Heat pump system

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of air conditioning, in particular to a heat pump system. The present application aims to solve the problem of efficiency reduction of traditional vapor compression heat pump at low temperature. For this purpose, the heat pump system of the present application comprises: a thermoacoustic engine comprising a hot-end heat exchanger and a cold-end heat exchanger; a compressor in cyclic communication with the hot-end heat exchanger through a first refrigerant pipeline; a first heat exchanger arranged in the first refrigerant pipeline and having one end in communication with the exhaust port of the compressor; a second heat exchanger in direct or indirect heat exchange with the cold-end heat exchanger; and a throttling element arranged in the first refrigerant pipeline and having two ends in communication with one end of the first heat exchanger and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger, respectively. By cyclic communication of the compressor with the hot-end heat exchanger, the present application can realize the combination of the thermoacoustic engine and the vapor compression heat pump, and improve the working efficiency of the heat pump system at low temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and more specifically to a heat pump system. Background Technology

[0002] A heat pump is a device that transfers heat energy from a low-grade heat source to a high-grade heat source, and it is a new energy technology that has attracted much attention worldwide. Heat pumps typically extract low-grade heat energy from the air, water, or soil in nature, use electricity to perform work, and then provide people with usable high-grade heat energy.

[0003] In traditional vapor compression heat pumps, as the ambient temperature decreases, the evaporation pressure of the system drops, which not only reduces heating capacity and efficiency, but can also cause the compressor's pressure ratio and exhaust temperature to exceed the limit, making the system unable to work.

[0004] Accordingly, a new technical solution is needed in this field to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address at least one of the aforementioned problems in the prior art, namely, to solve the problem of reduced efficiency of conventional vapor compression heat pumps at low temperatures, this application provides a heat pump system comprising a thermoacoustic engine, a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a throttling element.

[0006] The thermoacoustic machine includes a hot-end heat exchanger and a cold-end heat exchanger. The compressor is circulated and connected to the hot-end heat exchanger through a first refrigerant pipeline. The first heat exchanger is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and one end is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor. The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger exchange heat directly or indirectly through a first refrigerant. The throttling element is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and its two ends are respectively connected to one end of the first heat exchanger and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger.

[0007] The heat pump system of this application combines a thermoacoustic engine with a vapor compression heat pump by circulating a compressor and a hot-end heat exchanger, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the heat pump system at low temperatures. Specifically, by incorporating a thermoacoustic engine, heat can be transferred from the cold-end heat exchanger to the hot-end heat exchanger using the thermoacoustic effect. The cooling and heating generated during the operation of the thermoacoustic engine are then used for vapor compression circulation and the second heat exchanger, respectively. Furthermore, since the heat transfer process is less affected by the ambient temperature, the heat pump system of this application has a significant advantage in operating efficiency compared to traditional vapor compression.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the second heat exchanger is circulatedly connected to the cold end heat exchanger through the first cooling pipeline, and the heat pump system further includes a first pump body, which is disposed in the first cooling pipeline, and a first refrigerant is filled in the first cooling pipeline.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the second heat exchanger is a heat pipe heat exchanger, wherein the condensing end of the heat pipe heat exchanger exchanges heat with the cold end heat exchanger, and the first refrigerant is filled in the heat pipe heat exchanger; or

[0010] The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger are connected by a pipeline to form a loop heat pipe, and the first refrigerant is filled in the loop heat pipe.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes a third heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline. The third heat exchanger is disposed on the second refrigerant pipeline. The first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element. The second end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor.

[0012] The heat pump system also includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the third heat exchanger.

[0013] By setting up a third heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline, the vapor compression cycle can operate independently with the help of the first and second refrigerant pipelines, expanding the application scenarios of the system and ensuring the system's operating efficiency.

[0014] In the preferred embodiment of the above-described heat pump system, at least one of the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger; and / or

[0015] The second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger are independent of each other or belong to different parts of the same heat exchanger.

[0016] By having the second and third heat exchangers belong to the same heat exchanger, a high degree of integration and functional reuse of the heat exchangers can be achieved, thereby reducing the complexity of the system structure and improving the degree of system integration.

[0017] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline. The intermediate heat exchanger has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path that can exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange flow path is disposed in the first cooling pipeline, and the second heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second refrigerant pipeline. The first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor.

[0018] The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path.

[0019] By setting up an intermediate heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline, the intermediate heat exchanger can be used to transfer the heat of the refrigerant to the second heat exchanger, thereby enabling the independent operation of the vapor compression cycle and expanding the applicability of the system.

[0020] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes a bypass pipeline, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the two ends of the cold end heat exchanger. The heat pump system also includes a valve section, which is configured to selectively control the flow of the first refrigerant through the bypass pipeline or the cold end heat exchanger.

[0021] By setting up a bypass line, the first refrigerant can bypass the cold end heat exchanger when the compressor is working independently, thereby avoiding heat loss and improving system efficiency.

[0022] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger, a second cooling pipeline, and a second refrigerant pipeline. The intermediate heat exchanger has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path that can exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second cooling pipeline, and the second heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second refrigerant pipeline. One end of the second cooling pipeline is connected to the first cooling pipeline between one end of the second heat exchanger and the cold end heat exchanger, and the other end of the second cooling pipeline is connected to the first cooling pipeline between the first pump body and the other end of the cold end heat exchanger. The first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the other end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between the compressor's suction port and the other end of the hot end heat exchanger.

[0023] The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path.

[0024] By setting up an intermediate heat exchanger, a second cooling line, and a second refrigerant line, the compressor can operate independently, and the second refrigerant line and the second cooling line can be used to transfer heat to the second heat exchanger, thus expanding the application scenarios of the system.

[0025] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes a first valve and a second valve. The first valve is disposed on a first cooling pipeline between one end of the cold end heat exchanger and one end of the second cooling pipeline, and the second valve is disposed on the second cooling pipeline.

[0026] By setting a first valve and a second valve, the flow direction of the refrigerant can be controlled, thus avoiding heat waste.

[0027] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the thermoacoustic engine includes two thermoacoustic units facing each other. Each thermoacoustic unit includes a compression section and a heat exchange section. Each heat exchange section includes a hot-end heat exchanger, a regenerator, and a cold-end heat exchanger. The suction port of the compressor is connected to the first end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers. One end of the throttling element is connected to the second end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers. The second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the two cold-end heat exchangers through a first refrigerant.

[0028] By setting up two thermoacoustic units in a thermoacoustic machine, not only can the cooling and heating capacity be doubled, but also the problem of high vibration and noise caused by a single thermoacoustic unit can be overcome by placing the two thermoacoustic units opposite each other.

[0029] In the preferred embodiment of the above-described heat pump system, the two thermoacoustic units are housed within the same housing, and the two heat exchange sections are either interconnected or separated by a partition; and / or

[0030] The two cold-end heat exchangers are positioned opposite each other.

[0031] By placing two thermoacoustic units within the same housing and separating the heat exchange sections with a partition, the manufacturing process can be simplified, eliminating the need for specific design modifications to the housing's interior. Furthermore, the two heat exchange sections are interconnected, resulting in lower material costs, and the integrated design offers higher reliability and better heat exchange performance.

[0032] In the preferred embodiment of the above heat pump system, the first heat exchanger is an indoor heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the freezing point of the first refrigerant is less than or equal to 0°C.

[0033] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned heat pump system, the heat pump system further includes a four-way valve, the four ports of which are respectively connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, one end of the first heat exchanger, one end of the hot end heat exchanger, and the intake port of the compressor.

[0034] By setting a four-way valve, the heat pump system can switch between multiple modes, allowing it to operate in various modes and expanding its application scenarios. Option 1. A heat pump system, characterized in that the heat pump system includes a thermoacoustic engine, a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a throttling element. The thermoacoustic machine includes a hot-end heat exchanger and a cold-end heat exchanger. The compressor is circulated and connected to the hot-end heat exchanger through a first refrigerant pipeline. The first heat exchanger is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and one end is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor. The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger exchange heat directly or indirectly through a first refrigerant. The throttling element is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and its two ends are respectively connected to one end of the first heat exchanger and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger. Option 2. The heat pump system according to Option 1, characterized in that the second heat exchanger is circulatedly connected to the cold end heat exchanger through a first cooling pipeline, and the heat pump system further includes a first pump body, the first pump body being disposed in the first cooling pipeline, and a first refrigerant being filled in the first cooling pipeline. Option 3. The heat pump system according to Option 1, characterized in that the second heat exchanger is a heat pipe heat exchanger, the condensing end of the heat pipe heat exchanger exchanges heat with the cold end heat exchanger, and the first refrigerant is filled in the heat pipe heat exchanger; or The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger are connected by a pipeline to form a loop heat pipe, and the first refrigerant is filled in the loop heat pipe. Option 4. The heat pump system according to Option 1, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes a third heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline, the third heat exchanger is disposed on the second refrigerant pipeline, the first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor; The heat pump system also includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the third heat exchanger. Option 5. The heat pump system according to Option 4, characterized in that at least one of the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger; and / or The second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger are independent of each other or belong to different parts of the same heat exchanger. Option 6. The heat pump system according to Option 2, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline, the intermediate heat exchanger having a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path that can exchange heat with each other, the first heat exchange flow path being disposed in the first cooling pipeline, the second heat exchange flow path being disposed in the second refrigerant pipeline, the first end of the second refrigerant pipeline being connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second end of the second refrigerant pipeline being connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor; The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path. Option 7. The heat pump system according to Option 6, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes a bypass pipeline, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the two ends of the cold end heat exchanger, and the heat pump system further includes a valve section, the valve section being configured to selectively control the flow of the first refrigerant through the bypass pipeline or the cold end heat exchanger. Option 8. The heat pump system according to Option 2, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger, a second cooling pipeline and a second refrigerant pipeline, the intermediate heat exchanger having a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path capable of heat exchange with each other, the first heat exchange flow path being disposed in the second cooling pipeline, the second heat exchange flow path being disposed in the second refrigerant pipeline, one end of the second cooling pipeline being connected to the first cooling pipeline between one end of the second heat exchanger and the cold end heat exchanger, the other end of the second cooling pipeline being connected to the first cooling pipeline between the first pump body and the other end of the cold end heat exchanger, the first end of the second refrigerant pipeline being connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the other end of the second refrigerant pipeline being connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between the compressor's suction port and the other end of the hot end heat exchanger; The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path. Option 9. The heat pump system according to Option 8, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes a first valve and a second valve, the first valve being disposed on a first cooling pipeline between one end of the cold end heat exchanger and one end of the second cooling pipeline, and the second valve being disposed on the second cooling pipeline. Option 10. The heat pump system according to Option 1, characterized in that the thermoacoustic engine includes two thermoacoustic units facing each other, each thermoacoustic unit includes a compression section and a heat exchange section, each heat exchange section includes a hot-end heat exchanger, a regenerator and a cold-end heat exchanger, the suction port of the compressor is connected to a first end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers, one end of the throttling element is connected to a second end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers, and the second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the two cold-end heat exchangers through a first refrigerant. Option 11. The heat pump system according to Option 10, characterized in that the two thermoacoustic units are disposed in the same housing, and the two heat exchange sections are connected to each other or separated by a partition; and / or The two cold-end heat exchangers are positioned opposite each other. Option 12. The heat pump system according to Option 1, characterized in that the first heat exchanger is an indoor heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the freezing point of the first refrigerant is less than or equal to 0°C. Scheme 13. The heat pump system according to any one of Schemes 1 to 12, characterized in that the heat pump system further includes a four-way valve, wherein the four ports of the four-way valve are respectively connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, one end of the first heat exchanger, one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The present application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0036] Figure 1 This is a system diagram of a first embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a system diagram of a second embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0038] Figure 3 A system diagram of the first operating mode of the second embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a system diagram illustrating the second operating mode of a second embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a system diagram of the third operating mode of the second embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a system diagram of a third embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a system diagram of the fourth embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a system diagram of the fifth embodiment of the heat pump system of this application;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the thermoacoustic generator, which is the fifth embodiment of the heat pump system of this application.

[0045] List of reference numerals

[0046] 1. Thermoacoustic unit; 11. Hot-end heat exchanger; 12. Cold-end heat exchanger; 13. Regenerator; 14. Shell; 15. Compressor section; 16. Baffle plate; 21. First heat exchanger; 22. Second heat exchanger; 23. Third heat exchanger; 24. Intermediate heat exchanger; 31. Valve body; 32. Valve section; 33. First valve; 34. Second valve; 41. First fan; 42. Second fan; 51. First refrigerant line; 52. Second refrigerant line; 53. First cooling line; 54. Second cooling line; 55. Bypass line; 61. First pump body; 7. Compressor; 8. Four-way valve; 9. Throttling element. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Preferred embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0048] It should be noted that in the description of this application, terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are used merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0049] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] First refer to Figure 1 A brief introduction to the heat pump system of this application is provided below.

[0051] like Figure 1As shown, to address the efficiency reduction problem of traditional vapor compression heat pumps at low temperatures, the heat pump system of this application includes a thermoacoustic engine 1, a compressor 7, a first heat exchanger 21, a second heat exchanger 22, and a throttling element 9. The thermoacoustic engine 1 includes a hot-end heat exchanger 11 and a cold-end heat exchanger 12. The compressor 7 is circulatedly connected to the hot-end heat exchanger 11 through a first refrigerant pipeline 51. The first heat exchanger 21 is located in the first refrigerant pipeline 51 and one end is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 7. The second heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat directly or indirectly with the cold-end heat exchanger 12 through a first refrigerant. The throttling element 9 is located in the first refrigerant pipeline 51 and its two ends are respectively connected to one end of the first heat exchanger 21 and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the first heat exchanger 21 is located indoors for heat exchange with indoor air, and the second heat exchanger 22 is located outdoors for heat exchange with the outdoor environment. When indoor heating is required, the thermoacoustic engine 1 and the compressor 7 start operation, and the throttling element 9 opens to a certain degree. On one hand, the thermoacoustic engine 1 utilizes the thermoacoustic effect to generate cooling and heating at the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the hot-end heat exchanger 11, respectively. The cooling capacity of the cold-end heat exchanger 12 is transferred to the second heat exchanger 22 through heat exchange with the outdoor environment via the first refrigerant, and then dissipated into the environment through heat exchange between the second heat exchanger 22 and the outdoor environment. On the other hand, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 7 enters the first heat exchanger 21, exchanges heat with the indoor air, and the indoor air temperature rises, thereby achieving indoor heating. After heat exchange, the refrigerant becomes liquid. Then, after passing through the throttling element 9, the refrigerant is cooled and depressurized, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture and entering the hot-end heat exchanger 11. It absorbs heat from the hot-end heat exchanger 11 and heats up to become gaseous. The gaseous refrigerant returns to the compressor 7.

[0053] The heat pump system of this application, by cyclically connecting the compressor 7 with the hot-end heat exchanger 11, combines the thermoacoustic engine 1 with a vapor compression heat pump, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the heat pump system at low temperatures. Specifically, by setting up the thermoacoustic engine 1, heat can be transferred from the cold-end heat exchanger 12 to the hot-end heat exchanger 11 using the thermoacoustic effect, and the cooling and heating generated during the operation of the thermoacoustic engine 1 are used for vapor compression cycle and the second heat exchanger 22, respectively. Furthermore, since the heat transfer process is less affected by the external ambient temperature, the heat pump system of this application has a significant advantage in operating efficiency compared to traditional vapor compression.

[0054] The following reference Figure 1 The first specific embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be described.

[0055] like Figure 1As shown, in the first embodiment, the heat pump system is applied to a household heating scenario and includes a thermoelectric motor 1, a first heat exchanger 21, a second heat exchanger 22, a first fan 41, a second fan 42, a compressor 7, and a throttling element 9.

[0056] The specific form of the thermoacoustic machine 1 is not limited in this application. It can be a free piston Stirling thermoacoustic machine or a resonant tube thermoacoustic machine. The resonant tube thermoacoustic machine can further include a traveling wave thermoacoustic machine, a standing wave thermoacoustic machine, or a traveling-standing wave thermoacoustic machine.

[0057] Whether it's a free-piston Stirling thermoacoustic engine or a resonant tube thermoacoustic engine, their basic principle is as follows: The thermoacoustic engine 1 contains a cavity for storing compressible gases such as helium or nitrogen, and it also has a special acoustic structure. A driving device (such as a linear compressor or linear motor) drives a piston to move at high speed and reciprocate, generating sound waves. When these sound waves propagate through the gas, a thermoacoustic effect is produced, causing gas molecules to undergo periodic compression and expansion. The special acoustic structure allows the sound waves to produce strong compression and expansion in specific regions. During the compression phase, collisions between gas molecules increase, converting kinetic energy into internal energy, leading to an increase in gas temperature. During the expansion phase, the gas does work, reducing internal energy and lowering temperature. The resonant tube or acoustic resonant cavity enhances the effect of the sound waves, and due to the reflection and superposition of sound waves, relatively stable compression and expansion regions are formed in specific areas, thus creating cold and hot ends within the cavity, respectively. Furthermore, by setting up a cold-end heat exchanger 12 and a hot-end heat exchanger 11 at the cold end and the hot end respectively, and setting up a regenerator 13 between the two heat exchangers, the heat and cold energy can be exported and utilized.

[0058] Compressor 7, first heat exchanger 21, throttling element 9, and hot-end heat exchanger 11 are circulated together via first refrigerant pipeline 51. Specifically, the discharge port of compressor 7 is connected to one end of first heat exchanger 21. Figure 1 The right end shown is connected, and the other end of the first heat exchanger 21 (shown) is connected. Figure 1 The left end shown) and one end of the throttling element 9 ( Figure 1 The right end shown is connected, and the other end of the throttling element 9 ( Figure 1 The left end shown) and one end of the hot end heat exchanger 11 (shown on the left) Figure 1 The lower end shown is connected, and the other end of the hot end heat exchanger 11 (shown below) is connected. Figure 1 The upper end (as shown) is connected to the air intake of the compressor 7. The first heat exchanger 21 is an air-cooled heat exchanger, located indoors, while the compressor 7, throttling element 9, and thermoacoustic machine 1 are located outdoors. A first fan 41 is positioned corresponding to the first heat exchanger 21. When the first fan 41 starts, it draws indoor air through the first heat exchanger 21, exchanging heat with the refrigerant inside. The throttling element 9 is preferably an electronic expansion valve.

[0059] The second heat exchanger 22 is an air-cooled heat exchanger, which is located outdoors and circulates with the cold-end heat exchanger 12 through the first refrigerant pipeline 53. A second fan 42 is installed corresponding to the second heat exchanger 22. When the second fan 42 starts, it draws outdoor ambient air through the second heat exchanger 22, exchanging heat with the first refrigerant flowing through it. A first pump body 61 is installed in the first refrigerant pipeline 53. When the first pump body 61 starts, it drives the first refrigerant to circulate between the second heat exchanger 22 and the hot-end heat exchanger 11. The first refrigerant is selected with a freezing point of 0°C or less, more preferably a refrigerant with a freezing point of -40°C or less, such as brine, ethylene glycol, methanol, ethanol, or a mixture of ethylene glycol, methanol, ethanol, and water.

[0060] The following is combined Figure 1 The working principle of the heat pump system according to the first embodiment of this application will be briefly introduced.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, when indoor heating is required, the thermoacoustic engine 1 and compressor 7 start operating, the throttling element 9 opens to a certain degree, and the first fan 41, second fan 42, and first pump 61 start operating. On one hand, the thermoacoustic engine 1 utilizes the thermoacoustic effect to generate cooling and heating in the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the hot-end heat exchanger 11, respectively. The first pump 61 drives the first refrigerant to circulate in the first refrigerant pipeline 53. When flowing through the cold-end heat exchanger 12, the first refrigerant exchanges heat with the cold-end heat exchanger 12, absorbing the cooling capacity of the cold-end heat exchanger 12. When the first refrigerant flows through the second heat exchanger 22, it exchanges heat with the outdoor ambient air, thereby discharging the cooling capacity to the outdoor environment through the second heat exchanger 22. On the other hand, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged by the compressor 7 first passes through the first heat exchanger 21, where it exchanges heat with the indoor air flow, thus raising the indoor air temperature and achieving indoor heating. After heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 21, the refrigerant cools down and becomes liquid. After the liquid refrigerant is cooled and depressurized by the throttling element 9, it becomes a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture refrigerant. When the low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture refrigerant flows through the hot end heat exchanger 11, it absorbs the heat from the hot end heat exchanger 11 and heats up to form a gas. The gaseous refrigerant flows back to the compressor 7.

[0062] By ensuring that the freezing point of the first refrigerant is less than or equal to -40°C, the heat pump system can improve its operational stability in outdoor low or even ultra-low temperature conditions, enabling it to operate stably in ultra-low temperature environments.

[0063] The following reference Figure 2 and Figure 5 The second specific embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be described.

[0064] like Figure 2As shown, based on the first embodiment, the heat pump system of this embodiment adds a four-way valve 8, a third heat exchanger 23, a valve body 31, and a second refrigerant pipeline 52. Specifically, the third heat exchanger 23 is also an air-cooled heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger 22 and the third heat exchanger 23 belong to the same heat exchanger. The arrangement of the two is not limited in this application. For example, they can be arranged side by side along the airflow direction, or side by side or top and bottom, etc., and their internal flow paths are independent of each other and do not affect each other. The third heat exchanger 23 is set on the second refrigerant pipeline 52, and the first end of the second refrigerant pipeline 52 ( Figure 2 The upper end shown is connected to one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 2 On the first refrigerant pipe 51 between the upper end shown and the throttling element 9, at the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 52 (shown at the upper end), Figure 2 The lower end shown is connected to the other end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 2 The second fan 42 can act on the second heat exchanger 22 and the third heat exchanger 23 simultaneously. In other words, when the second fan 42 is started, it can drive the outdoor ambient air to flow through the second heat exchanger 22 and the third heat exchanger 23 simultaneously or sequentially.

[0065] Valve body 31 is a three-way control valve, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 2 Middle right interface), second interface ( Figure 2 (Middle and upper side interface) and third interface ( Figure 2 The left-side interface of the three-way control valve is connected to one port of the four-way valve 8, one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11, and one end of the third heat exchanger 23. The first interface of the three-way control valve can be selectively connected to the second or third interface to change the direction of refrigerant flow.

[0066] The four ports of the four-way valve 8 are respectively connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 7, one end of the first heat exchanger 21, one end of the hot end heat exchanger 11, and the suction port of the compressor 7.

[0067] The following is combined Figures 3 to 5 The working principle of the second embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be introduced.

[0068] First refer to Figure 3 When the outdoor ambient temperature is low and users have heating needs, the system operates in ultra-low temperature heating mode: at this time, thermoacoustic motor 1, compressor 7, first fan 41, second fan 42, and first pump body 61 start running, throttling element 9 opens to a certain degree, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 3 Right side interface) and second interface ( Figure 3(Upper interface) connected. During operation, the thermoacoustic unit 1 generates heat and cold through the thermoacoustic effect, which are absorbed by the hot-end heat exchanger 11 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12, respectively. The first pump body 61 drives the first refrigerant to circulate between the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22. When the first refrigerant passes through the cold-end heat exchanger 12, it exchanges heat with the cold-end heat exchanger 12, absorbing the cold energy in the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and cooling down. When the first refrigerant continues to flow through the second heat exchanger 22, it exchanges heat with the outdoor ambient air, absorbing the heat of the outdoor air and rising in temperature, while the corresponding outdoor air temperature decreases. On the other hand, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged by the compressor 7 first passes through the first heat exchanger 21, where it exchanges heat with the indoor air, thus raising the indoor air temperature and achieving indoor heating. The refrigerant absorbs the cold energy of the indoor air and cools down to become liquid refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant continues to flow through the throttling element 9 and cools down and depressurizes, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture refrigerant. When the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant passes through the hot-end heat exchanger 11, it absorbs heat from the hot-end heat exchanger 11 and heats up and vaporizes. The vaporized refrigerant returns to the compressor 7 to continue the cycle.

[0069] Next, refer to Figure 4 When the outdoor ambient temperature is high and users have heating needs, the system operates in normal heating mode: at this time, compressor 7, first fan 41, and second fan 42 start running, thermoacoustic motor 1 and first pump body 61 stop, throttling element 9 opens to a certain degree, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 4 Right side interface) and third interface ( Figure 4 (Left interface) Connected. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from compressor 7 first passes through the first heat exchanger 21, where it exchanges heat with the indoor air to heat the room. After heat exchange, the refrigerant cools down to a liquid state. The liquid refrigerant continues to flow through the throttling element 9, where it cools and depressurizes to become a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture. When the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant passes through the third heat exchanger 23, it exchanges heat with the outdoor air, absorbs heat from the outdoor air, and vaporizes. The vaporized refrigerant returns to compressor 7 to continue the cycle.

[0070] Finally refer to Figure 5 When a user has a cooling need, the system operates in cooling mode: at this time, the four-way valve 8 reverses, the compressor 7, the first fan 41, and the second fan 42 start running, the thermoacoustic machine 1 and the first pump body 61 stop, the throttling element 9 opens to a certain degree, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 5 Right side interface) and third interface ( Figure 5(Left interface) Connected. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from compressor 7 first passes through the third heat exchanger 23, where it exchanges heat with the outdoor ambient air, cooling down to become liquid refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant continues to flow through the throttling element 9, where it cools and depressurizes, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture. This low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant exchanges heat with the indoor air when passing through the first heat exchanger 21, absorbing heat from the indoor air and vaporizing, thus lowering the indoor air temperature and achieving cooling. The vaporized refrigerant then returns to compressor 7 to continue the cycle.

[0071] The above configuration, by incorporating a third heat exchanger 23 and a second refrigerant pipeline 52, allows the vapor compression cycle to operate independently via the first refrigerant pipeline 51 and the second refrigerant pipeline 52, expanding the system's application scenarios and ensuring operational efficiency. Since the second heat exchanger 22 and the third heat exchanger 23 belong to the same heat exchanger, a high degree of integration and functional reuse can be achieved, thereby reducing system structural complexity and improving system integration. The inclusion of a four-way valve 8 enables multi-mode switching of the heat pump system, allowing it to operate in various modes and expanding its application scenarios.

[0072] The following reference Figure 6 The third embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be briefly introduced.

[0073] like Figure 6 As shown, based on the first embodiment, the heat pump system of this embodiment adds a four-way valve 8, a second refrigerant line 52, an intermediate heat exchanger 24, a bypass line 55, a valve body 31, and a valve section 32. Specifically, the intermediate heat exchanger 24 is a plate heat exchanger. It has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path capable of exchanging heat with each other, wherein the first heat exchange flow path is located in the first refrigerant line 53, and the second heat exchange flow path is located in the second refrigerant line 52. The cold-end heat exchanger 12, the first heat exchange flow path, and the second heat exchanger 22 are sequentially arranged on the first refrigerant line 53 along the flow direction of the first refrigerant. The first end of the second refrigerant line 52 ( Figure 6 The upper end shown is connected to one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 6 On the first refrigerant pipe 51 between the upper end shown and the throttling element 9, at the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 52 (shown at the upper end), Figure 6 The lower end shown is connected to the other end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 6 The first refrigerant line 51 between the lower end shown and the suction port of the compressor 7.

[0074] Valve body 31 is a three-way control valve, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 6 Middle right interface), second interface ( Figure 6 (Middle and upper side interface) and third interface ( Figure 6The left-side interface is connected to one interface of the four-way valve 8 and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11, respectively. Figure 6 (as shown at the lower end) and one end of the second heat exchange flow path ( Figure 6 (As shown on the left) is connected. The first port of the three-way control valve can be selectively connected to the second or third port to change the direction of refrigerant flow.

[0075] The four ports of the four-way valve 8 are respectively connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 7, one end of the first heat exchanger 21, one end of the hot end heat exchanger 11, and the suction port of the compressor 7.

[0076] The two ends of the bypass pipe 55 are respectively connected to the two ends of the cold-end heat exchanger 12. Specifically, one end of the bypass pipe 55 ( Figure 6 The upper end shown is connected to one end of the cold end heat exchanger 12. Figure 6 The upper end shown) and one end of the first heat exchange flow path ( Figure 6 On the first cooling pipe 53 between the right end shown), the other end of the bypass pipe 55 (shown on the right end) Figure 6 The lower end shown is connected to the other end of the cold end heat exchanger 12. Figure 6 The first cooling pipe 53 between the lower end shown and the first pump body 61.

[0077] The valve section 32 is configured to selectively control the flow of the first refrigerant through the bypass line 55 or the cold-end heat exchanger 12. Specifically, the valve section 32 in this embodiment includes two three-way control valves. The three ports of one three-way control valve are respectively connected to one end of the cold-end heat exchanger 12, one end of the bypass line 55, and one end of the first heat exchange flow path. The three ports of the other three-way control valve are respectively connected to the other end of the cold-end heat exchanger 12, the other end of the bypass line 55, and the first pump body 61. The two three-way control valves are configured to selectively control the flow of the first refrigerant through the bypass line 55 or the cold-end heat exchanger 12. In other words, each three-way control valve can achieve individual connection between at least any two ports.

[0078] Thus, by setting up the intermediate heat exchanger 24 and the second refrigerant pipeline 52, the vapor compression cycle can operate independently. The intermediate heat exchanger 24 can transfer the heat or cold of the refrigerant to the second heat exchanger 22, achieving heat exchange between the second heat exchanger 22 and the outdoor environment. Furthermore, when using the intermediate heat exchanger 24 to transfer heat or cold, the bypass pipeline 55 and valve 32 can be used to control the flow direction of the first refrigerant, allowing the first refrigerant to bypass the hot-end heat exchanger 11 and circulate only between the intermediate heat exchanger 24 and the second heat exchanger 22. The specific working principle can be referred to the second embodiment, which will not be repeated in this embodiment.

[0079] By setting up an intermediate heat exchanger 24 and a second refrigerant line 52, the intermediate heat exchanger 24 can be used to transfer heat from the refrigerant to the second heat exchanger 22, thereby enabling the vapor compression cycle to operate independently and expanding the system's applicability. By setting up a bypass line 55, when the compressor 7 is operating independently, the bypass line 55 can be used to allow the first refrigerant to bypass the cold-end heat exchanger 12, thereby avoiding heat loss and improving system efficiency.

[0080] The following is combined Figure 7 The fourth embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be briefly introduced.

[0081] like Figure 7 As shown, based on the first embodiment, the heat pump system of this embodiment adds a four-way valve 8, a second refrigerant pipeline 52, a second cooling pipeline 54, an intermediate heat exchanger 24, a valve body 31, a first valve 33, and a second valve 34. Specifically, the intermediate heat exchanger 24 is a plate heat exchanger. It has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path capable of exchanging heat with each other. The first heat exchange flow path is located in the second cooling pipeline 54, and the second heat exchange flow path is located in the second refrigerant pipeline 52. The cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 are circulatedly connected through the first cooling pipeline 53, and one end of the second cooling pipeline 54 ( Figure 7 The upper end shown is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger 22. Figure 7 The upper end shown) and one end of the cold end heat exchanger 12 ( Figure 7 On the first cooling pipe 53 between the upper end shown), the other end of the second cooling pipe 54 (shown at the upper end) Figure 7 The lower end shown is connected to the other end of the first pump body 61 and the cold end heat exchanger 12. Figure 7 The first end of the second refrigerant line 52 (shown at the lower end) is on the first refrigerant line 53. Figure 7 The upper end shown is connected to one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 7 On the first refrigerant pipe 51 between the upper end shown and the throttling element 9, at the second end of the second refrigerant pipe 52 (shown at the upper end), Figure 7 The lower end shown is connected to the other end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Figure 7 The first refrigerant line 51 between the lower end shown and the suction port of the compressor 7.

[0082] Valve body 31 is a three-way control valve, and the first port of the three-way control valve ( Figure 7 Middle right interface), second interface ( Figure 7 (Middle and upper side interface) and third interface ( Figure 7 The left-side interface is connected to one interface of the four-way valve 8 and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger 11, respectively. Figure 7 (as shown at the lower end) and one end of the second heat exchange flow path ( Figure 7(As shown at the lower end) is connected. The first port of the three-way control valve can be selectively connected to the second or third port to change the direction of refrigerant flow.

[0083] The four ports of the four-way valve 8 are respectively connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 7, one end of the first heat exchanger 21, one end of the hot end heat exchanger 11, and the suction port of the compressor 7.

[0084] Both the first valve 33 and the second valve 34 are solenoid valves, with the first valve 33 located at one end of the cold-end heat exchanger 12. Figure 7 The upper end shown) and one end of the second cooling pipe 54 ( Figure 7 The second valve 34 is installed on the first cooling pipeline 53 between the upper end shown in the figure and the second cooling pipeline 54.

[0085] In this way, the intermediate heat exchanger 24 can be used to transfer the heat or cold of the refrigerant to the second heat exchanger 22, realizing heat exchange between the second heat exchanger 22 and the outdoor ambient temperature. Furthermore, the flow direction of the first refrigerant can be adjusted by opening and closing the first valve 33 and the second valve 34. For example, when the thermoacoustic machine 1 is running, opening the first valve 33 and closing the second valve 34 allows the first refrigerant to circulate between the second heat exchanger 22 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12. When the compressor 7 is running, opening the second valve 34 and closing the first valve 33 allows the first refrigerant to circulate between the second heat exchanger 22 and the first heat exchange flow path. The specific working principle can be referred to in the second embodiment, and will not be elaborated further in this embodiment.

[0086] By setting up an intermediate heat exchanger 24, a second refrigerant line 54, and a second refrigerant line 52, the compressor 7 can operate independently. Heat is transferred to the second heat exchanger 22 via the second refrigerant line 52 and the second refrigerant line 54, expanding the system's application scenarios. By setting up a first valve 33 and a second valve 34, the flow direction of the refrigerant can be controlled, preventing heat waste.

[0087] Next, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The sixth embodiment of the heat pump system of this application will be briefly described.

[0088] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, based on the first embodiment, this embodiment adjusts the structure of the thermoacoustic machine 1. Specifically, the thermoacoustic machine 1 includes two thermoacoustic units facing each other, which are disposed within the same housing 14, and each thermoacoustic unit includes a compression section 15 and a heat exchange section. The compression section 15 is a linear compressor, which includes electromagnetic components, a power piston, a spring, an exhaust fan, etc. The heat exchange section includes a hot-end heat exchanger 11, a regenerator 13, and a cold-end heat exchanger 12. An expansion chamber and a compression chamber are formed within the housing 14. The cold-end heat exchanger 12 is located in the expansion chamber, the hot-end heat exchanger 11 is located in the compression chamber, and the regenerator 13 is located between the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the hot-end heat exchanger 11. Further, as... Figure 9 As shown, in this application, the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 are positioned opposite each other (i.e., the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 are close to each other and face each other), and a partition 16 is provided between the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 to separate the two thermoacoustic units. (Return to Reference) Figure 8 The suction port of compressor 7 is connected to the first end of at least one hot-end heat exchanger 11, and one end of throttling element 9 is connected to the second end of at least one hot-end heat exchanger 11. The second heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat with two cold-end heat exchangers 12 via a first refrigerant. Specifically, the suction port of compressor 7 is simultaneously connected to the first end of both hot-end heat exchangers 11 (… Figure 8 The upper end shown is connected, and one end of the throttling element 9 is simultaneously connected to the second end of the two hot-end heat exchangers 11. Figure 8 The lower end of the second heat exchanger 22 is connected, at which point the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 form a structure similar to a "parallel" connection in electrical circuitry. The inlet of the second heat exchanger 22 (as shown) Figure 8 The upper port shown is simultaneously connected to one end of both cold-end heat exchangers 12. Figure 8 The upper end shown is connected to the outlet of the second heat exchanger 22. Figure 8 The lower port shown is simultaneously connected to the other end of the two cold-end heat exchangers 12. Figure 8 The lower end is connected, and at this time the two cold end heat exchangers 12 also form a "parallel" structure similar to that in electricity.

[0089] Thus, by setting two thermoacoustic units in the thermoacoustic unit 1, not only can the cooling and heating capacity be doubled, but the problem of high vibration and noise caused by a single thermoacoustic unit can also be overcome by placing the two thermoacoustic units opposite each other. Placing the two thermoacoustic units within the same housing 14 and separating the heat exchange sections by a partition 16 simplifies the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for specific design of the interior of the housing 14. The working principle of the above embodiment can be referred to the first embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0090] It should be noted that the above preferred embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can adjust the above settings to make this application applicable to more specific application scenarios.

[0091] For example, in an alternative embodiment, although all the above embodiments are described with the example of the first heat exchanger 21 being located indoors and the second heat exchanger 22 being located outdoors, the locations of the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 are not limited to this. Those skilled in the art can choose the locations of the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 based on the specific application scenario. For example, in all the above embodiments, the first heat exchanger 21 can also be located outdoors and the second heat exchanger 22 can be located indoors. In this case, the heat pump system can be used for high-temperature heating scenarios.

[0092] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the above embodiment is described with the first heat exchanger 21, the second heat exchanger 22, and the third heat exchanger 23 all being air-cooled heat exchangers as an example, the specific form of the heat exchangers is not unique, and those skilled in the art can adjust them. For example, at least one of the heat exchangers can also be replaced with a liquid-cooled heat exchanger, which has a liquid-cooled inlet and a liquid-cooled outlet, and is configured to circulate with a liquid-cooling source through the liquid-cooled inlet and outlet. For example, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger can exchange heat with groundwater or cooling water in a cold water tank. Moreover, when the heat exchanger is a liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the corresponding fan can be omitted.

[0093] For example, in another alternative embodiment, the arrangement of the second heat exchanger 22 and the third heat exchanger 23 belonging to the same heat exchanger in the second embodiment described above is only a preferred option. In other embodiments, those skilled in the art can also separate and set them independently, for example, setting two outdoor heat exchangers, each of which operates independently and is equipped with a fan or water-cooling components, etc. This replacement of the arrangement does not deviate from the principle of this application.

[0094] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the first heat exchanger 21 is described in conjunction with its use for indoor cooling or heating, the specific function of the first heat exchanger 21 is not fixed. Those skilled in the art can select it based on specific scenarios. For example, the first heat exchanger 21 can also be a coil heat exchanger, which is installed in a water tank to produce domestic hot water. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 21 can also be a plate heat exchanger or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, etc., which is used for indoor heating, etc.

[0095] For example, in another alternative embodiment, the arrangement of the second heat exchanger 22 being circulated with the cold-end heat exchanger 12 via the first refrigerant pipe 53 is merely exemplary. Those skilled in the art can adjust it to suit more specific application scenarios. For instance, the second heat exchanger 22 may be a heat pipe heat exchanger, with its evaporator end exchanging heat with the outdoor environment, such as through a fan. The condenser end of the heat pipe heat exchanger exchanges heat with the cold-end heat exchanger 12, such as by contacting the condenser end with the cold-end heat exchanger 12. A first refrigerant is filled within the heat pipe heat exchanger; this first refrigerant can be water, alcohol, ammonia solution, etc. By using a heat pipe heat exchanger for the second heat exchanger 22, the heat exchange effect can be improved, and the first pump body 61 can be omitted, reducing system setup costs.

[0096] Alternatively, a loop heat pipe can be formed between the second heat exchanger 22 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12 via a pipeline, with the first refrigerant filling the loop heat pipe. In this case, the condenser of the loop heat pipe is the cold-end heat exchanger 12. The gaseous first refrigerant exchanges heat with the cold air in the condenser and cools down to liquefy. A capillary structure needs to be installed inside the loop heat pipe to provide a pressure drop. The evaporator of the loop heat pipe is the second heat exchanger 22. The liquid first refrigerant exchanges heat with the outdoor air in the second heat exchanger 22 and heats up to vaporize. The first refrigerant, which can be an ammonia solution, Freon, water, etc., fills the loop heat pipe. The loop heat pipe formed between the second heat exchanger 22 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12 is easy to install, eliminates the need for the first pump body 61, and is suitable for long-distance refrigerant transport.

[0097] For example, in another alternative implementation, the above-described partial implementation is illustrated by using a three-way control valve to change the flow direction of the refrigerant or the first refrigerant. However, this configuration is merely exemplary. In other implementations, the three-way control valve can be replaced with two on / off valves (such as solenoid valves), which can also achieve the same flow direction adjustment. Alternatively, when setting two three-way control valves, one of them can be omitted without affecting the implementation of the solution.

[0098] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the above embodiments are described with the example of a first refrigerant having a freezing point of less than or equal to -40°C, the specific selection of the first refrigerant is not fixed, and those skilled in the art can make the selection based on the specific application scenario. For example, in areas with high outdoor ambient temperatures, water can also be selected as the first refrigerant, or other refrigerants with a freezing point of less than or equal to 0°C can be used.

[0099] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the intermediate heat exchanger 24 in the above-described partial embodiment is introduced in conjunction with a plate heat exchanger, its specific implementation is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the intermediate heat exchanger 24 can also be a shell-and-tube heat exchanger or a coaxial heat exchanger, etc.

[0100] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although some of the above embodiments are described with the four-way valve 8 as an example, this is only a preferred embodiment. With the four-way valve 8, simple switching between different modes can be achieved. Of course, those skilled in the art can omit the four-way valve 8. For example, some of the above embodiments can also add a four-way valve 8. For instance, a four-way valve 8 can also be added in the first embodiment. Through the switching of the four-way valve 8 and the heat conduction between the hot end heat exchanger 11 and the cold end heat exchanger 12 of the thermoacoustic machine 1, indoor cooling can also be achieved to a certain extent.

[0101] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the third embodiment described above is illustrated with an example of having a bypass pipe 55 and a valve section 32, the bypass pipe 55 is not mandatory in this embodiment. Those skilled in the art can choose whether to include the bypass pipe 55 based on the specific application scenario. For example, in other embodiments, the bypass pipe 55 can be omitted. Furthermore, the valve section 32 is illustrated with an example of two three-way control valves, but this is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art can adjust the specific arrangement of the valve section 32, such as adjusting it to an on / off valve group or providing only one three-way control valve.

[0102] For example, in another alternative implementation, although the fourth implementation described above is based on the example of setting the first valve 33 and the second valve 34, the specific implementation of the valves is not unique. Those skilled in the art can adjust them, as long as the adjusted technical solution can achieve control of the water flow direction. For example, the combination of the first valve 33 and the second valve 34 can also be replaced by a three-way control valve, etc. In addition, the first valve 33 and the second valve 34 can also be omitted.

[0103] For example, in another alternative embodiment, in addition to direct heat exchange via the first cooling pipe 53, indirect heat exchange can also be used between the second heat exchanger 22 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12. For instance, an intermediate pipe can be added between the second heat exchanger 22 and the cold-end heat exchanger 12 to achieve indirect heat exchange. This can be achieved by setting an intermediate circulation pipe, an indirect heat exchanger, and a second pump. The indirect heat exchanger has two flow paths that exchange heat with each other. One flow path circulates with the cold-end heat exchanger 12 via the intermediate circulation pipe, and the second pump is located on the intermediate circulation pipe. The other flow path circulates with the second heat exchanger 22 via the first cooling pipe 53, achieving circulatory heat exchange driven by the first pump 61. Thus, the cooling capacity of the cold-end heat exchanger 12 is transferred to the second heat exchanger 22 via the intermediate circulation pipe, the indirect heat exchanger, and the first cooling pipe 53, achieving indirect heat exchange between the cold-end heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22. By setting an intermediate heat exchanger 24 for indirect heat exchange, the heat exchanger design of the thermoacoustic machine 1 can be made more compact, and the selection of refrigerant types can be more diverse.

[0104] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the fifth embodiment described above is based on the example of two thermoacoustic units being arranged in the same housing 14, this is only a preferred embodiment. In other embodiments, two separate thermoacoustic units 1 can also be arranged opposite each other.

[0105] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the heat exchange sections of the two thermoacoustic units in the fifth embodiment above are separated by a partition 16, this is only one possible way. In another embodiment, the two heat exchange sections can also be connected to each other. In this case, the two cold end heat exchangers 12 are located in the same expansion chamber. In this way, the two heat exchange sections are connected to each other, the material cost is low, and the integrated design has higher reliability and better heat exchange effect.

[0106] For example, in another alternative implementation, although the fifth implementation described above is based on the example of two cold-end heat exchangers 12 facing each other, this is only one possible implementation. The specific arrangement depends on the specific form of the heat exchange unit. For example, when the hot-end heat exchanger 11 is located at the outermost edge of the thermoacoustic unit, the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 can also be arranged to face each other.

[0107] For example, in another alternative embodiment, the specific form of the compression unit 15 is not limited in this application. In addition to a linear compressor, it can be any other type of compressor, such as a crank-connecting rod compressor.

[0108] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the fifth embodiment described above is illustrated by setting both the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 and the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 in parallel, this is only used to illustrate the principle of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that in other embodiments, the connection method of the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 and the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 can also be changed so that this application can be applied to more specific application scenarios. For example, the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 and the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 are respectively connected in series, that is, the first refrigerant passes through the two cold-end heat exchangers 12 before exchanging heat with the second heat exchanger 22, and the refrigerant after the throttling element 9 passes through the two hot-end heat exchangers 11 before returning to the compressor 7.

[0109] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the above embodiments are described in conjunction with a residential heat pump system, this is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can apply this application to other application scenarios. For example, the heat pump system of this application is also applicable to application scenarios such as commercial heat pumps.

[0110] Of course, the alternative implementation methods described above, as well as the alternative implementation methods and preferred implementation methods, can be used in combination to create new implementation methods suitable for more specific application scenarios. For example, the thermoacoustic machine 1 in the sixth implementation method can also be applied to the second, third, fourth, and fifth implementation methods.

[0111] Those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, any of the claimed embodiments in the claims of this application can be used in any combination.

[0112] The technical solutions of this application have been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of this application is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A heat pump system, characterized in that, The heat pump system includes a thermoacoustic engine, a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a throttling element. The thermoacoustic machine includes a hot-end heat exchanger and a cold-end heat exchanger. The compressor is circulated and connected to the hot-end heat exchanger through a first refrigerant pipeline. The first heat exchanger is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and one end is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor. The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger exchange heat directly or indirectly through a first refrigerant. The throttling element is located in the first refrigerant pipeline and its two ends are respectively connected to one end of the first heat exchanger and one end of the hot-end heat exchanger.

2. The heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger is circulatedly connected to the cold end heat exchanger through the first cooling pipeline. The heat pump system also includes a first pump body, which is disposed in the first cooling pipeline, and a first refrigerant is filled in the first cooling pipeline.

3. The heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger is a heat pipe heat exchanger, wherein the condensing end of the heat pipe heat exchanger exchanges heat with the cold end heat exchanger, and the first refrigerant is filled in the heat pipe heat exchanger; or The second heat exchanger and the cold-end heat exchanger are connected by a pipeline to form a loop heat pipe, and the first refrigerant is filled in the loop heat pipe.

4. The heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat pump system further includes a third heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline. The third heat exchanger is disposed on the second refrigerant pipeline. The first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element. The second end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to a first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor. The heat pump system also includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the third heat exchanger.

5. The heat pump system according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least one of the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger; and / or The second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger are independent of each other or belong to different parts of the same heat exchanger.

6. The heat pump system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger and a second refrigerant pipeline. The intermediate heat exchanger has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path that can exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange flow path is disposed in the first cooling pipeline, and the second heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second refrigerant pipeline. The first end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second end of the second refrigerant pipeline is connected to the first refrigerant pipeline between the other end of the hot end heat exchanger and the suction port of the compressor. The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path.

7. The heat pump system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat pump system further includes a bypass pipeline, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the two ends of the cold end heat exchanger. The heat pump system also includes a valve section, which is configured to selectively control the flow of the first refrigerant through the bypass pipeline or the cold end heat exchanger.

8. The heat pump system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat pump system further includes an intermediate heat exchanger, a second cooling line, and a second refrigerant line. The intermediate heat exchanger has a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path that can exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second cooling line, and the second heat exchange flow path is disposed in the second refrigerant line. One end of the second cooling line is connected to the first cooling line between one end of the second heat exchanger and the cold end heat exchanger, and the other end of the second cooling line is connected to the first cooling line between the first pump body and the other end of the cold end heat exchanger. The first end of the second refrigerant line is connected to the first refrigerant line between one end of the hot end heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the other end of the second refrigerant line is connected to the first refrigerant line between the compressor's suction port and the other end of the hot end heat exchanger. The heat pump system further includes a valve body or valve assembly, which is configured to selectively control the flow of refrigerant through the hot-end heat exchanger or the second heat exchange path.

9. The heat pump system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat pump system further includes a first valve and a second valve. The first valve is located on the first cooling pipeline between one end of the cold-end heat exchanger and one end of the second cooling pipeline, and the second valve is located on the second cooling pipeline.

10. The heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermoacoustic machine includes two thermoacoustic units facing each other. Each thermoacoustic unit includes a compression section and a heat exchange section. Each heat exchange section includes a hot-end heat exchanger, a regenerator, and a cold-end heat exchanger. The suction port of the compressor is connected to the first end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers. One end of the throttling element is connected to the second end of at least one of the hot-end heat exchangers. The second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the two cold-end heat exchangers through a first refrigerant.

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