Temperature adjusting system

Abstract

Provided is a temperature control system capable of discharging a refrigerant before the refrigerant flows into a living space, even when a large amount of refrigerant is mixed into a water pipe. The temperature regulating system (1) comprises a first unit (100) and a second unit (200). The first unit has a refrigerant circuit (110), a first water pipe (310a), a second heat exchanger (150), and a first degassing device (170). The refrigerant circuit circulates a highly flammable refrigerant. The first water pipe is a part of the water pipe. The second heat exchanger exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the water flowing through the first water pipe. The first degassing device discharges gas from the first water pipe. The second unit has a second water pipe (310b) and a second degassing device (210). The second water pipe is a part of the water pipe, into which the water flowing out of the first water pipe flows, and into which the refrigerant flowing out flows into the living space (400). The second degasser discharges gas from the second water pipe. The gas-liquid separation performance of the first degasser for separating the gas from the water flowing through the water pipe is higher than the gas-liquid separation performance of the second degasser for separating the gas from the water flowing through the water pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This relates to a temperature regulation system. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-162184) discloses a temperature control system (heat medium circulation system) that regulates the temperature of a heat medium by exchanging heat between a refrigerant flowing in a refrigerant circuit and a heat medium such as water flowing in a water pipe (heat medium circuit). The refrigerant circuit of this temperature control system includes a degassing device that, in the event that refrigerant becomes mixed with the water flowing in the water pipe due to damage to the heat exchanger that facilitates the heat exchange, separates the refrigerant from the water and releases it into the outdoor atmosphere. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] The degassing device of the temperature control system disclosed in Patent Document 1 is installed inside the living space. Therefore, if a large amount of refrigerant mixes into the water to a degree that the degassing device cannot handle, some of the refrigerant may flow into the living space.

[0005] This disclosure provides a temperature control system that discharges refrigerant before it flows into the living space, even when a large amount of refrigerant is mixed into the water piping.

[0006] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0007] The first-viewpoint temperature control system is a system for regulating the temperature of water flowing through water pipes. The temperature control system comprises a first unit and a second unit.

[0008] The first unit includes a refrigerant circuit, a first water piping, a second heat exchanger, and a first degassing device. The refrigerant circuit supplies a highly flammable refrigerant. The first water piping is part of a water piping system. The second heat exchanger allows the water flowing through the first water piping to exchange heat with the refrigerant. The first degassing device discharges gas from the first water piping.

[0009] The second unit has a second water piping and a second degassing device. The second water piping is part of the water piping, allowing water flowing from the first water piping to flow in, and is used to allow the outflowing refrigerant to flow into the living space. The second degassing device discharges gas from the second water piping.

[0010] The first degassing device has a higher gas-liquid separation performance than the second degassing device.

[0011] In this temperature control system, even if a large amount of highly flammable refrigerant mixes into the water circuit due to damage to the heat exchanger, the first and second degassing devices can discharge the refrigerant from the water piping before it flows into the living space. Therefore, even if a large amount of refrigerant mixes into the water piping, the temperature control system can discharge the refrigerant from the water piping before it flows into the living space.

[0012] The temperature control system of the second viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of the first viewpoint, with the first degassing device located downstream of the specific heat exchanger in the first water piping.

[0013] In this temperature control system, highly flammable refrigerant mixed with water can be discharged from the water pipes before it flows into the living space.

[0014] The temperature control system of the third viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of the first viewpoint or the second viewpoint, wherein the second unit has any one of a pump, a heater, and a flow sensor.

[0015] The temperature control system of the fourth viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of any of the first to third viewpoints, and the first degassing device discharges the gas to the outside.

[0016] In this temperature control system, by discharging the separated refrigerant outdoors, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space.

[0017] The fifth viewpoint's temperature control system is based on the temperature control systems of any of the first to fourth viewpoints, with the second degassing device discharging the gas outdoors.

[0018] In this temperature control system, by discharging the separated refrigerant outdoors, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space.

[0019] The temperature control system of the sixth viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of any of the first to fifth viewpoints, with the second unit located in the non-residential space indoors.

[0020] In this temperature control system, by discharging the separated refrigerant outside the living space, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space.

[0021] The temperature control system of the seventh point is based on the temperature control system of the sixth point, and the second degassing device discharges the gas to the outside of the second unit.

[0022] In this temperature control system, by discharging the separated refrigerant outside the second unit, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from accumulating at a high concentration inside the second unit.

[0023] The temperature control system of the eighth viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of the seventh viewpoint, and the second degassing device has a refrigerant outlet for discharging gas. The refrigerant outlet is located outside the second unit and at a height of less than 150 mm from the floor surface where the second unit is located.

[0024] In this temperature control system, a certain distance can be maintained between the highly flammable refrigerant discharged from the refrigerant outlet and the sockets installed on the walls of the building.

[0025] The temperature control system of the ninth viewpoint is based on the temperature control system of any one of the first to third viewpoints, and the second degassing device has a refrigerant outlet for discharging gas. The refrigerant outlet is located inside the second unit and at the bottom of the second unit.

[0026] In this temperature control system, by storing the separated refrigerant inside the second unit, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a temperature control system 1 according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of the first degassing device 170.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view of Unit 200.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of the control unit 500. Detailed Implementation

[0031] (1) Overall structure

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a temperature control system 1 according to one embodiment. The temperature control system 1 regulates the temperature of water flowing in the water circuit 300. The temperature control system 1 includes a first unit 100, a second unit 200, and a control unit 500.

[0033] The temperature control system 1 performs cooling and heating operations. More specifically, the temperature control system 1 heats or cools water that is filled in the water circuit 300 and circulates in a certain direction by refrigerating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit 110 (described later) of the first unit 100, and uses the water to perform cooling and heating operations of the living space 400.

[0034] The water circuit 300 is composed of multiple water pipes 310. The multiple water pipes 310 include a first water pipe 310a, a second water pipe 310b, a third water pipe 310c, and a fourth water pipe 310d.

[0035] (2) Detailed structure

[0036] (2-1) Unit 1, Question 100

[0037] The first unit 100 has a refrigerant circuit 110, a first water piping 310a, and a first degassing device 170. The first unit 100 is typically located outdoors.

[0038] (2-1-1) Refrigerant circuit 110

[0039] The refrigerant circuit 110 includes a compressor 120, a switching mechanism 130, a first heat exchanger 140, a second heat exchanger 150, and an expansion mechanism 160. The various parts of the refrigerant circuit 110 are connected by piping. The refrigerant circuit 110 is supplied with a highly flammable refrigerant. A highly flammable refrigerant is a refrigerant classified as highly flammable (A3) in ISO 817 and possessing high combustibility. In this embodiment, the refrigerant is R290 (propane).

[0040] (2-1-1-1) Compressor 120

[0041] The compressor 120 uses a compression mechanism (not shown) to compress the low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle to a high-pressure one. The compressor 120 has an intake section 120a and a discharge section 120b.

[0042] The suction section 120a draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit 110 and supplies it to the compression mechanism (not shown). The discharge section 120b discharges the refrigerant, compressed to high pressure by the compression mechanism, back into the refrigerant circuit 110. The compression capacity of the compressor 120 is controlled by the control section 500.

[0043] (2-1-1-2) First heat exchanger 140

[0044] The first heat exchanger 140 allows the refrigerant filling the refrigerant circuit 110 to exchange heat with the air at the location where the first heat exchanger 140 is installed. The first heat exchanger 140 has a first end 140a and a second end 140b. The first end 140a and the second end 140b function as inlets for refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger 140 and outlets for refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger 140.

[0045] The first heat exchanger 140 is installed, for example, outside the air-conditioned space such as an outdoor area. Although not limited, the first heat exchanger 140 is a microchannel type heat exchanger.

[0046] (2-1-1-3) Second heat exchanger 150

[0047] The second heat exchanger 150 allows heat exchange between the refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circuit 110 and the water filled in the water circuit 300. The second heat exchanger 150 has a refrigerant flow path 151 and a water flow path 152.

[0048] The refrigerant flow path 151 is through which refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circuit 110 passes. The refrigerant flow path 151 has a first end 151a and a second end 151b. The first end 151a and the second end 151b function as an inlet for refrigerant flowing into the refrigerant flow path 151 and an outlet for refrigerant flowing out of the refrigerant flow path 151.

[0049] Water flow path 152 is provided for water flowing in water circuit 300. Water flow path 152 has a first end 152a and a second end 152b. The first end 152a functions as an outlet for water flowing out of water flow path 152. The second end 152b functions as an outlet for water flowing into water flow path 152.

[0050] Although not limited to, the second heat exchanger 150 is a plate heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 150 is an example of a heat exchanger.

[0051] (2-1-1-4) Switching mechanism 130

[0052] The switching mechanism 130 switches the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigerant circuit 110 between two states. The switching mechanism 130 is a four-way reversing valve. The switching mechanism 130 has a first port P1, a second port P2, a third port P3, and a fourth port P4.

[0053] The first port P1 is connected to the discharge section 120b of the compressor 120. The second port P2 is connected to the second end 140b of the first heat exchanger 140. The third port P3 is connected to the suction section 120a of the compressor 120. The fourth port P4 is connected to the second end 151b of the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150.

[0054] Switching mechanism 130 in the first state ( Figure 1 The state shown by the solid line) and the second state ( Figure 1 The switching mechanism 130 switches between states (shown by the dashed line). In the first state, the switching mechanism 130 connects the first port P1 to the second port P2, and connects the third port P3 to the fourth port P4. In the second state, the switching mechanism 130 connects the first port P1 to the fourth port P4, and connects the second port P2 to the third port P3. The state of the switching mechanism 130 is controlled by the control unit 500 between the first and second states.

[0055] (2-1-1-5) Expansion Mechanism 160

[0056] The expansion mechanism 160 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant flowing between the first end 140a of the first heat exchanger 140 and the first end 151a of the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150 to a low pressure. One end of the expansion mechanism 160 is connected to the first end 140a of the first heat exchanger 140, and the other end is connected to the first end 151a of the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150.

[0057] Although not limited, the expansion mechanism 160 is an electrically operated expansion valve. The opening degree of the expansion mechanism 160 is controlled by the control unit 500.

[0058] (2-1-2) First water pipe 310a

[0059] The first water pipe 310a is a pipe for water flowing from the second unit 200 (more specifically, from the third water pipe 310c). The first water pipe 310a has a water flow path 152 in the middle so that the water flowing inside it passes through the water flow path 152 of the second heat exchanger 150.

[0060] (2-1-3) First degassing device 170

[0061] The first degassing device 170 discharges gas from the first water pipe 310a. More specifically, the first degassing device 170 discharges refrigerant mixed in with the water filling the first water pipe 310a from the first water pipe 310a. The first degassing device 170 is located downstream of the second heat exchanger 150 (specifically, the water flow path 152) in the first water pipe 310a.

[0062] Here, "downstream of the second heat exchanger 150 in the first water pipe 310a" refers to the portion of the water flowing from the second heat exchanger 150 and before flowing into the second unit 200 in the first water pipe 310a (in other words, the portion between the connection part with the second water pipe 310b, i.e., the first connection part 320a (described later) and the second heat exchanger 150).

[0063] The first degassing device 170 has a first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a that discharges the separated gas to the outside of the first unit 100. The first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a connects the outside of the first unit 100 with the inside of the first degassing device 170. The gas separated by the first degassing device 170 passes through the first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a and is discharged to the outside of the first unit 100 from the opening at the end of the first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a, i.e., the first refrigerant outlet 170b. In this embodiment, the first unit 100 is located outdoors; therefore, the first degassing device 170 can discharge the separated gas outdoors.

[0064] In this embodiment, the first degassing device 170 is a gas-liquid separator. Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of the first degassing device 170. While not limiting, in this embodiment, the first degassing device 170 is a centrifugal gas-liquid separator. The centrifugal gas-liquid separator rotates the liquid mixed with gas inside the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c (see reference). Figure 2 (The dashed arrow in the image) thus utilizes the centrifugal force acting on the liquid to separate the gas from the liquid.

[0065] The gas-liquid separation chamber 170c is configured as a cylinder closed at both ends with its central axis running vertically upwards. The end of the first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a opposite to the first refrigerant discharge port 170b is connected to the vertically upper end of the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c to allow the separated gas to be discharged. A first water pipe 310a, allowing water to flow into the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c, is connected to the circumferential surface of the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c, causing the flowing water to swirl inside the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c. A first water pipe 310a, allowing water to flow out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c, is connected to the vertically lower circumferential surface of the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c, allowing water accumulated in the gas-liquid separation chamber 170c to flow out.

[0066] The gas-liquid separation performance of the first degassing device 170, which separates gas from water flowing in the water circuit 300, is higher than that of the second degassing device 210, which separates gas from water flowing in the water circuit 300. Here, gas-liquid separation performance is measured by the amount of gas that can be separated from a gas-containing liquid flowing at the same flow rate and speed per unit time. Therefore, the greater the amount of gas that can be separated from a gas-containing liquid flowing at the same flow rate and speed per unit time, the higher the gas-liquid separation performance.

[0067] (2-2) Unit 2, Question 200

[0068] The second unit 200 includes a second water pipe 310b, a third water pipe 310c, a second degassing device 210, and a pump 220. The second unit 200 is typically located in a non-residential space indoors (other than living spaces, such as storage rooms, basements, etc.). Figure 3 This is a schematic side view of Unit 200.

[0069] (2-2-1) Second water piping 310b

[0070] The second water pipe 310b is for the inflow of water from the first water pipe 310a in the first unit 100, and is also for the inflow of refrigerant into the living space 400. One end of the second water pipe 310b is connected to the first water pipe 310a via a first connection 320a. The other end of the second water pipe 310b is connected to the fourth water pipe 310d via a second connection 320b.

[0071] (2-2-2) Third water piping 310c

[0072] The third water pipe 310c is a pipe for supplying water flowing from the fourth water pipe 310d (described later) in the living space 400. One end of the third water pipe 310c is connected to the fourth water pipe 310d via a third connection 320c. The other end of the third water pipe 310c is connected to the first water pipe 310a via a fourth connection 320d.

[0073] (2-2-3) Pump 220

[0074] Pump 220 circulates water in water circuit 300 in a certain direction within water circuit 300. Pump 220 has an intake section 220a and a discharge section 220b. Pump 220 is located midway through the third water piping 310c.

[0075] When pump 220 draws in water flowing from fourth water pipe 310d into third water pipe 310c from suction section 220a, pump 220 applies a predetermined pressure to the water and discharges it again from discharge section 220b to third water pipe 310c. Pump 220 is controlled by control section 500.

[0076] (2-2-4) Second degassing device 210

[0077] The second degassing device 210 discharges gas from the second water pipe 310b. More specifically, the second degassing device 210 discharges refrigerant mixed in the water filling the second water pipe 310b. The second degassing device 210 is located in the second water pipe 310b.

[0078] The second degassing device 210 has a second refrigerant discharge pipe 210a that discharges the separated gas to the outside of the second unit 200. The second refrigerant discharge pipe 210a connects the outside of the second unit 200 with the inside of the second degassing device 210. The gas separated by the second degassing device 210 passes through the second refrigerant discharge pipe 210a and is discharged to the outside of the second unit 200 from the opening at the end of the second refrigerant discharge pipe 210a, namely the second refrigerant discharge port 210b. The second refrigerant discharge port 210b is located outside the second unit 200 and at a height H (refer to) less than 150 mm from the floor surface on which the second unit 200 is installed. Figure 3 ( ) . The second refrigerant outlet 210b is an example of a refrigerant outlet.

[0079] The second degassing device 210 is a gas-liquid separator with lower gas-liquid separation performance than the first degassing device 170. In this embodiment, the second degassing device 210, like the first degassing device 170, is a centrifugal gas-liquid separator; therefore, a detailed structural description is omitted. The inner diameter of the gas-liquid separation chamber of the second degassing device 210 is smaller than that of the gas-liquid separation chamber of the first degassing device 170. Therefore, the centrifugal force acting on the liquid flowing into the second degassing device 210 is less than the centrifugal force acting on the liquid flowing into the first degassing device 170, resulting in lower gas-liquid separation performance for the second degassing device 210 compared to the first degassing device 170.

[0080] (2-3) Living space 400

[0081] Living space 400 is an indoor space such as a residence or office, where people live. Living space 400 has a third heat exchanger 410 and a fourth water pipe 310d. In this embodiment, living space 400, as an example, has two third heat exchangers 410. The number of third heat exchangers 410 is not limited to two; it can be one or more.

[0082] (2-3-1) Third heat exchanger 410

[0083] The third heat exchanger 410 allows water filling the water circuit 300 to exchange heat with the air in the living space 400 where the third heat exchanger 410 is installed. The third heat exchanger 410 has a first end 410a, a second end 410b, and an air extraction mechanism 410c. The first end 410a functions as an inlet for water flowing into the third heat exchanger 410. The second end 410b functions as an outlet for water flowing out of the third heat exchanger 410. The air extraction mechanism 410c is a mechanism for extracting air accumulated in the third heat exchanger 410. In this embodiment, the air extraction mechanism 410c is an air extraction valve.

[0084] Although not limited, the third heat exchanger 410 is a radiator.

[0085] (2-3-2) Fourth water piping 310d

[0086] The fourth water pipe 310d is a pipe for supplying water flowing out of the second unit 200. One end of the fourth water pipe 310d is connected to the second water pipe 310b, and the other end is connected to the third water pipe 310c. The fourth water pipe 310d is connected to a third heat exchanger 410 in the middle so that the water flowing inside it passes through the third heat exchanger 410.

[0087] In this embodiment, the fourth water pipe 310d has a branching section 310da and a confluence section 310db. The branching section 310da branches the water flowing into one end of the fourth water pipe 310d into two flow paths, and the confluence section 310db merges the water flowing out from the two third water pipes 310c into one flow path and flows out from the other end of the fourth water pipe 310d.

[0088] (2-4) Control Unit 500

[0089] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of the control unit 500. The control unit 500 controls each device in the temperature regulation system 1, thereby causing the refrigerant circuit 110 to refrigerate and circulate, realizing the cooling and heating operation of the living space 400. The control unit 500 is electrically connected to the compressor 120, the switching mechanism 130, the expansion mechanism 160, and the pump 220 in a manner that enables the transmission and reception of signals.

[0090] The control unit 500 is implemented using a computer. The control unit 500 includes a control processing unit and a storage unit (both omitted from the diagram). A processor such as a CPU or GPU can be used in the control processing unit. The control processing unit reads a program stored in the storage unit and performs prescribed calculations according to the program. Furthermore, the control processing unit can write the calculation results to the storage unit or read information stored in the storage unit according to the program.

[0091] (3) Overall movement

[0092] The control unit 500 controls each piece of equipment in both cooling and heating operation as described below.

[0093] (3-1) Refrigeration operation

[0094] When the temperature control system 1 is instructed to perform refrigeration operation, the control unit 500 starts the compressor 120 and pump 220, sets the switching mechanism 130 to the first state, and controls the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 160.

[0095] (3-1-1) Refrigerant circuit 110

[0096] When the compressor 120 starts running, the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is drawn in from the suction section 120a and compressed to the high pressure in the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged as gaseous refrigerant from the discharge section 120b.

[0097] The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flowing out from the discharge section 120b passes sequentially through the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the switching mechanism 130, and then flows into the first heat exchanger 140 from the second end 140b. The refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger 140 exchanges heat with the air in the area where the first heat exchanger 140 is located and condenses into a high-pressure liquid refrigerant, which flows out from the first end 140a. In other words, the first heat exchanger 140 functions as a radiator.

[0098] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger 140 passes through the expansion mechanism 160 and flows from the first end 151a into the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150. After passing through the expansion mechanism 160, the refrigerant is depressurized to a low pressure and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant.

[0099] The refrigerant flowing into the refrigerant flow path 151 exchanges heat with the water flowing in the water flow path 152 and evaporates, becoming a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant that flows out from the second end 151b. In other words, the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150 functions as an evaporator.

[0100] The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flowing out from the second heat exchanger 150 passes sequentially through the fourth port P4 and the third port P3 of the switching mechanism 130, and is then drawn back into the compressor 120 from the suction section 120a.

[0101] (3-1-2) Water circuit 300

[0102] When pump 220 starts running, the refrigerant filled in water circuit 300 is drawn in from suction section 220a and then discharged from discharge section 220b.

[0103] Water flowing out from the discharge section 220b enters the water flow path 152 of the second heat exchanger 150 from the second end 152b. The water flowing into the water flow path 152 exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant flow path 151 (is cooled) and flows out from the first end 152a.

[0104] Water flowing out of the second heat exchanger 150 passes through the first degassing device 170. If refrigerant is mixed into the water flowing out of the second heat exchanger 150, the first degassing device 170 separates the refrigerant from the passing water. The separated refrigerant is discharged to the outside (outdoors) of the first unit 100 through the first refrigerant discharge pipe 170a.

[0105] Water flowing out of the first degassing device 170 passes through the second degassing device 210. If refrigerant that was not completely separated in the first degassing device 170 is mixed in with the water flowing out of the first degassing device 170, the second degassing device 210 separates the refrigerant remaining in the water. The separated refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the second unit 200 through the second refrigerant discharge pipe 210a.

[0106] Water flowing from the second heat exchanger 210 flows into the third heat exchanger 410 from the first end 410a. The water flowing into the third heat exchanger 410 exchanges heat with the air in the living space 400. As a result, the air in the living space 400 is cooled.

[0107] After exchanging heat with the air in the living space 400, the water flows out from the second end 410b and is then drawn back into the pump 220 from the suction section 220a.

[0108] (3-2) Heating Operation

[0109] When the temperature control system 1 is instructed to perform heating operation, the control unit 500 starts the compressor 120 and pump 220, sets the switching mechanism 130 to the second state, and controls the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 160.

[0110] (3-2-1) Refrigerant circuit 110

[0111] When the compressor 120 starts running, the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is drawn in from the suction section 120a and compressed to the high pressure in the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged as gaseous refrigerant from the discharge section 120b.

[0112] The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flowing out from the discharge section 120b passes sequentially through the first port P1 and the fourth port P4 of the switching mechanism 130, and then flows into the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150 from the second end 151b. The refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger 150 exchanges heat with the water flowing in the water flow path 152 and condenses, becoming a high-pressure liquid refrigerant, which then flows out from the first end 151a. In other words, the refrigerant flow path 151 of the second heat exchanger 150 functions as a radiator.

[0113] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger 150 passes through the expansion mechanism 160 and flows into the first heat exchanger 140 from the first end 140a. After passing through the expansion mechanism 160, the refrigerant is depressurized to a low pressure and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant.

[0114] The refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger 140 exchanges heat with the air in the area where the first heat exchanger 140 is installed, evaporates, becomes a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and flows out from the second end 140b. In other words, the first heat exchanger 140 functions as an evaporator.

[0115] The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flowing out from the first heat exchanger 140 passes sequentially through the second port P2 and the third port P3 of the switching mechanism 130, and is then drawn into the compressor 120 again from the suction section 120a.

[0116] (3-2-2) Water circuit 300

[0117] When pump 220 starts running, the refrigerant filled in the water circuit is drawn in from the suction section 220a and then discharged from the discharge section 220b.

[0118] Water flowing out from the discharge section 220b enters the water flow path 152 of the second heat exchanger 150 from the second end 152b. The water flowing into the water flow path 152 exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant flow path 131 (is heated), and then flows out from the first end 152a.

[0119] Water flowing out of the second heat exchanger 150 passes sequentially through the first degassing device 170 and the second degassing device 210. The functions of the first degassing device 170 and the second degassing device 210 during heating operation are the same as those during cooling operation, therefore, their description is omitted.

[0120] Water flowing from the second heat exchanger 150 flows into the third heat exchanger 410 from the first end 410a. The water flowing into the third heat exchanger 410 exchanges heat with the air in the living space 400. As a result, the air in the living space 400 is heated.

[0121] After exchanging heat with the air in the living space 400, the water flows out from the second end 410b and is then drawn back into the pump 220 from the suction section 220a.

[0122] (4) Characteristics

[0123] (4-1)

[0124] Temperature control system 1 regulates the temperature of water flowing through water pipe 310. Temperature control system 1 includes a first unit 100 and a second unit 200.

[0125] The first unit 100 includes a refrigerant circuit 110, a first water pipe 310a, a second heat exchanger 150, and a first degassing device 170. The refrigerant circuit 110 supplies a highly flammable refrigerant. The first water pipe 310a is a part of the water pipe 310. The second heat exchanger 150 allows the water flowing through the first water pipe 310a to exchange heat with the refrigerant. The first degassing device 170 discharges gas from the first water pipe 310a.

[0126] The second unit has a second water pipe 310b and a second degassing device 210. The second water pipe 310b is part of the water pipe 310, into which water flowing from the first water pipe 310a flows, and is used to allow the outflowing refrigerant to flow into the living space 400. The second degassing device 210 discharges gas from the second water pipe 310b.

[0127] The first degassing device 170 has a higher gas-liquid separation performance than the second degassing device 210, which separates gas from water flowing in the water pipe 310.

[0128] In the temperature control system 1, even if a large amount of highly flammable refrigerant mixes into the water in the water circuit 300 due to damage to the second heat exchanger 150, the first degassing device 170 and the second degassing device 210 can discharge the refrigerant from the water pipe 310 before it flows into the living space 400. Therefore, even if a large amount of refrigerant mixes into the water pipe 310, the temperature control system 1 can discharge the refrigerant from the water pipe 310 before it flows into the living space 400.

[0129] Furthermore, since the gas-liquid separation performance of the first degassing device 170 in the first unit 100 is higher than that of the second degassing device 210, it is possible to discharge as much refrigerant as possible outdoors and reliably prevent refrigerant from flowing into the living space 400.

[0130] (4-2)

[0131] The first degassing device 170 is located downstream of the second heat exchanger 150 in the first water piping 310a.

[0132] In the temperature control system 1, the highly flammable refrigerant mixed in with the water can be discharged from the water pipe 310 before it flows into the living space 400.

[0133] (4-3)

[0134] The first degassing device 170 discharges the gas to the outside.

[0135] In the temperature control system 1, by discharging the separated refrigerant to the outside, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space 400.

[0136] (4-4)

[0137] Unit 200 is located in the indoor non-residential space.

[0138] In the temperature control system 1, by discharging the separated refrigerant outside the living space 400, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space 400.

[0139] (4-5)

[0140] The second degassing device 210 discharges the gas to the outside of the second unit 200.

[0141] In the temperature control system 1, by discharging the separated refrigerant to the outside of the second unit 200, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of highly flammable refrigerant at a high concentration inside the second unit 200.

[0142] (4-6)

[0143] The second degassing device 210 has a second refrigerant outlet 210b for discharging gas. The second refrigerant outlet 210b is located outside the second unit 200 and at a height H of 150 mm or less from the floor surface on which the second unit 200 is installed.

[0144] Sockets installed on building walls are typically positioned at a height of 150mm or more above the floor. Therefore, in the temperature control system 1, a certain distance can be maintained between the highly flammable refrigerant discharged from the second refrigerant outlet 210b and the sockets installed on the building walls.

[0145] (5) Variations

[0146] (5-1) Variation 1A

[0147] The first degassing device 170 and the second degassing device 210 can also be gas extraction valves that can release air (refrigerant) accumulated in the water pipe 310 by opening and closing the valve. For example, in the temperature control system 1, the first degassing device 170 can be a gas-liquid separator, and the second degassing device 210 can be a gas extraction valve with lower gas-liquid separation performance than the first degassing device 170.

[0148] Generally speaking, gas extraction valves are smaller than gas-liquid separators. Therefore, by using a gas extraction valve in the second degassing device 210, it is possible to prevent the second unit 200 from becoming too large.

[0149] (5-2) Variation 1B

[0150] The second unit 200 may also include devices other than the pump 220. For example, the second unit 200 may further include: a heater for heating the water filling the water circuit 300; and a flow sensor for measuring the flow rate of the water flowing in the water circuit 300.

[0151] (5-3) Variation 1C

[0152] The second refrigerant outlet 210b can also be located outdoors. In this case, the second degassing device 210 can discharge the separated gas outdoors.

[0153] Therefore, in the temperature control system 1, by discharging the separated refrigerant to the outside, it is possible to prevent highly flammable refrigerant from flowing into the living space 400.

[0154] (5-4) Variation 1D

[0155] The second refrigerant outlet 210b can also be located inside the second unit 200 and at the bottom of the second unit 200.

[0156] Therefore, in the temperature control system 1, the separated refrigerant is stored inside the second unit, thereby preventing the flow of highly flammable refrigerant into the living space 400.

[0157] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, it should be understood that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as set forth in the claims.

[0158] Symbol Explanation

[0159] 1. Temperature control system; 100 Unit 1; 110 Refrigerant circuit; 120 compressor; 130 Switching mechanism; 140 First heat exchanger; 150 Second heat exchanger (heat exchanger); 160 Expansion mechanism; 170 First degassing device; Unit 2, 200; 210 Second degassing device; 210b Second refrigerant outlet (refrigerant outlet); 220 pumps; 300 water circuit; 310 Water piping; 310a First water piping; 310b Second water piping; 310c Third water piping; 310d Fourth water piping; 400 living spaces; 410 Third heat exchanger; 500 Control Department; H is the height of the second refrigerant outlet from the floor surface where the second unit is located.

[0160] Existing technical documents

[0161] Patent documents

[0162] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-162184.

Claims

1. A temperature control system (1) for regulating the temperature of water flowing through a water pipe (310), characterized in that, include: Unit 1 (100); as well as Unit 2 (200) The first unit has: Refrigerant circuit (110), wherein the refrigerant circuit supplies a highly flammable refrigerant cycle; First water pipe (310a), the first water pipe is part of the water pipe; A heat exchanger (150) that allows water flowing in the first water pipe to exchange heat with the refrigerant. as well as A first degassing device (170) discharges gas from the first water pipe. The second unit has: The second water pipe (310b), which is part of the water pipe, allows water flowing out of the first water pipe to flow in and allows the refrigerant flowing out to flow into the living space (400). as well as The second degassing device (210) discharges gas from the second water pipe. The first degassing device has a higher gas-liquid separation performance in separating gas from water flowing in the water pipe than the second degassing device.

2. The temperature control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first degassing device is located downstream of the heat exchanger in the first water piping.

3. The temperature control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second unit has one of a pump (220), a heater, and a flow sensor.

4. The temperature control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first degassing device discharges the gas to the outside.

5. The temperature control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second degassing device discharges the gas to the outside.

6. The temperature control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The second unit is located in a non-residential space indoors.

7. The temperature control system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second degassing device discharges the gas to the outside of the second unit.

8. The temperature control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second degassing device has a refrigerant outlet (210b) for discharging the gas. The refrigerant outlet is located outside the second unit and at a height (H) of less than 150 mm from the floor surface where the second unit is located.

9. The temperature control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second degassing device has a refrigerant outlet (210b) for discharging the gas. The refrigerant outlet is located inside the second unit and at the bottom of the second unit.

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