Domestic hot water supply system

Abstract

The application provides a household hot water supply system, and relates to the technical field of indoor hot water supply. The system comprises a heat storage water tank and a heat pump unit. The heat storage water tank is provided with a high-temperature zone, a medium-temperature zone and a medium-temperature circulation zone respectively. The heat storage water tank has a first and a second heat exchange mode. The heat pump unit comprises a heat exchanger assembly, which comprises a first heat exchanger arranged in the high-temperature zone, a second and a third heat exchanger arranged in the medium-temperature zone, and a fourth and a fifth heat exchanger arranged in the medium-temperature circulation zone. The inlets of the first, second and fourth heat exchangers are communicated with a common heat source. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is communicated with the inlet of at least one of the third and fifth heat exchangers. The outlets of the second, third, fourth and fifth heat exchangers are communicated with a common return circuit. The household hot water supply system provided by the application can meet the user's demand for hot water in each temperature zone in time by arranging multiple temperature zones in the heat storage water tank and adjusting and exchanging heat in the multiple temperature zones through multiple heat exchangers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of indoor hot water supply technology, and more particularly to a household hot water supply system. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread adoption of new energy sources, more and more heating options are available for users, such as solar energy, air source heat pumps, and geothermal energy, which are more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient than heating by burning boilers.

[0003] Currently, heat pump systems convert low-grade heat energy into high-grade heat energy to heat the water in the storage tank to a medium temperature for drinking, heating, bathing, etc.

[0004] However, the temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone have a significant impact on all water users, resulting in a poor user experience for existing heat pump systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, the present invention provides a household hot water supply system to solve the problem that temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone have a significant impact on each water user in existing heat pump heating systems.

[0006] This invention provides a household hot water supply system, including a hot water storage tank and a heat pump unit. The hot water storage tank is provided with a high temperature zone, a medium temperature zone and a medium temperature circulation zone. The hot water storage tank has a first heat exchange mode and a second heat exchange mode.

[0007] The heat pump unit includes a heat exchanger assembly, which includes a first heat exchanger located in the high-temperature zone, a second and a third heat exchanger located in the medium-temperature zone, and a fourth and a fifth heat exchanger located in the medium-temperature circulation zone.

[0008] The inlets of the first, second, and fourth heat exchangers are all connected to a common heat source. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of at least one of the third and fifth heat exchangers. The outlets of the second, third, fourth, and fifth heat exchangers are all connected to a common loop.

[0009] When the temperature difference between the medium temperature zone and the medium temperature circulation zone is less than the preset temperature difference, the hot water storage tank enters the first heat exchange mode. In the first heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the third and fifth heat exchangers, so that the second and third heat exchangers exchange heat with the water in the medium temperature zone together, and the fourth and fifth heat exchangers exchange heat with the water in the medium temperature circulation zone together.

[0010] When the temperature difference between the medium temperature zone and the medium temperature circulation zone is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference, the hot water storage tank enters the second heat exchange mode. In the second heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone, and the outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to either the inlet of the third heat exchanger or the fifth heat exchanger in the lower temperature zone.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the hot water storage tank also has a heat preservation mode. When both the medium temperature zone and the medium temperature circulation zone are greater than or equal to the upper limit temperature of the medium temperature zone, the heat exchanger assembly stops heat exchange, and the hot water storage tank enters the heat preservation mode.

[0012] In one possible implementation, when at least one of the intermediate temperature zone and the intermediate temperature circulation zone is lower than the lower limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone, the hot water storage tank enters the first heat exchange mode or the second heat exchange mode.

[0013] In one possible implementation, a switch is provided between the high-temperature zone and the medium-temperature zone. When the temperature of the medium-temperature zone is lower than the lower limit temperature of the medium-temperature zone, the switch is turned on to allow water in the high-temperature zone to flow into the medium-temperature zone.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the high-temperature zone is provided with a first inlet pipe and a first outlet pipe. The first inlet pipe is connected to the high-temperature zone to input cold water, and the first outlet pipe is connected to the high-temperature zone to output high-temperature hot water.

[0015] An auxiliary heater is installed on the first water outlet pipe. The auxiliary heater is used to reheat the high-temperature hot water in the first water outlet pipe for drinking.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the medium-temperature zone is equipped with a second inlet pipe and a second outlet pipe. The second inlet pipe is connected to the medium-temperature zone to input cold water, and the second outlet pipe is connected to the medium-temperature zone to output medium-temperature hot water for bathing.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the medium-temperature circulation zone is provided with a third outlet and a third return outlet. The third outlet is used to connect with the inlet of the water heating device, and the third return outlet is used to connect with the outlet of the water heating device to form a water heating circulation loop.

[0018] In one possible implementation, a throttle valve is installed on the water heating circulation loop to control the water flow rate in the water heating circulation loop.

[0019] In one possible implementation, a compressor, an expansion valve, and an evaporator are also included, with the inlets of the first, second, and fourth heat exchangers all connected to the outlet of the compressor.

[0020] The outlets of the second, third, fourth, and fifth heat exchangers are all connected to the inlet of the expansion valve. The outlet of the expansion valve is connected to the inlet of the evaporator, and the outlet of the evaporator is connected to the inlet of the compressor, thus forming a refrigerant circulation loop.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the inlet and outlet of the second heat exchanger are provided with a first valve group for controlling on / off, the inlet and outlet of the third heat exchanger are provided with a second valve group for controlling on / off, the inlet and outlet of the fourth heat exchanger are provided with a third valve group for controlling on / off, and the inlet and outlet of the fifth heat exchanger are provided with a fourth valve group for controlling on / off.

[0022] This invention provides a household hot water supply system, including a hot water storage tank and a heat pump unit. The hot water storage tank is used for heat exchange and storage of hot water, and the heat pump unit is used for heat exchange of the water in the hot water storage tank. By dividing the hot water storage tank into a high-temperature zone, a medium-temperature zone, and a medium-temperature circulation zone, it outputs high-temperature hot water, medium-temperature consumable water, and medium-temperature circulating water respectively, meeting the user's needs for simultaneous high-temperature output, medium-temperature output, and medium-temperature circulation water usage scenarios, and avoiding the impact of water temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone on each water user. The hot water storage tank has a first heat exchange mode and a second heat exchange mode. The heat pump unit includes a heat exchanger assembly, comprising a first heat exchanger located in the high-temperature zone, second and third heat exchangers located in the medium-temperature zone, and fourth and fifth heat exchangers located in the medium-temperature circulation zone. The inlets of the first, second, and fourth heat exchangers are all connected to a common heat source to input the same heat exchange medium. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of at least one of the third and fifth heat exchangers. The waste heat of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger is used to regulate and exchange heat in the medium-temperature zone and / or the medium-temperature circulation zone. The outlets of the second, third, fourth, and fifth heat exchangers are all connected to a common loop so that the heat exchange medium can return to the heat pump unit for circulation.

[0023] When the temperature difference between the medium-temperature zone and the medium-temperature circulation zone is less than the preset temperature difference, the hot water storage tank enters the first heat exchange mode. In the first heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high-temperature zone. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the third and fifth heat exchangers, so that the second and third heat exchangers can exchange heat with the water in the medium-temperature zone together, and the fourth and fifth heat exchangers can exchange heat with the water in the medium-temperature circulation zone together. This ensures that all heat exchangers are in working condition, maximizing the use of the high-grade energy in the heat pump system, and enabling the medium-temperature zone and the medium-temperature circulation zone to exchange heat together to the required temperature. When the temperature difference between the intermediate temperature zone and the intermediate temperature circulation zone is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference value, the hot water storage tank enters the second heat exchange mode. In the second heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is selectively connected to the inlet of either the third or fifth heat exchanger in the lower temperature zone. For example, if the outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger, the second and third heat exchangers can jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature zone. Alternatively, if the outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the fifth heat exchanger, the fourth and fifth heat exchangers can jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature circulation zone. By selectively connecting the first heat exchanger to the third or fifth heat exchanger, the heat exchange of the water in the intermediate temperature zone or the intermediate temperature circulation zone is adjusted, thereby compensating for the heat exchange demand in the lower temperature zone. Therefore, the domestic hot water supply system provided by this invention sets multiple temperature zones in the hot water storage tank and adjusts the heat exchange of multiple temperature zones through multiple heat exchangers to meet the user's timely hot water demand in each temperature zone. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a household hot water supply system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure label:

[0027] 10: Plumbing fixtures;

[0028] 100: Hot water storage tank;

[0029] 101: Continuity / Disconnection Component;

[0030] 110: High-temperature zone;

[0031] 111: First water inlet pipe;

[0032] 112: First water outlet pipe;

[0033] 113: Auxiliary heater;

[0034] 120: Medium temperature zone;

[0035] 121: Second water inlet pipe;

[0036] 122: Second water outlet pipe;

[0037] 130: Medium-temperature circulation zone;

[0038] 131: Third outlet;

[0039] 132: Third return water outlet;

[0040] 133: Throttling valve;

[0041] 200: Heat pump unit;

[0042] 210: Heat exchanger assembly;

[0043] 211: First heat exchanger;

[0044] 212: Second heat exchanger;

[0045] 213: Third heat exchanger;

[0046] 214: Fourth heat exchanger;

[0047] 215: Fifth heat exchanger;

[0048] 216: First valve group;

[0049] 217: Second valve group;

[0050] 218: Third valve group;

[0051] 219: Fourth valve group;

[0052] 220: Compressor;

[0053] 230: Expansion valve;

[0054] 240: Evaporator. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention. Rather, they are merely examples of methods and apparatus consistent with some aspects of the invention as detailed in the appended claims.

[0056] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0057] As mentioned in the background section, in related technologies, heat pump systems only heat the water in the storage tank to a medium temperature range (e.g., 55℃~65℃) before supplying it for drinking, heating, and bathing. Heating primarily refers to using water-based air conditioning or underfloor heating to release heat from hot water. However, the water in this temperature range is insufficient for drinking purposes such as brewing, requiring heating to a higher temperature. Furthermore, since the water in this temperature range is used for both heating and bathing, bathing water cannot be recycled; it must be heated or exchanged to the required temperature. When bathing consumes a large amount of water, the water temperature in the storage tank drops significantly, affecting drinking and heating. Therefore, temperature fluctuations in a single temperature range have a significant impact on all water users, resulting in a poor user experience with existing heat pump systems.

[0058] To address the aforementioned problems in the existing technology, this invention provides a domestic hot water supply system. The domestic hot water supply system provided by this invention includes a hot water storage tank and a heat pump unit. By dividing the hot water storage tank into a high-temperature zone, a medium-temperature zone, and a medium-temperature circulation zone, it meets the user's needs for simultaneous high-temperature output, medium-temperature output, and medium-temperature circulation, avoiding the impact of water temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone on various water users. The heat pump unit includes a heat exchanger assembly, comprising a first heat exchanger disposed in the high-temperature zone, second and third heat exchangers disposed in the medium-temperature zone, and fourth and fifth heat exchangers disposed in the medium-temperature circulation zone. By connecting the inlets of the first, second, and fourth heat exchangers to a common heat source to input the same heat exchange medium, and connecting the outlet of the first heat exchanger to the inlet of at least one of the third and fifth heat exchangers, the residual heat of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger is used to exchange heat in the medium-temperature zone and / or the medium-temperature circulation zone. When the temperature difference between the medium-temperature zone and the medium-temperature circulation zone is less than a preset temperature difference, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high-temperature zone. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlets of the third and fifth heat exchangers, so that the second and third heat exchangers jointly exchange heat with the water in the medium-temperature zone, and the fourth and fifth heat exchangers jointly exchange heat with the water in the medium-temperature circulation zone. This maximizes the utilization of the high-grade energy in the heat pump system, enabling the medium-temperature zone and the medium-temperature circulation zone to exchange heat together to the required temperature. When the temperature difference between the medium-temperature zone and the medium-temperature circulation zone is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with the water in the high-temperature zone. The outlet of the first heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of either the third or fifth heat exchanger in the lower-temperature zone. This allows the first heat exchanger to selectively connect either the third or fifth heat exchanger in series to regulate and exchange heat with the water in the medium-temperature zone or the medium-temperature circulation zone, thereby compensating for the heat exchange demand in the lower-temperature zone and meeting the user's need for timely hot water in each temperature zone.

[0059] The technical solution of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0060] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the household hot water supply system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a hot water storage tank 100 and a heat pump unit 200. The hot water storage tank 100 is provided with a high temperature zone 110, a medium temperature zone 120 and a medium temperature circulation zone 130, and the hot water storage tank 100 has a first heat exchange mode and a second heat exchange mode.

[0061] The heat pump unit 200 includes a heat exchanger assembly 210, which includes a first heat exchanger 211 disposed in a high temperature zone 110, a second heat exchanger 212 and a third heat exchanger 213 disposed in a medium temperature zone 120, and a fourth heat exchanger 214 and a fifth heat exchanger 215 disposed in a medium temperature circulation zone 130.

[0062] The inlets of the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 are all connected to a common heat source. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of at least one of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215. The outlets of the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214, and the fifth heat exchanger 215 are all connected to a common loop.

[0063] When the temperature difference between the medium temperature zone 120 and the medium temperature circulation zone 130 is less than the preset temperature difference, the hot water storage tank 100 enters the first heat exchange mode. In the first heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger 211 exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone 110. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215, so that the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 jointly exchange heat with the water in the medium temperature zone 120, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 jointly exchange heat with the water in the medium temperature circulation zone 130.

[0064] When the temperature difference between the medium temperature zone 120 and the medium temperature circulation zone 130 is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference, the hot water storage tank 100 enters the second heat exchange mode. In the second heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger 211 exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone 110. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to either the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 or the fifth heat exchanger 215 in the lower temperature zone.

[0065] In this embodiment, the hot water storage tank 100 is provided with a high-temperature zone 110, a medium-temperature zone 120, and a medium-temperature circulation zone 130, which are three water storage chambers. Each temperature zone is wrapped with heat-insulating material. The high-temperature zone 110 is mainly used for heat exchange to output high-temperature hot water, with a temperature range of 80℃ to 90℃, meeting the user's drinking water needs. The medium-temperature zone 120 is mainly used for heat exchange to output medium-temperature hot water, with a temperature range of 55℃ to 65℃, meeting the user's bathing water needs. Of course, the hot water at this temperature needs to be used in conjunction with a mixing valve to adjust the water temperature required for bathing. The medium-temperature circulation zone 130 is mainly used for heat exchange to output medium-temperature hot water, with a temperature range of 55℃ to 65℃, meeting the water needs of indoor water heating devices such as water-cooled air conditioners and underfloor heating. In this way, when the water temperature in one temperature zone drops sharply, it will not affect the normal supply of hot water in other temperature zones, thereby avoiding the impact of water temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone on various water users.

[0066] The high-temperature zone 110 uses relatively less water, so its capacity is smaller than that of the medium-temperature zone 120 and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130. The medium-temperature zone 120 and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 use relatively more water. The capacity of the medium-temperature zone 120 can be determined according to the number of people in the household, and the capacity of the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 can be determined according to the number of water heating devices 10. In this embodiment, no restrictions are imposed.

[0067] The hot water storage tank 100 has a first heat exchange mode and a second heat exchange mode. The first heat exchange mode is common heat exchange, which is used when the water temperature in the medium temperature zone 120 and the medium temperature circulation zone 130 is not much different, so that the two zones can exchange heat together to reach the required water temperature. The second heat exchange mode is distribution heat exchange, which is used when the water temperature in the medium temperature zone 120 and the medium temperature circulation zone 130 is much different, so that the lower temperature zone is distributed to exchange water, so that the two zones can reach a consistent equilibrium state as quickly as possible.

[0068] The heat pump unit 200 includes a heat exchanger assembly 210, as well as a compressor 220, an expansion valve 230, and an evaporator 240. The compressor 220, heat exchanger assembly 210, expansion valve 230, and evaporator 240 are connected in sequence by pipelines. The evaporator 240 returns to the compressor 220 to form a circulation loop. The circulation loop is filled with heat exchange medium (i.e., refrigerant). The compressor 220 is used to convert low-grade energy into high-grade energy. Its compression of the refrigerant does work to form a high-temperature liquid, which is transported to the heat exchanger assembly 210. The heat exchanger assembly 210 exchanges heat with water, thereby exchanging heat with the water in the hot water storage tank 100. After heat exchange, the refrigerant is depressurized under the action of the expansion valve 230 and enters the evaporator 240 to absorb low-grade energy from the outside. The refrigerant can be R22 (difluorochloromethane), R410a (a mixture of 50% R125 (pentafluoroethane) and 50% R32 (difluoromethane), R32 (difluoromethane), R290 (propane), etc., and the highest outlet water temperature reached by heat exchanger assembly 210 in the heat pump unit 200 is designed to be 90℃.

[0069] The heat exchanger assembly 210 includes a first heat exchanger 211, a second heat exchanger 212, a third heat exchanger 213, a fourth heat exchanger 214, and a fifth heat exchanger 215. The first heat exchanger 211 is located in the high-temperature zone 110, the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 are located in the medium-temperature zone 120, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 are located in the medium-temperature circulation zone 130. The inlets of the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 are all connected to a common heat source. That is, the inlets of the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 can all be connected to the output port of the compressor 220 to input the same heat exchange medium (i.e., refrigerant). The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of at least one of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215. Since the temperature of the heat exchange medium output from the first heat exchanger 211 is still much higher than that in the medium temperature zone... The required temperatures of the intermediate temperature circulation zone 120 and 130 can be achieved by using the residual heat of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger to exchange heat with the intermediate temperature zone 120 and / or the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130. The outlets of the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 are all connected to a common loop, that is, the outlets of the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 can all be connected to the inlet of the expansion valve 230 to recover the heat exchange medium.

[0070] The cavities of the high-temperature zone 110, the medium-temperature zone 120, and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 can be square, circular, or other structures. Correspondingly, the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214, and the fifth heat exchanger 215 installed therein can also be square, circular, or other structures. This embodiment does not impose excessive restrictions on these aspects. Furthermore, in order to monitor the real-time temperature in the high-temperature zone 110, the medium-temperature zone 120, and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130, thermometers can be installed in each of the three temperature zones. The specific model, location, and number of thermometers can be determined according to actual needs.

[0071] Specifically, when the temperature difference between the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 is less than a preset temperature difference value, which can be set to 2℃, 5℃, 8℃, or any value between 2℃ and 8℃, the heat pump unit 200 operates, and the hot water storage tank 100 enters the first heat exchange mode. In the first heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger 211 exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone 110. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215, so that the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature zone 120, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130. This ensures that all heat exchangers are in operation, the total heat exchange area is maximized, and the high-grade energy converted in the heat pump system is utilized to the maximum extent, so that the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 can be heated together to the required temperature. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 and the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 can be connected or closed by setting valves.

[0072] When the temperature difference between the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference value, the hot water storage tank 100 enters the second heat exchange mode. In the second heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger 211 exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone 110, and the outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is selectively connected to the inlet of either the third heat exchanger 213 or the fifth heat exchanger 215 in the lower temperature zone. In one scenario, the water temperature in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 minus the water temperature in the intermediate temperature zone 120 is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference value. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213, so that the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature zone. At this time, the waste heat of the first heat exchanger 211 is used to regulate the heat exchange in the intermediate temperature zone 120, and only the fourth heat exchanger 214 is exchanging heat in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 to compensate for the heat exchange demand of the intermediate temperature zone 120. In one scenario, the water temperature in the intermediate temperature zone 120 minus the water temperature in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference value. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of the fifth heat exchanger 215, so that the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 jointly exchange heat with the water in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130. At this time, the waste heat of the first heat exchanger 211 is used to regulate the heat exchange in the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130, and only the second heat exchanger 212 is exchanging heat in the intermediate temperature zone 120 to compensate for the heat exchange demand of the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130.

[0073] Understandably, the domestic hot water supply system provided by the present invention includes a hot water storage tank 100 and a heat pump unit 200. By setting the hot water storage tank 100 into a high-temperature zone 110, a medium-temperature zone 120, and a medium-temperature circulation zone 130, it meets the user's needs for simultaneous high-temperature output, medium-temperature output, and medium-temperature circulation in various water usage scenarios, avoiding the impact of water temperature fluctuations in a single temperature zone on each water user. The heat pump unit 200 includes a heat exchanger assembly 210, which includes a first heat exchanger 211 disposed in the high-temperature zone 110, a second heat exchanger 212 and a third heat exchanger 213 disposed in the medium-temperature zone 120, and a fourth heat exchanger 214 and a fifth heat exchanger 215 disposed in the medium-temperature circulation zone 130. By connecting the inlets of the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 to a common heat source to input the same heat exchange medium, and connecting the outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 to the inlet of at least one of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215, the residual heat of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 211 is used to exchange heat with the intermediate temperature zone 120 and / or the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130. When the temperature difference between the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 is less than a preset temperature difference value, the first heat exchanger 211... 11. Heat exchange is performed on the water in the high-temperature zone 110. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 and the fifth heat exchanger 215, so that the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 jointly exchange heat on the water in the medium-temperature zone 120, and at the same time, the fourth heat exchanger 214 and the fifth heat exchanger 215 jointly exchange heat on the water in the medium-temperature circulation zone 130, so as to maximize the utilization of the high-grade energy in the heat pump system and enable the medium-temperature zone 120 and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 to exchange heat together to the required temperature. When the temperature difference between the medium temperature zone 120 and the medium temperature circulation zone 130 is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference value, the first heat exchanger 211 exchanges heat with the water in the high temperature zone 110. The outlet of the first heat exchanger 211 is selectively connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 213 or the fifth heat exchanger 215 in the lower temperature zone. This allows the first heat exchanger 211 to selectively connect the third heat exchanger 213 or the fifth heat exchanger 215 in series to regulate and exchange heat with the water in the medium temperature zone 120 or the medium temperature circulation zone 130, thereby compensating for the heat exchange demand in the lower temperature zone and meeting the user's need for timely hot water in each temperature zone.

[0074] In one possible design, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the hot water storage tank 100 also has a heat preservation mode. When both the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 are greater than or equal to the upper limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone, the heat exchanger assembly 210 stops heat exchange, and the hot water storage tank 100 enters the heat preservation mode. In other words, the heat pump unit 200 can only stop working when both the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 reach the upper limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone. This avoids the waste of electrical energy caused by the heat pump unit 200 continuously heating.

[0075] Specifically, the upper limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone can be 65℃. When the intermediate temperature zone 120 reaches 65℃, both the second heat exchanger 212 and the third heat exchanger 213 in the intermediate temperature zone 120 will stop heat exchange, and the heat pump unit 200 will only stop working when the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 reaches 65℃. That is, the temperature zone that reaches 65℃ is the standard. Moreover, control valves can be installed at the inlet and outlet of the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214, and the fifth heat exchanger 215 to control the flow of the heat exchange medium, thereby controlling the start or stop of the heat exchangers.

[0076] It should be noted that since the water consumption of the high-temperature zone 110 is relatively small, its design capacity can be smaller than that of the medium-temperature zone 120 and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130. In this way, before the medium-temperature zone 120 and the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 reach the upper limit temperature of the medium-temperature zone, the high-temperature zone 110 has already reached the upper limit temperature of the high-temperature zone 90°C. After that, when the heat exchange medium passes through the first heat exchanger 211, it is only used to keep the high-temperature zone 110 warm.

[0077] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown in this embodiment, when at least one of the intermediate temperature zone 120 and the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 is lower than the lower limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone, the hot water storage tank 100 enters the first heat exchange mode or the second heat exchange mode. That is to say, as long as either the intermediate temperature zone 120 or the intermediate temperature circulation zone 130 drops to the lower limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone, the heat pump unit 200 will start working to heat each temperature zone in a timely manner.

[0078] Specifically, the lower limit temperature of the medium temperature zone can be 55℃. When the temperature of the medium temperature zone 120 or the medium temperature circulation zone 130 drops to 55℃, the heat pump unit 200 starts working, and the hot water storage tank 100 enters the first heat exchange mode or the second heat exchange mode, which can ensure that the water in each temperature zone is restored to the required temperature in a timely manner.

[0079] To further compensate for the water temperature in the medium-temperature zone of 120°C, in this embodiment, as follows: Figure 1 As shown, a switching element 101 is provided between the high-temperature zone 110 and the medium-temperature zone 120. When the medium-temperature zone 120 is lower than the lower limit temperature of the medium-temperature zone, the switching element 101 is activated to allow water in the high-temperature zone 110 to flow into the medium-temperature zone 120. This arrangement allows the hot water in the high-temperature zone 110 to compensate for the water consumption in the medium-temperature zone 120, thus ensuring normal water use in the medium-temperature zone 120.

[0080] For example, the lower limit temperature of the intermediate temperature zone can be 40℃, but it can also be any other temperature value, as long as it is less than 55℃. The on / off element 101 is a pipeline with a valve, connecting the high-temperature zone 110 and the intermediate temperature zone 120. The high-temperature zone 110 can be positioned higher than the intermediate temperature zone 120, so that when the valve is open, water in the high-temperature zone 110 can flow into the intermediate temperature zone 120, thus effectively controlling the temperature of the intermediate temperature zone 120. Alternatively, the on / off element 101 can be a pipeline with a pump, which pumps water from the high-temperature zone 110 into the intermediate temperature zone 120. It should be noted that the water in the high-temperature zone 110 flows unidirectionally into the intermediate temperature zone 120; therefore, it is necessary to replenish the high-temperature zone 110 with new incoming water in a timely manner.

[0081] To avoid the water from the high-temperature zone 110 not meeting the drinking requirements for brewing, such as Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the high-temperature zone 110 is provided with a first inlet pipe 111 and a first outlet pipe 112. The first inlet pipe 111 is connected to the high-temperature zone 110 to input cold water; the first outlet pipe 112 is connected to the high-temperature zone 110 to output high-temperature hot water. An auxiliary heater 113 is provided on the first outlet pipe 112. The auxiliary heater 113 is used to reheat the high-temperature hot water in the first outlet pipe 112 for drinking.

[0082] With this configuration, when the hot water from the high-temperature zone 110 flows out of the first outlet pipe 112, if it does not meet drinking requirements, it can be reheated as it flows through the auxiliary heater 113 to increase the water temperature. If the hot water flowing out of the first outlet pipe 112 has already met drinking requirements, it will only be used for heat preservation when it flows through the auxiliary heater 113.

[0083] The first water inlet pipe 111 can be located above the high-temperature zone 110, and the first water outlet pipe 112 can be located at the bottom of the high-temperature zone 110. The auxiliary heater 113 can be an electric heater, a gas heater, etc., and this embodiment does not impose too many restrictions on it.

[0084] Optionally, in this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, the medium-temperature zone 120 is equipped with a second inlet pipe 121 and a second outlet pipe 122. The second inlet pipe 121 is connected to the medium-temperature zone 120 to input cold water; the second outlet pipe 122 is connected to the medium-temperature zone 120 to output medium-temperature hot water for bathing or washing. Thus, cold water is supplied to the medium-temperature zone 120 through the second inlet pipe 121, and the second outlet pipe 122 can be connected to a shower head via a mixing valve for bathing. The second inlet pipe 121 can be positioned above the medium-temperature zone 120, and the second outlet pipe 122 can be positioned at the bottom of the medium-temperature zone 120.

[0085] Optionally, in this embodiment, as Figure 1As shown, the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 is equipped with a third outlet 131 and a third return outlet 132. The third outlet 131 is connected to the inlet of the water heating device 10, and the third return outlet 132 is connected to the outlet of the water heating device 10 to form a water heating circulation loop. This allows the water heating device 10 to radiate the water temperature in the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 to various parts of the room.

[0086] The water heating device 10 can be a water-based air conditioner, underfloor heating, etc. Each water heating device 10 can be connected in parallel to form a separate loop with the third outlet 131 and the third return outlet 132. Furthermore, a circulation pump can be installed on the loop to drive the flow of water in the loop. The third outlet 131 can be located on one side of the bottom of the medium-temperature circulation zone 130, and the third return outlet 132 can be located on the other side of the bottom of the medium-temperature circulation zone 130, at a considerable distance.

[0087] In addition, a water inlet (not shown in the figure) can be installed above the medium-temperature circulation zone 130 to replenish the natural water loss in the medium-temperature circulation zone 130.

[0088] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, a throttle valve 133 is provided on the water heating circulation loop, which is used to control the water flow rate on the water heating circulation loop.

[0089] In this way, when the temperature output by the water heating device 10 is high, the water flow in the water heating circulation loop can be reduced by the throttle valve 133, thereby suppressing the temperature output by the water heating device 10. Conversely, when the temperature output by the water heating device 10 is low, the water flow in the water heating circulation loop can be increased by the throttle valve 133, thereby causing the temperature output by the water heating device 10 to rise.

[0090] In one example, the throttle valve 133 can be installed on the return water pipe of the water heating circulation loop to control the return water flow rate, thereby controlling the water flow rate in the water heating circulation loop. In another example, the throttle valve 133 can also be installed on the inlet water pipe of the water heating circulation loop to control the inlet water flow rate, which also controls the water flow rate in the water heating circulation loop. This embodiment does not impose excessive restrictions on this.

[0091] In the above embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the domestic hot water supply system provided in this embodiment also includes a compressor 220, an expansion valve 230, and an evaporator 240. The inlets of the first heat exchanger 211, the second heat exchanger 212, and the fourth heat exchanger 214 are all connected to the outlet of the compressor 220. The outlets of the second heat exchanger 212, the third heat exchanger 213, the fourth heat exchanger 214, and the fifth heat exchanger 215 are all connected to the inlet of the expansion valve 230. The outlet of the expansion valve 230 is connected to the inlet of the evaporator 240, and the outlet of the evaporator 240 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 220, thus forming a refrigerant circulation loop.

[0092] This creates a complete closed-loop circuit for the heat pump unit 200. When the heat pump unit 200 is operating, heat is released through the heat exchanger assembly 210 and absorbed through the evaporator 240. Of course, this refrigerant circulation circuit can also include other components, such as a gas-liquid separator connected between the outlet of the evaporator 240 and the inlet of the compressor 220 to prevent liquid slugging in the compressor 220. Other components such as pressure gauges and control valves are also included, but this embodiment does not impose excessive restrictions on their use.

[0093] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the inlet and outlet of the second heat exchanger 212 are provided with a first valve group 216 for controlling the on / off state, the inlet and outlet of the third heat exchanger 213 are provided with a second valve group 217 for controlling the on / off state, the inlet and outlet of the fourth heat exchanger 214 are provided with a third valve group 218 for controlling the on / off state, and the inlet and outlet of the fifth heat exchanger 215 are provided with a fourth valve group 219 for controlling the on / off state.

[0094] In this way, the valve assembly can simultaneously control the opening and closing of the outlet and inlet of the heat exchanger, selectively opening or closing each heat exchanger. The valve assembly can be a solenoid valve, capable of quickly and accurately opening or closing each heat exchanger.

[0095] Other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the claims.

[0096] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A domestic hot water supply system characterised in that, The heat storage water tank and the heat pump unit are included, the high temperature area, the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area are respectively arranged in the heat storage water tank, the high temperature area, the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area are all wrapped with heat insulation material, the heat storage water tank has first heat exchange mode and second heat exchange mode; The heat pump unit includes heat exchanger assembly, the heat exchanger assembly includes first heat exchanger arranged in the high temperature area, second heat exchanger and third heat exchanger arranged in the medium temperature area, and fourth heat exchanger and fifth heat exchanger arranged in the medium temperature circulation area; The inlet of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the fourth heat exchanger are all communicated with common heat source, the outlet of the first heat exchanger is communicated with the inlet of at least one of the third heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger, and the outlet of the second heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, the fourth heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger are all communicated with common return circuit; When the temperature difference between the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area is less than preset temperature difference value, the heat storage water tank enters the first heat exchange mode, in the first heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with water in the high temperature area, the outlet of the first heat exchanger is communicated with the inlet of the third heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger, so that the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger exchange heat with water in the medium temperature area, and the fourth heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger exchange heat with water in the medium temperature circulation area; When the temperature difference between the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area is greater than or equal to preset temperature difference value, the heat storage water tank enters the second heat exchange mode, in the second heat exchange mode, the first heat exchanger exchanges heat with water in the high temperature area, and the outlet of the first heat exchanger is selectively communicated with the inlet of the third heat exchanger or the fifth heat exchanger in lower temperature area; The heat storage water tank also has heat preservation mode, when the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area are all greater than or equal to upper limit temperature of medium temperature area, the heat exchanger assembly stops heat exchange, and the heat storage water tank enters the heat preservation mode.

2. The domestic hot water heating system according to claim 1, characterized in that When at least one of the medium temperature area and the medium temperature circulation area is less than lower limit temperature of medium temperature area, the heat storage water tank enters the first heat exchange mode or the second heat exchange mode.

3. A domestic hot water heating system as claimed in claim 2, characterised in that, The high temperature area and the medium temperature area are provided with on-off member, when the medium temperature area is less than lower limit temperature of medium temperature area, the on-off member is communicated to make water in the high temperature area flow into the medium temperature area.

4. A domestic hot water heating system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that, The high temperature area is provided with first water inlet pipe and first water outlet pipe, the first water inlet pipe is communicated with the high temperature area to input cold water, and the first water outlet pipe is communicated with the high temperature area to output high-temperature hot water; Auxiliary heater is arranged on the pipeline of the first water outlet pipe, and the auxiliary heater is used for secondary heating of high-temperature hot water in the first water outlet pipe for drinking.

5. A domestic hot water heating system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that, The medium temperature area is provided with second water inlet pipe and second water outlet pipe, the second water inlet pipe is communicated with the medium temperature area to input cold water, and the second water outlet pipe is communicated with the medium temperature area to output medium-temperature hot water for bathing.

6. A domestic hot water heating system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that, The medium-temperature circulation area is provided with a third water outlet and a third water return port, the third water outlet is used for communicating with the inlet of the water heating device, and the third water return port is used for communicating with the outlet of the water heating device to form a water heating circulation loop.

7. A domestic hot water heating system as claimed in claim 6, characterised in that, The water heating circulation loop is provided with a throttling valve for controlling the water flow on the water heating circulation loop.

8. A domestic hot water heating system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that, Further comprising a compressor, an expansion valve and an evaporator, the inlet of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the fourth heat exchanger are communicated with the outlet of the compressor; The outlet of the second heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, the fourth heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger are communicated with the inlet of the expansion valve, the outlet of the expansion valve is communicated with the inlet of the evaporator, and the outlet of the evaporator is communicated with the inlet of the compressor to form a refrigerant circulation loop.

9. A domestic hot water heating system according to claim 8, characterised in that, The inlet and outlet of the second heat exchanger are provided with a first valve group for controlling on-off, the inlet and outlet of the third heat exchanger are provided with a second valve group for controlling on-off, the inlet and outlet of the fourth heat exchanger are provided with a third valve group for controlling on-off, and the inlet and outlet of the fifth heat exchanger are provided with a fourth valve group for controlling on-off.

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