Integrated water circuit for heat pump

Abstract

An integrated water circuit for a heat pump is described and claimed. The integrated water circuit includes: a backup electric heater having a composite housing defining a cavity for heating water using an electric heating element disposed in the cavity; a condenser connector; a first through water connector; and a first pump support. All the connectors are integrally formed with the composite housing. The condenser connector is configured for connecting the backup electric heater to a return flow of the condenser of the heat pump. The first water pump is mounted to the first pump support via the manifold / catchment unit such that an inlet of the first water pump is in fluid communication with the first manifold / catchment unit. A first through water connector is provided to supply water from the cavity to an external water circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention is directed to an integrated water circuit for a heat pump, which includes a backup electric heater, a first water pump for a first external water circuit, and a first water distributor / collector unit. Background Art

[0002] Heat pumps use heat from outside a building to generate hot water for radiators, floor heating, or domestic hot water. The heat collected outside the building is transferred via a heat transfer fluid to a condenser, where it heats the water used in the various building circuits. Depending on various factors (e.g., the size of the heat pump, the outside temperature, the building's insulation, and the desired water temperature), the water temperature generated using the condenser may not be sufficient. Therefore, most residential heat pumps include a backup electric heater that can be used to further increase the temperature of the water provided by the heat pump.

[0003] If a heat pump is used for multiple parallel water circuits, the water heated by the condenser and backup electric heater must be distributed among the multiple circuits and may also need to be supplied to each circuit at different supply temperatures. For example, the floor heating circuit may require a supply temperature of 35°C, the radiator water circuit may require a supply temperature of 50°C, and the domestic hot water circuit may require a water temperature of 27°C. To supply water to these different circuits, corresponding valves and manifolds must be installed at the heat pump, and dedicated water pumps must be provided.

[0004] For domestic installations, it's crucial that all the components needed to distribute water between multiple circuits be integrated into a single, compact housing. EP 2 312 224 B1 discloses a heat pump with a hydraulic module that includes an integrated backup electric heater with two three-way valves. This hydraulic module can be used to distribute water from the heat pump's condenser between the heating water circuit and the domestic hot water circuit.

[0005] While the hydraulic module integrates several components of the internal water circuit, the resulting internal water circuit is not particularly compact due to its low integration density. Furthermore, the hydraulic module is very limited in its use because it cannot flexibly adapt to a varying number of external water circuits and varying supply temperatures. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above, an object of the present invention may be seen as providing an improved compact and flexible integrated water circuit for a heat pump, which allows a compact design of the heat pump and can be flexibly adapted to different uses.

[0007] The invention provides an integrated water circuit for a heat pump according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0008] According to the present invention, an integrated water circuit for a heat pump is provided. The integrated water circuit includes a backup electric heater, a first water pump for a first external water circuit, and a first distributor / collector unit. The backup electric heater includes a composite housing defining a cavity for heating water using at least one electric heating element arranged in the cavity. The backup electric heater also includes a condenser connector, a first straight water connector, and a first pump support, which are all integrally formed with the composite housing. The condenser connector is configured to connect the backup electric heater to the return flow of the condenser of the heat pump. The first water pump is mounted to the first pump support via the distributor / collector unit so that the inlet of the water pump is fluidically connected to the first distributor / collector unit. The first water connector is configured to supply water from the cavity to the first external water circuit.

[0009] In other words, the integrated water circuit is based on standby electric heating that simultaneously serves as the manifold and the structural support for the water distributor / collector unit and the first pump. This makes the design of the integrated water circuit particularly compact and still allows the integrated water circuit to be flexibly adapted to many different uses, as will be explained below.

[0010] The integrated water circuit is based on a composite housing for the backup electric heater. For example, the composite housing is preferably made of polyamide 66 (PA66) with 30% glass fiber (GF) using injection molding. Furthermore, the composite housing is preferably produced as a single piece. This reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled.

[0011] The composite housing encloses a cavity in which at least one (preferably multiple) electric heating elements are arranged. If the water temperature heated by the heat pump's condenser is insufficient, the electric heating element, for example made of copper, can be used to additionally preheat the water. For example, the cavity can have a generally cylindrical shape and extend in a longitudinal direction.

[0012] The composite housing of the backup electric heater includes at least two connectors: a condenser connector and a first direct water connector. The condenser connector is configured to connect the return flow from the heat pump's condenser to the backup electric heater. In other words, water is supplied to the backup electric heater via the condenser connector. The condenser connector is integrally formed with the composite housing—that is, the condenser connector and the housing are formed as a single piece. This eliminates the need to solder, weld, or otherwise attach any connectors to the backup electric heater during manufacture.

[0013] The first direct water connector is designed to allow water to be supplied directly from this connector to an external water circuit. Specifically, the direct external water connector is used to supply water from a backup electric heater to the external water circuit. For example, the external water circuit may be a domestic hot water circuit, a water circuit supplying hot water to radiators, or a floor heating circuit. The connector is called a direct water connector because it eliminates the need for a pump or valve from the internal heat pump water circuit to be placed between the connector and the external water circuit, at least not within the housing housing the integrated water circuit.

[0014] The composite housing also includes a first pump support member, to which the first water pump is mounted using a water distributor / collector unit. The first pump support member is also integrally formed with the composite housing. For example, when the composite housing is manufactured using injection molding, the housing defining the cavity, the condenser connector, the first direct water connector, and the first pump support member are all manufactured in a single step.

[0015] The first water pump (preferably a centrifugal pump) is attached to the composite housing using a first pump support and a water distributor / collector unit placed between the pump support and the first water pump. The water distributor / collector unit can be a passive device that only delivers one flow to the first water pump, merges multiple flows on their path to the first water pump, that is, combines multiple flows, or splits a single supply flow into multiple outgoing flows, that is, distributes the supply flow into multiple outgoing flows. Alternatively, the water distributor / collector unit can be formed as a three-way valve that actively mixes the two incoming water flows, that is, a three-way valve that operates as a collector, or selectively distributes a single incoming water flow between two outgoing water flows, that is, a three-way valve that operates as a water distributor.

[0016] The manifold / collector unit preferably has a housing formed as a single piece, injection-molded, for example, from PA66 with a 30% GF. This housing can be used as a passive manifold / collector unit, but can be reconfigured as a three-way valve by installing an insert in the housing that holds the valve assembly. Therefore, regardless of the configuration of the manifold / collector unit required to operate the integrated water circuit, the first water pump can always be attached to the first pump support using the same component.

[0017] Thus, the water distributor / collector unit advantageously serves multiple purposes. It provides an inlet connection for the first water pump and serves as an attachment means for mounting the first water pump to the first pump support. Thus, the water distributor / collector unit not only serves as a conduit for the water but also forms part of the structural support for the first water pump.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the housing of the first water distributor / collector unit and the pump housing of the first water pump are formed as a single piece. For example, the two components can be molded as a single piece, with a bracket interconnecting the housing of the water distributor / collector unit and the pump housing. Thus, by attaching the water distributor / collector unit to the first pump support, the first water pump is mounted to the first pump support via the first water distributor / collector unit.

[0019] The integrated water circuit can therefore be used advantageously in a number of different arrangements or configurations. The backup electric heater of the integrated water circuit acts both as a manifold for distributing heated water to a number of external water circuits via at least the first through water connector and other connectors, and provides an additional heat source for the heat pump.

[0020] Because the first water pump is mounted to the first pump support on the composite housing of the backup electric heater via the manifold / collector unit, a particularly compact arrangement of the water circuit's components is achieved. Furthermore, the amount of additional piping required to complete the integrated water circuit is reduced, simplifying assembly of the integrated water circuit since only a limited number of components need to be connected. Furthermore, the reuse of components across multiple configurations reduces the total number of required parts, which also lowers per-unit production costs.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the integrated water circuit includes a second water distributor / collector unit and a second water pump for the second external water circuit. The backup electric heater includes a second pump support integrally formed with the composite housing, opposite the first pump support. The water pump is mounted to the second pump support via the second water distributor / collector unit, such that the inlet of the second water pump is in fluid communication with the second water distributor / collector unit.

[0022] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the backup electric heater supports the second external water circuit. To this end, the second pump support is formed as part of the composite housing of the backup electric heater. The pump support and composite housing are formed as a single piece, which simplifies assembly of the integrated water circuit because no additional components need to be attached to the composite housing to provide the second pump support. Preferably, the second pump is already formed during the manufacture of the composite housing, for example, using injection molding.

[0023] A second water pump for the second external water circuit is mounted on the second pump support. Similar to the first water pump, the second water pump is preferably a centrifugal pump attached to the second pump support using a second water distributor / collector unit. This second water distributor / collector unit can also be a passive connection for at least one or more supply lines to the second water pump, or it can be configured as an active three-way valve that controls flow to at least the second water pump.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the pump housing of the second water pump is integrally formed with the housing of the second water distributor / collector unit.

[0025] Preferably, the first manifold / collector unit and the second manifold / collector unit have identical housings, which can either be equipped with the already discussed plug-in to convert the manifold / collector unit into a three-way valve for actively mixing or diverting one or more flows, or can be used as a passive manifold / collector without the plug-in. Using all identical components as the first manifold / collector unit and the second manifold / collector unit further simplifies assembly of the integrated water circuit, as fewer distinct components are required. Furthermore, by requiring fewer distinct components to be manufactured, the cost of providing the components required to form the integrated water circuit for the heat pump is further reduced.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the pump housing of the first water pump is integrally formed with the housing of the first water distributor / collector unit. Similarly, the pump housing of the second water pump is integrally formed with the housing of the second water distributor / collector unit. By forming the pump housing and the corresponding water distributor / collector unit from a single piece, production costs are reduced because only a single tool is required to injection mold the combined components. Furthermore, during assembly, there is no need to attach the components to each other.

[0027] Preferably, the first pump support is arranged opposite the second pump support relative to the center plane of the composite housing, the first water distributor / collector unit is arranged opposite the second water distributor / collector unit, and the first water pump is arranged opposite the second water pump. Thus, according to a preferred embodiment, the first water pump is mounted on the opposite side of the center plane of the composite housing via the first water distributor / collector unit and the first pump support from the second water pump, which is mounted to the composite housing via the second water distributor / collector unit and the second pump support. Arranging the water pump and water distributor / collector unit for the first external water circuit opposite the water pump and water distributor / collector unit for the second external water circuit provides a particularly compact integrated water circuit. Furthermore, when the integrated water circuit is installed in its intended operating location in a building, the center plane can extend, for example, vertically.

[0028] It is further preferred that the first water distributor / collector unit and the second water distributor / collector unit be arranged at the same distance from the base plane of the composite housing and on the same side of the base plane of the composite housing. Furthermore, it is preferred that the first water pump and the water pump be arranged at the same distance from the base plane of the backup electric heater and on the same side of the base plane of the backup electric heater. The base plane extends perpendicular to the central plane.

[0029] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the components provided for the first external water circuit are arranged at the same distance from the base plane as those components of the integrated water circuit provided for the second external water circuit. Likewise, this arrangement of the manifold / collector unit and the water pump also facilitates a particularly compact integrated water circuit.

[0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first pump support, the first water pump and the first water diverter / collector unit are arranged symmetrically with respect to the central plane to the second pump support, the second water pump and the second water diverter / collector unit.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the second pump support forms a conduit that establishes a fluid connection between the cavity of the backup electric heater and the second water distributor / collector unit, so that the inlet of the second water pump is fluidly connected to the cavity of the backup electric heater via the second water distributor / collector unit.

[0032] In other words, in a preferred embodiment, the second pump support is at least partially hollow, so that it can connect the interior of the water distributor / collector unit attached thereto to the interior of the backup electric heater cavity. Thus, a direct fluid connection can be established between the cavity of the backup electric heater and the second water pump.

[0033] Providing a second pump support, which also serves as a fluid connection between the chamber and the second water pump, facilitates the use of an integrated water circuit to supply heated water to an external water circuit connected to the pressure outlet of the second water pump. For example, when the integrated water circuit is used to supply hot water to a floor heating circuit, the required water temperature for this floor heating circuit is significantly lower than, for example, the first external water circuit used to provide domestic hot water. To lower the water temperature supplied to the floor heating circuit, hot water drawn from the chamber of the backup electric heater can be mixed with a return flow from the floor heating system in a second manifold / collector unit. In this example, the second manifold / collector unit is preferably configured as a three-way valve, enabling active control of the mixing of water from the chamber of the backup electric heater with the return flow from the floor heating system, thereby allowing the water temperature supplied to the floor heating system to be set. By enabling the second water pump to draw water directly from the chamber via the second pump support, additional piping arrangements are advantageously not required, which simplifies assembly of the integrated water circuit.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment, the first water distributor / collector unit is connected to the second water distributor / collector unit via a bypass connector. The bypass connector may be formed as a single component and may include a conduit for establishing a fluid connection between the first water distributor / collector unit and the second water distributor / collector unit.

[0035] Therefore, a bypass connector is provided between the two water distributor / collector units, which can be used to establish a fluid connection between the second water distributor / collector unit and the first water distributor / collector unit. This connection can be used, for example, when the second water pump is used as a booster pump for the first water pump in situations where high flow rates are required.

[0036] For example, if the first water pump is used to supply water to both the conventional radiator circuit and the domestic hot water circuit (i.e., two external water circuits), the return flow from the radiator circuit can be attached to the second manifold / manifold unit, and the return flow from the domestic hot water circuit can be connected to the first manifold / manifold unit. The first manifold / manifold unit will also be configured as a three-way valve that allows control of the flow drawn from the radiator circuit and the domestic hot water circuit, thereby controlling the amount or flow of water provided to the corresponding external water circuit.

[0037] The second manifold / collector unit can function as a passive manifold, distributing only the return flow from the radiator circuit to the first manifold / collector unit or the second pump. The amount of water drawn in each direction depends on the operation of the pumps and the configuration of the first manifold / collector unit. In this configuration, the pressure-side outlets of both pumps are connected to the condenser.

[0038] Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, the bypass connector allows the second pump to be used as a booster pump without requiring significant modifications to the rest of the integrated water circuit. Furthermore, because the first and second manifold / collector units are preferably positioned at the same distance from the base plane, the bypass connector can be used to provide a simple, direct connection. Consequently, the bypass connector also increases the rigidity of the integrated water circuit by providing a structural connection between the first and second manifold / collector units.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the first water distributor / collector unit is structurally connected to the second water distributor / collector unit via a connecting element. The connecting element has a return flow interface for the return flow of the external water circuit. The external water circuit connected to the return flow interface is fluidically connected to the first water distributor / collector unit or the second water distributor / collector unit via the connecting element. No fluid connection is provided between the first water distributor / collector unit and the second water distributor / collector unit via the connecting element. Preferably, the connecting element is formed as a single piece.

[0040] In other words, in a preferred embodiment, instead of a bypass connector, a connecting element is provided that attaches the first water distributor / collector unit to the second water distributor / collector unit and also provides a connector for attaching a return flow from the external water circuit. The return flow is directed to the first water distributor / collector unit or the second water distributor / collector unit.

[0041] For example, the return flow interface can be used to attach the return flow from the floor heating circuit to the integrated water circuit, allowing the return flow from the floor heating to mix with the hot water from the backup electric heater's cavity in the second manifold / collector unit. To this end, the second manifold / collector unit is preferably configured as a three-way valve operating in a mixing mode, allowing the return flow from the floor heating to mix with the hot water from the backup electric heater's cavity. Thus, the preferred embodiment provides a particularly compact design, as the return flow conduit attached to the return flow interface is arranged between the first and second water pumps to utilize all available space in the integrated water circuit.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the first pump support further defines a return flow connector for the first external water circuit. When the return flow of the first external water circuit is connected to the return flow connector of the first pump support, the return flow of the first external water circuit is fluidically connected to the first water distributor / collector unit via the conduit formed by the first pump support. The cavity defined by the composite housing is not fluidically connected to the first water distributor / collector unit via the first pump support.

[0043] In other words, the first pump support is also hollow, allowing it to function as part of an integrated water circuit, rather than simply as a structure supporting the first manifold / collector unit and the first water pump. A conduit passing through the first pump support allows the return flow of one of the external water circuits to be connected to the first manifold / collector unit, and through it to the first water pump. This provides an additional connector for the first manifold / collector unit, making multiple connectors available for the first manifold / collector unit. Using the first pump support to connect the return flow of the external water circuit to the first manifold / collector unit provides a particularly compact arrangement of connectors.

[0044] This is particularly useful when the first water pump is used to drive two external water circuits (e.g., a conventional radiator circuit and a domestic hot water circuit). Here, the return flow from one of the external water circuits can be connected to the first manifold / collector unit via the first pump support, while the second return flow can be connected directly to the first manifold / collector unit. If the first manifold / collector unit is configured as a three-way valve operating in hybrid mode, this allows the first water pump to drive both water circuits simultaneously or separately.

[0045] As previously mentioned, the first manifold / collector unit and / or the second manifold / collector unit can be a three-way valve. Preferably, the three-way valve can be operated in a diverting mode or a mixing mode. Therefore, the manifold / collector unit is preferably based on a housing or casing that serves as a passive manifold / collector unit, into which a valve insert can be installed to transform the passive manifold / collector unit into an active three-way valve.

[0046] For example, a manifold / collector unit may include four connectors and one opening for mounting a valve insert in the manifold / collector unit. One of the four connectors may be an outflow connector from the manifold / collector unit, which connects to an input port of a water pump supported on the corresponding manifold / collector unit. The outflow connector is always used to direct outflow water to the attached pump.

[0047] Another of the four connectors can be a support connector for the manifold connector unit, which is attached to the pump support of the backup electric heater. This support connector can be used to receive return flow from an external water circuit connected to the return flow connector at the pump support, or to receive flow from the cavity of the backup electric heater. When the manifold / collector unit is attached to the pump support, the outflow connector and the support connector are preferably aligned and extend in opposite directions, but parallel to the center plane.

[0048] The third and fourth of the four connectors are transverse connectors, extending perpendicularly to the outflow and support connectors and in opposite directions. For example, these transverse connectors can be used to attach a bypass connector and connect two manifold / collector units, or to connect the return flow of an external water circuit to a manifold / collector unit. Thus, depending on the configuration of the integrated water circuit, the transverse connectors can be used for either inlet or outlet flow.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the integrated water circuit comprises an input condenser connector for connecting at least the outlet of the first water pump to the condenser of the heat pump. The input condenser thus supplies water to the condenser and may also be referred to as a condenser supply.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the cavity of the backup electric heater has a generally cylindrical shape. Therefore, the composite housing has a tubular or cylindrical shape, and different connectors and pump supports are attached to the composite housing at various locations. Preferred exemplary positions of the connectors and supports will be described below. A cylindrical cavity is particularly efficient for heating water using an electric heating element that is inserted into the cylindrical cavity in the longitudinal direction of the cavity. In addition, the cylindrical shape allows the water flowing into the cavity to be evenly distributed to different outlets via the condenser connector. In addition, the tubular structure is inherently rigid, which allows supporting the relatively heavy manifold / collector unit and the water pump on the housing of the backup electric heater.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the condenser connector and the first straight water condenser extend in opposite directions away from the cavity defined by the composite shell. Preferably, the condenser connector and the first straight water connector extend in a central plane. For example, the condenser connector can extend along a central plane that is parallel to the direction in which the arrangement of the water distributor / connector unit and the water pump extends away from the cavity, and the first straight water connector can extend in the opposite direction, i.e. away from the water distributor / collector unit and the water pump. However, the first straight water connector and the condenser connector are not aligned. Instead, the straight water connector is arranged so that the water from the condenser connector needs to flow along most or all of the electric heating elements in the cavity so that energy is transferred from the heating elements to the water flowing through for sufficient energy transfer.

[0052] Furthermore, the return flow connector of the first pump support preferably extends away from the first pump support in a direction extending parallel to the first straight water connector. The return flow connector and the first straight water connector are configured to connect to a water circuit that is not part of the integrated water circuit (i.e., external to the integrated water circuit). Thus, extending the water circuit in the same direction allows for simple coupling of all external connectors to the backup electric heater. For example, such a connection can be established via a bottom cover of the housing of the integrated water circuit, where the connector terminates and merges into a coupling for the external water circuit.

[0053] In the latter case, the connectors can also form structural supports that support the entire integrated water circuit on the bottom cover of the integrated water circuit housing. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the integrated water circuit is at least partially housed on the backup electric heater's external water connector and return flow connector. Because these components are integrally formed with the backup electric heater's composite housing, no or only a limited number of additional components are required to support the integrated water circuit within the integrated water circuit housing.

[0054] In another preferred exemplary embodiment, a support beam or support shaft is provided on the second pump support member. The support beam extends parallel to the return flow connector and the first straight water connector and is configured to further support the integrated water circuit on the bottom cover of the housing of the integrated water circuit.

[0055] In another preferred exemplary embodiment, the first pump support extends substantially perpendicularly to the center plane, away from the cavity defined by the composite shell. Thus, the first pump support preferably extends parallel to the base plane. Further preferably, the first pump support is configured such that the first water pump, mounted to the first pump support, is arranged on the side of the backup electric heater toward which the condenser connector extends. This also provides a particularly compact integrated water circuit, with all internal connections being located on one side of the base plane of the backup electric heater, while all connections to external components are located on the underside of the external backup heater.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the backup electric heater includes a combined fill / drain connector integrally formed with the composite housing. Preferably, the combined fill / drain connector extends parallel to the at least one through-water connector, away from the cavity defined by the composite housing. The combined fill / drain connector can be used to fill the integrated water circuit and attached external water circuits with water. Furthermore, the integrated fill / drain connector can be used to drain water from these circuits. If the fill / drain connector extends parallel to the at least one through-water connector, it can serve as another support for the entire integrated water circuit, for example, if it is positioned on the bottom cover of the housing of the integrated water circuit.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the integrated water circuit is arranged in a housing including a bottom cover. The integrated water circuit is supported by a first straight-through water connector on the bottom cover. Preferably, the integrated water circuit is also supported by a combined fill / drain connector on the bottom cover.

[0058] In one exemplary aspect, a backup electric heater for an integrated water circuit of a heat pump is provided. The following exemplary embodiments of the backup electric heater form independent inventive concepts. The detailed embodiments previously discussed regarding the backup electric heater as part of the integrated water circuit also apply to the backup electric heater itself. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the individual components and embodiments of the backup electric heater will not be repeated. Instead, reference will be made to the previous description of the backup electric heater as part of the integrated water circuit.

[0059] Preferably, the backup electric heater includes a composite housing defining a cavity for heating water and accommodating at least one electric heating element. Furthermore, the backup electric heater includes a condenser connector for connecting the backup electric heater to the return flow of the condenser of the heat pump, one or more straight-through water connectors, and a first pump support. The condenser connector, the first straight-through water connector, and the first pump support are integrally formed with the composite housing. The one or more straight-through water connectors are each configured to provide water from the cavity directly to an external water circuit connected to a corresponding straight-through water connector. The first pump support is configured to mount a first water pump for the external water circuit to the composite housing.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the backup electric heater further includes a second pump support member. The second pump support member is integrally formed with the composite housing. The second pump support member is configured to mount a second water pump for the external water circuit to the composite housing. Preferably, the first pump support member and the second pump support member are formed on opposite sides of the composite housing.

[0061] Preferably, at least one of the first pump support and the second pump support defines a conduit facilitating fluid connection between a water pump mounted to the respective pump support and the cavity.

[0062] Preferably, the backup electric heater further comprises two through-water connectors formed integrally with the composite housing, wherein each of the through-water connectors is configured to provide water from the cavity directly to an external water circuit.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the cavity has a generally cylindrical shape.

[0064] Preferably, at least one of the first pump support and the second pump support comprises a return flow connector for connecting a return flow from the external water circuit. The return flow connector is integrally formed with the pump housing and facilitates fluid connection between the external water circuit connected to the return flow connector and the water pump mounted to the respective pump support.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the condenser connector and the at least one through-water connector extend in opposite directions in a vertical plane away from the cavity defined by the composite shell.

[0066] Preferably, the vertical plane is identical to the centre plane.In a preferred embodiment, the return flow connector extends away from the respective pump support in a direction extending parallel to the vertical plane and faces in the same direction as the at least one water connector.

[0067] The first pump support extends substantially perpendicular to the vertical plane away from the cavity defined by the composite shell. Preferably, the first pump support is further formed so that the first water pump mounted to the first pump support is arranged on a side toward which the condenser connector of the backup electric heater extends.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the backup electric heater includes a combined fill / drain connector integrally formed with the composite housing. Preferably, the combined fill / drain connector extends parallel to the at least one through water connector away from the cavity defined by the composite housing.

[0069] So far, in any of the aforementioned embodiments of the backup electric heater for an integrated water circuit, the first water pump and / or the second water pump are mentioned, which are preferably centrifugal water pumps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0071] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a heat pump for providing hot water to a plurality of external water circuits is shown.

[0072] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 The schematic circuit diagram of the water circuit of the heat pump is shown.

[0073] Figure 3shows a perspective view of an integrated water circuit for a heat pump including an exemplary embodiment of an electric heat exchanger,

[0074] Figure 4 Shown Figure 3 Another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention,

[0075] Figure 5 Shown Figure 3 a partially exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of

[0076] Figure 6 Shown Figure 3 A first cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention,

[0077] Figure 7 Shown Figure 3 Yet another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of

[0078] Figure 8 Shown Figure 3 A second cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention,

[0079] Figure 9 Shown Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a backup electric heater,

[0080] Figure 10 Shown Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a backup electric heater,

[0081] Figure 11 Shown Figure 9 A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a backup electric heater,

[0082] Figure 12 Shown Figure 9 a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a backup electric heater,

[0083] Figure 13 shows a second exemplary embodiment of an integrated water circuit for a heat pump,

[0084] Figure 14 Shown Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the integrated water circuit and two external water circuits,

[0085] Figure 15 A third exemplary embodiment of an integrated water circuit for a heat pump is shown, and

[0086] Figure 16 Shown is a circuit for supplying hot water to two external water circuits. Figure 15 Schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an integrated water circuit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a heat pump 1 is shown for supplying hot water to a plurality of external water circuits 2, 3, 4. The first external water circuit 2 is a floor heating circuit 5. The second external water circuit 3 is a conventional radiator heating circuit 6, and the third external water circuit 4 is a domestic hot water circuit 7.

[0088] Figure 1 Only one radiator 8 of the radiator heating circuit 6 and a single loop 9 of the heating pipes of the floor heating circuit 5 are shown in order to illustrate the use of the respective circuits 5, 6. Figure 1 1 , a warm water buffer 10 is shown, which provides water for domestic hot water. The warm water buffer 10 may also be referred to as a hot water tank 10 or a hot water storage 10.

[0089] The heat pump 1 includes an external heat exchanger unit 11, which includes a fan (not shown) and a condenser (not shown) for heating the refrigerant, which is used to heat water for the external water circuits 2, 3, 4. The external heat exchanger unit 11 is connected to an exemplary embodiment of an integrated water circuit 14 via a supply line 12 and a return flow line 13. The integrated water circuit 14 is arranged in a housing 15, which also houses an expansion tank or vessel 16.

[0090] Now about Figure 2 Describe in more detail Figure 1 The integrated water circuit 14 is shown, along with the general layout of the system. For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the integrated water circuit 14 can be used with different types of heat pumps (e.g., a heat pump with all components located in a single housing, or a heat pump with the condenser and the integrated water circuit arranged in the same housing). Figure 1 The heat pump 1 shown is an air source heat pump. However, the integrated water circuit 14 can also be used, for example, with a ground source heat pump, a waste heat air pump or a water source air pump.

[0091] exist Figure 2 In FIG, the fan 17 and the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1 are shown as separate components, wherein a conduit 19 for the refrigerant extends between the two components 17, 18 of the heat pump 1. The water heated in the condenser 18 flows via the return flow line 13 past the temperature sensor 20 to the backup electric heater 21. Both the temperature sensor 20 and the backup electric heater 21 are part of the integrated water circuit 14. Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , all components within the dashed line indicated by reference numeral 14 are part of the integrated water circuit 14 .

[0092] A temperature sensor 20 is provided to measure the temperature of the water in the return flow line 13 from the condenser 18. If the temperature is below a desired temperature, an electric heating element 22 disposed in a cavity 23 of a backup electric heater 21 is activated to increase the temperature of the water. Another temperature sensor 24 is provided to measure the temperature of the water in cavity 23. For example, the backup electric heater 21 may include multiple electric heating elements 22 that can be selectively activated and deactivated to increase the amount of heating of the return flow from the condenser 18 in the backup electric heater 21.

[0093] The integrated water circuit 14 provides heated water to three external water circuits 2, 3, 4. As previously discussed, the first external water circuit 2 is a floor heating circuit 5. The second external water circuit 3 is a conventional radiator circuit 6 and the third external water circuit is used to provide domestic hot water 7. Figure 2 Also shown is an expansion vessel 16 which is also not part of the integrated water circuit 14, although it could be arranged there. Figure 1 In the same housing 15 shown.

[0094] like Figure 2 As can be seen in FIG, water from the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21 is directly supplied to the second external water circuit 3 and the third external water circuit 4. This is indicated by arrows 25 and 26 pointing in the direction of water flow. Therefore, the supply temperature or inlet temperature of the second external water circuit 3 and the third external water circuit 4 corresponds to the temperature of the water in the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21.

[0095] The return flows from the second external water circuit 3 and the third external water circuit 4 are combined or merged at a three-way valve 27, which is part of the integrated water circuit 14. The three-way valve 27 operates as a mixing valve, selectively combining the return flows from the two external water circuits 3 and 4. The water exiting the three-way valve 27 flows through the expansion vessel 16 to the first water pump 28, which is a centrifugal pump. From the first water pump 28, the water flows through a check valve 29 and a temperature sensor 30 before reaching the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1.

[0096] Because the first external water circuit 2 is the floor heating circuit 5, it requires a lower supply temperature than the second and third external water circuits 3 and 4. Therefore, the water drawn from the backup electric heater 21 is not supplied directly to the first external water circuit 2. Instead, it is mixed with the return flow from the floor heating circuit 5 at the second three-way valve 31. The water outlet of the second three-way valve 31 is pumped into the first external water circuit 2 by a second water pump 32. Furthermore, a temperature sensor 33 is positioned at the outlet of the second pump 32 to measure the supply temperature of the first water circuit 2. Based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 33, the mixing of the return flow from the first external water circuit 2 and the water drawn from the chamber 23 of the backup electric heater 21 is modified.

[0097] The remaining water from the first external water circuit 2 that has not been mixed at the second three-way valve 31 flows through the second check valve 34 to the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1. This amount of water corresponds to the amount of water drawn from the chamber 23 of the backup electric heater 21 and mixed at the second three-way valve 31. The return flows from the three external water circuits 2, 3, and 4 merge before the temperature sensor 30. The second three-way valve 31, as well as the second water pump 32 (also a centrifugal pump), the temperature sensor 30, and the second return valve 34 are all part of the integrated water circuit 14.

[0098] Now refer to Figures 3 to 8 An exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 is described. Figures 3 to 8 Each of the Figures 9 to 12 The backup electric heater 21 comprises a composite housing 35 which has been manufactured using injection molding from polyamide 66 with 30% glass fiber (PA66GF30). The entire composite housing 35 is made from one piece and defines a cavity 23. The interior of the cavity 23 is only Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 10 Visible in.

[0099] The cavity 23 has a generally circular cross-section and thus has a generally cylindrical shape. Inside the cavity 23 is placed a heating insert 36 or heating module 36 which can be inserted through the opening 23a. The heating insert 36 includes twelve electric heating elements 37, of which only selected heating elements are indicated by reference numerals to maintain clarity of the figure. The heating elements 37 are arranged inside the cavity 23 to heat or preheat the water. Please note that each heating element 37 is only used in Figure 5 、 6 and 10. In the remaining figures, only the flange 38 for attaching the heating insert 36 to the composite housing 35 of the backup electric heater 21 is visible. Four bolts 39 are used to secure the flange 38 to the composite housing 35. Only selected bolts 39 are indicated by reference numerals in the figures.

[0100] The heating insert 36 also includes a power connector 40 for each of the heating elements 37, which power connectors 40 protrude outside the cavity 23. Again, only selected power connectors 40 are indicated by reference numerals, which power connectors 40 are arranged to supply power to the heating elements 37.

[0101] The backup electric heater 21 comprises three connectors 41, 42, 43 at its bottom. The first connector 41 and the second connector 42 are straight water connectors 41, 42, which are used to supply water from the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21 directly to the external water circuits 3, 4. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first direct water connector 41 is used to supply water to the second external water circuit 3 as a conventional radiator circuit 6 , and the second direct water connector 42 supplies water to the third external water circuit 4 as a domestic hot water circuit 7 .

[0102] The third connector 43 at the bottom of the backup electric heater 21 is a combined fill / drain connector 43 which can be used to fill the integrated water circuit 14 with water or drain water from the circuit 14. Figure 6 and Figure 10 As best seen in FIG, the first through-water connector 41 , the second through-water connector 42 and the fill / drain connector 43 are each integrally formed with the composite housing 35 , ie formed as a single piece therewith.

[0103] In order to attach the connector to an external pipe, channel or conduit, nipples 44, 45, 46 with external threads have been placed in the connectors 41, 42, 43. Here, a metal bracket 47 is used to lock the nipples 44, 45, 46 in place. The metal bracket 47 can be used, for example, Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 as well as Figure 9 and Figure 12 In the figure, at least one of the brackets 47 is indicated by a reference numeral. In summary, the backup electric heater comprises three connectors 41, 42, 43 at its bottom, which can be used to supply water to the conventional radiator circuit 6 via a first connection 44, to supply water to the domestic hot water circuit 7 via a second connection 45, and to fill or drain the integrated water circuit 14 using a third connection 46.

[0104] If you can Figure 6 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 As best seen in FIG, the first connector 41 , the second connector 42 and the third connector 43 are all arranged on a central plane 49 of the backup electric heater 21 . Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the integrated water circuit 14 along a center plane 49 is shown. Figure 10A cross-sectional view of a corresponding separate backup electric heater 21 is shown. In addition to serving as a passage for water, the connectors 41, 42, 43 also structurally support the backup electric heater 21, and therefore the entire integrated water circuit 14, on the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14. Thus, the connectors 41, 42, 43 serve not only as conduits for water, but also as a support structure for the entire integrated water circuit.

[0105] Please note that Figures 3 to 8 Only the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14 is shown. The rest of the housing 15 is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Partially depicted.

[0106] The backup electric heater 21 further comprises two pump supports 50 and 51. The first water pump 28 is mounted on the first pump support 50 via a first water distributor / collector unit 53. The second pump support 51 supports the second water pump 32 via a second water distributor / collector unit 55.

[0107] The first water pump 28 and the second water pump 32 are centrifugal pumps. Figure 5 , the pump housing 56 (including the impeller chamber 56a) of the pumps 28, 32 is shown separated from the motor housing 57 (also including the electronic unit). Preferably, the first water pump 28 and the second water pump 32 are identical.

[0108] The first water distributor / collector unit 53 and the second water distributor / collector unit 55 are identical and include a housing or shell 58 that itself forms a conduit for the water. The shell 58 can be used to passively merge multiple incoming water flows or to distribute one incoming water flow into multiple outgoing water flows. In an exemplary embodiment, the shell 58 of the first water distributor / collector unit 53 is integrally formed with the pump housing 56 of the first water pump 28. Similarly, the shell 58 of the second water distributor / collector unit 55 is integrally formed with the pump housing 56 of the second water pump 32. In other words, as in Figure 5 As best seen in the accompanying drawings, the pump housing 56 of each pump 28, 32 is formed as a single piece with the housing 58 of the respective manifold / collector unit 53, 55 that supports the respective pump 28, 32. This allows the pump housing 56 and the housing 58 of the manifold / collector unit 53, 55 to be molded using a single tool, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of each piece. Furthermore, since fewer parts need to be assembled, assembly time and cost are also reduced.

[0109] Insert 59 is installed through opening 58a in housing 58 of manifold / collector unit 53,55 ( Figure 5 ), the water divider / collector units 53, 55 become three-way valves 27, 31. The operation of the three-way valves can be controlled to actively mix or distribute the various flows.

[0110] Figure 8 , which shows a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the center plane 49 of the integrated water circuit 14 when looking down through the water distributor / collector units 53, 55 toward the backup electric heater 21. Since the three-way valves 27, 31 are well known to those skilled in the art, further detailed description is omitted.

[0111] The first water distributor / collector unit 53 and the first water pump 28 are in fluid communication via a dedicated conduit 52. The conduit 52 connects the outflow port 53a of the first water distributor / collector unit 53 to the suction port 28a of the first water pump 28. Furthermore, a temperature sensor 52a is disposed in the conduit 52. Similarly, the second water distributor / collector unit 55 and the second water pump 32 are in fluid communication via a dedicated conduit 54. The conduit 54 connects the outflow port 55a of the second water distributor / collector unit 55 to the suction port 32a of the second water pump 32. Furthermore, a temperature sensor 54a is disposed in the conduit 54 to measure the water temperature at the suction port 32a of the second water pump 32. The conduits 52 and 54 that fluidly connect the water distributor / collector units 53 and 55 to the water pumps 28 and 32 are identical.

[0112] The first pump support 50 has, at its bottom end facing the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14, a return flow connector 62 to which the return flow of the external water circuit can be connected. Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the return flow of the second external water circuit 3 , which supplies water to the conventional radiator circuit 6 , is connected to the return flow 62 of the first pump support 50 .

[0113] A return flow connector 62 formed at the first pump support 50 extends parallel to the center plane 49 and, therefore, parallel to the first and second straight water connectors 41, 42 and the fill / discharge connector 43. Attached to the return flow connector 62 is a joint 63 having an external thread that mates with the joints 44, 45, 46 provided at the straight water connectors 41, 42 and the fill / discharge connector 43.

[0114] The return flow connector 62 also supports the integrated water circuit 14 on the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14. The water flowing into the first pump support 50 through the return flow connector 62 is guided to the first water distributor / collector unit 53. Figures 3 to 8 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG, this is realized as a three-way valve 27. Here, water from the return flow connector 62 of the first pump support 50 is mixed with water from the second return flow manifold 64, which provides water directly to the first water distributor / manifold unit 53.

[0115] For example, the second return flow connector 64 can be used to connect the return flow of the domestic hot water circuit 7, such as Figure 2 As shown. Water from the first return flow connector 62 and the second return flow connector 64 mixes at the three-way valve 27 and continues to flow through the conduit 52 to the first water pump 28. The pressure side outlet 65 of the first water pump 28 is connected to the supply line 66 of the condenser 18. A temperature sensor 67 is integrated in the supply line 66. The first check valve 29 is integrated inside the pipe 65a connecting the pressure side outlet 65 of the first water pump 28 to the supply line 66.

[0116] If you can Figure 7 , the second return flow connector 64 is formed similarly to the first return flow connector 62, the straight-through water connectors 41, 42, and the fill / drain valve 43, in that a nipple 64a having external threads for external piping arrangements is attached to the inlet end of the return flow connector 64. The rigid return flow connector 64 also provides structural support for the integrated water circuit 14 from the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14.

[0117] The fluid connection between the first pump support 50 and the first water distributor / collector unit 53 can be Figure 11 As can be seen at reference numeral 68 in the figure, the second pump support 51 has a similar connector 69 that projects upward from the second pump support 51 parallel to the center plane 49 toward the second water distributor / collector unit 55. Thus, the first and second connectors 68, 69 between the first and second pump supports 50, 51 and the respective water distributor / collector units 53, 55 extend in a direction opposite to the first and second through-water connectors 41, 42 and the inlet / outlet connector 43. The second pump support 51 provides fluid communication between the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21 and the second water distributor / collector unit 55, allowing water to be drawn directly from the cavity 23 by the second water pump 32 into the second water distributor / collector unit 55.

[0118] The first and second pump supports 50 and 51 extend away from the composite housing 35 of the backup electric heater 21 on opposite sides of the center plane 49. The pump supports 50 and 51, including connectors 68 and 69, are integrally formed with the composite housing 35. The first pump support 50 is supported on the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14 via a first return flow connector 62, while studs 70 are provided on the second pump support 51. Studs 70 are the sole dedicated support elements for the backup electric heater 21, supporting it and, therefore, the entire integrated water circuit 14 on the bottom cover 48. All other support is provided by connectors 41, 42, 43, and 62, which also carry water. Furthermore, all of these connectors 41, 42, 43, and 62 (particularly, the return flow connector 62) are integrally formed with the composite housing 35 of the backup electric heater 21, simplifying the manufacture and assembly of the integrated water circuit 14.

[0119] At the second water divider / collector unit 55, which is also configured as a three-way valve 31, the water from the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21 is mixed with the return flow from the external water circuit 2. Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the external water circuit is the floor heating circuit 5. A corresponding joint 71 is provided at the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14. The corresponding joint 71 is connected to a connecting element 73 via a pipe 72. The connecting element 73 connects the first water distributor / collector unit 53 and the second water distributor / collector unit 55.

[0120] exist Figures 3 to 8 In the embodiment shown, a connecting element 73 holds the manifold / collector units 53, 55 together. Furthermore, the return flow received via the pipe 72 is directed via the connecting element 73 to the second manifold / collector unit 55 where it is mixed with heated water taken directly from the chamber 23. The second water pump 32 delivers water from the second manifold / collector unit 55 via its pressure outlet 74 and the pipe 75 attached thereto to an external water circuit, which may be, for example, a Figure 2 The first external water circuit 2 is the floor heating circuit 5. At the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15, a connector 76 corresponding to the other connectors is provided for attaching an additional external water circuit.

[0121] The pipe 72 carrying the return flow from this external water circuit 2 to the second water distributor / collector unit 55 comprises a flow divider 77, wherein the portion of the return flow not mixed at the second three-way valve 31 also flows into the supply line 66 of the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1. The flow divider 77 comprises a second non-return valve 34 at its end facing the supply line 66.

[0122] The backup electric heater 21 further includes a condenser connector 78, to which the return flow of the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1 is connected via a condenser return flow pipe 79. Furthermore, an opening 82 for a pressure relief valve 83 is provided at the top of the housing 35 of the backup electric heater 21. This opening 82 can also be used to mount a temperature sensor (not shown) to measure the water temperature in the cavity 23.

[0123] As additional structural support for the water distributor / collector units 53 , 55 and the water pumps 28 , 32 , the composite housing 35 of the backup electric heater 21 includes four ribs 80 symmetrically arranged in pairs relative to the center plane 49 of the backup electric heater 21 .

[0124] In addition, if Figure 5 As can be best seen in the drawing, the opening 23a of the backup electric heater 21 (through which the heating insert 36 can be inserted into the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21) and the opening 58a in the first and second water distributor / collector units 53, 55 (through which the insert 59 for configuring the water distributor / collector units 53, 55 as three-way valves 27, 31 can be inserted) and the impeller chamber 56a of the pump housing 56 all face the same direction, allowing easy access to all components for assembly and maintenance.

[0125] like Figures 3 to 8 The integrated water circuit 14 shown provides the water pump 1 with a particularly compact integrated water circuit 14 arrangement which offers a high degree of flexibility with regard to the number of external water circuits that can be supplied. Furthermore, only a limited number of components are required, which makes assembly of the integrated water circuit 14 particularly easy. Furthermore, the entire structural support of the three-way valves 27, 31 and the water pumps 28, 32 is provided via the backup electric heater 21. In this respect, it is to be noted that the water pumps 28, 32 and the water distributor / collector units 53, 55 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the centre plane 49 of the backup electric heater 21. Furthermore, the water pumps 28, 32 and the water distributor / collector units 53, 55 are arranged at the same distance from a base plane 81 of the backup electric heater 21, which extends perpendicularly to the centre plane 49 and Figures 3 to 8 In the embodiment shown, it is parallel to the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14 .

[0126] Figures 3 to 8 The integrated water circuit 14 shown and Figures 9 to 12 The operation of the backup electric heater 21 is shown with reference to Figure 2 Described.

[0127] Figure 13 and Figure 14A second exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 is shown. This integrated water circuit is based on the same backup electric heater 21 as already discussed with respect to the first embodiment. Therefore, only those elements of the integrated water circuit 14 that differ from the first exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 will be described in more detail. Throughout the following discussion of the other embodiments, the same reference numerals will be used for the same elements.

[0128] Figure 13 An example of an integrated water circuit 14 is shown which can be used to supply hot water from a heat pump 1 to two external water circuits 2, 3, 4. The main difference from the previously discussed circuits 14 is that only one water pump 28 is provided, and this single water pump is used to supply water to both external water circuits simultaneously.

[0129] For example, the two water circuits may be a first external water circuit 2 or a second external water circuit 3 which may serve as a floor heating circuit 5 or a conventional radiator circuit 6, and a third external water circuit 4 for supplying domestic hot water 7. Figure 14 As can be seen in FIG, the resulting integrated water circuit 14 is substantially identical to the first integrated water circuit 14 discussed previously, except that there is no second water distributor / collector unit, no second water pump, and no connecting element extending between the first and second water distributor / collector units. The corresponding outlets are sealed by covers, and a different return flow connector 85 is used to direct the return flow from the condenser 18 to the condenser connector 78 of the backup electric heater 21. A temperature sensor 20 is integrated between the return flow connector 85 and the condenser connector 78 to measure the temperature of the water provided by the condenser 18. Note that in FIG. Figure 14 The supply connection to the condenser 18 is also not shown in the embodiment of FIG.

[0130] therefore, Figure 14 The integrated water circuit 14 in the embodiment does not utilize the second pump support 51 and the corresponding rib 80. Nevertheless, a particularly compact integrated water circuit is provided that does not include any supporting structure other than the single stud 70 and rib 80, nor does it serve to guide the water. Furthermore, with the exception of the stud 70, the entire integrated water circuit 14 is supported entirely on the bottom cover 48 of the housing 15 of the integrated water circuit 14 using the connector for the backup electric heater.

[0131] at last, Figure 15 and Figure 16 A third exemplary embodiment of an integrated water circuit 14 is shown. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The integrated water circuit 14 shown is similar, Figure 15 and Figure 16The integrated water circuit shown is used to drive only two external water circuits 2, 3, 4. However, this integrated water circuit 14 uses two water pumps 28, 32, but can switch between using one pump or both pumps simultaneously. It is assumed that in most cases, only the first pump 28, 32 is needed to drive water through the two external water circuits 2, 3, 4. The second pump 32, 54 serves only as a boost pump.

[0132] Only the differences compared to the first exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 will be described below.

[0133] The third exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 is also based on the same backup electric heater 21. The key difference is that the second water distributor / collector unit 55 operates as a passive water distributor unit without any internal structure. The return flow connector of the first external water circuit 2, 3 (which can be, for example, a floor heating circuit 5 or a radiator water circuit 6) is not connected to the first water distributor / collector unit 53 via the first pump support 50, but is connected to the second water distributor / collector unit 55, from which it can flow to the first water distributor / collector unit 53 via a bypass connector 89. Alternatively, water can be drawn from the second water distributor / collector unit 55 via a second water pump 32. The pressure outlet 74 of the second water pump 32 is directly connected to the supply line 66 of the condenser 18 of the heat pump 1 via a corresponding pipe 88. Thus, with the aid of the second water pump 32, the flow of the external water circuit attached to the second water distributor / collector unit 55 can be increased. With Figures 3 to 8 In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment of the integrated water circuit 14 shown, the second pump support 51 is not used to supply water from the cavity 23 of the backup electric heater 21 .

[0134] The third exemplary embodiment is based on the same backup electric heater 21 as the other embodiments of the integrated water circuit 14, and the required components are also substantially the same. Likewise, the entire integrated water circuit 14 is very compact and requires only a few components, which makes the assembly of the integrated water circuit 14 very simple.

[0135] Reference Signs List

[0136] 1. Heat pump

[0137] 2, 3, 4 external water circuits

[0138] 5 Floor heating circuit

[0139] 6. Radiator heating circuit

[0140] 7. Domestic hot water circuit

[0141] 8 Radiator

[0142] 9 pipelines

[0143] 10 Warm water buffer

[0144] 11 External heat exchanger unit

[0145] 12 Supply lines

[0146] 13 Return flow line

[0147] 14 Integrated water circuit

[0148] 15 Housing with integrated water circuit

[0149] 16 Expansion tank, expansion vessel

[0150] 17 Fan

[0151] 18 Condenser

[0152] 19 Refrigerant pipeline

[0153] 20 Temperature Sensor

[0154] 21 Spare electric heater

[0155] 22 Electric heating elements

[0156] 23 Cavity

[0157] 23a Opening towards the cavity for receiving the heating insert

[0158] 24 Temperature Sensors

[0159] 25, 26 Flow direction

[0160] 27 First three-way valve

[0161] 28 First Water Pump

[0162] 28a Suction side inlet

[0163] 29 First check valve

[0164] 30 Temperature sensor

[0165] 31 Second three-way valve

[0166] 32 Second water pump

[0167] 32a Suction side inlet

[0168] 33 Temperature sensor

[0169] 34 Second check valve

[0170] 35 Composite Shell

[0171] 36 Heating Inserts / Modules

[0172] 37 Electric heating element

[0173] 38 flange

[0174] 39 bolts

[0175] 40 Power connector

[0176] 41 First direct water connector

[0177] 42 Second straight water connector

[0178] 43 Injection / discharge connector

[0179] 44, 45, 46 connectors

[0180] 47 bracket

[0181] 48 bottom cover of housing 15

[0182] 49 center plane

[0183] 50 First pump support

[0184] 51 Second pump support

[0185] 52 Catheter

[0186] 52a Temperature sensor

[0187] 53 First water distributor / collector unit

[0188] 53a Outflow

[0189] 54 Catheter

[0190] 54a Temperature sensor

[0191] 55 Second water distributor / collector unit

[0192] 55a Outflow

[0193] 56 Pump housing of the first water pump / second water pump

[0194] 56a Impeller chamber

[0195] 57 Motor housing of the first water pump / second water pump

[0196] 58 Housing / shell of the first / second manifold / collector unit

[0197] 58a Opening for receiving the plug-in

[0198] 59 plugins

[0199] 27, 31 three-way valve

[0200] 62 First return flow connector

[0201] 63 connector

[0202] 64 Second return flow connector

[0203] 64a connector

[0204] 65 Pressure side connector of the first water pump

[0205] 65a tube

[0206] 66 Condenser supply line

[0207] 67 Temperature Sensor

[0208] 68 connectors

[0209] 69 Connectors

[0210] 70 axis

[0211] 71 Floor heating connector

[0212] 72 tubes

[0213] 73 Bypass connector

[0214] 74 Pressure side outlet of the second water pump

[0215] 75 tubes

[0216] 76 connector

[0217] 77 shunt

[0218] 78 Condenser connector

[0219] 79 Condenser return flow connector

[0220] 80 ribs

[0221] 81 base plane

[0222] 82 Opening

[0223] 83 Pressure relief valve

[0224] 85 Return Stream Connector

[0225] 87 Return Stream Connector

[0226] 88 tubes

[0227] 89 Bypass connector

Claims

1. An integrated water circuit (14) for a heat pump (1), comprising a backup electric heater (1), a first water pump (28) for a first external water circuit (2, 3, 4) and a first water distributor / collector unit (53), in, The backup electric heater (21) comprises a composite housing (35) defining a cavity (23) for heating water using at least one electric heating element (22) arranged in the cavity (23), and the backup electric heater (21) further comprises a condenser connector (78), a first straight water connector (41) and a first pump support (50), the condenser connector (78), the first straight water connector (41) and the first pump support (50) being integrally formed with the composite housing (35), wherein the first straight water connector (41) is arranged to supply water from the cavity (23) to the external water circuit (2, 3, 4), wherein the condenser connector (78) is configured to connect the backup electric heater (21) to the return flow of the condenser (18) of the heat pump (1), The first water pump (28) is mounted to the first pump support (50) via the water distributor / collector unit (53), and the inlet of the first water pump (28) is fluidically connected to the first water distributor / collector unit (53).

2. The integrated water circuit (14) according to claim 1, wherein: The integrated water circuit (14) comprises a second water distributor / collector unit (55) and a second water pump (32) for the external water circuits (2, 3, 4), The backup electric heater (21) includes a second pump support (51) integrally formed with the composite shell (35), the second pump support (51) being opposite to the first pump support (50). The second water pump (32) is mounted to the second pump support (51) via the second water distributor / collector unit (55), and the inlet of the second water pump (32) is in fluid communication with the second water distributor / collector unit (55).

3. The integrated water circuit (14) according to claim 2, wherein: The second water pump (32) is mounted to the second pump support (51) via the second water distributor / collector unit (55) by integrally forming a pump housing (56) of the second water pump (32) with a housing (58) of the second water distributor / collector unit (55), and attaching the integrally formed housings (56, 58) to the second pump support (62).

4. The integrated water circuit (14) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: Relative to the central plane (49) of the composite housing (35), the first pump support member (50) and the second pump support member (51) are formed opposite to each other, the first water distributor / collector unit (53) and the second water distributor / collector unit (55) are arranged opposite to each other, and the first water pump (28) and the second water pump (32) are arranged opposite to each other.

5. The integrated water circuit (14) according to claim 3, wherein: The first water distributor / collector unit (55) and the second water distributor / collector unit (55) are arranged at the same distance from the base plane (81) of the composite shell (35) and on the same side of the base plane (81) of the composite shell (35), and wherein the first water pump (28) and the water pump are arranged at the same distance from the base plane (81) of the backup electric heater (21) and on the same side of the base plane (81) of the backup electric heater (21), wherein the base plane (81) extends perpendicular to the center plane (49).

6. The integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: The second pump support (51) forms a pipe, which establishes a fluid connection between the cavity (23) of the backup electric heater (21) and the second water distributor / collector unit (55), so that the inlet of the second water pump (32) is fluidly connected to the cavity (23) of the backup electric heater (21) via the second water distributor / collector unit (55).

7. The integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The first water distributor / collector unit (53) is connected to the second water distributor / collector unit (55) via a bypass connector (89), wherein the bypass connector (89) is formed as a single component and comprises a conduit for establishing a fluid connection between the first water distributor / collector unit (53) and the second water distributor / collector unit (55).

8. The integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The first water distributor / collector unit (53) is structurally connected to the second water distributor / collector unit (55) via a connecting element (73), wherein the connecting element (73) has a return flow interface for a return flow of an external water circuit (2, 3, 4), wherein the external water circuit (2, 3, 4) connected to the return flow interface is in fluid communication with the first water distributor / collector unit (51) or the second water distributor / collector unit (55) via the connecting element (73), and wherein no fluid connection is provided between the first water distributor / collector unit (53) and the second water distributor / collector unit (55) via the connecting element (73), The connecting element (73) is preferably formed as a single piece.

9. An integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first pump support (50) further defines a return flow connector (85) for the external water circuit, wherein when the return flow of the external water circuit (2, 3, 4) is connected to the return flow connector (85) of the first pump support (50), the return flow of the external water circuit (2, 3, 4) is in fluid communication with the first water distributor / collector unit (53) via the conduit formed by the first pump support (50), and the cavity (23) defined by the composite shell (35) is not in fluid communication with the first water distributor / collector unit (53) via the first pump support (50).

10. An integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first water distributor / collector unit (53) and / or the second water distributor / collector unit (55) is a three-way valve, wherein the three-way valve can be operated in a diverting mode or a mixing mode.

11. An integrated water circuit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The integrated water circuit comprises an input condenser connector (78) for connecting at least the outlet of the first water pump to the condenser (18) of the heat pump (1).

12. An integrated water circuit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The cavity (23) has a generally cylindrical shape.

13. An integrated water circuit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The condenser connector (78) and the first through-water condenser (41) extend in opposite directions away from the cavity (23) defined by the composite shell (35), wherein the condenser connector (78) and the first through-water connector (41) preferably extend in the central plane (49).

14. An integrated water circuit according to any one of the preceding claims as appended to claims 8 and 13, wherein The return flow connector (85) extends away from the first pump support (50) in a direction extending parallel to the first through water connector (41).

15. The integrated water circuit according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The first pump support (50) extends substantially perpendicular to the center plane (49) away from the cavity (23) defined by the composite housing (35), The first pump support (50) is preferably formed such that the first water pump (28) mounted to the first pump support (50) is arranged on one side of the backup electric heater (21), and the condenser connector (78) extends toward the side.

16. An integrated water circuit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The backup electric heater (21) includes a combined fill / drain connector (43) integrally formed with the composite shell (35), wherein the combined fill / drain connector (43) preferably extends parallel to at least one through-water connector (41, 42) away from the cavity (23) defined by the composite shell (35).

17. An integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first water pump (28) is mounted to the first pump support (50) via the first water distributor / collector unit (53) by integrally forming a pump housing (56) of the first water pump (28) with a housing (58) of the first water distributor / collector unit (53), and attaching the integrally formed housings (56, 58) to the first pump support (50).

18. An integrated water circuit (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The integrated water circuit (14) is arranged in a housing (15) comprising a bottom cover (48), wherein the integrated water circuit (14) is supported on the bottom cover (48) by the first straight-through water connector (41).

19. Integrated water circuit (14) according to claims 16 and 18, wherein The integrated water circuit (14) is also supported on the bottom cover (48) by the combined fill / drain connector (43).

Images