Apparatus for reducing heat loss in reversible vapor compression system

Abstract

A vapor compression system includes an indoor heat exchanger, an outdoor heat exchanger, a compressor, a first valve, and a second valve. The compressor has an inlet connected to the suction flow and an outlet connected to the discharge flow. The first valve is movable to connect the discharge flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger. The second valve is movable to connect the suction flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 18 / 161,503, filed on January 30, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The field of the present disclosure relates generally to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and more particularly to reversible vapor compression systems. Background Art

[0004] The vapor compression cycle is used to regulate the temperature and humidity of the interior space. In some applications, the vapor compression system is constructed to be reversible so that the same system can be operated to heat or cool the interior space as needed. Many reversible systems use a four-way reversing valve to switch between heating mode and cooling mode to reverse the direction of flow through the system. The four-way reversing valve receives a discharge stream of high-pressure, high-temperature fluid from the compressor outlet. The valve is typically configured to direct the discharge stream to an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger to release heat to its surroundings, thereby heating the interior space or discharging waste heat to the outdoor space. The four-way reversing valve also receives fluid from the outlet of another heat exchanger and directs the fluid as a suction flow to the compressor inlet.

[0005] The suction and discharge flows are often at very different temperatures, and the proximity of the two flow paths can allow heat transfer between the two flow paths, thereby reducing the system's ability to meet the heating or cooling load for which the system was designed. While heat transfer losses remain negligible in many common heat pump applications, the development of cold-climate heat pumps has shown that at subfreezing temperatures, the reversing valve becomes a significant source of heat loss. Therefore, there is a need for a reversible vapor compression system that prevents or reduces heat transfer between the compressor suction and compressor discharge flows.

[0006] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various technical aspects that may be relevant to the various aspects of the present disclosure described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be convenient for providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect relates to a vapor compression system comprising an indoor heat exchanger, an outdoor heat exchanger, a compressor, a first valve, and a second valve. The compressor has an inlet fluidly connected to a suction stream and an outlet fluidly connected to a discharge stream. The first valve is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the discharge stream to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger. The second valve is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the suction stream to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0008] Another aspect relates to a reversing valve comprising: a valve housing defining a valve passage along a length of the valve housing; a discharge inlet assembly; a reversing assembly; and an actuator assembly. The discharge inlet assembly comprises a first discharge port and a second discharge port extending from a surface of the valve housing. The reversing assembly comprises a first reversing port and a second reversing port extending from the surface of the valve housing, and a suction port extending from the surface of the valve housing between the first reversing port and the second reversing port. The actuator assembly is slidably disposed within the valve passage and is selectively positionable between a first position in which the first discharge port is fluidically connected to the first reversing port and a second position in which the second discharge port is fluidically connected to the second reversing port.

[0009] Yet another aspect relates to a reversing valve comprising a first reversing port, a second reversing port, a discharge port, and a suction port. The discharge port provides a discharge flow to one of the first reversing port and the second reversing port, and the suction port receives a suction flow from one of the first reversing port and the second reversing port. The reversing valve further comprises means for reducing heat transfer to and from the discharge flow and / or the suction flow.

[0010] There are various improvements to the features indicated in relation to the above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure. Additional features may also be included in the above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below with respect to any of the illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into any of the above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure individually or in any combination. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first example vapor compression system in a cooling mode.

[0012] Figure 2 It is in heating mode Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0013] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first example reversing valve in a cooling mode.

[0014] Figure 4 It is in heating mode Figure 3 A perspective view of a first example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 5 It is in cooling mode Figure 3 and Figure 4 An enlarged view of the secondary actuation assembly of the first example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0016] Figure 6 It is in heating mode Figure 3 and Figure 4 An enlarged view of the secondary actuation assembly of the first example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second example reversing valve.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional perspective view of a second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0019] Figure 9a is in cooling mode Figure 7 A cross-sectional side view of a second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0020] Figure 9b is in cooling mode Figure 7 A side schematic diagram of a second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0021] Figure 10a is in heating mode Figure 7 A cross-sectional side view of a second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0022] Figure 10b is in heating mode Figure 7 A side schematic diagram of a second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0023] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a second example vapor compression system including a cooling mode. Figure 7 A second example reversing valve is shown in FIG.

[0024] Figure 12 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a second example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0025] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a third example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0026] Figure 14 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 13 A schematic diagram of a third example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0027] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of a fourth example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0028] Figure 16 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a fourth example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0029] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a fifth example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0030] Figure 18 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 17 A schematic diagram of a fifth example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0031] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of a sixth example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0032] Figure 20 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 19 A schematic diagram of a sixth example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0033] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of a seventh example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0034] Figure 22 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 21 A schematic diagram of a seventh example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0035] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram of an eighth example vapor compression system configured in a cooling mode.

[0036] Figure 24 Is constructed in heating mode Figure 23 A schematic diagram of an eighth example vapor compression system is shown in FIG.

[0037] Figure 25 is a block diagram of a control system for the vapor compression system shown in the previous figures.

[0038] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] For the sake of simplicity, the example of a reversible vapor compression system that can be operated to heat or cool an interior space will be described. However, other example methods and systems can be used to regulate the temperature of an enclosed space. The reversible vapor compression system can minimize heat loss by (1) modifying the design of the reversing valve to spatially and / or thermally isolate the suction and discharge flows within the valve or by (2) modifying the overall configuration of the system to separate the suction and discharge flows into different valves.

[0040] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a first example vapor compression system 100 for cooling or heating an interior space 60 surrounded by an exterior space 80. The system 100 includes a single reversible closed refrigerant circuit including a compressor 160, a first expansion device 130, a second expansion device 135, a reversing valve 300, an indoor heat exchanger 140, and an outdoor heat exchanger 120. In other embodiments of the present disclosure (not shown), the first system 100 may include multiple refrigerant circuits to accommodate multiple compressors, or may operate in parallel with another system, such as a humidity control system. The configuration of the reversing valve 300 determines the direction of flow through the system, and therefore determines whether the system is configured to cool or heat the interior space 60. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The reversing valve 300 is discussed in more detail.

[0041] Figure 1 The system 100 is shown configured to operate in a cooling mode. Refrigerant enters the compressor 160 at the compressor inlet 110 as a low-pressure, low-temperature gas (i.e., the suction flow). The compressor 160 increases the pressure of the refrigerant, and the refrigerant leaves the compressor 160 at the compressor outlet 115 as a high-pressure, high-temperature gas (i.e., the discharge flow). The compressor 160 can be driven by a first variable frequency drive (VFD) 162 or any other suitable motor.

[0042] The discharge flow passes through the first discharge path 301 of the reversing valve 300, which guides the refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger 120. The outdoor heat exchanger 120 acts as a condenser, 出 Remove heat from the refrigerant and 出 The refrigerant gas is released into the external space 80 to convert the refrigerant gas into a high-pressure, high-temperature liquid. The first fan 190 generates a first airflow 194 from the outdoor heat exchanger 120 toward the external space 80, thereby discharging the warm air toward the external space 80. The first fan 190 can be driven by a second variable frequency drive (VFD) 192 or any other suitable motor.

[0043] Downstream of the outdoor heat exchanger 120, the refrigerant bypasses the second expansion device 135 and flows through the first expansion device 130, which reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. In some embodiments, the pressure can be reduced until the current temperature of the liquid refrigerant reaches the boiling point at that pressure, and the refrigerant becomes a two-phase mixture as some of the liquid refrigerant boils and turns into a gas. The first expansion device 130 can be a fixed orifice, a thermal expansion valve, an electronic expansion valve, or another type of expansion device that allows the system 100 to function as described.

[0044] The first expansion device 130 is fluidly connected to the indoor heat exchanger 140, which receives a low-pressure, low-temperature liquid refrigerant or a two-phase mixture of liquid refrigerant and gaseous refrigerant at its inlet. The indoor heat exchanger 140 acts as an evaporator, wherein the refrigerant absorbs heat Q from the interior space 60. 入 , to change the phase of the refrigerant from liquid to gas. The second fan 150 generates a second airflow 154 that passes through the indoor heat exchanger 140 toward the interior space 60, thereby cooling the interior space 60. The second fan 150 can be driven by a third variable frequency drive (VFD) 152 or any other suitable motor. The gaseous refrigerant flow then passes through the first suction path 302 of the reversing valve 300 and returns to the compressor inlet 110 as suction flow.

[0045] Figure 2 The diagram shows a first system 100 configured to operate in a heating mode. Similar to the cooling mode, the refrigerant enters the compressor 160 at the compressor inlet 110 as a low-pressure, low-temperature gas (i.e., the suction flow). The compressor 100 increases the pressure of the refrigerant, and the refrigerant leaves the compressor 100 at the compressor outlet 115 as a high-pressure, high-temperature gas (i.e., the discharge flow). The discharge flow passes through the second discharge path 303 of the reversing valve 300, which directs the refrigerant to the indoor heat exchanger 140. The indoor heat exchanger 140 acts as a condenser, transferring the heat Q 出 The second fan 150 generates a second air flow 154 through the indoor heat exchanger 140 toward the interior space 60, thereby removing the heat Q 出 Released into the interior space 60 .

[0046] Downstream of the indoor heat exchanger 140, the refrigerant bypasses the first expansion device 130 and flows through the second expansion device 135, which reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The pressure can be reduced until the current temperature of the liquid refrigerant reaches the boiling point at that pressure, and the refrigerant becomes a two-phase mixture as some of the liquid refrigerant boils and turns into a gas. The second expansion device 135 can be a fixed orifice, a thermal expansion valve, an electronic expansion valve, or any type of expansion device that allows the system 100 to function as described.

[0047] The second expansion device 135 is fluidly connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 120, which receives a low-pressure, low-temperature liquid refrigerant or a two-phase mixture of liquid refrigerant and gaseous refrigerant at its inlet. The outdoor heat exchanger 120 acts as an evaporator, wherein the refrigerant absorbs heat Q from the external space 80. 入 The first fan 190 generates a first airflow 194 from the outdoor heat exchanger 120 toward the outside space 80. The gaseous refrigerant flow then passes through the second suction path 304 of the reversing valve 300 and returns to the compressor inlet 110 as a suction flow.

[0048] The first example reversing valve 300 is Figure 3 and Figure 4 . The first example reversing valve 300 includes a valve housing 310 extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end 306 to a second end 307. The valve housing 310 defines a valve passage 312 extending along the length of the valve housing 310. The reversing valve 300 also includes a discharge port 320, a suction port 330, and a first reversing port 340 and a second reversing port 350. Each port 320 to 350 extends from a first end (not labeled) connected to a surface 314 of the valve housing 310 to a second free end. Each port 320 to 350 also defines a passage (not labeled) along the length of the port and an opening (not labeled) in the valve housing 310 located at the first end of each port 320 to 350.

[0049] The discharge port 320 is provided on the discharge side 316 of the valve housing 310, and the suction port 330 and the first and second reversing ports 340, 350 are provided on the suction side 318 of the valve housing opposite the discharge side 316. The suction port 330 is positioned between the first and second reversing ports 340, 350 and is substantially aligned with the discharge port 320. The ports 320-350 may alternatively have any suitable configuration relative to the valve housing 310 that allows the reversing valve 300 to function as described.

[0050] Although the valve housing 310 and ports 320-350 are illustrated as having a generally circular cross-section, the valve housing 310 and ports 320-350 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, square, oval, or polygonal. Similarly, the valve passage 312 and the passage defined by each port 320-350 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, circular, square, oval, or polygonal, regardless of the cross-sectional shape of the valve housing 310 and ports 320-350. Although Figure 3 and Figure 4 The ports 320 to 350 shown in FIG. 1 all have substantially the same cross-sectional shape and area, but other embodiments of the reversing valve may include ports having different cross-sectional shapes and areas. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cross-sectional shape and area of ​​each of the ports 320-350 illustrated in FIG. 3 are substantially the same along the length of the port, but other embodiments of the reversing valve 300 may include ports that vary in cross-sectional size or shape along the length of the port.

[0051] The reversing valve 300 also includes an actuator assembly 360 disposed within the valve passage 315 and slidable in the longitudinal direction x between the first end 306 and the second end 307 of the valve housing 310. The actuator assembly 360 includes an actuator seat 362 and a slider 370 defining a slider cavity 372 therein. The actuator seat 362 defines a first drain passage 364, a second drain passage 366, and a slider opening (not labeled) through which a portion of the slider 370 is disposed. The actuator assembly 360 includes a first end cap 363 disposed on a first end thereof and a second end cap 365 disposed on a second end thereof, wherein the two end caps 363, 365 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the actuator seat 362. The slider 370 further defines a first slider opening 374 and a second slider opening 376 therein.

[0052] During operation, the actuator assembly 360 is selectively positionable in a first position or a second position. Figure 3 ), the actuator assembly 360 is positioned such that the first end cap 363 is adjacent to and in contact with the first end 306 of the valve housing 310. The slider 370 is positioned over the first reversing port 340 and the suction port 330 such that the first slider opening 374 is aligned with the first reversing port 340 and the second slider opening 376 is aligned with the suction port 330. Thus, when the actuator assembly is in the first position, the slider cavity 372 fluidly connects the first reversing port 340 to the suction port 330.

[0053] The exhaust port 320 is fluidically connected to the second reversing port 350 through the second exhaust passage 366 of the actuator seat 362. Figure 1 In the illustrated vapor compression system 100, when the system 100 is configured to operate in the cooling mode, the fluid path formed by the first reversing port 340, the slider cavity 372, and the suction port 330 forms a first suction path 302. The fluid path formed by the discharge port 320, the second discharge passage 366, and the second reversing port 350 forms a first discharge path 301. Thus, in the first position of the actuator assembly 360, the discharge port 320 provides a discharge flow to the second reversing port 350, and the suction port 330 receives a suction flow from the first reversing port 340.

[0054] exist Figure 4 In the second position shown, the actuator assembly 360 is positioned such that the second end cap 365 is adjacent to and in contact with the second end 307 of the valve housing 310. The slider 370 is positioned over the suction port 330 and the second reversing port 350 such that the first slider opening 374 is aligned with the suction port 330 and the second slider opening 376 is aligned with the second reversing port 350. Thus, when the actuator assembly 360 is in the second position, the slider cavity 372 fluidly connects the suction port 330 to the second reversing port 350.

[0055] Similarly, the exhaust port 320 is fluidly connected to the first reversing port 340 through the first exhaust passage 364 of the actuator seat 362. Figure 2 In the illustrated vapor compression system 100, when the system 100 is configured in the heating mode, the fluid path formed by the suction port 330, the slider cavity 372, and the second reversing port 350 forms a second suction path 304. The fluid path formed by the discharge port, the first discharge passage 364, and the first reversing port 340 forms a second discharge path 303. Thus, in the second position of the actuator assembly 360, the discharge port 320 provides discharge flow to the first reversing port 340, and the suction port 330 receives suction flow from the second reversing port 350.

[0056] Also refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6The reversing valve 300 includes a secondary actuation assembly 380 operable to selectively position the actuator assembly 360 in the first position or the second position described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary actuation assembly 380 uses fluid pressure from the discharge flow and the suction flow to generate a pressure differential across the actuator assembly 360. This pressure differential pushes the actuator assembly 360 toward the first end 306 of the valve housing 310 and into the first position, or pushes the actuator assembly 360 toward the second end 307 of the valve housing 310 and into the second position. In other embodiments, the secondary actuation assembly 380 may use any other suitable mechanism to control the position of the actuator assembly 360.

[0057] The secondary actuation assembly 380 includes a secondary actuation housing 381 that encloses a solenoid 382 and a pilot valve 386. The solenoid 382 includes an electromagnetic coil (not shown) electrically connected to a power source (not shown). The pilot valve 386 includes a piston 388 that is slidable along the length of the secondary actuation housing 381 and is mechanically connected to the solenoid 382 via a spring 384. The piston 388 also includes a piston slider 391 that defines a piston slider cavity 393 therein.

[0058] Similar to the first example reversing valve 300 itself, and referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The pilot valve 386 further includes a discharge conduit 325, a suction conduit 335, a first reversing conduit 345, and a second reversing conduit 355, each of which extends from the secondary actuation housing 381. The discharge conduit 325 is fluidly connected to the discharge port 320 and extends from the discharge port 320 to the secondary actuation housing 381. The suction conduit 335 is fluidly connected to the suction port 330 and extends from the suction port 330 to the secondary actuation housing 381. The first reversing conduit 345 is fluidly connected to the valve passage 312 at the first end 306 of the valve housing 310 and extends from the first end 306 to the secondary actuation housing 381. The second reversing conduit 355 is fluidly connected to the valve passage 312 at the second end 307 of the valve housing and extends from the second end 307 to the secondary actuation housing 381.

[0059] When the electromagnetic coil of the solenoid 382 is not energized, the spring 384 remains unloaded and the piston 388 is positioned in the first piston position ( Figure 5), wherein the end 387 of the piston 388 is separated from the end 389 of the secondary actuation housing 381. In the first piston position, the piston slider cavity 393 fluidly connects the first reversing conduit 345 to the suction conduit 335, and the discharge conduit 325 is fluidly connected to the second reversing conduit 355 through a channel formed by the secondary actuation housing 381. Therefore, a portion of the exhaust flow in the exhaust port 320 is directed to the valve passage 312 proximate to the second end 307 of the valve housing 310 through the discharge conduit 325 and the second reversing conduit 355. The high-pressure and high-temperature exhaust flow exerts a positive pressure on the second end cap 365, thereby pushing the actuator assembly 360 toward the first end 306 of the valve housing 310 and pushing the actuator assembly 360 to the first position ( Figure 3 ). In addition, the suction flow in the suction port 330 generates a lower pressure on the suction conduit 335, which propagates through the suction conduit 335, the piston slider cavity 393, and the first reversing conduit 345 to generate a lower pressure on the first end cap 363, thereby pulling the actuator assembly 360 toward the first end 306 of the valve housing to maintain the first position.

[0060] When the electromagnetic coil of the solenoid 382 is energized by a power source, the electromagnetic coil generates a magnetic field that pushes the piston 388 relative to the secondary actuation housing 381 to the second piston position. Figure 6 ), the spring 384 is extended, and the end 387 of the piston 388 engages the end 389 of the secondary actuation housing 381. In the second piston position, the piston slider cavity 393 fluidly connects the second reversing conduit 355 to the suction conduit 335, and the discharge conduit 325 is fluidly connected to the first reversing conduit 345 through a passage formed by the secondary actuation housing 381. Therefore, a portion of the exhaust flow in the exhaust port 320 is directed to the valve passage 312 proximate to the first end 306 of the valve housing 310 through the exhaust conduit 325 and the first reversing conduit 345. The high-pressure and high-temperature exhaust flow exerts a positive pressure on the first end cap 363, thereby pushing the actuator assembly 360 toward the second end 307 of the valve housing 310 and pushing the actuator assembly 360 to the second position ( Figure 4 ). In addition, the suction flow in the suction port 330 generates a lower pressure on the suction conduit 335, which propagates through the suction conduit 335, the piston slider cavity 393, and the second reversing conduit 355 to generate a lower pressure on the second end cap 365, thereby pulling the actuator assembly 360 toward the second end 307 of the valve housing to maintain the second position.

[0061] In both the first and second positions of actuator assembly 360, slider 370 contacts both the high-temperature discharge flow and the low-temperature suction flow. Due to the large temperature difference between the two flows, slider 370 allows heat transfer between the high-temperature discharge flow and the low-temperature suction flow, resulting in the discharge flow losing heat to the suction flow. This heat loss is particularly detrimental when system 100 is operating in heating mode, as the discharge flow loses heat that would otherwise be released by indoor heat exchanger 140 to heat interior space 60.

[0062] The reversing valve of the present disclosure can include additional features as means for reducing or preventing heat transfer to and from the discharge and / or suction flows. For example, the actuator assembly 360 can be made of a thermally insulating material, such as polyetheretherketone, or any suitable material with low thermal conductivity.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, the slide 370 may be covered with a thermally insulating material such as, but not limited to, polyetheretherketone or Teflon.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, the reversing valve 300 itself may be constructed of and / or covered with an insulating material to reduce heat loss to the exterior space 80. The insulating material may be, for example, but not limited to, thermoplastic foam.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of the slider 370 may be increased to increase the thermal resistance of the slider 370 .

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, the actuator assembly 360 can include at least one baffle (not shown) positioned between the slider 370 and the first and / or second discharge passages 364 and 366 , wherein the baffle is configured to separate the suction and discharge flows.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively, the exhaust port may be configured with a tapered diameter to increase or decrease the velocity of the exhaust flow entering the reversing valve 300 .

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, the reversing valve 300 may be configured as a rotary four-way valve (not shown), wherein the actuator assembly 360 includes a rotary actuator assembly (not shown).

[0069] Figure 7 to Figure 1 0 illustrates a second example reversing valve 400. The second reversing valve 400 is similar to Figures 3 to 6 The first reversing valve 300 is shown, and unless otherwise specified, the description of the first reversing valve 300 is applicable to the second reversing valve 400. Figures 3 to 6Similar to the first reversing valve shown, the second reversing valve 400 includes a valve housing 410 extending longitudinally from a first end 406 to a second end 407. The valve housing 410 defines a valve passage 412 extending along the length of the valve housing 410. The reversing valve 400 also includes a reversing assembly 431 and a discharge inlet assembly 420.

[0070] and Figures 3 to 6 Like the first reversing valve 300 shown, the reversing assembly 431 includes a suction port 430 and a first reversing port 440 and a second reversing port 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the reversing assembly 431 is disposed on the suction side 418 of the valve housing 410, with the suction port 430 positioned between the first reversing port 440 and the second reversing port 450. The discharge inlet assembly 420 includes a first discharge port 422 and a second discharge port 424. In the illustrated embodiment, the discharge inlet assembly 420 is disposed on the discharge side 416 of the valve housing 310, opposite the suction side 418, with the first discharge port 422 substantially aligned with the first reversing port 440, and the second discharge port 424 substantially aligned with the second reversing port 450. In other embodiments, the ports 422-450 can have any suitable configuration relative to the valve housing 410 and each other that allows the reversing valve 300 to function as described.

[0071] Each port 422-450 extends from a first end (not labeled) connected to the surface 414 of the valve housing 410 to a second free end. Each port 422-450 also defines a passage (not labeled) extending along the length of the port, and an opening (not labeled) in the valve housing 410 at the first end of each port 422-450.

[0072] Also refer to Figure 8 The reversing valve 400 further includes an actuator assembly 460 slidably disposed within the valve passage 415 along the length of the reversing valve 400. The actuator assembly 460 includes an actuator seat 462 and a slider 470 defining a slider cavity 472 therein. The actuator seat 462 defines a first vent passage 464, a second vent passage 466, and a slider opening 467 through which a portion of the slider 370 is disposed. In some embodiments (not shown), the slider 470 may further define a first slider opening and a second slider opening 376 on a side of the slider proximate the reversing assembly 431.

[0073] During operation, the actuator assembly 460 can be selectively positioned in the first position or the second position. In the first position (shown in Figure 9 a), the actuator assembly 460 is positioned so that the slider 470 is located above the first reversing port 440 and the suction port 430. In the embodiment in which the slider 470 limits the first slider opening and the second slider opening, the first slider opening is aligned with the first reversing port 440, and the second slider opening is aligned with the suction port 430. Therefore, when the actuator assembly 460 is in the first position, the slider cavity 472 is connected to the first reversing port 440 fluid to the suction port 430. In addition, the second discharge port 424 is connected to the second reversing port 450 by the second discharge channel 466 fluid of the actuator seat 462. When the actuator assembly 460 is positioned in the first position, the first discharge port 422 and the first discharge channel 464 remain unused. 9b, the fluid path formed by the first reversing port 440, the slider cavity 472, and the suction port 430 forms a first suction path 402. The fluid path formed by the second discharge port 424, the second discharge passage 466, and the second reversing port 450 forms a first discharge path 401.

[0074] In the second position (shown in Figure 10a), the actuator assembly 460 is positioned so that the slider 470 is located above the suction port 430 and the second reversing port 450. In the embodiment in which the slider 470 defines the first slider opening and the second slider opening, the first slider opening is aligned with the suction port 430, and the second slider opening is aligned with the second reversing port 450. Therefore, when the actuator assembly 460 is in the second position, the slider cavity 472 connects the suction port 430 fluid to the second reversing port 450. In addition, the first discharge channel 464 of the actuator seat 462 connects the first discharge port 422 fluid to the first reversing port 440. When the actuator assembly 460 is positioned in the second position, the second discharge port 424 and the second discharge channel 466 remain unused. In this configuration, and with reference to Figure 10b in addition, the fluid path formed by the second reversing port 450, the slider cavity 472 and the suction port 430 forms the second suction path 404. The fluid path formed by the first exhaust port 422 , the first exhaust passage 464 , and the second reversing port 450 forms a second exhaust path 403 .

[0075] In some embodiments, the reversing valve 400 further includes a secondary actuation assembly (not shown) that is connected to the secondary actuation assembly. Figures 3 to 6 The secondary actuation assembly 380 is substantially similar to that shown and described with respect to the first example reversing valve 300 in FIG. In other embodiments, the second reversing valve 400 is controlled by any other suitable means.

[0076] 9a to 10b, the second exemplary reversing valve 400 is configured such that the suction paths 402 / 404 and the discharge paths 401 / 403 do not directly contact any common components. Since there is no significant heat transfer path between the two flow paths, heat loss between the two flow paths is reduced or prevented.

[0077] Figure 11 and Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a second example vapor compression system 500 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The second compression system 500 is substantially similar to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , and unless otherwise noted, the description of the first system 100 applies to the second system 500. In the second system 500, the first reversing valve 300 is replaced by the second reversing valve 400. All other components remain the same or substantially the same as those in the first system 100. Figure 11 The second system 500 is illustrated configured in a cooling mode, wherein the second reversing valve 400 is configured with the actuator assembly 460 in a first position. Figure 12 The second system 500 is illustrated configured in a heating mode, wherein the second reversing valve 400 is configured with the actuator assembly 460 in a second position.

[0078] Discharge and suction flows can also be isolated in a vapor compression system by using a first valve and a second valve to reverse the direction of the system, rather than using a single reversing valve. For example, Figure 13 and Figure 14 Schematic diagram of a third example vapor compression system 600 for heating or cooling an interior space 60. Figures 1 to 2 and Figures 11 to 12The first and second vapor compression systems 100, 500 shown in FIG. 1 are substantially similar, and unless otherwise noted, the descriptions of the first and second systems 100, 500 apply to the third system 600. In place of the reversing valves 300, 400 of the first and second systems 100, 500, the third system 600 includes a first valve 610 and a second valve 620. The first valve 610 is a first three-way valve 610 that receives a discharge flow from the compressor outlet 115 and is selectively positionable to connect the discharge flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120. The second valve 620 is a second three-way valve 620 that is selectively positionable to fluidly connect one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to the suction flow. The first and second three-way valves 610, 620 can be any suitable type of three-way valve, such as, but not limited to, a ball valve, a solenoid valve, a butterfly valve, or a multi-path plug valve. The first three-way valve 610 and the second three-way valve 620 may be the same type of three-way valve, or the first three-way valve 610 and the second three-way valve 620 may be different types.

[0079] Reference Figure 13 , the third system 600 is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first three-way valve 610 is positioned to connect the discharge flow fluid to the outdoor heat exchanger 120 and the second three-way valve 620 is positioned to connect the suction flow fluid to the indoor heat exchanger 140. Figure 14 , the third system 600 is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first three-way valve 610 is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream to the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the second three-way valve 620 is positioned to fluidly connect the suction stream to the outdoor heat exchanger 120. The discharge stream and the suction stream are configured to flow through two different valves 610, 620, thereby isolating the streams and preventing heat transfer between the discharge stream and the suction stream.

[0080] Figure 15 and Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a fourth example vapor compression system 700 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The fourth vapor compression system 700 is substantially similar to Figure 13 and Figure 14, and unless otherwise noted, the description of the third system 600 applies to the fourth system 700. In the fourth system 700, the first three-way valve 610 is replaced with a first four-way reversing valve 710 having three open ports and one closed port, and the second three-way valve 620 is replaced with a second four-way reversing valve 720 having three open ports and one closed port. That is, each of the first four-way reversing valve and the second four-way reversing valve 720 is configured to function as a three-way valve. In the illustrated embodiment, the first four-way reversing valve 710 and the second four-way reversing valve 720 are connected to the first four-way reversing valve 710 and the second four-way reversing valve 720. Figures 3 to 6 The first reversing valve 300 shown in FIG is substantially the same or similar, wherein the exhaust port and the first reversing port and the second reversing port ( Figures 15 and 16 Not marked in) is open, and the suction port ( Figures 15 and 16 (not marked in) closed.

[0081] The first four-way reversing valve 710 is at the discharge port ( Figures 15 and 16 The second four-way reversing valve 720 receives a discharge flow from the compressor outlet 115 at a first reversing port (not labeled) and directs the discharge flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120 via a first reversing port or a second reversing port (not labeled). The second four-way reversing valve 720 receives a suction flow from one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120 via one of the first reversing port or the second reversing port (not labeled) and provides the suction flow to the compressor inlet 110 via a discharge port (not labeled).

[0082] Reference Figure 15 , the fourth system 700 is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first four-way valve 710 is positioned to connect the discharge flow fluid to the outdoor heat exchanger 120 and the second four-way valve 720 is positioned to connect the suction flow fluid to the indoor heat exchanger 140. Figure 16 , the fourth system 700 is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first four-way valve 710 is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream to the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the second four-way valve 720 is positioned to fluidly connect the suction stream to the outdoor heat exchanger 120. The discharge stream and the suction stream are configured to flow through two different reversible valves 710, 720, thereby isolating the streams and preventing heat transfer between the discharge stream and the suction stream.

[0083] Figure 17 and Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of a fifth example vapor compression system 800 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The fifth vapor compression system 800 is substantially similar to Figures 13 to 16, and unless otherwise noted, the description of the third system 600 and the fourth system 700 applies to the fifth system 800. In the fifth example system 800, the first valve is a first four-way reversing valve 810 having three open ports and one closed port, and the second valve is a passive three-way valve 820.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, a first four-way reversing valve 810 receives a discharge flow from the compressor outlet 115 and is selectively positionable to connect the discharge flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120. A passive three-way valve 820 is selectively positionable to fluidly connect one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to a suction flow, which then returns to the compressor inlet 110. The first four-way valve 810 can be substantially the same valve as the first four-way valve 710 of the fourth system 700, or the first four-way valve 810 can be any other suitable valve. The passive three-way valve 820 can be a two-way shuttle valve or any other suitable type of passive three-way valve.

[0085] Reference Figure 17 , the fifth system 800 is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first four-way valve 810 is positioned to connect the discharge flow fluid to the outdoor heat exchanger 120 and the passive three-way valve 820 is positioned to connect the suction flow fluid to the indoor heat exchanger 140. Figure 18 , the fifth system 800 is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first four-way valve 810 is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream to the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the passive three-way valve 820 is positioned to fluidly connect the suction stream to the outdoor heat exchanger 120. Thus, the discharge stream and the suction stream are configured to flow through two different reversible valves 810, 820, thereby isolating the streams and preventing heat transfer between the discharge stream and the suction stream.

[0086] Figure 19 and Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of a sixth example vapor compression system 900 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The sixth vapor compression system 900 is substantially similar to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , and unless otherwise noted, the description of the third system 600 applies to the sixth system 900. Instead of the first three-way valve 610 and the second three-way valve 620 of the third system 600, the first valve is a first valve assembly 910 and the second valve 920 is a second valve assembly 920. The first valve assembly 910 includes a first solenoid valve 912 and a second solenoid valve 914 installed in parallel, and the second valve assembly 920 includes a third solenoid valve 922 and a fourth solenoid valve 924 installed in parallel.

[0087] The first solenoid valve 912 is fluidly connected between the compressor outlet 115 and the indoor heat exchanger 140 to provide a discharge flow to the indoor heat exchanger 140 when the first solenoid valve 912 is open. The second solenoid valve 914 is fluidly connected between the compressor outlet 115 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to provide a discharge flow to the outdoor heat exchanger 120 when the second solenoid valve 914 is open. The third solenoid valve 922 is fluidly connected between the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the compressor inlet 110 to provide a suction flow to the compressor inlet 110. The fourth solenoid valve 924 is fluidly connected between the outdoor heat exchanger 120 and the compressor inlet 110 to provide a suction flow to the compressor inlet 110.

[0088] Each solenoid valve 912 to 924 is selectively positionable in an open position or a closed position. During operation, only one valve in each of the first valve assembly 910 and the second valve assembly 920 can be open at a time, and the configuration of each solenoid valve 912 to 924 determines the operating mode of the system 900. Figure 19 , the sixth system 900 is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the second solenoid valve 914 and the third solenoid valve 922 are open and the first solenoid valve 912 and the fourth solenoid valve 924 are closed. Figure 20 The sixth system 900 is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first solenoid valve 912 and the fourth solenoid valve 924 are open and the second solenoid valve 914 and the third solenoid valve 922 are closed. The discharge flow and the suction flow are configured to flow through two of the four different reversible valves 912 / 914, 922 / 924, thereby isolating the flows and preventing heat transfer between the discharge flow and the suction flow.

[0089] Figure 21 and Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of a seventh example vapor compression system 1000 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The seventh vapor compression system 1000 is substantially similar to the other disclosed vapor compression systems, and unless otherwise noted, the previous descriptions of the other vapor compression systems apply to the seventh system 1000. In the seventh system 1000, the second valve is a second valve assembly 1020 including a third valve 1022 and a fourth valve 1024. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first valve 1010, the third valve 1022, and the fourth valve 1024 is a first four-way reversing valve 810 having three open ports and one closed port, similar to Figure 15 and Figure 16 A first four-way valve and a second four-way valve are shown in a fourth example system 700 .

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, a first valve 1010 receives a discharge flow exiting the compressor outlet 115 and is selectively positionable to provide the discharge flow to one of the indoor heat exchanger 140 or the outdoor heat exchanger 120. A third valve 1022 is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the indoor heat exchanger 140 to one of the compressor inlet 110 or the outdoor heat exchanger 120. A fourth valve 1024 is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to one of the compressor inlet 110 or the indoor heat exchanger 140.

[0091] Reference Figure 21 , the system is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first valve 1010 is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream exiting the compressor outlet 115 to the outdoor heat exchanger, the fourth valve 1024 is positioned to fluidly connect the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to the indoor heat exchanger 140, and the third valve 1022 is positioned to fluidly connect the indoor heat exchanger 140 to the compressor inlet 110. Figure 22 , the system is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first valve 1010 is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream exiting the compressor outlet 115 to the indoor heat exchanger 140, the third valve 1022 is positioned to fluidly connect the indoor heat exchanger 140 to the outdoor heat exchanger 120, and the fourth valve 1024 is positioned to fluidly connect the outdoor heat exchanger 120 to the compressor inlet 110.

[0092] In cooling mode and heating mode, the seventh system 1000 can switch from one mode to the other without changing the flow direction through the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 120. That is, in cooling mode and heating mode, the refrigerant enters the indoor heat exchanger 140 through the first indoor heat exchanger port 142 and leaves the indoor heat exchanger 140 through the second indoor heat exchanger port 144, and in cooling mode and heating mode, the refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 120 through the first outdoor heat exchanger port 122 and leaves the outdoor heat exchanger 120 through the second outdoor heat exchanger port 124. In addition, the discharge flow and the suction flow are configured to flow through three different reversible valves 1010, 1022, and 1024, thereby isolating the flows and preventing heat transfer between the discharge flow and the suction flow.

[0093] Figure 23 and Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of an eighth example vapor compression system 1100 for heating or cooling the interior space 60. The eighth vapor compression system 1100 is substantially similar to Figure 21 and Figure 22, and unless otherwise noted, the previous description of the seventh system 1000 applies to the eighth system 1100. In the eighth system 1100, the second valve is a second valve assembly 1120 including a third valve 1122, a fourth valve 1124, and a fifth valve 1126. In the illustrated embodiment, the first valve is a first four-way reversing valve 1110 having three open ports and one closed port, and each of the third valve 1122, the fourth valve 1124, and the fifth valve 1126 is a passive three-way valve. Similar to the seventh system 1000, the eighth system 1100 can switch from a cooling mode ( Figure 23 )Switch to heating mode( Figure 24 ).

[0094] Reference Figure 25 All disclosed vapor compression systems include a controller 1210 that is programmed to control the operation of the vapor compression system to cool or heat the interior space 60 to a desired temperature. The controller 1210 includes a processor 1220 and a memory 1230. The memory 1230 stores instructions that program the processor 1220 to operate the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100 to control the temperature of the interior space 60 to a temperature set point.

[0095] The controller 1210 is configured to control at least one operating parameter of the vapor compression system 100 to 1100, such as, but not limited to, the speed of the first fan 150 or the second fan 190, the position of the expansion device 130, 135, the position of the three-way valves 610, 620, 820, 1122, 1124, 1126, the position of the solenoid valves 912, 914, 922, 924, the position of the four-way valves 300, 400, 710, 720, 810, 820, 1010, 1022, 1024 or the speed of the compressor 160.

[0096] For example, in the first example vapor compression system 100, the controller 1210 is configured to control the position of the first example reversing valve 300 to direct the discharge flow to the indoor heat exchanger 140 or the outdoor heat exchanger 120. When the controller programs the operation of the first example vapor compression system 100 to direct the discharge flow to the outdoor heat exchanger, the controller 1210 is also configured to bypass the second expansion device 135. The controller 1210 can control these parameters in response to at least one measured or calculated property of the air in the conditioned interior space 50, such as, but not limited to, dew point temperature, wet bulb temperature, partial pressure of water vapor, or humidity ratio.

[0097] The vapor compression system 100-1100 also includes a user interface 1240 configured to output (e.g., display) and / or receive information associated with the vapor compression system 100-1100 (e.g., from a user). In some embodiments, the user interface 1240 is configured to receive activation and / or deactivation input from a user to activate and deactivate (i.e., turn on and off) the vapor compression system 100-1100 or otherwise enable operation of the vapor compression system 100-1100. For example, the user interface 1240 can receive a temperature set point specified by the user. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the user interface 1240 is configured to output information associated with one or more operating features of the vapor compression system 100-1100, including, for example, but not limited to, warning indicators such as severity alarms, occurrence alarms, fault alarms, motor speed alarms, and any other suitable information.

[0098] The user interface 1240 may include any suitable input devices and output devices that enable the user interface 1240 to function as described. For example, the user interface 1240 may include input devices including, but not limited to, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, a joystick, a throttle, buttons, switches, and / or other input devices. Additionally, the user interface 1240 may include output devices including, for example, but not limited to, a display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display), a speaker, indicator lights, instruments, and / or other output devices. Furthermore, the user interface 1240 may be part of a different component, such as a system controller (not shown). Other embodiments do not include the user interface 1240.

[0099] The controller 1210 is generally configured to control the operation of the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100. The controller 1210 controls the operation by instructions and programming from another device or controller, or is integrated with the regulation system 300 through a system controller. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 1210 receives user input from a user interface 1240 and controls one or more components of the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100 in response to such user input. For example, the controller 1210 can control the first fan 150 based on the user input received from the user interface 1240. The vapor compression systems 100 to 1100 are appropriately controlled, such as by a remote control interface. For example, the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100 may include a communication interface 1250 configured to be connected to a wireless control interface (not shown), which enables remote control and activation of the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100. The wireless control interface can be implemented on a portable computing device, such as a tablet or a smartphone.

[0100] The controller 1210 may generally include any suitable computer and / or other processing unit, including any suitable combination of computers, processing units, and / or the like that can be communicatively coupled to one another and can operate independently or in association with one another (e.g., the controller 1210 can form all or part of a controller network). The controller 1210 may include one or more modules or devices, one or more of which are enclosed within the vapor compression system 100 to 1100 or can be located remotely from the vapor compression system 100 to 1100. The controller 1210 may be part of the vapor compression system 100 to 1100, or the controller 1210 may be part of a system controller in an HVAC system. The controller 1210 and / or components of the controller 1210 may be integrated or incorporated into other components of the vapor compression system 100 to 1100. The controller 1210 may include one or more processors 1220 and associated memory devices 1230 configured to perform various computer-implemented functions (e.g., perform the disclosed calculations, determinations, and functions).

[0101] The term "processor" refers not only to integrated circuits, but also to controllers, microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits, and other programmable circuits. Furthermore, the memory device 1230 of the controller 1210 may generally be or include a storage element, including, but not limited to, a computer-readable medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), a computer-readable non-volatile medium (e.g., flash memory), a floppy disk, a read-only compact disk (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical disk (MOD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), and / or other suitable storage elements. Such a memory device 1230 may generally be configured to store appropriate computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 1220, configure or cause the controller 1210 to perform various functions, including, but not limited to, controlling the vapor compression systems 100 to 1100, receiving input from the user interface 1240, providing output to an operator via the user interface 1240, and / or various other suitable computer-implemented functions.

[0102] The technical advantages of the disclosed system and apparatus are as follows: (1) the four-way reversing valve is configured to isolate the suction flow and the discharge flow by physical distance or thermal isolation, and (2) the vapor compression system is designed to isolate the suction flow and the discharge flow by passing the suction flow and the discharge flow through separate valves.

[0103] When used in conjunction with ranges of size, concentration, temperature, or other physical or chemical property or characteristic, the terms "about," "substantially," and "approximately" are intended to encompass variations that may exist in the upper and / or lower limits of the range for the property or characteristic, including variations due to, for example, rounding, measurement method, or other statistical variations.

[0104] When introducing elements of the present disclosure or embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to indicate that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprising," "including," "containing," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to the listed elements. The use of terms indicating a particular orientation (e.g., "top," "bottom," "side," etc.) is for convenience of description and does not require any particular orientation of the objects being described.

[0105] As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A steam compression system comprising: Indoor heat exchanger; outdoor heat exchanger; a compressor having an inlet fluidly connected to a suction stream and an outlet fluidly connected to a discharge stream; a first valve selectively positionable to fluidly connect the discharge stream to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger; as well as A second valve is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the suction stream to one of the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger.

2. The vapor compression system according to claim 1, wherein: The system is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first valve is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream to the indoor heat exchanger and the second valve is positioned to fluidly connect the suction stream to the outdoor heat exchanger.

3. The vapor compression system according to claim 1, wherein: The system is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first valve is positioned to fluidly connect the discharge stream to the outdoor heat exchanger and the second valve is positioned to fluidly connect the suction stream to the indoor heat exchanger.

4. The vapor compression system according to claim 1, wherein: The first valve comprises a first three-way valve, and wherein the second valve comprises a second three-way valve.

5. The vapor compression system of claim 1 , wherein: The first valve comprises a first four-way reversing valve having three open ports and one closed port, and wherein the second valve comprises a second four-way reversing valve having three open ports and one closed port.

6. The vapor compression system of claim 1, wherein: The first valve comprises a first four-way reversing valve having three open ports and one closed port, and wherein the second valve comprises a passive three-way valve.

7. The vapor compression system of claim 1 , wherein: The first valve is a first valve assembly including a first solenoid valve and a second solenoid valve installed in parallel, and wherein the second valve is a second valve assembly including a third solenoid valve and a fourth solenoid valve installed in parallel.

8. The vapor compression system of claim 1, wherein: The system is configured to operate in a heating mode when the first valve is positioned to connect the discharge stream fluid to the indoor heat exchanger, wherein the system is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the first valve is positioned to connect the discharge stream fluid to the outdoor heat exchanger, and wherein the system is capable of operating in a heating mode or a cooling mode without changing the flow direction through the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger.

9. The vapor compression system of claim 1, wherein: The second valve is a second valve assembly including a third valve fluidly connected to the indoor heat exchanger and a fourth valve fluidly connected to the outdoor heat exchanger, wherein the third valve is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the indoor heat exchanger to one of the compressor inlet or the outdoor heat exchanger, and wherein the fourth valve is selectively positionable to fluidly connect the outdoor heat exchanger to one of the compressor inlet or the indoor heat exchanger.

10. A reversing valve, comprising: a valve housing defining a valve passage along a length of the valve housing; a discharge inlet assembly including first and second discharge ports extending from a surface of the valve housing; A reversing assembly, comprising: a first switching port and a second switching port extending from the surface of the valve housing; and a suction port extending from the surface of the valve housing between the first and second switching ports; and an actuator assembly slidably disposed within the valve passage and selectively positionable between a first position in which the first exhaust port is fluidly connected to the first reversing port and a second position in which the second exhaust port is fluidly connected to the second reversing port.

11. The reversing valve according to claim 10, wherein: The actuator assembly further includes an actuator seat defining a first exhaust passage and a second exhaust passage, wherein the first exhaust passage fluidly connects the first exhaust port to the first reversing port when the actuator assembly is in the first position, and wherein the second exhaust passage fluidly connects the second exhaust port to the second reversing port when the actuator assembly is in the second position.

12. The reversing valve of claim 10, further comprising a solenoid valve configured to control the actuator assembly.

13. The reversing valve according to claim 10, wherein: The actuator assembly also includes a slider defining a cavity therein, wherein when the actuator assembly is in the first position, the slider cavity fluidly connects the second reversing port to the intake port, and wherein when the actuator assembly is in the second position, the slider cavity fluidly connects the first reversing port to the intake port.

14. A reversible vapor compression system, comprising the reversing valve according to claim 10, wherein: The system is configured to operate in a cooling mode when the actuator assembly is in the first position, and wherein the system is configured to operate in a heating mode when the actuator assembly is in the second position.

15. A reversing valve, comprising: a first reversing port; a second reversing port; an exhaust port for providing an exhaust flow to one of the first reversing port and the second reversing port; a suction port for receiving a suction flow from one of the first reversing port and the second reversing port; as well as Means for reducing heat transfer to and from the discharge stream and / or the suction stream.

16. The reversing valve according to claim 15, further comprising an actuator assembly, the actuator assembly being selectively positionable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the exhaust port provides the exhaust flow to the first reversing port and the second reversing port provides the suction flow to the suction port, and in the second position, the exhaust port provides the exhaust flow to the second reversing port and the first reversing port provides the suction flow to the suction port.

17. The reversing valve according to claim 16, wherein: The actuator assembly is constructed of a thermally insulating material.

18. The reversing valve according to claim 16, wherein: The reversing valve is a rotary four-way valve, and the actuator assembly is a rotary actuator assembly.

19. The reversing valve according to claim 15, wherein: The means for reducing heat transfer includes a baffle configured to separate the suction flow and the discharge flow.

20. The reversing valve according to claim 15, wherein The discharge port is configured with a tapered diameter configured to increase or decrease a velocity of the discharge flow.

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