connecting pipe 311 is different from the first connecting pipe 311 in that the first connecting pipe 311 is formed by connecting two pipes. The first connecting pipe 311 includes a main pipe 311a and a branch pipe 311b. One end of the main pipe 311a is connected to the gas side branch pipe 128A. The other end of the main pipe 311a is connected to the gas side branch pipe 128B. One end of the branch pipe 311b is connected to the main pipe 311a. The other end of the branch pipe 311b is connected to the first storage pipe 211 of the refrigerant storage unit 201.

[0287] (2-1-4) Second connecting pipe

[0288] The second connecting pipe 321 is different from the second connecting pipe 321 in that the second connecting pipe 321 is formed by connecting two pipes. The second connecting pipe 321 includes a main pipe 321a and a branch pipe 321b. One end of the main pipe 321a is connected to the liquid side branch pipe 129A. The other end of the main pipe 321a is connected to the liquid side branch pipe 129B. One end of the branch pipe 321b is connected to the main pipe 321a. The other end of the branch pipe 321b is connected to the second storage section pipe 222 of the refrigerant storage section 201.

[0289] (3) Action

[0290] (3-1) Operation of Refrigeration Cycle Device

[0291] (3-1-1) Refrigerant storage operation and refrigerant charging operation

[0292] Since the operation of each device in the refrigerant storing operation and the refrigerant charging operation of the refrigeration cycle system 2 is the same as that of the refrigeration cycle system 1, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0293] Regarding the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation of the refrigeration cycle system 2, the flow path of the refrigerant flowing out of the refrigeration cycle device 101 or the refrigerant storage unit 201 is different from that of the refrigeration cycle system 1. Specifically, in the first refrigerant storage operation and the second refrigerant storage operation, the refrigerant flowing out of the liquid-side branch pipe 129 of the refrigeration cycle device 101 on the side performing the refrigerant storage operation flows into the main pipe 321a of the second connecting pipe 321, and then flows into the refrigerant storage unit 201 via the branch pipe 321b.

[0294] Furthermore, the refrigerant flowing out of the refrigerant storage unit 201 during the second refrigerant storage operation flows into the branch pipe 311b of the first connecting pipe 311, and then flows into the refrigeration cycle device 101 on the refrigerant storage operation side through the main pipe 311a.

[0295] Furthermore, the refrigerant flowing out of the refrigerant storage unit 201 during the refrigerant filling operation flows into the branch pipe 321 b of the second connecting pipe 321 , and then flows into the refrigeration cycle device 101 on the side performing the filling operation via the main pipe 321 a .

[0296] (3-1-2) Refrigerant recovery operation

[0297] Since the operation of each device in the refrigerant recovery operation of the refrigeration cycle system 2 is the same as that of the refrigeration cycle system 1, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0298] Regarding the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigerant recovery operation of the refrigeration cycle system 2, the flow path of the refrigerant flowing out of the refrigeration cycle device 101 is different from that of the refrigeration cycle system 1. Specifically, in the second refrigerant recovery operation, the refrigerant flowing out of the gas-side branch pipe 128 of the refrigeration cycle device 101 flows into the main pipe 311a of the first connecting pipe 311, and then flows into the refrigerant storage unit 201 through the branch pipe 311b.

[0299] In the second refrigerant recovery operation, the refrigerant flowing out of the liquid-side branch pipe 129 of the refrigeration cycle device 101 flows into the main pipe 321a of the second connecting pipe 321 and then flows into the refrigerant storage unit 201 through the branch pipe 321b.

[0300] (4) Features

[0301] (4-1)

[0302] In the refrigeration cycle system 2, the first storage section opening and closing valve 231 and the second storage section opening and closing valve 232 are installed in each refrigeration cycle device 101, and all the refrigeration cycle devices 101 are connected to the refrigerant storage section 201 through the first connecting pipe 311 and the second connecting pipe 321, through a first storage section pipe 221a and a second storage section pipe 222a.

[0303] According to this feature, it is not necessary to provide the first storage unit piping 221 and the second storage unit piping 222 for each of all the refrigeration cycle devices 100 as in the refrigeration cycle system 1. Therefore, in the refrigeration cycle system 2, the refrigeration cycle devices 101 and the refrigerant storage unit 201 can be connected more easily than in the refrigeration cycle system 1.

[0304] <Third Embodiment>

[0305] (1) Overall structure

[0306] The refrigerant recovery device 6 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly focusing on differences from the refrigerant recovery device 5 . Fig.18 It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigerant recovery device 6 .

[0307] The refrigerant recovery device 6 includes a recovery container 510 , a second compressor 520 , a heat exchanger 530 , a switching valve 540 , a check valve 550 , a recovery device piping 560 , a recovery device on-off valve 570 , a second control unit 581 , and a refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 .

[0308] As described in detail later, the refrigerant recovery device 6 is connected to the refrigeration cycle system 1 via the sixth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 660 and the seventh refrigerant recovery connection pipe 670 during the refrigerant recovery operation.

[0309] (2) Detailed structure

[0310] (2-1) Refrigerant recovery connection pipe

[0311] The refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600 includes an eighth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 680 and a ninth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 690 .

[0312] (2-2) Switching valve

[0313] The switching valve 540 includes a first switching valve 541 , a second switching valve 542 , a third switching valve 543 , and a fourth switching valve 544 .

[0314] (2-3) Recovery device on-off valve

[0315] The recovery device on-off valve 570 includes a fifth recovery device on-off valve 575 , a sixth recovery device on-off valve 576 , and a seventh recovery device on-off valve 577 .

[0316] (2-4) Recovery device piping

[0317] The recovery device piping 560 includes a first recovery device piping 561, a second recovery device piping 562, a third recovery device piping 563, a fourth recovery device piping 564, a fifth recovery device piping 565, a sixth recovery 566, a seventh recovery device piping 567, an eighth recovery device piping 568 and a ninth recovery device piping 569.

[0318] One end of the first recovery device pipe 561 is connected to the recovery container 510. The other end of the first recovery device pipe 561 is connected to one end of the eighth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 680. The first recovery device pipe 561 is provided with a fifth recovery device on-off valve 575.

[0319] One end of the second recovery device pipe 562 is connected to the recovery container 510. The other end of the second recovery device pipe 562 is connected to one end of the ninth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 690. The second recovery device pipe 562 is provided with a sixth recovery device on-off valve 576.

[0320] One end of the third recovery device piping 563 is connected to the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520. The other end of the third recovery device piping 563 is connected between the end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 connected to the seventh refrigerant recovery connection piping 670 and the third switching valve 543. The third recovery device piping 563 is provided with a second switching valve 542. The third recovery device piping 563 is connected to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the second switching valve 542. The second switching valve 542 selectively connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the recovery container 510 and the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0321] One end of the fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520. The other end of the fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to the heat exchanger 530. The fourth recovery device piping 564 is provided with the fourth switching valve 544. The fourth recovery device piping 564 is connected to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the fourth switching valve 544.

[0322] One end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 is connected to the other end of the heat exchanger 530. The other end of the fifth recovery device piping 565 is connected to the seventh refrigerant recovery connection piping 670 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation. In the fifth recovery device piping 565, a check valve 550 and a third switching valve 543 are provided in sequence from the heat exchanger 530 side. The fifth recovery device piping 565 is connected to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the third switching valve 543. The check valve 550 restricts the flow of the refrigerant from the end connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600 to the end connected to the heat exchanger 530, and allows the flow of the refrigerant from the end connected to the heat exchanger 530 to the end connected to the refrigerant recovery connection piping 600. The third switching valve 543 selectively connects the discharge pipe 520 b of the second compressor 520 to the first switching valve 541 and the refrigerant storage unit 200 via the heat exchanger 530 or the sixth recovery device pipe 566 .

[0323] One end of the sixth recovery pipe 566 is connected to the third port P3 of the fourth switching valve 544. The other end of the sixth recovery pipe 566 is connected between the third switching valve 543 and the check valve 550 of the fifth recovery pipe 565. The sixth recovery pipe 566 is connected in parallel to the heat exchanger 530.

[0324] One end of the seventh recovery device piping 567 is connected to the sixth refrigerant recovery connection piping 660 during the refrigerant storage operation and the refrigerant filling operation. The other end of the seventh recovery device piping 567 is connected to the eighth refrigerant recovery connection piping 680. The first switching valve 541 is provided in the seventh recovery device piping 567. The seventh recovery device piping 567 is connected to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the first switching valve 541. The first switching valve 541 selectively connects the recovery container 510 with the refrigerant storage unit 200 and the third switching valve 543.

[0325] One end of the eighth recovery device pipe 568 is connected to the third port P3 of the second switching valve 542. The other end of the eighth recovery device pipe 568 is connected to the ninth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 690. The eighth recovery device pipe 568 is provided with a seventh recovery device on-off valve 577.

[0326] One end of the ninth recovery device pipe 569 is connected to the third port P3 of the third switching valve 543 . The other end of the ninth recovery device pipe 569 is connected to the third port P3 of the first switching valve 541 .

[0327] (2-5) Second Control Unit

[0328] The second control unit 581 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigeration cycle device 1 and the refrigerant recovery device 6. The second control unit 580 is different from the second control unit 581 in the content of the refrigerant recovery operation executed by the second control unit 581. The refrigerant recovery operation executed by the second control unit 581 will be described later.

[0329] (3) Action

[0330] (3-1) Operation of the refrigerant recovery device

[0331] The refrigerant recovery operation executed by the second control unit 581 of the refrigerant recovery device 6 will be described.

[0332] (3-1-1) Refrigerant recovery operation

[0333] The refrigerant recovery operation includes a first refrigerant recovery operation and a second refrigerant recovery operation performed after the first refrigerant recovery operation is completed. Fig.19 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the first refrigerant recovery operation. Fig. 20 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing the operation of each device and the flow of the refrigerant during the second refrigerant recovery operation.

[0334] When performing the refrigerant recovery operation, the refrigeration cycle system 1 and the refrigeration recovery device 6 are as follows: Fig.19 as well as Fig. 20 As shown, the seventh recovery device pipe 567 is connected to the third storage unit pipe 223 via the sixth refrigerant recovery connection pipe 660. The fifth recovery device pipe 565 is connected to the fourth recovery device pipe 564 via the seventh refrigerant recovery connection pipe 670.

[0335] (First refrigerant recovery operation)

[0336] During the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 581 operates the second compressor 520 for the refrigerant recovery device 6 and sets the switching valve 540 to a specified state. Specifically, the second control unit 581 sets the first switching valve 541 to the first state and the second switching valve 542 to the third state. The third switching valve 543 is set to the second state and the fourth switching valve 544 is set to the third state. Thus, the first switching valve 541 connects the recovery container 510 with the refrigerant storage unit 200. The second switching valve 542 connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the recovery container 510. The third switching valve 543 connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 510 with the refrigerant storage unit 200 via the sixth recovery device piping 566.

[0337] In addition, the second control unit 581 sets all the recovery unit on-off valves 570 to the open state for the refrigerant recovery unit 5. In addition, the second control unit 581 sets the first storage unit on-off valve 231 and the second storage unit on-off valve 232 to the closed state for the refrigerant storage unit 200, and sets the third storage unit on-off valve 233 and the fourth storage unit on-off valve 234 to the open state.

[0338] By executing the first refrigerant recovery operation, such as Fig.19 As shown by the middle arrow, the discharge pressure of the second compressor 520 of the refrigerant recovery device 5 acts on the storage container 210 via the sixth recovery device piping 566, the fifth recovery device piping 565, the seventh refrigerant recovery connection piping 670, and the third storage unit piping 223. The refrigerant in the storage container 210 is pressed out of the storage container 210 by the discharge pressure, and is recovered to the recovery container 510 via the fourth storage unit piping 244, the sixth refrigerant recovery connection piping 660, the seventh recovery device piping 567, the eighth refrigerant recovery connection piping 680, and the first recovery device piping 561. In addition, the air in the recovery container 510 is sucked into the second compressor 520 from the suction pipe 520a via the second recovery device piping 562, the ninth refrigerant recovery connection piping 690, the eighth recovery device 568, and the third recovery device piping 563.

[0339] After the second control unit 581 performs the first refrigerant recovery operation for a preset predetermined time T6, the first refrigerant recovery operation is terminated and the second refrigerant recovery operation is started. The predetermined time T6 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in the storage container 210 to be recovered to the recovery container 51, for example.

[0340] (Second refrigerant recovery operation)

[0341] In the second refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 581 operates the second compressor 520 for the refrigerant recovery device 6, and makes the specified ports of the switching valve 540 communicate with each other. Specifically, the second control unit 581 sets the first switching valve 541 to the first state, the second switching valve 542 to the third state, the third switching valve 543 to the second state, and the fourth switching valve 544 to the third state. Thus, the first switching valve 541 connects the recovery container 510 with the third switching valve 543. The second switching valve 542 connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the refrigerant storage unit 200. The third switching valve 543 connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520 with the first switching valve 541 via the heat exchanger 530.

[0342] In addition, the second control unit 581 sets the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 to the open state for all the refrigeration cycle devices 100. In addition, the second control unit 581 sets the fifth recovery device opening and closing valve 575 to the open state for the refrigerant recovery device 5, and sets the sixth recovery device opening and closing valve 576 and the seventh recovery device opening and closing valve 577 to the closed state. The second control unit 581 sets the storage unit opening and closing valve 230 other than the fourth storage unit opening and closing valve 234 to the open state for the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0343] By performing the second refrigerant recovery operation, such as Fig. 20 As shown by the middle arrow, the suction pressure of the second compressor 520 of the refrigerant recovery device 5 acts on the storage container 210 via the third recovery device piping 563, the seventh refrigerant recovery connection piping 670, and the third storage unit piping 223. The suction pressure acting on the storage container 210 also acts on the refrigerant circulation path 150 via the first storage unit piping 21, the gas side branch piping 128, the second storage unit piping 222, and the liquid side branch piping 129. Due to the acting suction pressure, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation circuit 150 flows into the storage container 210 via the first storage unit piping 221, the gas side branch piping 128, the second storage unit piping 222, and the liquid side branch piping 129. The refrigerant flowing into the storage container 210 flows into the refrigerant recovery device 5 from the third recovery device piping 563 via the fourth refrigerant recovery connection piping 640. The refrigerant flowing into the refrigerant recovery device 5 is sucked into the second compressor 520. The refrigerant discharged from the second compressor 520 passes through the fourth recovery device piping 564, the heat exchanger 530, the fifth recovery device 565, the ninth recovery device piping 569, the seventh recovery device piping 567, the eighth refrigerant recovery connecting piping 680 and the first recovery device piping 561, and is recovered to the recovery container 510.

[0344] The second control unit 581 performs the second refrigerant recovery operation for a preset predetermined time T7 and then terminates the second refrigerant recovery operation. The predetermined time T7 is set to a length that allows the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage 150 of the refrigeration cycle system 1 to be recovered to the recovery container 510, for example.

[0345] (4) Features

[0346] (4-1)

[0347] The refrigerant recovery device 6 further includes a first switching valve 541, a second switching valve 542, and a third switching valve 543. The first switching valve 541 selectively connects the recovery container 510 with the refrigerant storage unit 200 and the third switching valve 543. The second switching valve 542 selectively connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the recovery container 510 and the refrigerant storage unit 200. The third switching valve 543 selectively connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520 with the first switching valve 451 and the refrigerant storage unit 200.

[0348] During the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 581 connects the recovery container 510 with the refrigerant storage unit 200 through the first switching valve 541, connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the recovery container 510 through the second switching valve 542, and connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520a with the refrigerant storage unit 200 through the third switching valve 543.

[0349] During the second refrigerant recovery operation, the second control unit 581 connects the recovery container 510 with the third switching valve 543 through the first switching valve 541, connects the suction pipe 520a of the second compressor 520 with the refrigerant storage unit 200 through the second switching valve 542, and connects the discharge pipe 520b of the second compressor 520 with the first switching valve 541 through the third switching valve 543.

[0350] According to this feature, the refrigerant recovery device 6 can change the communication with the recovery container 510, the refrigerant storage unit 200, and the second compressor 520 only by switching the switching valve 540. Therefore, in the refrigerant recovery device 6, when the second refrigerant recovery operation is performed after the first refrigerant recovery operation is completed, it is not necessary to change the connection of the refrigerant recovery connection pipe 600. Therefore, the second control unit 581 can continuously and automatically perform the first refrigerant recovery operation and the second refrigerant recovery operation.

[0351] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this disclosure is described, it should be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure described in the claims.

[0352] (Explanation of symbols)

[0353] 1.2 Refrigeration cycle system;

[0354] 5.6 Refrigerant recovery device;

[0355] 100 (100a, 100b) a refrigeration cycle device;

[0356] 110 indoor units;

[0357] 111 indoor refrigerant flow path;

[0358] 112 indoor heat exchanger;

[0359] 116 Detection Department;

[0360] 120 outdoor units;

[0361] 121 outdoor refrigerant flow path;

[0362] 121b first refrigerant pipe;

[0363] 121c second refrigerant pipe;

[0364] 121d third refrigerant pipe;

[0365] 122 first compressor;

[0366] 123 outdoor heat exchanger;

[0367] 124 outdoor expansion mechanism;

[0368] 125 flow path switching mechanism;

[0369] 126 gas side connection portion;

[0370] 127 liquid side connection portion;

[0371] 128 gas side branch pipe;

[0372] 129 liquid side branch piping;

[0373] 130 outdoor refrigerant flow stop valve;

[0374] 131 gas side connecting pipe;

[0375] 132 liquid side connecting pipe;

[0376] 140 first control unit;

[0377] 150 refrigerant circulation passage;

[0378] 200 refrigerant storage unit;

[0379] 220 storage piping;

[0380] 221-224 first storage unit piping to fourth storage unit piping;

[0381] 230 storage unit opening and closing valve;

[0382] 231-234 first storage part opening and closing valve to fourth storage part opening and closing valve;

[0383] 241 check valve;

[0384] 242 pressure reducer;

[0385] 250 expansion mechanism;

[0386] 300 connects the connecting pipe;

[0387] 510 Recycling containers;

[0388] 520 second compressor;

[0389] 520a suction pipe;

[0390] 520b discharge pipe;

[0391] 540 switching valve;

[0392] 541-543 first switching valve to third switching valve;

[0393] 580 Second control unit.

[0394] Prior art literature

[0395] Patent Literature

[0396] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-009692

Claims

1. A refrigeration cycle system (1), characterized in that: include: A refrigeration cycle device (100), the refrigeration cycle device (100) comprising: an indoor unit (110), the indoor unit (110) having an indoor refrigerant flow path (111); an outdoor unit (120), the outdoor unit (120) having an outdoor refrigerant flow path (121); and a gas-side connecting pipe (131) and a liquid-side connecting pipe (132), the gas-side connecting pipe (131) and the liquid-side connecting pipe (132) connecting the indoor refrigerant flow path and the outdoor refrigerant flow path; and a refrigerant storage unit (200) for storing the refrigerant in a refrigerant circulation path (150) formed by the indoor refrigerant flow path, the outdoor refrigerant flow path, the gas-side connecting pipe, and the liquid-side connecting pipe, The outdoor refrigerant flow path comprises: a first compressor (122); an outdoor heat exchanger (123); an outdoor expansion mechanism (124); a flow path switching mechanism (125); a gas side connection portion (126), the gas side connection portion (126) being connected to the gas side connecting pipe; a liquid side connection portion (127), the liquid side connection portion (127) being connected to the liquid side connecting pipe; a first refrigerant pipe (121b), the first refrigerant pipe (121b) being connected to the flow path switching mechanism and the gas side connection portion; a second refrigerant pipe (121c), the second refrigerant pipe (121c) being connected to the outdoor heat exchanger and the outdoor expansion mechanism; and a third refrigerant pipe (121d), the third refrigerant pipe (121d) being connected to the outdoor expansion mechanism and the liquid side connection portion. The refrigerant storage unit is connected to the refrigerant circulation passage through a first pipe (221) and a second pipe (222). The first pipe connects the first refrigerant pipe with the refrigerant storage unit, or connects the gas-side communication pipe with the refrigerant storage unit. The second pipe connects the second refrigerant pipe to the refrigerant storage unit. It also includes a first opening and closing valve (231) and a second opening and closing valve (232), The first opening and closing valve allows or blocks the flow of the refrigerant between the first refrigerant pipe and the refrigerant storage unit, or between the gas-side communication pipe and the refrigerant storage unit. The second on-off valve allows or blocks the flow of the refrigerant between the second refrigerant pipe and the refrigerant storage unit. The system further comprises a first control unit (140), wherein the first control unit (140) controls the first compressor, the outdoor expansion mechanism, and the flow path switching mechanism. The flow path switching mechanism takes a first state in which the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, or a second state in which the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator. The first control unit performs a first control in which the flow path switching mechanism is set to the first state and the outdoor expansion mechanism is set to the closed state, and the refrigerant is stored in the refrigerant storage unit by operating the first compressor. When the first control is finished, the first control unit executes a second control in which the first compressor is operated and the first on-off valve is opened to store the gas refrigerant in the refrigerant storage unit.

2. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The refrigeration cycle device comprises a plurality of the refrigeration cycle devices.

3. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The refrigeration cycle device includes a plurality of the indoor units.

4. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first control unit performs a third control in which the flow switching mechanism is set to the second state and the outdoor expansion mechanism is set to an open state, and the refrigerant inside the refrigerant storage unit is filled into the refrigerant circulation path by operating the first compressor.

5. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second pipe has: a check valve (241) for restricting the flow of the refrigerant from the refrigerant storage unit to the outdoor refrigerant flow path; and A pressure reducer (242), wherein the pressure reducer (242) is arranged in parallel with the check valve.

6. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second pipe has a fully closable expansion mechanism (250).

7. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outdoor unit further comprises a liquid-side branch pipe (129), wherein the liquid-side branch pipe (129) is connected to the second refrigerant pipe. The second pipe communicates with the liquid-side branch pipe.

8. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The outdoor unit further comprises a gas-side branch pipe (128), wherein the gas-side branch pipe (128) is connected to the first refrigerant pipe. The first pipe is communicated with the gas-side branch pipe.

9. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first pipe is connected to the gas-side connection portion.

10. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The outdoor unit has four outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves (130). The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow path shutoff valve is provided on the first refrigerant pipe, the third refrigerant pipe, the gas-side branch pipe, and the liquid-side branch pipe.

11. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The outdoor unit has three outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves (130). The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow path shutoff valve is provided between a connection portion of the flow path switching mechanism and the gas-side branching pipe of the first refrigerant pipe, the third refrigerant pipe, and the liquid-side branching pipe.

12. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The outdoor unit has two outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valves (130). The outdoor refrigerant flow path stop valve allows or blocks the communication of the outdoor refrigerant flow path. The outdoor refrigerant flow stop valve is provided between a connection point between the flow switching mechanism and the gas-side branching pipe of the first refrigerant pipe and between a connection point between the outdoor heat exchanger and the liquid-side branching pipe of the second refrigerant pipe.

13. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, wherein: The indoor refrigerant flow path has an indoor heat exchanger (112). The indoor unit comprises a detection unit (116) for detecting leakage of the refrigerant. If the detection unit detects leakage of the refrigerant, the first control unit performs the first control.

14. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, wherein: The refrigerant is flammable or toxic.

15. A refrigerant recovery device (5) for recovering the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, characterized in that: include: a recovery container (510), wherein the recovery container (510) stores the refrigerant; a second compressor (520) for applying a predetermined pressure to the interior of the refrigerant storage unit of the refrigeration cycle system; as well as a second control unit (580), wherein the second control unit (580) controls the second compressor, The second control unit controls the second compressor so as to recover the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation passage of the refrigeration cycle system into the recovery container.

16. The refrigerant recovery device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The second control unit performs a fourth control in which the second compressor is controlled so that the discharge pressure of the second compressor acts on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit, thereby causing the refrigerant to flow into the recovery container. When the fourth control ends, the second control unit executes a fifth control in which the second compressor is controlled so that the suction pressure of the second compressor acts on the inside of the refrigerant storage unit, thereby causing the refrigerant to flow into the recovery container.

17. The refrigerant recovery device according to claim 16, characterized in that: Also includes: A first switching valve (541); A second switching valve (542); as well as The third switching valve (543), The first switching valve selectively connects the recovery container with the refrigerant storage unit and the third switching valve. The second switching valve selectively connects the suction side (520a) of the second compressor to the recovery container and the refrigerant storage unit. The third switching valve selectively connects the discharge side (520b) of the second compressor to the first switching valve and the refrigerant storage unit. In the fourth control, the second control unit communicates the recovery container with the refrigerant storage unit through the first switching valve, communicates the suction side of the second compressor with the recovery container through the second switching valve, and communicates the discharge side of the second compressor with the refrigerant storage unit through the third switching valve. In the fifth control, the second control unit connects the recovery container with the third switching valve through the first switching valve, connects the suction side of the second compressor with the refrigerant storage unit through the second switching valve, and connects the discharge side of the second compressor with the first switching valve through the third switching valve.

18. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 1, wherein: The flow path switching mechanism is set to a first state in which the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser. The outdoor expansion mechanism is set to a closed state, The refrigerant is stored in the refrigerant storage portion by operating the first compressor.

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