Heat pump system and control method of heat pump system

Abstract

A heat pump system and a control method of a heat pump can give consideration to both comfort of an indoor side and reliable prevention of freezing of water of a water circuit in a water module by switching and selecting a heat source that exchanges heat with a refrigerant when a defrosting mode is executed, and do not cause a significant increase in energy consumption of the water module, in turn, of the heat pump system. The heat pump system includes an outdoor unit having an outdoor-side heat exchanger, a water module having a refrigerant-water heat exchanger, an indoor unit having an indoor-side heat exchanger, and a control unit, the outdoor unit, the water module, and the indoor unit being connected to each other by a plurality of connection pipes, and the control unit being configured to control the outdoor unit, the water module, and the indoor unit when a defrosting mode is executed. A refrigerant flowing out of the compressor firstly flows through the outdoor heat exchanger, then flows through the defrosting heat source and returns to the compressor, and the defrosting modes comprise a first defrosting mode for defrosting by using the defrosting heat source in the water module and a second defrosting mode for defrosting by using the defrosting heat source in the indoor unit; the control unit selects a defrosting heat source according to preset conditions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat pump system and a control method of a heat pump, and more particularly, to selection of a defrosting heat source for heat exchange with a refrigerant when a defrosting mode is executed. Background Art

[0002] In a system (hereinafter referred to as a "heat pump system") that corresponds to an outdoor unit (hereinafter referred to as an "outdoor unit"), an indoor unit (hereinafter referred to as an "indoor unit") and a water module, when the defrost mode is executed, the indoor air can be used as a defrost heat source in the indoor side heat exchanger of the indoor unit to exchange heat with the refrigerant, or the water flowing in the water circuit (for example, room temperature water) can be used as a defrost heat source in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger of the water module to exchange heat with the refrigerant, or both indoor air and water can be used as defrost heat sources at the same time to exchange heat with the refrigerant.

[0003] However, if indoor air is used as a defrost heat source to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger on the indoor side of the indoor unit, the sound of the refrigerant passing can be heard on the indoor side where the indoor unit is located. Especially when sleeping in a quiet night or in a quiet room, the sound of the refrigerant passing will be particularly harsh and affect comfort. On the other hand, if the water flowing in the water circuit (for example, room temperature water) is used as a defrost heat source in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger of the water module to perform heat exchange with the refrigerant, then in the cold winter in the north, the water flowing in the water circuit of the water module may freeze during the heat exchange with the refrigerant, causing the water in the water circuit of the water module to stop flowing, or even causing the water circuit of the water module to rupture.

[0004] As a technical solution to the freezing of water flowing in the water circuit, the prior art adopts, for example, adding a water pump in the water circuit to speed up the circulation of water flow, or adding an electric heating unit in the water circuit to heat the flowing water. However, adding a water pump can only reduce the possibility of freezing of water flowing in the water circuit. When the refrigerant temperature is very low or the water temperature is not very high, freezing may still occur. Although adding an electric heating unit can reliably prevent freezing, the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system will inevitably increase significantly.

[0005] In addition, the prior art has not studied how to switch the heat source for heat exchange with the refrigerant when the heat pump system is defrosting to simultaneously take into account and solve the above multiple problems, and objectively no corresponding technical means have been taken. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention is made to solve the above-mentioned prior art, and its purpose is to provide a heat pump system and a control method for the heat pump system. When executing the defrost mode, by switching and selecting the heat source for heat exchange with the refrigerant, both the comfort of the indoor side and the reliable prevention of water freezing in the water module in the water circuit can be taken into account, and the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system will not be significantly increased.

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, one aspect of the present invention provides a heat pump system. It includes an outdoor unit with an outdoor heat exchanger, one or more water modules with a refrigerant-water heat exchanger, one or more indoor units with an indoor heat exchanger, and a control unit for controlling the heat pump system. The outdoor unit, the water module, and the indoor unit are interconnected by a plurality of connecting pipes. It is characterized in that when a defrost mode is executed, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor first flows through the outdoor heat exchanger, then flows through a defrost heat source, and returns to the compressor. The defrost mode includes a first defrost mode for defrosting using a defrost heat source in the water module and a second defrost mode for defrosting using a defrost heat source in the indoor unit. The control unit selects the defrost heat source in the water module or in the indoor unit according to preset conditions.

[0008] According to the heat pump system of the present invention, since when executing the defrost mode, the control unit can select the defrost heat source in the water module or the indoor unit according to preset conditions, that is, select the first defrost mode for defrosting using the defrost heat source in the water module and the second defrost mode for defrosting using the defrost heat source in the indoor unit, it can prevent the water flowing in the water circuit of the water module from freezing when executing the defrost mode, and reduce the number of times the refrigerant passes through the indoor unit for heat exchange, thereby improving the comfort of the indoor side where the indoor unit is located, that is, it can take into account both the comfort of the indoor side and the reliable prevention of freezing of water in the water circuit in the water module, and since no high-power-consuming components such as electric heaters are additionally provided, it will not cause a significant increase in the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system.

[0009] Furthermore, the defrost heat source in the water module is water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger of the water module, and the defrost heat source in the indoor unit is indoor air passing through the indoor heat exchanger. When executing the defrost mode, the control unit can select the first defrost mode in which the refrigerant after heat exchange through the outdoor heat exchanger flows to one or more of the refrigerant-water heat exchangers of the water module, or the second defrost mode in which the refrigerant flows to one or more of the indoor heat exchangers of the indoor unit according to preset conditions, for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0010] Alternatively, when a heat storage component is provided in the outdoor unit, the defrost mode includes a third defrost mode for defrosting by utilizing the heat stored in the heat storage component of the outdoor unit. Before selecting the first defrost mode or the second defrost mode according to preset conditions, the control unit preferentially selects the third defrost mode for allowing the refrigerant after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger to flow to the heat storage component for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger. When the heat in the heat storage component is insufficient, the first defrost mode or the second defrost mode is selected.

[0011] According to the structure as described above, by preferentially performing the third defrost mode using the heat storage component as the defrost heat source, the heat stored in the heat storage component such as the heat storage tank is used to increase the temperature of the refrigerant after passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (and the refrigerant heat exchanger). This can prevent the water flowing in the water circuit of the water module from freezing and completely prevent the possibility of the water circuit of the water module from rupturing. It can also prevent the sound of the refrigerant passing from being heard indoors, thereby improving the comfort indoors. In this way, both the comfort indoors and the reliable prevention of the freezing of water in the water circuit in the water module can be taken into account without causing a significant increase in the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system.

[0012] In addition, when the heat of the heat storage component is insufficient, the first defrost mode (water defrost) or the second defrost mode (refrigerant defrost) is selected, which can prevent the first defrost mode (water defrost) from being executed for a long time, which may cause the water flowing in the water circuit of the water module to freeze and the water circuit of the water module to rupture, and can reduce the number of times the refrigerant passes through the indoor unit for heat exchange due to the execution of the second defrost mode (refrigerant defrost), thereby improving the comfort of the indoor side where the indoor unit is located, that is, it can take into account both the comfort of the indoor side and the reliable prevention of freezing of water in the water circuit in the water module, and since no high-power consumption components such as electric heaters are provided separately, the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system will not be significantly increased.

[0013] Preferably, the water piping of the water circuit of the water module comprises a first water pipe connected to the water inlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger and a second water pipe connected to the water outlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger, a floor heating coil is arranged between the first water pipe and the second water pipe, a water pump for circulating water in the water circuit is arranged on the first water pipe or the second water pipe, and the operation of the water pump is controlled when the first defrost mode is executed.

[0014] On this basis, preferably, a heat storage unit is also provided on the water circuit of the water module, and warm water is stored in the heat storage unit when executing the hot water supply mode or when the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are executed simultaneously, and when executing the first defrost mode, heat exchange is carried out between the warm water in the heat storage unit and the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger, thereby enabling defrosting in the first defrost mode to be performed more sustainably while reducing energy consumption.

[0015] In addition, preferably, the heat pump system further comprises a control unit and a detection unit, and when the detection result of the detection unit reaches a preset defrosting condition, the control unit controls the heat pump system to execute the defrosting mode. In addition, preferably, the detection unit detects one or more of the external air temperature, the inlet water temperature and the outlet water temperature of the water module, the refrigerant temperature in the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant temperature in the indoor heat exchanger, and the indoor temperature.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention provides a control method for the aforementioned heat pump system, characterized in that the control method includes the step of, when executing a defrost mode, the control unit selecting, according to preset conditions, to execute a first defrost mode using water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger as a defrost heat source or selecting to execute a second defrost mode using indoor air passing through the indoor side heat exchanger as a defrost heat source.

[0017] Preferably, the detection unit detects the water temperature at the inlet or outlet of the water module. A defrost mode selection step is performed to determine whether the water temperature reaches a preset first temperature or above. When the water temperature is above the first temperature, a first defrost mode is selected using the water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger as the defrost heat source. When the water temperature is lower than the first temperature, a second defrost mode is selected using the indoor air passing through the indoor heat exchanger as the defrost heat source.

[0018] Preferably, when the first defrost mode and the second defrost mode are executed, the defrost is exited when the defrost end condition is met, and the exit type is determined. The defrost end condition includes the following conditions: the water temperature reaches a preset second temperature, and the second temperature is lower than the first temperature; the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger reaches a preset temperature; and the duration of the defrost mode reaches a prescribed defrost duration. When the defrost is exited due to the water temperature reaching the second temperature, the exit type is determined to be an abnormal exit. When the defrost is exited due to the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger reaching the preset temperature or the duration of the defrost mode reaches the prescribed defrost duration, the exit type is determined to be a normal exit.

[0019] It is further preferred that before the defrost mode selection step, an exit type judgment step is included for judging the exit type of the previous defrost exit. In the exit type judgment step, if the exit type of the previous defrost exit is a normal exit, the defrost mode selection step is entered; if the exit type of the previous defrost exit is an abnormal exit, the second defrost mode is selected for execution.

[0020] In addition, preferably, before selecting the defrost mode according to the preset conditions, a water module startup judgment step is also included to judge whether the water module is turned on. In the water module startup judgment step, if the water module is turned on, the defrost mode is selected according to the preset conditions, and if the water module is not turned on, the second defrost mode is selected. Wherein, when there are multiple water modules, as long as one of the water modules is turned on, the water module is turned on, and the defrost mode is selected according to the preset conditions. The unturned water modules do not participate in the defrosting. If all water modules are not turned on, the water modules are not turned on.

[0021] In addition, preferably, the heat pump system receives a defrost command when the defrost conditions are met, and the defrost conditions are any one or more of the following conditions: the cumulative heating operation time exceeds the specified time; the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger is lower than the preset temperature; the capacity of the outdoor unit is reduced to below the specified level; the change in the water temperature of the water module or the water temperature is lower than the target temperature; the amount of frost detected by means of frost layer detection, image detection, and wind pressure detection exceeds the specified level.

[0022] According to the control method of the heat pump system of the present invention, the same or substantially the same as the aforementioned heat pump system, because when executing the defrost mode, the control unit can select the defrost heat source according to the water temperature being above the first temperature as one of the preset conditions, that is, select the second defrost mode in which the refrigerant after heat exchange through the outdoor heat exchanger flows to the indoor heat exchanger (one or more), or the first defrost mode in which the refrigerant flows to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger (one or more), which can prevent the water flowing in the water circuit of the water module from freezing when executing the defrost mode, and reduce the number of times the refrigerant passes through the indoor unit for heat exchange, thereby improving the comfort of the indoor side where the indoor unit is located, that is, it can take into account both the comfort of the indoor side and the reliable prevention of freezing of water in the water circuit in the water module, and because no high-power-consuming components such as electric heaters are additionally provided, it will not cause a significant increase in the energy consumption of the water module and thus the heat pump system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when only the heating mode is executed.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when only the hot water supply mode is executed.

[0025] Figure 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are simultaneously executed.

[0026] Figure 4 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the defrost mode is performed.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a flowchart for explaining the control method of the heat pump system of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when only the heating mode is executed.

[0029] Figure 7 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when only the hot water supply mode is executed.

[0030] Figure 8 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are simultaneously executed.

[0031] Fig. 9 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the defrost mode is performed.

[0032] Fig.10 1 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to a modified example of the present invention, in which a heat storage component such as a heat storage tank is added to the water module.

[0033] Fig.11 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to another modified example of the present invention. Among them, heat storage components such as electric water heaters are added to the water module.

[0034] Fig.12is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to another modified example of the present invention. In which, a heat storage component such as a heat storage tank is added to the outdoor unit, and the flow direction of the refrigerant when executing the heating mode and / or the hot water supply mode is shown.

[0035] Fig.13 is a schematic circuit diagram of a heat pump system according to another modified example of the present invention. Among them, a heat storage component such as a heat storage tank is added to the outdoor unit, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the defrost mode is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] (First Embodiment)

[0037] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 4 , a schematic circuit of a heat pump system 100 to which the first embodiment of the present invention is applied is described, wherein: Figure 1 The flow direction of the refrigerant when only the heating mode is executed is shown. Figure 2 The flow direction of the refrigerant when only the hot water supply mode is executed is shown. Figure 3 The figure shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are executed simultaneously. Figure 4 The flow direction of the refrigerant in the defrosting mode is shown. In addition, it should be noted that the hot water supply mode is not limited to Figures 1 to 4 The floor heating mode shown is a mode in which the temperature of the water in the water circuit SH is increased by heat exchange between the refrigerant and water to warm the floor on which the floor heating coil 600 is laid. It can also be a hot water supply mode in which the temperature of the water in the water circuit SH is increased by heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, and hot water is released from a hot water faucet 800, etc. It can also be other hot water supply modes that can be achieved by the water module 300.

[0038] In addition, Figures 1 to 4 In the diagram, arrows are used to indicate the main direction of refrigerant flow. It shows the flow direction of the refrigerant from the discharge side of the compressor 210 back to the suction side of the compressor 210 via the various main flow conduits.

[0039] <Circuit structure of a general heat pump system 100>

[0040] like Figure 1As shown, the heat pump system 100 of the first embodiment includes an outdoor unit 200, a water module 300 and a plurality of indoor units 400 (a first indoor unit 400A, a second indoor unit 400B), and these outdoor units 200, the water module 300 and the plurality of indoor units 400 are connected to each other through a plurality of connecting pipes. The plurality of connecting pipes include: a first pipe P1 and a second pipe P2 connected between the outdoor unit 200 and the water module 300 and the plurality of indoor units 400. In addition, in the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2, the pipe for the refrigerant to flow from the compressor 210 to the water module 300 and / or the indoor unit 400 is a high-pressure side pipe, and the pipe for the refrigerant to return from the water module 300 and / or the indoor unit 400 to the compressor 210 is a low-pressure side pipe. Therefore, the first pipe P1 is used when performing certain operations (such as heating operation and / or heating operation). The first pipe P1 is a high-pressure side pipe in some operations (such as heating operation and / or hot water supply operation) and a low-pressure side pipe in other operations (such as defrost mode). The second pipe P2 is a low-pressure side pipe in some operations (such as heating operation and / or hot water supply operation) and a high-pressure side pipe in other operations (such as defrost mode).

[0041] In addition, although not shown, the heat pump system 100 also includes a control unit, which includes an outdoor controller (not shown) arranged inside the outdoor unit 200, and the outdoor controller is connected to the electrical components in the outdoor unit 200 via a wired / wireless communication path (not shown). In addition, the outdoor controller can be connected to the electrical components in the water module 300 and the multiple indoor units 400 via a utilization side controller (not shown) respectively arranged in the water module 300 and the multiple indoor units 400. Therefore, the utilization side controller in the water module 300 and the multiple indoor units 400 can also be regarded as a part of the control unit. In addition, in the case of an external control center, the external control center can also be regarded as a part of the control unit. In addition, the utilization side controller can be either the water module 300 and the indoor unit 200 each have a wire controller, or they can be integrated in one controller.

[0042] In addition, although not shown, the heat pump system 100 further includes a detection unit, which detects the external air temperature, the inlet water temperature and the outlet water temperature of the water module 300, the refrigerant temperature in the outdoor heat exchanger 220, the refrigerant temperature in the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B, the indoor temperature, etc. Among them, the external air temperature, the inlet water temperature and the outlet water temperature of the water module 300 can be used as the judgment conditions for judging the start and stop of the water module 300 described later, the refrigerant temperature in the outdoor heat exchanger 220 can be used to judge whether frost has formed and whether defrosting is completed (or whether defrosting is thorough), the refrigerant temperature in the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B can be used to adjust the operating parameters of the indoor unit 400 when it is used as a defrosting heat source, and the indoor temperature can be used to judge the user's comfort and select the distribution of the defrosting heat source in multiple indoor units 400 on the premise of ensuring the comfort.

[0043] (Outdoor unit 200)

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, in the outdoor unit 200, a compressor 210, an outdoor heat exchanger 220, a valve V21, a refrigerant heat exchanger 230, a liquid storage tank 240 and a four-way switching valve VF1 are provided. In addition, in the outdoor unit 200, an outdoor air supply device 250 is also provided, and the outdoor air supply device 250 is used to supply air to the outdoor heat exchanger 220.

[0045] Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, the discharge side of the compressor 210 is connected to one end of the compressor discharge pipe Po, and the other end of the compressor discharge pipe Po is connected to the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1. Figure 1 As shown, the suction side of the compressor 210 is connected to one end of the compressor suction pipe Pi, the other end of the suction pipe Pi is connected to the third port c of the four-way switching valve VF1, and the liquid storage tank 240 is arranged in the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi. Of course, the liquid storage tank 240 may not be arranged in the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi. In addition, the second port b of the four-way switching valve VF1 is connected to the second piping P2, and the fourth port d of the four-way switching valve VF1 is connected to the first piping P1.

[0046] The four-way switching valve VF1 can switch between a first switching state and a second switching state, wherein, when the heat pump system 100 performs operations such as heating and / or hot water supply, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the first switching state, that is, the first port a is connected to the second port b and the third port c is connected to the fourth port d, thereby connecting the compressor discharge pipe Po to the second pipe P2 and connecting the compressor suction pipe Pi to the first pipe P1, and when the heat pump system 100 performs operations such as defrosting, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the second switching state, that is, the first port a is connected to the fourth port d and the third port c is connected to the second port b, thereby connecting the compressor discharge pipe Po to the first pipe P1 and connecting the compressor suction pipe Pi to the second pipe P2.

[0047] The outdoor heat exchanger 220 , the valve V21 , and the refrigerant heat exchanger 230 are sequentially arranged midway in the first pipe P1 from the four-way switching valve VF1 side, more specifically, midway in the portion of the first pipe P1 located in the outdoor unit 200 .

[0048] For the convenience of description, the first piping P1 and the second piping P2 referred to in the present invention both include a corresponding portion of piping (outdoor unit side connecting piping) located in the outdoor unit 200 and an external connecting piping located outside the outdoor unit 200 and connected to the outdoor unit side connecting piping. The outdoor unit side connecting piping of the first piping P1 and the external connecting piping are, for example, bounded by the first stop valve VC1, while the outdoor unit side connecting piping of the second piping P2 and the external connecting piping are, for example, bounded by the second stop valve VC2. That is, the first stop valve VC1 is used to connect the portion of the first piping P1 in the outdoor unit 200 with the portion outside the outdoor unit 200, and the second stop valve VC2 is used to connect the portion of the second piping P2 in the outdoor unit 200 with the portion outside the outdoor unit 200. Under normal circumstances, the first stop valve VC1 and the second stop valve VC2 are in a normally open state. In addition, in some cases, any one of the first stop valve VC1 and the second stop valve VC2 may be omitted.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the outdoor unit 200 further includes a bypass pipe PB and a bypass valve VB, one end of the bypass pipe PB is connected to the portion between the refrigerant heat exchanger 230 and the valve V21 of the first pipe P1, and the other end is connected between the four-way switching valve VF1 of the compressor suction pipe Pi and the liquid storage tank 240. In addition, a portion of the bypass pipe PB is arranged in the refrigerant heat exchanger 230. The bypass valve VB is provided between one end of the bypass pipe PB and a portion arranged in the refrigerant heat exchanger 230.

[0050] (Water Module 300)

[0051] In the first embodiment, the water module 300 is used as an example for description, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and a plurality of water modules 300 may be provided. In addition, the water circuit SH of each water module 300 may be connected to a floor heating coil 600 of floor heating or a domestic water terminal such as a cold water tap 700 and a hot water tap 800 (see Fig.11 ) In addition, the water end connected to each water module 300 can be the same, for example, multiple rooms are equipped with floor heating (floor heating coil 600) that can be started and shut down separately, or different, for example, an electric water heater that can release hot water or instant hot water is installed in a certain room.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, the water module 300 is provided with a refrigerant pipe P301, a water circuit SH composed of a water pipe P302, and a refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 for performing heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe P301 and the water flowing through the water pipe P302. Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, one end of the refrigerant pipe P301 (located at Figure 1 The refrigerant pipe P301 is connected to the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 (located outside the outdoor unit 200) at point K30 in the middle of the refrigerant pipe P301. A valve V31 and a refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 are sequentially provided on the refrigerant pipe P301 from one end thereof. Figure 1 The water pipe P302 of the water circuit SH is provided with a water pump 320 for circulating water in the water pipe P302. The water pump 320 is preferably provided so that the water in the water pipe P302 of the water circuit SH is circulated. Figure 1 Flow in the direction of the solid arrow.

[0053] (Indoor unit 400)

[0054] In the first embodiment, two indoor units 400, namely the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B, are used as an example for explanation, but the present invention is not limited to this. The indoor unit 400 may be more than three, or may be only one, which may be either the first indoor unit 400A or the second indoor unit 400B.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B have the same structure. Therefore, the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B are described below. Explain together.

[0056] The first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B are respectively provided with valves V41A and V41B, indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B, and indoor air supply devices 420A and 420B for supplying heat or cold of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B into the room.

[0057] Specifically, in the middle of the first pipe P1 (at Figure 1 Indoor pipes P401A and P401B are branched at points K40A and K40B in the middle of the indoor pipes P401A and P401B, and the indoor pipes P401A and P401B are connected from one end of each of the indoor pipes P401A and P401B (located at Figure 1 Valves V41A, V41B and indoor heat exchangers 410A, 410B are sequentially provided starting from points K40A, K40B in the middle. One end of the indoor pipes P401A, P401B (located at Figure 1 The points K40A and K40B in the middle are connected to the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 (the part located outside the outdoor unit 200), and the other ends of the indoor pipes P401A and P401B (located at the Figure 1 The second pipe P2 is connected to the external connection pipe (the portion located outside the outdoor unit 200) at points K41A and K41B in the middle.

[0058] Here, the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B are provided in the indoor air supply device 420A, In the flow path of the airflow formed by 420B. In addition, as valves V41A and V41B, electric valves or electromagnetic valves can be used.

[0059] (Heating mode only)

[0060] In heating only mode, if Figure 1As shown, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the first switching state, that is, the compressor discharge pipe Po is connected to the second pipe P2, and the compressor suction pipe Pi is connected to the first pipe P1. In addition, in the heating only mode, the control unit controls to open the valve V41A and / or the valve V41B of the indoor unit 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and / or the second indoor unit 400B), and close the valve V31 of the water module 300. In the first embodiment and the embodiments described below, the indoor unit 400 is started by starting the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B at the same time and opening their valves V41A and V41B. However, according to the user's setting, only any one or any multiple of the multiple indoor units 400 can be started, and the valves therein can be opened accordingly. In addition, although it is mentioned above that the valve V31 of the water module 300 is closed, it is considered that a part of the refrigerant may stagnate in the pipe section upstream of the valve V31 of the refrigerant piping P301 where the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 is located, resulting in a possible shortage of refrigerant. Therefore, in actual situations, it is often considered to slightly open the valve V31 of the water module 300 so that this part of the refrigerant can still flow back to the external connecting piping of the first piping P1.

[0061] Therefore, the term "slightly open" in this specification is not intended to mean "open" or "fully open". The meaning of "open" is not "open" but "close" in essence. In addition, the "open" mentioned in this specification can refer to the full opening of the valve, or the specific opening of the valve can be adjusted according to the working conditions.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the heat pump system 100 is started, the compressor 210 of the outdoor unit 200 compresses the refrigerant, and the refrigerant discharged after being compressed in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1 to the second port b via the compressor discharge pipe Po, and enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 flows into the external connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 via the second stop valve VC2 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2, and Figure 1 The water flows into the indoor pipes P401A and P401B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B at points K41A and K41B in the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B, and then is transported to the first indoor unit 400A along the indoor pipes P401A and P401B. and the indoor side heat exchangers 410A and 410B of the second indoor unit 400B, respectively.

[0063] The refrigerant sent to the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B exchanges heat with the indoor air sent by the indoor air sending devices 430A and 430B in the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B, thereby heating the indoor air.

[0064] In the indoor pipes P401A and P401B, the heat flows through the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B. The refrigerant 410B flows through valves V41A and V41B, respectively, and then flows into the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 at points K40A and K40B, respectively.

[0065] The refrigerant flowing into the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 flows into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the first stop valve VC1, then flows through the refrigerant heat exchanger 230, the valve V21 and the outdoor heat exchanger 220, and exchanges heat with the outdoor air sent by the outdoor air supply device 250 in the outdoor heat exchanger 220. The refrigerant after the heat exchange flows along the first pipe P1, flows from the fourth port d of the four-way switching valve VF1 into the third port c, and returns to the compressor 210 through the compressor suction pipe Pi (flowing through the liquid storage tank 230 provided in the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi).

[0066] At this time, since the valve V31 of the water module 300 is in a closed state, the water circuit SH is disconnected.

[0067] (Only hot water supply mode)

[0068] In the hot water supply only mode, Figure 2 As shown, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the same first switching state as the heating mode only, that is, in the hot water supply only mode, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the outdoor unit 200 is exactly the same as in the heating mode only. Here, only the differences between the two modes are described.

[0069] That is, in hot water supply only mode, if Figure 2As shown, the control unit controls to open the valve V31 of the water module 300, and close the valves V41A and V41B of the indoor units 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B). In addition, although it is mentioned above that the valves V41A and V41B of the indoor units 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B) are closed, it is considered that a part of the refrigerant may stagnate in the pipe section upstream of the valves V41A and V41B of the indoor piping P401A and P401B where the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B are located, resulting in a possible shortage of refrigerant. Therefore, in actual situations, it is often considered to close the valves V41A and V41B of the indoor units 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B). The pipe is slightly opened so that this part of the refrigerant can still flow back to the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1.

[0070] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerant flowing into the external connection pipe of the second pipe P2 through the second stop valve VC2 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2 is Figure 2 The refrigerant flows into the refrigerant pipe P301 of the water module 300 at point K31 in the water circuit SH, and is then transported along the refrigerant pipe P301 to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300. In addition, at this time, the water module 300 is started, and the water is circulated in the water circuit SH by the water pump 320 provided on the water pipe P302 of the water circuit SH.

[0071] The refrigerant delivered to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300 exchanges heat with the water flowing through the water circuit SH in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, so that the temperature of the water flowing through the water circuit SH is increased. Figure 2 As shown, the floor on which the floor heating coil 600 is laid is heated or hot water can be discharged from the hot water tap 800, that is, hot water is supplied. The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the water flowing through the water circuit SH in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 flows through the valve V31, and then flows into the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 at point K30.

[0072] In addition, when there are multiple water modules 300, the valves V31 of some water modules 300 may be opened and the valves V31 of other water modules 300 may be closed as needed. Of course, the valves V31 of all water modules 300 may also be opened.

[0073] (Heating mode and hot water supply mode are executed simultaneously)

[0074] In the heating mode and hot water supply mode, if Figure 3As shown, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the first switching state which is the same as that in the heating mode only and the hot water supply mode only, that is, in the simultaneous heating mode and the hot water supply mode, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the outdoor unit 200 is exactly the same as that in the heating mode only and the hot water supply mode only.

[0075] In addition, in the simultaneous execution of the heating mode and the hot water supply mode, the flow of the refrigerant in the water module 300 is exactly the same as in the execution of only the hot water supply mode, and the flow of the refrigerant in the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B is exactly the same as in the execution of only the heating mode.

[0076] That is, the simultaneous execution of the heating mode and the hot water supply mode is a combination of the execution of only the heating mode and the execution of only the hot water supply mode, and therefore, the flow of the refrigerant therein will not be described in detail.

[0077] (Execute defrost mode)

[0078] When executing defrost mode, Figure 4 As shown, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the second switching state, that is, the compressor discharge pipe Po is connected to the first pipe P1, and the compressor suction pipe Pi is connected to the second pipe P2.

[0079] like Figure 4 As shown, when the heat pump system 100 is started, the compressor 210 of the outdoor unit 200 compresses the refrigerant, and the refrigerant discharged after being compressed in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1 to the fourth port d through the compressor discharge pipe Po, enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1, flows through the outdoor side heat exchanger 220, and exchanges heat with the outdoor air sent by the outdoor air supply device 250. The refrigerant after the heat exchange continues to flow along the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the valve V21 and the refrigerant heat exchanger 230, and then flows into the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the first stop valve VC1.

[0080] At this time, the control unit can select the defrosting heat source according to the preset conditions. In defrost mode, the control unit can select according to preset conditions:

[0081] (i) opening the valve V41A and / or the valve V41B of the indoor unit 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and / or the second indoor unit 400B) and closing the valve V31 of the water module 300 (refrigerant defrosting: second defrosting mode); or

[0082] (ii) The valve V31 of the water module 300 is opened and the valves V41A and V41B of the indoor units 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B) are closed (water defrosting: First defrost mode).

[0083] In other words, the control unit can select, according to preset conditions, to make the refrigerant after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger flow to one or more of the indoor heat exchangers, or to one or more of the refrigerant-water heat exchangers.

[0084] In addition, similar to the above-described case, "closed" includes both "fully closed" and "slightly open". In addition, when there are multiple indoor units 400, as long as any one of the valves V41A or V41B is opened, the flow is directed to the indoor heat exchanger, and when there are multiple water modules 300, as long as any one of the valves V31 is opened, the flow is directed to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger.

[0085] In the refrigerant defrosting mode (second defrosting mode), the refrigerant in the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 is located at Figure 4 The heat exchanger flows into the indoor pipes P401A and P401B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B at points K40A and K40B, and after passing through valves V41A and V41B respectively, it is transported to the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B along the indoor pipes P401A and P401B. At this time, in the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B of the indoor units 400 (the first indoor unit 400A and / or the second indoor unit 400B), the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B absorbs heat (specifically, absorbs the temperature of the indoor air) and the temperature rises, that is, the indoor air is used as a defrosting heat source. The refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B (and the temperature rises) is located at Figure 4 The heat flows into the external connection pipe of the second pipe P2 at points K41A and K41B, and is then used for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger 220.

[0086] When water defrosting is selected (first defrosting mode), the refrigerant in the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 is located at Figure 4The refrigerant flows into the water module 300 at point K30 in the middle of the water module 300, and after passing through the valve V31, is transported to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300 along the refrigerant pipe P301. At this time, in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300, the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B absorbs heat (specifically, absorbs the temperature of the water flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300) and the temperature rises, that is, the water flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300 is used as the defrosting heat source. The refrigerant that has passed through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 (and whose temperature has risen) is located at Figure 4 The heat flows into the external connection pipe of the second pipe P2 at a point K31 in the middle, and is then used for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger 220 .

[0087] (Selection of defrosting heat source) / (Judgment conditions of the first defrosting mode (water defrosting) or the second defrosting mode (refrigerant defrosting))

[0088] Below, refer to Figure 5 Flow chart for the selection of defrost heat source, more specifically, The judgment conditions for selecting the refrigerant after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger 220 to flow to the indoor heat exchangers 410A, 410B (one or more), or to flow to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 (one or more) are described, wherein: Figure 5 This is a flowchart for explaining a control method of the heat pump system 1 according to the present invention.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, the heat pump system 1 receives a defrost instruction when the defrost condition is met (step S100). The defrost condition may be, for example, any one or more of the following conditions: (1) The cumulative duration of heating operation exceeds the specified duration; (2) The temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 220 is lower than the preset temperature (for example, 11°C); (3) The capacity of the outdoor unit 200 is reduced to below the specified level; (4) The change in the water temperature T of the water module 300 or the water temperature T is lower than the target temperature; (5) The amount of frost detected by means such as frost layer detection, image detection, wind pressure detection, etc. reaches a specified level.

[0090] Next, the heat pump system 1 executes the defrost mode and determines the exit type when the defrost was exited last time (step S200 ).

[0091] When the exit type at the last defrost exit is a normal exit, that is, when the determination in step S200 is “yes”, it is determined whether the water module 300 is turned on (step S300 ). In the water modules 300, as long as one water module 300 is turned on, it is determined as "yes" in step S300, and the defrost mode is selected according to the preset conditions later, and the unturned water modules 300 do not participate in the defrost. On the contrary, if all water modules 300 are not turned on, it is determined as "no" in step S300.

[0092] When the determination result in step S300 is “yes”, the water temperature T in the water module 300 involved in defrosting is detected, and it is determined whether the temperature is above a preset first temperature T1 (step S400 ).

[0093] More specifically, when it is determined in step S400 that the return water temperature T is above the preset first temperature T1 (determined as "yes"), it is determined that the return water temperature will not freeze after heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, and at this time, the control unit sends a control instruction to instruct the indoor unit 400 and the respective electrical components of the water module 300 (more specifically, valves V41, V42 and valve V31) to act accordingly to perform water defrosting as the first defrosting mode (step S510). On the contrary, when it is determined in step S400 that the water temperature T is less than the preset first temperature T1 (determined as "no"), it is determined that there is a risk of freezing after heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, and at this time, the control unit sends a control instruction to instruct the indoor unit 400 and the respective electrical components of the water module 300 (more specifically, valves V41, V42 and valve V31) to act accordingly to perform refrigerant defrosting as the second defrosting mode (step S520). In addition, when there are multiple water modules 300, in step S510, a return water volume judgment condition can also be added, that is, if it is judged that the water temperature T is above the preset first temperature T1 and the return water volume is above the specified water volume, then enter step S510. On the contrary, if it is determined that the water temperature T is lower than the preset first temperature T1 or the return water volume is lower than the specified water volume, the process proceeds to step S520.

[0094] When the exit type at the last defrost exit is an abnormal exit, that is, when the determination in step S200 is "No", the process proceeds to step S520, that is, refrigerant defrosting as the second defrost mode is performed.

[0095] In addition, in this defrosting, when all water modules 300 are not turned on, that is, When the determination result in step S300 is "No", the process proceeds to step S520, i.e., refrigerant defrosting as the second defrosting mode is performed. At this time, the running indoor units 400 can be used for defrosting, or some or all of the indoor units 400 that are not started can be started for defrosting according to the actual defrosting demand to speed up the defrosting speed.

[0096] Whether the defrosting is performed by water defrosting as the first defrosting mode or by refrigerant defrosting as the second defrosting mode, the defrosting is exited when the defrosting end condition is met, and the exit type, i.e., normal exit or abnormal exit, is determined (step S600). The defrosting end condition includes, for example, the following conditions: (1) the water temperature T reaches a preset second temperature (e.g., 7°C, lower than the preset first temperature); (2) the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 220 reaches a preset temperature (e.g., 11°C); (3) the defrosting time is reached (e.g., 15 minutes). In addition, when the defrosting is exited due to the defrosting end condition (1), i.e., the water temperature T reaches the second preset value (e.g., 7°C), it is determined as "abnormal exit", and when the defrosting is exited due to the defrosting end condition (2), i.e., the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 220 reaches the preset temperature (e.g., 11°C) or the defrosting end condition (2), i.e., the defrosting time is reached (e.g., 15 minutes), it is determined as "normal exit".

[0097] In addition, the defrost can also be exited when the defrost end condition (1), that is, the water temperature T reaches the second preset value (for example, 7°C), and (2), that is, the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 220 does not reach the preset temperature, is not satisfied.

[0098] In addition, the defrost can be exited when the defrost end condition (1), i.e. the water temperature T reaches the second preset value (e.g. 7°C), is met and (3), i.e. the defrost time is not reached, is not satisfied.

[0099] Whether the above-mentioned conditions are satisfied can be determined by an outdoor controller not shown in the figure, or by a user-side controller not shown in the figure, or by a control center not shown in the figure. When the outdoor controller makes the above-mentioned judgment, the outdoor controller transmits the control instruction to the user-side controllers of the indoor unit 400 and the water module 300 respectively, and the user-side controllers of the two parties respectively perform the corresponding actions of the electrical components therein based on the control instructions. When the user-side controller makes the above-mentioned judgment, the user-side controller of any one (for example, the water module 300) that triggers the condition transmits the control instruction to the user-side controller of the other (for example, the indoor unit 400) that is not triggered in a wireless or wired form, thereby, the user-side controllers of the two parties respectively perform the corresponding actions of the electrical components therein based on the control instruction. When the control center makes the above-mentioned judgment, the control instruction is directly sent from the control center to the outdoor controller and the user-side controller, and each controller performs the corresponding actions of the electrical components therein based on the control instruction.

[0100] According to the first embodiment, when the heat pump system 100 is in the defrost mode, the control unit can select the defrost heat source according to the preset conditions, that is, the refrigerant after the heat exchange through the outdoor heat exchanger 220 is selected to flow to the indoor heat exchanger 410A, 410B (one or more), or to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 (one or more), which can prevent the water flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300 from freezing when the defrost mode is executed, and reduce the number of times the refrigerant passes through the indoor unit 400 for heat exchange, thereby improving the comfort of the indoor side where the indoor unit 400 is located, that is, it can take into account both the comfort of the indoor side and the reliable prevention of the freezing of water in the water circuit SH in the water module 300, and since no high-power consumption components such as electric heaters are provided separately, it will not cause a significant increase in the energy consumption of the water module 300 and thus the heat pump system 100.

[0101] (Second Embodiment)

[0102] Below, refer to Figures 6 to 8 , a schematic circuit of a heat pump system 100 to which the second embodiment of the present invention is applied is described, wherein: Figure 6 The flow direction of the refrigerant when only the heating mode is executed is shown. Figure 7 The flow direction of the refrigerant when only the hot water supply mode is executed is shown. Figure 8 The figure shows the flow direction of the refrigerant when the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are executed simultaneously. Fig. 9 The flow direction of the refrigerant in the defrosting mode is shown. In addition, similar to the first embodiment, the hot water supply mode is not limited to the floor heating mode, but may be a hot water supply mode or other hot water supply mode that the water module 300 can implement.

[0103] In addition, Figures 6 to 9 In FIG. 1 , similarly to the first embodiment, arrows are used to indicate the main direction of the refrigerant flow, which shows the flow direction of the refrigerant from the discharge side of the compressor 210 through each main flow pipe back to the suction side of the compressor 210 .

[0104] In the second embodiment, the description will be mainly focused on the differences from the first embodiment, wherein the same or corresponding components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and the description will not be repeated.

[0105] <Circuit structure of a general heat pump system 100>

[0106] like Figure 6As shown, the heat pump system 100 of the second embodiment includes an outdoor unit 200, a water module 300, and a plurality of indoor units 400 (a first indoor unit 400A, a second indoor unit 400B), and these outdoor units 200, the water module 300, and the plurality of indoor units 400 are connected to each other through a plurality of connecting pipes. The plurality of connecting pipes include: a first pipe P1, a second pipe P2, and a third pipe P3 connected between the outdoor unit 200 and the water module 300 and the plurality of indoor units 400. In addition, among the first piping P1, the second piping P2 and the third piping P3, the piping for the refrigerant to flow from the compressor 210 to the water module 300 and / or the indoor unit 400 is the high-pressure side piping, and the piping for the refrigerant to return from the water module 300 and / or the indoor unit 400 to the compressor 210 is the low-pressure side piping. Therefore, the first piping P1 is the high-pressure side piping when performing certain operations (for example, heating operation and / or hot water supply operation), and is the low-pressure side piping when performing other operations (for example, defrost mode). On the contrary, the second piping P2 and the third piping P3 are the low-pressure side piping when performing certain operations (for example, heating operation and / or hot water supply operation), and are the high-pressure side piping when performing other operations (for example, defrost mode).

[0107] (Outdoor unit 200)

[0108] like Figure 6 As shown, in the outdoor unit 200, compared with the outdoor unit 200 of the first embodiment, a second switching valve VF2 is further provided.

[0109] Specifically, if Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , a compressor discharge branch pipe Po1 is branched out from the middle of the compressor discharge pipe Po, and one end of the compressor discharge branch pipe Po1 is Figure 6 The point K11 in the middle is connected to the compressor discharge pipe Po, and the other end is connected to the first port a1 of the second switching valve VF2. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , a compressor suction branch pipe Pi 1 is branched out from the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi, and one end of the compressor suction branch pipe Pi 1 is Figure 6 The point K12 in the middle is connected to the compressor suction pipe Pi, and the other end is connected to the third port c1 of the second switching valve VF2. In addition, the liquid storage tank 240 is set in the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi, more specifically, between the point K12 and the suction side of the compressor 210. In addition, the second port b1 of the second switching valve VF2 is connected to the third pipe P3. Figure 6 In the figure, the second switching valve VF2 is exemplified as a four-way valve whose fourth port d1 is blocked, but a three-way valve having only the first port a1, the second port b1, and the third port c1 may be used.

[0110] The second switching valve VF2 can switch between a first switching state and a second switching state, wherein, when the heat pump system 100 performs operations such as heating and / or hot water supply, the second switching valve VF2 is switched to the first switching state, that is, the first port a1 is connected to the second port b1 and the third port c is disconnected or connected to the blocked fourth port d, thereby connecting the compressor discharge branch pipe Po1 to the third pipe P3, and when the heat pump system 100 performs operations such as defrosting, the second switching valve VF2 is switched to the second switching state, that is, the third port c1 is connected to the second port b1 and the first port a1 is disconnected or connected to the blocked fourth port d1, thereby connecting the compressor suction branch pipe Pi 1 to the third pipe P3.

[0111] In addition, Figure 6 Alternatively, the valve V22 may be provided midway in the second pipe P2 from the four-way switching valve VF1 side, more specifically, midway in a portion of the second pipe P2 located in the outdoor unit 200 .

[0112] For ease of description, the third piping P3 in the second embodiment also includes a corresponding portion of piping (outdoor unit side connecting piping) located in the outdoor unit 200 and an external connecting piping located outside the outdoor unit 200 and connected to the outdoor unit side connecting piping, similarly to the first piping P1 and the second piping P2 in the first embodiment. The outdoor unit side connecting piping and the external connecting piping of the third piping P3 are separated by, for example, the third stop valve VC3. That is, the third stop valve VC3 is used to connect the portion of the third piping P3 in the outdoor unit 200 with the portion outside the outdoor unit 200. Under normal circumstances, the third stop valve VC3 is in a normally open state. In addition, in some cases, the third stop valve VC3 may also be omitted.

[0113] (Water Module 300)

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown, in the water module 300, one end of the refrigerant pipe P301 (located at Figure 6 The refrigerant pipe P301 is connected to the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 (located outside the outdoor unit 200) at K30 in the figure, and the other end of the refrigerant pipe P301 (located outside the outdoor unit 200) is connected to the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 (located outside the outdoor unit 200). Figure 6 The third pipe P3 is connected to the external connecting pipe (located outside the outdoor unit 200) at a point K31 in the middle.

[0115] (Indoor unit 400)

[0116] In the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, two indoor units 400, namely a first indoor unit 400A and a second indoor unit 400B are used as an example for explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of indoor units 400 may be more than three, or there may be only one first indoor unit 400A.

[0117] In the second embodiment, the first indoor unit 400A is provided with a valve V41A, an indoor heat exchanger 410A (first indoor heat exchanger), a valve V42A, a second indoor heat exchanger 430A and an indoor air supply device 420A for delivering heat or cold of the first indoor unit 400A into the room.

[0118] Specifically, in the middle of the first pipe P1 (at Figure 6 The indoor pipe P401A is branched at a point K40A in the middle of the indoor pipe P401A from one end of the indoor pipe P401A (located at Figure 6 A valve V41A and an indoor heat exchanger 410A are sequentially provided starting from point K40A in the middle. One end of the indoor pipe P401A (located at Figure 6 The other end of the indoor side pipe P401A (located at the point K40A in the middle) is connected to the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 (the part located outside the outdoor unit 200), and the other end of the indoor side pipe P401A (located at the Figure 6 The second pipe P2 is connected to the external connection pipe (the portion located outside the outdoor unit 200) at point K41A in the middle.

[0119] Unlike the first indoor unit 400A in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, a valve is provided in the middle of the indoor pipe P401A between the point K40A and the valve V41A (at Figure 6 The second indoor pipe P402A is branched at point K42A in the middle of the second indoor pipe P402A from one end (located at Figure 6 A valve V42A and a second indoor heat exchanger 430A are sequentially provided starting from point K42A in the middle. One end of the second indoor pipe P402A (located at Figure 6 The other end of the second indoor pipe P402A (located at the point K42A in the middle) is connected to the indoor pipe P401A and is located between the valve V41A and one end of the indoor pipe P401A. Figure 6 The third pipe P3 is connected to a point K43A in the middle of the outdoor unit 200 with respect to an external connection pipe (a portion located outside the outdoor unit 200).

[0120] Here, the indoor heat exchanger 410A and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A are provided in the flow path of the air flow formed by the indoor air supply device 420A. And valve V42A, can use electric valve or solenoid valve.

[0121] (Heating mode only)

[0122] In heating only mode, if Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the first switching state, that is, the compressor discharge pipe Po is connected to the second pipe P2, and the compressor suction pipe Pi is connected to the first pipe P1. The second switching valve VF2 is switched to the first switching state, that is, the compressor discharge branch pipe Po1 is connected to the third pipe P3. In addition, it is preferred that the valve V22 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2 is opened.

[0123] In addition, in the heating only mode, the control unit controls to open the valves V41A and V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B, and to close the valve V31 of the water module 300 .

[0124] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the heat pump system 100 is started, the compressor 210 of the outdoor unit 200 compresses the refrigerant, and a portion of the refrigerant discharged after being compressed in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1 to the second port b via the compressor discharge pipe Po, and enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 flows into the external connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 via the second stop valve VC2 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2, and Figure 6 The heat energy flows into the indoor pipes P401A and P401B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B at points K41A and K41B in the heat exchanger, and is then transported to the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B along the indoor pipes P401A and P401B.

[0125] Another part of the refrigerant compressed and discharged in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a1 of the second switching valve VF2 into the second port b1 through the compressor discharge branch pipe Po1, and enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the third pipe P3. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P3 flows into the external connecting pipe of the third pipe P3 through the third stop valve VC3 provided in the middle of the third pipe P3, and then flows into the external connecting pipe of the third pipe P3. Figure 6 The heat flows into the second indoor side pipe P402A of the first indoor unit 400A at a point K43A in the middle, and is then transported to the second indoor side heat exchanger 430A of the first indoor unit 400A along the second indoor side pipe P402A.

[0126] The refrigerant transported to the indoor heat exchangers 410A, 410B and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B exchanges heat with the indoor air sent by the indoor air supply devices 430A, 430B in the indoor heat exchangers 410A, 410B and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A, thereby heating the indoor air.

[0127] In the second indoor pipe P402A of the first indoor unit 400A, the refrigerant that has passed through the second indoor heat exchanger 430A passes through the valve V42A and then flows into the indoor pipe P401A of the first indoor unit 400A at a point K42A.

[0128] In the indoor side pipe P401A of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B, In P401B, the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchangers 410A and 410B respectively flows through valves V41A and V41B, merges with the refrigerant from the second indoor pipe P402A, and flows into the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 at points K40A and K40B, respectively.

[0129] The refrigerant flowing into the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 flows into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the first stop valve VC1, then flows through the refrigerant heat exchanger 230, the valve V21 and the outdoor heat exchanger 220, and exchanges heat with the outdoor air sent by the outdoor air supply device 250 in the outdoor heat exchanger 220. The refrigerant after the heat exchange flows along the first pipe P1, flows from the fourth port d of the four-way switching valve VF1 into the third port c, and returns to the compressor 210 through the compressor suction pipe Pi (flowing through the liquid storage tank 230 provided in the middle of the compressor suction pipe Pi).

[0130] At this time, since the valve V31 of the water module 300 is in a closed state, the water circuit SH is disconnected.

[0131] (Only hot water supply mode)

[0132] In the hot water supply only mode, Figure 7 As shown, the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the first switching state similar to the heating mode, and the second switching valve VF2 is switched to the first switching state similar to the heating mode. However, the valve V22 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2 is closed.

[0133] like Figure 7As shown, when the heat pump system 100 is started, the compressor 210 of the outdoor unit 200 compresses the refrigerant, and a part of the refrigerant (a very small amount of refrigerant) discharged after being compressed in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1 to the second port b via the compressor discharge pipe Po, and enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2. Since the valve V22 set in the middle of the second pipe P2 is closed, the refrigerant will not flow to the second indoor side pipe P402A of the first indoor unit 400A and the indoor side pipe P401B of the second indoor unit 400B. In addition, although it is mentioned above that the valve V22 of the outdoor unit 200 is closed, it is considered that a part of the refrigerant will stagnate in the pipe section upstream of the valve V22 of the second pipe P2, resulting in a possible shortage of refrigerant. Therefore, in actual situations, it is often considered to slightly open the valve V22 of the outdoor unit 200 so that this part of the refrigerant can still flow back to the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1.

[0134] Another part (large amount of refrigerant) of the refrigerant compressed and discharged in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a1 of the second switching valve VF2 into the second port b1 via the compressor discharge branch pipe Po1, and enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the third pipe P3. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P3 flows into the external connecting pipe of the third pipe P3 via the third stop valve VC3 provided in the middle of the third pipe P3.

[0135] In addition, in heating only mode, if Figure 7 As shown, the control unit controls to open the valve V31 of the water module 300, and close the valves V41A and V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B. In addition, although it is mentioned above that the valves V41A, V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B are closed, it is considered that a part of the refrigerant will stagnate in the pipe sections upstream of the valves V41A, V41B and valve V42A of the indoor pipes P401A, P401B and the second indoor pipe P402A where the indoor heat exchangers 410A, 410B and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A are located, which may lead to a situation of insufficient refrigerant. Therefore, in actual situations, it is often considered to slightly open the valves V41A, V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B so that this part of the refrigerant can still flow back to the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1.

[0136] In addition, if Figure 7 As shown, the refrigerant flowing into the external connection pipe of the third pipe P3 through the third stop valve VC3 provided in the middle of the third pipe P3 is Figure 7The refrigerant flows into the refrigerant pipe P301 of the water module 300 at a point K31 in FIG. 1 , then flows in the water module 300 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and then flows into the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 at a point K30 .

[0137] The refrigerant having flowed into the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 flows into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 via the first stop valve VC1 and returns to the compressor 210 in the same manner as in the heating only mode.

[0138] (Simultaneous execution of heating mode and hot water supply mode)

[0139] In the heating mode and hot water supply mode, if Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the same first switching state as in the heating mode and the hot water supply mode, and the second switching valve VF2 is switched to the same first switching state as in the heating mode and the hot water supply mode. In addition, the valve V22 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2 is opened as in the heating mode. That is, in the simultaneous heating mode and the hot water supply mode, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the outdoor unit 200 is exactly the same as in the heating mode.

[0140] In addition, in the simultaneous execution of the heating mode and the hot water supply mode, the flow of the refrigerant in the water module 300 is exactly the same as in the execution of only the hot water supply mode, and the flow of the refrigerant in the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B is exactly the same as in the execution of only the heating mode.

[0141] That is, the simultaneous execution of the heating mode and the hot water supply mode is a combination of the execution of only the heating mode and the execution of only the hot water supply mode, and therefore, the flow of the refrigerant therein will not be described in detail.

[0142] (Execute defrost mode)

[0143] When executing defrost mode, Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the four-way switching valve VF1 is switched to the second switching state, that is, the compressor discharge pipe Po is connected to the first pipe P1, and the compressor suction pipe Pi is connected to the second pipe P2. In addition, the second switching valve VF2 is switched to the second switching state, that is, the compressor suction branch pipe Pi1 is connected to the third pipe P3. In addition, the valve V22 provided in the middle of the second pipe P2 is opened.

[0144] like Fig. 9As shown, when the heat pump system 100 is started, the compressor 210 of the outdoor unit 200 compresses the refrigerant, and the refrigerant discharged after being compressed in the compressor 210 flows from the first port a of the four-way switching valve VF1 to the fourth port d through the compressor discharge pipe Po, enters the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1, flows through the outdoor side heat exchanger 220, and exchanges heat with the outdoor air sent by the outdoor air supply device 250. The refrigerant after the heat exchange continues to flow along the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the valve V21 and the refrigerant heat exchanger 230, and then flows into the external connecting pipe of the first pipe P1 through the first stop valve VC1.

[0145] At this time, similarly to the first embodiment, the control unit can select the defrosting heat source according to the preset conditions. Specifically, in the defrosting mode, the control unit can select according to the preset conditions:

[0146] (i) Open the valves V41A and V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B and close the valve V31 of the water module 300 (refrigeration defrosting): Second defrost mode); or

[0147] (ii) The valve V31 of the water module 300 is opened, and the valves V41A and V42A of the first indoor unit 400A and the valve V41B of the second indoor unit 400B are closed (water defrosting: first defrosting mode).

[0148] In other words, the control unit can select, according to preset conditions, to make the refrigerant after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger flow to one or more of the indoor heat exchangers, or to one or more of the refrigerant-water heat exchangers.

[0149] In the refrigerant defrosting mode (second defrosting mode), the refrigerant in the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 is located at Fig. 9 The water flows into the indoor side pipes P401A and P401B of the first indoor unit 400A and the second indoor unit 400B at points K40A and K40B in the middle.

[0150] The refrigerant having flowed into the indoor-side pipe P401B of the second indoor unit 400B passes through the valve V41B, and is sent to the indoor-side heat exchanger 410B of the second indoor unit 400B along the indoor-side pipe P401B.

[0151] A portion of the refrigerant flowing into the indoor pipe P401B of the first indoor unit 400B is transported to the indoor heat exchanger 410A of the first indoor unit 400A along the indoor pipe P401A after passing through the valve V41A, and the other portion branches off from the indoor pipe P401B and flows into the second indoor pipe P402A, and is transported to the second indoor heat exchanger 430A of the first indoor unit 400A along the second indoor pipe P402A after passing through the valve V42A.

[0152] At this time, in the indoor heat exchanger 410A and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A of the first indoor unit 400A and / or the indoor heat exchanger 410B of the second indoor unit 400B, the indoor air delivered by the indoor air supply device 430A, 430B is used to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 410A, 410B and the second indoor heat exchanger 430A, that is, the indoor air delivered by the indoor air supply device 430A, 430B is the heat source for heat exchange with the refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 410A, 410B is located at Fig. 9 The refrigerant flows into the external connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 at points K41A and K41B in the second indoor heat exchanger 430A, and the refrigerant flows into the external connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 at points K41A and K41B in the second indoor heat exchanger 430A. Fig. 9 The liquid flows into the external connection pipe of the third pipe P3 at a point K43A in the middle.

[0153] When water defrosting is selected (first defrosting mode), the refrigerant in the external connection pipe of the first pipe P1 is located at Fig. 9 The refrigerant flows into the water module 300 at point K30 in the water module 300, and after flowing through the valve V31, it is transported to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300 along the refrigerant pipe P301. At this time, in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 of the water module 300, the warm water (for example, room temperature water) flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300 is used as a defrosting heat source to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, that is, the warm water flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300 is the heat source for heat exchange with the refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 is located at Fig. 9 The liquid flows into the external connection pipe of the third pipe P3 at a point K31 in the middle.

[0154] The refrigerant flowing into the external connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 flows into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the second pipe P2 via the second stop valve VC2, flows from the second port b of the four-way switching valve VF1 into the third port c, and returns to the compressor 210 via the compressor suction pipe Pi (flowing through the liquid storage tank 230 provided midway in the compressor suction pipe Pi).

[0155] The refrigerant flowing into the external connecting pipe of the third pipe P3 flows into the outdoor unit side connecting pipe of the third pipe P3 through the third stop valve VC3, flows into the third port c1 from the second port b1 of the second switching valve VF2, and returns to the compressor 210 through the compressor suction branch pipe Pi1 (flowing through the liquid storage tank 230 provided midway in the compressor suction pipe Pi).

[0156] In addition, since the selection of the defrosting heat source when executing the defrosting mode in the second embodiment is exactly the same as that in the first embodiment, the preset conditions are also substantially the same as those in the first embodiment. Therefore, according to the second embodiment, the same technical effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0157] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other advantages and modifications. Therefore, in its broader sense, the present invention is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein. Therefore, modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0158] (Variation Example)

[0159] In the first and second embodiments, the heat pump system 100 is described as having two indoor units 400 (a first indoor unit 400A and a second indoor unit 400B), but the present invention is not limited thereto. The heat pump system 100 may also have only one indoor unit 400 or more than three indoor units 400, and the indoor unit 400 may have all or part of the indoor units 400. Figures 1 to 4 The first indoor unit 400A may have the same structure as the first indoor unit 400A in FIG. Figures 6 to 9 The first indoor unit 400B has the same structure. In addition, it is needless to say that as long as it is an indoor unit that can constitute the indoor side of the heat pump system 100, the circuit composition is not limited to the indoor unit 400 shown in the present application.

[0160] In this application, it is also possible to Fig.10 and Fig.11As shown, a heat storage unit 900 such as a hot water storage tank or an electric water heater is added to the water module 300. When the heat storage unit 900 such as a hot water storage tank or an electric water heater is set in the water module 300, warm water is stored in the heat storage unit 900 such as the hot water storage tank or the electric water heater in the hot water supply mode only and the heating mode and the hot water supply mode are simultaneously executed. In the defrosting mode, the warm water stored in the heat storage unit 900 such as the hot water storage tank or the electric water heater is used to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, so that the water defrosting as the first defrosting mode can be performed more permanently while reducing energy consumption. In addition, when the water circuit SH is provided with a heat storage unit 900 such as a hot water storage tank or an electric water heater, a branch of domestic hot water can be drawn from the heat storage unit 900 such as the hot water storage tank or the electric water heater, but the domestic hot water branch is unidirectional and does not participate in the circulation. Without a heat storage unit 900 such as a hot water tank or an electric water heater, a domestic hot water branch can be directly drawn out from the water outlet of the water module 300, but sometimes the floor heating performance will be affected.

[0161] Specifically, if Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the water pipe P302 of the water circuit SH includes a first water pipe P302A connected to the water inlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 and a second water pipe P302B connected to the water outlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 .

[0162] exist Fig.10In one example shown, the heat storage pipe PAcc is provided in parallel with the floor heating coil 600 between the first water pipe P302A and the second water pipe P302B, and the heat storage unit 900 such as a heat storage tank is provided on the heat storage pipe PAcc. Preferably, the water pump 320 is provided on the second water pipe P302B, and one end of the heat storage pipe PAcc is provided on the second water pipe P302B at a position downstream of the water flow direction of the water pump 320. In addition, a control valve V32 for switching control of whether water enters the floor heating coil 600 (or whether the floor heating is turned on) is provided on the first water pipe P302A, and the other end of the heat storage pipe PAcc is provided on the first water pipe P301A at a position downstream of the control valve V32 in the water flow direction. When performing floor heating, the control valve V32 is opened to allow water to flow in the direction of the second water pipe P302B, the floor heating coil 600, the first water pipe P301A, the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310, and the second water pipe P302B in sequence. In addition, the heat storage unit 900 is closed, and the heat in the circulating water will not be accumulated even if the water flows through the heat storage unit 900. On the other hand, when performing heat storage, the control valve V32 is closed and the heat storage unit 900 is opened to allow water to flow in the direction of the second water pipe P302B, the heat storage unit 900 (heat storage unit 900) in sequence. The heat in the circulating water is stored in the heat storage unit 900 provided in the heat storage pipe PAcc by flowing in the direction of the first water pipe P301A, the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 and the second water pipe P302B. In addition, the water circulating in the water circuit SH will not flow through the floor heating coil 600, and therefore, will not lose heat in the process of flowing through the floor heating coil 600. Therefore, when floor heating is performed, the heat storage unit 900 has little impact on the use of floor heating on the indoor side, and when storing heat, the heat storage efficiency is high.

[0163] In addition, Fig.11 In another example shown, the water module 300 is connected to a floor heating coil 600 and a heat storage unit 900 such as an electric water heater connected to a domestic water terminal such as a cold water tap 700 and a hot water tap 800. The heat storage pipe PAcc is arranged in parallel with the floor heating coil 600 between the first water pipe P302A and the second water pipe P302B, and the heat storage unit 900 is arranged on the heat storage pipe PAcc. Fig.11 In the example shown, the floor heating coil 600 may not be provided. Figures 1 to 4 The first embodiment shown and Figures 6 to 9 In the second embodiment shown, the floor heating coil 600 is replaced by a heat storage unit 900 (+ cold water tap 700, hot water tap 800).

[0164] Apart from Fig.10 and Fig.11In addition to adding a heat storage unit 900 such as a hot water storage tank or an electric water heater to the water module 300 as shown in FIG. Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown in the figure, in the outdoor unit 200, the high pressure side pipe (for example Fig.13 The second pipe P2 in the defrosting mode shown in the figure is connected to the low-pressure side pipe (for example Fig.13 In the defrosting mode shown in FIG. 1 , a heat storage pipe PAcc is provided in parallel with the indoor unit 400 and the water module 300, and a heat storage component 900A is provided on the heat storage pipe PAcc. In addition, preferably, a control valve VAcc for regulating the inflow / outflow of refrigerant is provided on the heat storage pipe PAcc. When the heat storage component 900A such as a heat storage tank is provided in the outdoor unit 200, Fig.12 In the heating mode only, the hot water supply mode only, and the heating mode and the hot water supply mode simultaneously, the control valve VAcc is opened to store the heat in the circulating refrigerant through the heat storage component 900A such as the heat storage tank, and Fig.13 When executing the defrost mode shown in the figure, the control unit preferentially executes the third defrost mode before selecting whether to execute the water defrost as the first defrost mode or the refrigerant defrost as the second defrost mode, wherein the heat storage component 900A such as the heat storage tank is used as the defrost heat source, and the heat stored in the heat storage component 900A such as the heat storage tank is used for defrosting. At this time, the control valve VAcc is opened, and the heat stored in the heat storage component 900A such as the heat storage tank is used to increase the temperature of the refrigerant after passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 220 (and the refrigerant heat exchanger 330), which can prevent the water flowing in the water circuit SH of the water module 300 from freezing, completely prevent the possibility of the water circuit SH of the water module 300 from rupturing, and prevent the sound of the refrigerant passing from being heard indoors, thereby improving the comfort of the indoors, thereby taking into account both the comfort of the indoors and the reliable prevention of freezing of the water circuit in the water module, and will not cause a significant increase in the energy consumption of the water module 300 and the heat pump system 100.

[0165] In addition, when the heat storage component 900A is insufficient, the control valve VAcc is closed. A selection is then made as to whether to perform water defrosting as a first defrosting mode or to perform refrigerant defrosting as a second defrosting mode.

[0166] In addition, in the present invention, it is also conceivable that the outdoor unit 200 and the water module 300 are connected through a refrigerant pipeline (a first pipe P1, a second pipe P2, a third pipe P3, a refrigerant pipe P301, etc.), the water module 300 and a water-using end such as a floor heating are connected through a water pipe, and a manifold is provided between the water module 300 and the water-using end such as a floor heating. In addition, the manifold is generally provided with a solenoid valve to control the opening and closing of the water path. Usually, when the water temperature of the floor heating reaches a preset value, the water circulation between the floor heating (the floor heating coil 600) and the water module 300 is cut off, that is, the water path in the floor heating is closed by closing the solenoid valve.

[0167] In addition, in the present invention, the manifold includes a water distribution unit and a water collection unit. The water distribution unit includes a main pipe and multiple branch pipes. The main pipe is connected to the water outlet of the water module 300, and the multiple branch pipes are respectively connected to multiple water use ends; at the same time, the water collection unit also includes a main pipe and multiple branch pipes. The main pipe is connected to the water inlet of the water module, and the multiple branch pipes are connected to multiple water use ends; after the water undergoes heat exchange in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 in the water module 300, it flows from the water distribution pipe to the water outlet in sequence, and flows from the water outlet to the main pipe, branch pipe, water use end, branch pipe, and main pipe of the water distribution unit, and then flows to the refrigerant-water heat exchanger 310 via the water inlet of the water module 300. Usually, the water distribution unit can be provided with an on-off valve on the main pipe to control only the on-off between the water module 300 and the water-using end. Of course, an on-off valve (such as a solenoid valve) can also be provided on each branch pipe to control the on-off of each branch. In addition, a valve capable of simultaneously adjusting the on-off and the opening degree can also be provided on each branch pipe, so that the flow rate can be adjusted while adjusting the on-off of each branch.

[0168] In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, although not elaborated in detail, the first defrosting mode further includes the following situations:

[0169] (1) If the amount of frost is small and the water temperature in the water module 300 (disconnected from the floor heating) is sufficient for defrosting, the solenoid valve of the manifold does not need to be opened, that is, the floor heating as the water-using end does not need to participate in defrosting;

[0170] (2) If the water temperature in the water module 300 (disconnected from the floor heating) is not high enough for defrosting, You can choose to have all floor heating units involved in defrosting based on defrosting requirements and floor heating usage. Either part of the floor heating participates in the defrosting, or the amount of water participating in the defrosting of each floor heating participating in the defrosting is adjusted.

[0171] (3) If a heat storage unit 900 is provided in the water circuit to store the heated water, And keep the water warm and store heat.

[0172] Since the defrosting is performed by using the defrosting heat source in the indoor unit, the defrosting is fast but the indoor temperature fluctuates greatly and the comfort is poor, while the defrosting is performed by using the water module to allow the water end such as the floor heating to participate in the defrosting, although the defrosting is slow, the indoor temperature fluctuates less and the comfort is good, so the latter is usually selected. If the heat storage unit 900 is provided, the warm water and the refrigerant can be further used for heat exchange, the ambient temperature changes slowly, and the comfort is high.

Claims

1. A heat pump system, comprising an outdoor unit having an outdoor heat exchanger, one or more water modules having a refrigerant-water heat exchanger, one or more indoor units having an indoor heat exchanger, and a control unit for controlling the heat pump system, wherein the outdoor unit, the water modules, and the indoor units are connected to each other via a plurality of connecting pipes. It is characterized in that When the defrosting mode is executed, the refrigerant flowing out of the compressor first flows through the outdoor heat exchanger, then flows through the defrosting heat source, and returns to the compressor. The defrost mode includes a first defrost mode for defrosting using a defrost heat source in the water module and a second defrost mode for defrosting using a defrost heat source in the indoor unit. The control unit selects a defrost heat source in the water module or a defrost heat source in the indoor unit according to a preset condition.

2. The heat pump system according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The defrost heat source in the water module is water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger of the water module, The defrosting heat source in the indoor unit is the indoor air passing through the indoor side heat exchanger. When executing the defrost mode, the control unit can select, according to preset conditions, the first defrost mode in which the refrigerant after heat exchange through the outdoor heat exchanger flows to one or more of the refrigerant-water heat exchangers of the water module, or the second defrost mode in which the refrigerant flows to one or more of the indoor heat exchangers of the indoor unit, for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger.

3. The heat pump system according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The water piping of the water circuit of the water module comprises a first water piping connected to the water inlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger and a second water piping connected to the water outlet end of the refrigerant-water heat exchanger. A floor heating coil is provided between the first water pipe and the second water pipe. A water pump for circulating water in the water circuit is provided on the first water pipe or the second water pipe. When the first defrost mode is executed, the water pump is controlled to operate.

4. The heat pump system according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The water circuit of the water module is also provided with a heat storage unit. When the first defrost mode is performed, the warm water in the heat storage unit is heat-exchanged with the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger.

5. The heat pump system according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The plurality of connecting pipes include a first refrigerant pipe connected to one end of the outdoor heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipe connected to the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger. A heat storage pipe is provided between the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe in parallel with the indoor unit and the water module, and a heat storage member is provided on the heat storage pipe. The defrost mode includes a third defrost mode for performing defrosting using the heat stored in the heat storage component of the outdoor unit. The control unit preferentially selects the third defrost mode for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger, in which the refrigerant after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger flows to the heat storage component, before selecting the first defrost mode or the second defrost mode according to a preset condition. When the heat of the heat storage component is insufficient, the first defrost mode or the second defrost mode is selected.

6. The heat pump system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that The heat pump system further includes a control unit and a detection unit. When a detection result of the detection unit reaches a preset defrosting condition, the control unit controls the heat pump system to execute the defrosting mode.

7. The heat pump system according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The detection unit detects one or more of the external air temperature, the inlet water temperature and the outlet water temperature of the water module, the refrigerant temperature in the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant temperature in the indoor heat exchanger, and the indoor temperature.

8. A method for controlling a heat pump system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that The control method includes the steps of: when executing the defrost mode, the control unit selecting, according to preset conditions, to execute a first defrost mode using water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger as a defrost heat source or selecting to execute a second defrost mode using indoor air passing through the indoor side heat exchanger as a defrost heat source.

9. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 8, It is characterized in that The detection unit detects the water temperature at the inlet or outlet of the water module and determines whether the water temperature reaches a preset first temperature. When the water temperature is above the first temperature, a first defrosting mode is selected to be executed using water flowing in the refrigerant-water heat exchanger as a defrosting heat source. When the water temperature is lower than the first temperature, a second defrosting mode is selected in which the indoor air passing through the indoor heat exchanger is used as a defrosting heat source.

10. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 8, It is characterized in that When the first defrost mode is executed and when the second defrost mode is executed, defrosting is exited when a defrost end condition is satisfied, and an exit type is determined.

11. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 10, It is characterized in that The defrost end condition includes the following conditions: the water temperature reaches a preset second temperature, the second temperature is lower than the first temperature; the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger reaches a preset temperature; and the duration of the defrost mode reaches a prescribed defrost duration. When the defrosting is terminated because the water temperature reaches the second temperature, the termination type is determined to be abnormal termination. When the defrosting is exited because the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger reaches a preset temperature or because the duration of the defrosting mode reaches a prescribed defrosting duration, the exit type is determined to be a normal exit.

12. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 11, It is characterized in that Before the defrost mode selection step, an exit type determination step is included for determining the exit type of the previous defrost exit. In the exit type determination step, If the exit type when exiting defrost last time was normal exit, then enter the defrost mode selection step. If the exit type when exiting defrost last time was abnormal exit, the second defrost mode is selected to be executed.

13. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 12, It is characterized in that Before selecting the defrost mode according to the preset conditions, a water module start-up judgment step is also included to judge whether the water module is turned on. In the water module startup judgment step, If the water module is turned on, the defrost mode is selected according to the preset conditions. If the water module is not turned on, the second defrost mode is selected to be executed.

14. The control method of the heat pump system according to claim 13, It is characterized in that When there are multiple water modules, as long as one of the water modules is turned on, the water module is turned on, and the defrost mode is selected according to the preset conditions. The unturned water modules do not participate in defrosting. If all water modules are not turned on, the water modules are not turned on.

15. The control method of the heat pump system according to any one of claims 9 to 14, It is characterized in that The heat pump system receives a defrost instruction when the defrost condition is met. The defrost condition is any one or more of the following conditions: the cumulative duration of heating operation exceeds the specified duration; the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger is lower than the preset temperature; the capacity of the outdoor unit is reduced to below the specified level; the change in the water temperature of the water module or the water temperature is lower than the target temperature; the amount of frost detected by means of frost layer detection, image detection, and wind pressure detection exceeds the specified level.

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