Heat pump, method of operating a heat pump, and server

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a heat pump, a method of operating a heat pump, and a server. The heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant, at least one heat exchanger in which heat exchange between water and the refrigerant occurs, a storage configured to store operation data related to operation of the heat pump, and a controller, and the controller can calculate, based on the operation data, an estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump in a predetermined operation for bringing a temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank, which is used to store the heat-exchanged water, to correspond to a preset target temperature, and determine, based on the estimated power consumption, a schedule plan for controlling a load of the heat pump for an operation time in which the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server; more specifically, it relates to a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server capable of using a learning model to set an operation scheduling plan. Background Technology

[0002] A heat pump is a device that uses the heat of evaporation or condensation of a refrigerant to transfer heat energy from a low-temperature heat source to a high-temperature space or vice versa. Typically, a heat pump consists of an outdoor unit containing a compressor and an outdoor heat exchanger, and an indoor unit containing an indoor heat exchanger.

[0003] In recent years, with the increasing impact of climate change such as global warming, research has been conducted on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Among these technologies, heat pumps, which utilize heat exchange between water and refrigerant to heat water, have attracted attention as an alternative to using fossil fuels for heating to increase indoor temperatures or for supplying hot water to users.

[0004] Meanwhile, electronic devices used in homes for user convenience are becoming increasingly diverse, and various automated systems are being built across industrial sectors to improve productivity. However, with technological advancements, electricity consumption is rising not only in homes but also throughout industry, and the associated costs are increasing. To address these issues, research is actively underway on systems that can reduce electricity costs while operating according to user needs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above, one object of this disclosure is to resolve the above-mentioned problems and other issues.

[0006] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a heat pump capable of predicting full-load periods with high power consumption, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server.

[0007] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server capable of determining an operation scheduling plan that minimizes power consumption while meeting user demand corresponding to full load periods.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server that can determine the operation schedule by taking into account the time-of-use (ToU) rate of electricity consumption.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server capable of determining an operation scheduling plan by taking into account the extent to which electricity is stored in an energy storage system (ESS) and / or the extent to which the stored electricity is used.

[0010] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a heat pump, a method for operating the heat pump, and a server capable of determining an operation scheduling plan by taking into account user data transmitted from external devices.

[0011] To achieve this objective, a heat pump according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include: a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant; at least one heat exchanger in which heat exchange occurs between water and the refrigerant; a memory configured to store operating data related to the operation of the heat pump; and a controller that can: calculate, based on the operating data, an estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump in a predetermined operation, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank being used to store the heat-exchanged water; and, based on the estimated power consumption, determine a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operating time of the heat pump performing the predetermined operation.

[0012] To achieve this objective, a server according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include: a communication interface configured to communicate with a heat pump; a memory; and a processor configured to store operation data related to the operation of the heat pump received via the communication interface in the memory, wherein the processor may: calculate, based on the operation data, an estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump in a predetermined operation, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank being used to store water for heat exchange with the refrigerant in the heat pump; and, based on the estimated power consumption, determine a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time of the heat pump performing the predetermined operation.

[0013] To achieve this objective, a heat pump operation method according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include: calculating an estimated power consumption of the heat pump during a predetermined operation based on operation data related to the operation of the heat pump stored in the heat pump's memory, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank being used to store water that exchanges heat with refrigerant compressed by the heat pump's compressor; and determining, based on the estimated power consumption, an operation for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

[0014] Details of other implementation methods will be included in the detailed embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0015] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, the full-load range with high power consumption can be predicted.

[0016] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, an operational scheduling plan can be determined that minimizes power consumption while meeting user demands corresponding to full-load intervals.

[0017] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, the time-of-use (ToU) rate of electricity consumption can be taken into account to determine the operation scheduling plan.

[0018] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, the extent to which electricity is stored in an energy storage system (ESS) and / or the extent to which the stored electricity is used can be taken into account to determine the operation scheduling plan.

[0019] In addition, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, user data transmitted from external devices can be considered to determine the operation scheduling plan.

[0020] The further scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the specific embodiments given below. However, it should be understood that while the specific embodiments and particular examples illustrate preferred embodiments of this disclosure, they are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications to the concept and scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on these specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a configuration diagram of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart referenced for describing machine learning according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figures 7 to 12 This is a schematic diagram for illustrating the operation of a heat pump according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figures 13 to 18 These figures are for the purpose of describing the operation of a system according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted for clarity and conciseness, and the same reference numerals are used throughout the specification for the same or very similar parts.

[0030] In the following description, the suffixes "module" and "section" used for parts are given for convenience in writing this specification only, and do not in themselves have any particularly important meaning or function. Therefore, the terms "module" and "section" can be used interchangeably.

[0031] In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprising," "including," "having," etc., specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0032] Furthermore, in this specification, the terms first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] refer to Figure 1 System 1 may include heat pump 100, grid 200, power generation module 300 and / or energy storage system (ESS) 400.

[0035] The heat pump 100 can be installed in the building corresponding to the user. The heat pump 100 can receive power from the power grid 200 and / or the energy storage system (ESS) 400.

[0036] The power grid 200 may include power generation equipment, power transmission routes, etc.

[0037] The power generation module 300 can generate electrical energy. For example, when the power generation module 300 utilizes solar energy to generate electricity, it can be configured as a solar cell array. The solar cell array can be provided as a combination of multiple solar cell modules. A solar cell module can connect multiple solar cells in series or parallel. In this case, the power generation module 300 can convert solar energy into electrical energy to generate a predetermined voltage and a predetermined current. In this disclosure, the power generation module 300 utilizing solar energy is described as an example, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the power generation module 300 can include various types of generators, such as wind power, tidal power, hydropower, geothermal power, etc.

[0038] The energy storage system (ESS) 400 can store electricity from the power grid 200 and / or the power generation module 300. The energy storage system (ESS) 400 may include a battery module 410 for storing electricity. The battery module 410 may include at least one battery. For example, the battery may include a lithium-ion battery (LiB), a lead-acid battery, a sodium-sulfur battery (NaS), a redox flow battery (RFB), a supercapacitor, etc. The battery may consist of multiple battery cells.

[0039] The Energy Storage System (ESS) 400 may include power conversion devices for converting electricity. These power conversion devices may include inverters and / or converters. For example, a converter may convert the electricity output from the generator module 300 into direct current (DC) corresponding to the Energy Storage System (ESS) 400. An inverter may convert the electricity stored in the battery module 410 into alternating current (AC) corresponding to the heat pump 100.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a configuration diagram of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] refer to Figure 2 The heat pump 100 may include an outdoor unit O, an indoor unit I, and / or a hot water supply unit H for heat exchange between compressed refrigerant and water. The heat pump 100 may include a refrigeration cycle loop 2, a hot water supply loop 4, and / or a floor heating loop 6.

[0042] The outdoor unit O may include a compressor 12 for compressing refrigerant, an accumulator 24 disposed in the suction path 34 of the compressor 12 to prevent liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor 12, an oil separator 28 disposed in the discharge path 26 of the compressor 12 to separate oil from the refrigerant and oil discharged from the compressor 12 and collect the oil to the compressor 12, and / or a cooling-heating switching valve 40 for selecting the refrigerant path according to the heating / cooling operation.

[0043] In addition, the outdoor unit O may also include multiple sensors, valves, etc. For example, the outdoor unit O may include a heat exchanger temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 14, an outdoor temperature sensor for detecting the outdoor temperature, a current sensor for detecting the current flowing through the outdoor fan motor 31, and a pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure in each path, etc.

[0044] Outdoor unit O and indoor unit I may each include heat exchangers 14 and 18, fans 30 and 39, and expansion mechanisms 16 and 17. Outdoor unit O and indoor unit I can perform either cooling (cooling indoor air) or heating (heating indoor air) depending on the refrigerant flow direction. For example, indoor unit I can receive compressed refrigerant from outdoor unit O and discharge cooled or heated air into the room.

[0045] The outdoor heat exchanger 14 can condense or evaporate the refrigerant. The outdoor heat exchanger 14 can be configured as an air-refrigerant heat exchanger, in which heat exchange occurs between outdoor air and the refrigerant, or it can be configured as a water-refrigerant heat exchanger, in which heat exchange occurs between cooling water and the refrigerant. For example, when the outdoor heat exchanger 14 is configured as an air-refrigerant heat exchanger, an outdoor fan 30 can be positioned on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger 14 and can blow outdoor air towards the outdoor heat exchanger 14 to promote refrigerant dissipation. The outdoor fan 30 can be rotated according to the drive of the outdoor fan motor 31. In the following description, the case where the outdoor heat exchanger 14 is configured as an air-refrigerant heat exchanger in which outdoor air and refrigerant exchange heat will be used as an example.

[0046] The outdoor heat exchanger 14 can be connected to the indoor heat exchanger 18 via the heat exchanger connecting pipe 32. Expansion mechanisms 16 and 17 can be installed in the heat exchanger connecting pipe 32. The heat exchanger connecting pipe 32 may include: an expansion mechanism connecting pipe 36 connecting the outdoor expansion mechanism 16 and the indoor expansion mechanism 17; an outdoor heat exchanger-outdoor expansion mechanism connecting pipe 34 connecting the outdoor heat exchanger 14 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 16; and an indoor expansion mechanism-indoor heat exchanger connecting pipe 38 connecting the indoor heat exchanger 18 and the indoor expansion mechanism 17.

[0047] The indoor heat exchanger 18 can exchange heat between indoor air and refrigerant. The indoor heat exchanger 18 can be configured to cool or heat the room. An indoor fan 39 can be installed on one side of the indoor heat exchanger 18. The indoor fan 39 can blow indoor air towards the indoor heat exchanger 18.

[0048] In the cooling mode where the heat pump 100 cools the room via indoor unit I, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 of outdoor unit O sequentially passes through outdoor heat exchanger 14, expansion mechanisms 16 and 17, and indoor heat exchanger 18, and is connected to be collected by compressor 12. As a result, indoor heat exchanger 18 can be used as an evaporator. Simultaneously, in the heating mode where the heat pump 100 heats the room via indoor unit I, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 of outdoor unit O sequentially passes through indoor heat exchanger 18, expansion mechanisms 16 and 17, and outdoor heat exchanger 14, and is connected to be collected by compressor 12. As a result, indoor heat exchanger 18 can be used as a condenser.

[0049] The cooling-heating switching valve 40 can switch the flow direction of the refrigerant, allowing the refrigerant to flow in either the order of compressor 12, outdoor heat exchanger 14, expansion mechanisms 16 and 17, and indoor heat exchanger 18, or in the order of compressor 12, indoor heat exchanger 18, expansion mechanisms 16 and 17, and outdoor heat exchanger 14. The cooling-heating switching valve 40 can be connected to compressor 12 via compressor suction path 22 and compressor discharge path 26. The cooling-heating switching valve 40 can be connected to indoor heat exchanger 18 via indoor heat exchange connection pipe 44. The cooling-heating switching valve 40 can be connected to outdoor heat exchanger 14 via outdoor heat exchange connection pipe 32.

[0050] Outdoor unit O may include a refrigerant control valve 90, which can selectively supply refrigerant from compressor discharge path 26 to hot water supply unit H or cooling-heating switching valve 40. In this case, when the refrigerant control valve 90 is configured as a three-way valve, it may be located on compressor discharge path 26. The refrigerant control valve 90 may have a branch hot water supply inlet path 52 for supplying refrigerant to hot water supply unit H.

[0051] Outdoor unit O may further include an auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94. The auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 is operable to supply refrigerant from hot water supply unit H to outdoor unit O to heat exchanger bypass path 92, or to cooling-heating switching valve 40. The refrigerant control valve 90 may be configured as a three-way valve.

[0052] The outdoor unit O may further include a heat exchanger bypass valve 96 installed in the heat exchanger bypass path 92 to control the flow of refrigerant, and a liquid refrigerant valve 98 installed between the heat exchanger bypass path 92 and the indoor expansion mechanism 17 to control the flow of refrigerant.

[0053] When the heat pump 100 provides heating, the heat exchanger bypass valve 96 can be opened. When the heat pump 100 performs air conditioning, or performs both air conditioning and heating functions simultaneously, the heat exchanger bypass valve 96 can be closed.

[0054] When the heat pump 100 operates in air conditioning function, or simultaneously in air conditioning and heating function, the liquid refrigerant valve 98 may be opened. When providing heating function, the liquid refrigerant valve 98 may be closed.

[0055] The hot water supply unit H can receive compressed refrigerant from the outdoor unit O through the hot water supply inlet path 52. The hot water supply unit H can deliver the refrigerant to the outdoor unit O through the heat exchanger collection path 54.

[0056] Hot water supply circuit 4 can be configured to use the heat from the refrigerant compressed by compressor 12 for hot water supply.

[0057] The hot water supply circuit 4 may include a hot water supply heat exchanger 50, which is arranged to allow refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 to pass through.

[0058] The hot water supply heat exchanger 50 can be implemented as a type of desuperheater, in which the refrigerant superheated by the compressor 12 is condensed while exchanging heat with the water used for hot water supply.

[0059] The hot water supply heat exchanger 50 may include a refrigerant path through which superheated refrigerant passes and a water path through which water for hot water supply passes. The hot water supply heat exchanger 50 may be configured as a coaxial heat exchanger, wherein the refrigerant path and the water path are formed internally and externally, with heat transfer elements between them. The hot water supply heat exchanger 50 may be configured as a plate heat exchanger, wherein the refrigerant path and the water path are alternately formed, with heat transfer elements between them.

[0060] The hot water supply heat exchanger 50 can be connected to the hot water supply path 51, so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 12 is used for hot water supply and then flows to the refrigeration cycle loop 2.

[0061] The hot water supply path 51 may include a hot water supply inlet path 52 and a hot water supply outlet path 54. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 flows to the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 through the hot water supply inlet path 52, and the refrigerant discharged from the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 flows to the cooling-heating switching valve 40 through the hot water supply outlet path 54.

[0062] The hot water supply inlet path 52 and the hot water supply outlet path 54 can be arranged to correspond to the compressor 12 and the cooling-heating switching valve 40, respectively.

[0063] One end of the hot water supply inlet path 52 can be connected to the compressor discharge path 26, and the other end can be connected to the hot water supply heat exchanger 50.

[0064] One end of the hot water supply outlet path 54 can be connected to the hot water supply heat exchanger 50, and the other end can be connected to the compressor discharge path 26.

[0065] The hot water supply circuit 4 may include a hot water supply tank 58 connected to the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 via a hot water supply circulation path 56, and a hot water supply flow controller 60 installed in the hot water supply circulation path 56 to achieve flow control.

[0066] The hot water supply tank 58 can be connected to the water supply unit 62 and the drain unit 64. External water is supplied to the hot water supply tank 58 through the water supply unit 62, and the water in the hot water supply tank 58 is discharged through the drain unit 64.

[0067] The hot water supply tank 58 can also be configured such that water heated by the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 and then flowing into the hot water supply tank 58 is discharged directly through the drain section 64.

[0068] The hot water supply tank 58 is equipped with a hot water supply coil connected to the hot water supply circulation path 56. Therefore, it is also possible that the water heated by the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 heats the inside of the hot water supply tank 58 through the hot water supply coil, and the water supplied by the water supply section 62 is heated by the hot water supply coil and discharged through the drain section 64.

[0069] The hot water supply flow controller 60 controls the hot water supply flow while pumping water in the hot water supply tank 58 to circulate in the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 and the hot water supply tank 58, and may include a hot water supply pump 66 installed in the hot water supply circulation path 56 and a hot water supply valve 68 with a variable opening installed in the hot water supply circulation path 56.

[0070] The hot water supply flow controller 60 can control the hot water supply flow in the hot water supply circulation path 56, while the hot water supply pump 66 and the hot water supply valve 68 are used as variable capacity pumps.

[0071] The hot water supply pump 66 can be configured as a constant speed pump or a variable frequency pump.

[0072] The hot water supply pump 66 is preferably configured as a fixed-speed pump, which is cheaper than a variable frequency pump, because the hot water supply flow rate in the hot water supply circulation path 56 is controlled by adjusting the opening of the hot water supply valve 68.

[0073] The hot water supply valve 68 can be configured as an electronically expandable valve with controllable opening.

[0074] In the hot water supply loop 4, a flow meter 70 that detects the flow rate of the hot water supply circulation path 56 can be installed in the hot water supply circulation path 56.

[0075] The underfloor heating circuit 6 can be configured to use the heat from the refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger 50 via hot water for indoor floor heating.

[0076] The underfloor heating circuit 6 may include a heating heat exchanger 72, which is arranged to allow the refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger 50 via hot water to pass through.

[0077] The heating heat exchanger 72 can be connected to the hot water supply path 51 and the heating heat exchanger connection path 73, so that the refrigerant through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 heats the water and then flows to the hot water supply path 51.

[0078] The heating heat exchanger connection path 73 may include a floor heating inlet path 74 and a floor heating outlet path 76. The refrigerant in the hot water supply discharge path flows into the heating heat exchanger 72 through the floor heating inlet path 74, and the refrigerant through the heating heat exchanger 72 flows out to the hot water supply outlet path 54 through the floor heating outlet path 76.

[0079] A check valve 78 can be installed in the underfloor heating outlet path 76 to prevent refrigerant in the hot water supply outlet path 54 from flowing back to the heating heat exchanger 72 through the underfloor heating outlet path 76.

[0080] The heating heat exchanger 72 can be a condensing heat exchanger, wherein the refrigerant initially condensed by the hot water supply to the heat exchanger 50 is additionally condensed while exchanging heat with the water.

[0081] The heating heat exchanger 72 may include a refrigerant path through which the refrigerant supplied to the hot water heat exchanger 50 passes and a water path through which water is supplied for underfloor heating or indoor air conditioning and heating.

[0082] The heating heat exchanger 72 can be configured as a coaxial heat exchanger, wherein refrigerant paths and water paths are formed internally and externally, with heat transfer components between them. The heating heat exchanger 72 can also be configured as a plate heat exchanger, wherein refrigerant paths and water paths are alternately formed, with heat transfer components between them.

[0083] Heating heat exchanger 72 can be connected to heating circulation path 82. Heating circulation path 82 can be connected to underfloor heating pipe 80 installed in the indoor floor. In underfloor heating circuit 6, underfloor heating pump 84 is installed in heating circulation path 82, and the heat from the refrigerant supplied to heat exchanger 50 via hot water can be additionally used for indoor floor heating.

[0084] The underfloor heating circuit 6 may include a heating valve (not shown), which can control the heating flow rate in the same way as the hot water supply circuit 4.

[0085] The hot water supply unit H may include a heating heat exchanger refrigerant controller 86, which controls the flow of refrigerant so that the refrigerant passing through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 passes through or bypasses the heating heat exchanger 72.

[0086] The heating heat exchanger 72 is directly connected to the hot water supply outlet path 54. Although the refrigerant supplied through the hot water supply heat exchanger 72 can be used continuously for underfloor heating, it is preferable to install the heating heat exchanger 72 in a way that allows users to selectively perform underfloor heating operations.

[0087] The refrigerant controller 86 for the heating heat exchanger can be a floor heating valve, which operates to allow refrigerant to pass through the heating heat exchanger 72 when the user or others select floor heating.

[0088] When the operation of the heat pump 100 includes underfloor heating operation, the refrigerant controller 86 of the heating heat exchanger can control the flow direction of the refrigerant, so that the refrigerant flows to the heating heat exchanger 72. When the operation of the heat pump 100 does not include underfloor heating operation, the refrigerant controller 86 of the heating heat exchanger can control the flow direction of the refrigerant, so that the refrigerant bypasses the heating heat exchanger 72.

[0089] When performing underfloor heating operation, when performing underfloor heating and hot water supply operation, and / or when performing underfloor heating, hot water supply and air conditioning operation, the refrigerant controller 86 of the heating heat exchanger can control the flow of refrigerant to the heating heat exchanger 72.

[0090] The refrigerant controller 86 for the heating heat exchanger can also be configured as a three-way valve installed in the hot water supply path 50, and particularly in the hot water supply outlet path 54, to select the refrigerant outlet direction.

[0091] When the operation of the heat pump 100 includes at least one of hot water supply operation and underfloor heating operation, the refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled so that the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 flows to the hot water supply heat exchanger 50. When the operation of the heat pump 100 does not include either hot water supply operation or underfloor heating operation, the refrigerant control valve 90 of the heat pump type hot water supply system can control the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 to bypass the hot water supply heat exchanger 50.

[0092] During hot water supply operation, refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow refrigerant to flow to hot water supply heat exchanger 50. During simultaneous hot water supply and air conditioning operation, refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow refrigerant to flow to hot water supply heat exchanger 50. During simultaneous hot water supply and underfloor heating operation, refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow refrigerant to flow to hot water supply heat exchanger 50. During simultaneous hot water supply, underfloor heating, and air conditioning operation, refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow refrigerant to flow to hot water supply heat exchanger 50. During underfloor heating operation, refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow refrigerant to flow to hot water supply heat exchanger 50.

[0093] During air conditioning operation, the refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow the refrigerant to bypass the hot water supply heat exchanger 50. That is, during space cooling operation, the refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow the refrigerant to bypass the hot water supply heat exchanger 50. During space heating operation, the refrigerant control valve 90 can be controlled to allow the refrigerant to bypass the hot water supply heat exchanger 50.

[0094] The heat pump 100 may include a heat exchanger bypass path 92 configured to direct refrigerant supplied via hot water to the outdoor heat exchanger 14 and the indoor heat exchanger 18, such that the refrigerant supplied via hot water to the heat exchanger 50 bypasses one of the outdoor heat exchanger 14 and the indoor heat exchanger 18.

[0095] One end of the heat exchanger bypass path 92 can be connected to the hot water supply path 50, and the other end is connected between the indoor expansion mechanism 17 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 16.

[0096] One end of the heat exchanger bypass path 92 can be connected to the hot water supply outlet path 54 in the hot water supply path 50, and the other end can be connected to the expansion mechanism connecting pipe 36. The heat exchanger bypass path 92 can guide the hot water supply outlet path 54 between the indoor expansion mechanism 17 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 16.

[0097] The refrigerant guided to the heat exchanger bypass path 92 can be expanded by the indoor expansion mechanism 17, then evaporated by the indoor heat exchanger 18, and collected in the compressor 12. The refrigerant guided to the heat exchanger bypass path 92 can be expanded by the outdoor expansion mechanism 16, then evaporated by the outdoor heat exchanger 14, and collected in the compressor 12.

[0098] In other words, when the refrigerant is guided through the heat exchanger bypass path 92 between the indoor expansion mechanism 17 and the outdoor expansion mechanism 16, no condensation process occurs in the refrigeration cycle loop 2; instead, only expansion and evaporation processes may occur. In this case, the heat transfer in the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 and the heating heat exchanger 72 increases, and the efficiency of hot water supply and underfloor heating can be improved.

[0099] The heat pump 100 may include an auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 that controls the flow direction of refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger 50 via hot water, such that the refrigerant passes through or bypasses the heat exchanger bypass path 92.

[0100] When the operation of the heat pump type hot water supply system includes both hot water supply operation and air conditioning operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can control the refrigerant passing through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to bypass the heat exchanger bypass path 92.

[0101] During simultaneous operation of hot water supply and air conditioning, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant passing through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to bypass the heat exchanger bypass path 92. During simultaneous operation of hot water supply, underfloor heating, and air conditioning, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant passing through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to bypass the heat exchanger bypass path 92.

[0102] During air conditioning operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant supplied through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to flow to the heat exchanger bypass path 92. During hot water supply operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant supplied through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to flow to the heat exchanger bypass path 92. During simultaneous hot water supply and underfloor heating operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant supplied through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to bypass the heat exchanger bypass path 92. During underfloor heating operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant supplied through the hot water supply heat exchanger 50 to flow to the heat exchanger bypass path 92.

[0103] When defrosting conditions are met during hot water supply operation, the auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94 can be controlled to allow refrigerant supplied through the hot water heat exchanger 50 to bypass the heat exchanger bypass path 92. In this case, when the refrigeration cycle loop 2 switches from heating operation to cooling operation to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger 14, the high-temperature refrigerant supplied through the hot water heat exchanger 50 can flow into the outdoor heat exchanger 14, and the outdoor heat exchanger 14 can be defrosted.

[0104] The heat pump 100 may further include a heat exchanger bypass valve 96 installed in the heat exchanger bypass path 92 to control the flow of refrigerant, and a liquid refrigerant valve 98 installed between the heat exchanger bypass path 92 and the indoor expansion mechanism 17 to control the flow of refrigerant.

[0105] When hot water supply and underfloor heating are operated simultaneously, the heat exchanger bypass valve 96 may be opened when either the underfloor heating or hot water supply operation is in progress. When air conditioning is operated, or when both air conditioning and hot water supply operations are in progress simultaneously, or when air conditioning, hot water supply, and underfloor heating operations are in progress simultaneously, the heat exchanger bypass valve 96 may be closed.

[0106] When the air conditioner is running, when the air conditioner and hot water supply operations are running simultaneously, or when the air conditioner, hot water supply, and underfloor heating operations are running simultaneously, the liquid refrigerant valve 98 may be opened. When the hot water supply and underfloor heating operations are running simultaneously, or when the underfloor heating operation is running, or when the hot water supply operation is running, the liquid refrigerant valve 98 may be closed.

[0107] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] refer to Figure 3 The heat pump 100 may include a fan drive unit 110, a compressor drive unit 120, a communication interface 130, a learning processor 140, a memory 150, a sensor unit 160, a valve unit 170, and / or a controller 180.

[0109] The fan drive unit 110 can drive at least one fan provided in the heat pump 100. For example, the fan drive unit 110 can drive an outdoor fan 30 and / or an indoor fan 39.

[0110] The fan drive unit 110 may include: a rectifier (not shown) that rectifies alternating current (AC) and outputs direct current (DC); a DC-terminal capacitor (not shown) that stores pulse voltages from the rectifier; an inverter (not shown) that includes multiple switching elements and smoothly converts DC power to three-phase AC power with a predetermined frequency; and / or motors 31 and 33 that drive fans 30 and 39 according to the three-phase AC power output from the inverter.

[0111] The fan drive unit 110 may include separate components for driving the outdoor fan 30 and the indoor fan 39. For example, the fan drive unit 110 may include an outdoor fan motor 31 corresponding to the outdoor fan 30 and an indoor fan motor 33 corresponding to the indoor fan 39.

[0112] The compressor drive unit 120 can drive the compressor 12. The compressor drive unit 120 may include: a rectifier (not shown) that rectifies alternating current (AC) and outputs direct current (DC); a DC terminal capacitor (not shown) that stores pulse voltages from the rectifier; an inverter (not shown) that includes multiple switching elements and smoothly converts DC power to three-phase AC power with a predetermined frequency; and / or a compressor motor (not shown) that drives the compressor 12 according to the three-phase AC power output from the inverter.

[0113] The communication interface 130 may include at least one communication module. The communication interface 130 may be disposed in each of the outdoor unit O and the indoor unit I, and the outdoor unit O and the indoor unit I may send / receive data to each other. For example, the communication scheme between the outdoor unit O and the indoor unit I may be a communication scheme using power lines, a serial communication scheme (e.g., RS-485 communication), a wired communication scheme via refrigerant pipes, or a wireless communication scheme.

[0114] Communication interface 130 can send and receive data from external devices. For example, communication interface 130 can receive data from energy storage system (ESS) 400 regarding the power stored in battery module 410 and request the supply of power stored in battery module 410. For example, communication interface 130 can establish a wireless communication channel with external devices (e.g., mobile terminals) and can send and receive data regarding the status of each component provided in heat pump 100, whether errors have occurred, etc., through the established wireless communication channel. For example, communication interface 130 can send and receive data by accessing a server connected to an external network.

[0115] The communication technologies used in the communication interface 130 include Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. TM Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), ZigBee, and Near Field Communication (NFC).

[0116] The learning processor 140 can train a model composed of an artificial neural network using learning data. Here, the trained artificial neural network can be referred to as a learning model. The learning model can be used to infer the result value of new input data other than the training data, and the inferred value can be used as the basis for determining any operation. (See below for reference.) Figure 4 Describe the learning model.

[0117] The learning processor 140 may include memory integrated or implemented in the heat pump 100. Alternatively, the learning processor 140 may be implemented using memory 150, external memory directly connected to the heat pump 100, or memory stored in an external device.

[0118] The learning processor 140 may be included in the controller 180, or it may be configured separately from the controller 180.

[0119] The memory 150 may also store programs for each signal processing or control function in the controller 180, and store processed voice or data signals. For example, the memory 150 may store applications designed for performing various tasks that can be processed by the controller 180, and may selectively provide some of the stored applications upon request from the controller 180. There are no particular restrictions on the programs stored in the memory 150, as long as they can be executed by the controller 180.

[0120] It shows Figure 3 The memory 150 is provided separately from the controller 180 in this embodiment, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the memory 150 may also be included in the controller 180.

[0121] The memory 150 can store predetermined data (hereinafter referred to as operating data) related to the operation of the heat pump 100. For example, the memory 150 can store data about detection values ​​detected by multiple sensors provided in the sensor unit 160. For example, the memory 150 can store operating data about the operating frequency of the compressor 12, indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, operating mode, etc. At the same time, the memory 150 can store at least one learning model.

[0122] The memory 150 may include at least one of, for example, volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0123] Sensor unit 160 may include at least one sensor. Sensor unit 160 may send data of sensed values ​​detected by at least one sensor to controller 180.

[0124] At least one sensor provided in sensor unit 160 may be disposed inside outdoor unit O and / or indoor unit I. For example, sensor unit 160 may include a heat exchanger temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of outdoor heat exchanger 14, a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of gaseous refrigerant flowing through each pipe, a pipe temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of fluid flowing through each pipe, etc.

[0125] Sensor unit 160 may include an indoor temperature sensor for detecting indoor temperature and / or an outdoor temperature sensor for detecting outdoor temperature. For example, the outdoor temperature sensor may be located in outdoor unit O, and the indoor temperature sensor may be located in indoor unit I.

[0126] Valve unit 170 may include at least one valve. The at least one valve included in valve unit 170 may be operated according to the control of controller 180. For example, valve unit 170 may include a cooling-heating switching valve 40, a refrigerant control valve 90, an auxiliary refrigerant control valve 94, a heat exchanger bypass valve 96, a liquid refrigerant valve 98, etc.

[0127] The controller 180 can be connected to each component provided in the heat pump 100 and can control the overall operation of each component. The controller 180 can send data to and receive data from each component provided in the heat pump 100.

[0128] The controller 180 may be located in at least one of the outdoor unit O and the indoor unit I and / or the hot water supply unit H. The controller 180 may also be configured as a separate unit from the outdoor unit O, the indoor unit I and the hot water supply unit H.

[0129] The controller 180 may include at least one processor and control the overall operation of the heat pump 100 by using the included processor. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may also be a special-purpose device such as an ASIC or other hardware-based processor.

[0130] The controller 180 can control the operation of the fan drive unit 110. For example, the controller 180 can change the frequency of the three-phase AC power output to the outdoor fan motor 31 by controlling the operation of the fan drive unit 110, thereby changing the speed of the outdoor fan 30.

[0131] The controller 180 can control the operation of the compressor drive unit 120. For example, the controller 180 can change the frequency of the three-phase AC power output to the compressor motor by controlling the operation of the compressor drive unit 120, thereby changing the operating frequency of the compressor 12.

[0132] The learning processor 140 and / or controller 180 learn from the operational data stored in memory 150 using machine learning techniques such as deep learning to generate a learning model. The controller 180 can then control each component provided in the heat pump 100 using the operational data stored in memory 150 and the pre-trained learning model. References will follow below. Figure 4 Describe machine learning in detail.

[0133] Figure 4 These figures are for the purpose of illustrating machine learning according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0134] Machine learning is a technique in which computers learn from data without requiring humans to directly instruct them on logic, thus enabling them to solve problems.

[0135] Deep learning is a method of teaching computers to think like humans, based on artificial neural networks (ANNs). It's an artificial intelligence technology that allows computers to learn autonomously, much like humans. ANNs can be implemented in software or in hardware such as chips. For example, ANNs can include various types of algorithms, such as deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and deep belief networks (DBNs).

[0136] refer to Figure 4 An ANN can include an input layer, hidden layers, and an output layer. Each layer can include multiple nodes, and each layer can be connected to the next layer. Nodes in adjacent layers can be connected to each other with weights.

[0137] Computers can discover patterns in data to form feature maps, and extract low-level, mid-level, and high-level features to identify objects and output results.

[0138] Furthermore, each node can operate based on the activation model, and the output value corresponding to the input value can be determined by the activation model.

[0139] The output value of any node, such as a node representing a low-level feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, such as a node representing a mid-level feature. Nodes in the next layer, such as nodes representing mid-level features, can receive values ​​output from multiple nodes representing lower-level features.

[0140] In this context, the input value to each node can be the value of the output value to which weights are applied to the nodes in the previous layer. Weights can refer to the strength of the connections between nodes. Furthermore, the deep learning process can be viewed as a process of finding appropriate weights and biases.

[0141] Simultaneously, the output value of any node, such as an intermediate feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, such as a node for a higher-level feature. The nodes at the next layer, such as nodes for higher-level features, can receive values ​​output from multiple intermediate feature nodes.

[0142] ANNs can extract feature information corresponding to each level by using learning layers corresponding to the respective levels. ANNs can identify predetermined objects by sequentially abstracting and utilizing the feature information of the highest level.

[0143] Furthermore, ANNs learn by adjusting the weights of connections between nodes to obtain the desired output for the input data, and the bias values ​​can also be adjusted if necessary. In addition, ANNs can continuously update their weight values ​​through learning. Furthermore, methods such as backpropagation can be used for ANN learning.

[0144] The memory 150 can store data obtained from each component provided by the heat pump 100, data used for ANN learning, etc. For example, the memory 150 can store a database that includes data for ANN learning purposes regarding each component provided by the heat pump 100, weights and biases included in the ANN structure, etc.

[0145] Additionally, the controller 370 may include a data acquisition unit (not shown), a model learning unit (not shown), and / or a results calculator (not shown).

[0146] The data acquisition unit can acquire data about each component provided in the heat pump 100 and determine the input data among the acquired data as the learning target.

[0147] The model learning unit can generate a learning model by learning from the input data. The model learning unit can update the pre-generated learning model based on data about each component provided in the heat pump 100.

[0148] The results calculator can calculate the results corresponding to the input data by using input data from data on each component provided in the heat pump 100 and a pre-learned learning model.

[0149] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] refer to Figure 5 System 1 may further include server 500 and / or external device 600. Server 500 may communicate with heat pump 100. Server 500 may communicate with external device 600. At the same time, heat pump 100 may also communicate with external device 600.

[0151] Server 500 can train an artificial neural network using machine learning algorithms. Server 500 can then use the trained artificial neural network to compute result data corresponding to the input data. Here, server 500 can be composed of multiple servers to perform distributed processing and can be defined as a 5G network. In this case, server 500 can be included in a partial configuration of heat pump 100 to perform at least some processing related to machine learning.

[0152] Server 500 may include communication interface 510, memory 530, learning processor 540 and / or processor 560.

[0153] The communication interface 510 can send data to and receive data from external devices. For example, the communication interface 510 can communicate with the heat pump 100, the energy storage device (ESS) 400, the external device 600, and / or an external server corresponding to the energy storage device (ESS) 400.

[0154] The memory 530 may include a pattern storage unit 531. The pattern storage unit 531 may store a model (or artificial neural network, 531a) that is being trained or has already been trained by the learning processor 540.

[0155] The learning processor 540 can train the artificial neural network 531a using learning data. The learning model can be used when installed on the artificial neural network server 500, or it can be used by installing it on an external device such as the heat pump 100.

[0156] The learning processor 540 can also be included in the processor 560, or it can be configured separately from the processor 560.

[0157] The learning model can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both. When part or all of the learning model is implemented in software, one or more instructions constituting the learning model can be stored in memory 530.

[0158] The processor 560 can use a learning model to infer the result value of new input data and generate a response or control command based on the inferred result value.

[0159] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] refer to Figure 6 The heat pump 100 can acquire operating data during operation S610. For example, the heat pump 100 can acquire operating mode, indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, hot water supply set temperature, cooling set temperature, underfloor heating set temperature, temperature of water supplied to water supply section 62, temperature of water discharged from drain section 64, temperature of water stored in hot water supply tank 58, temperature of water flowing through heating circulation path 82, operating frequency of compressor 12, temperature of refrigerant discharged from compressor 12 (hereinafter referred to as discharge temperature), pressure of refrigerant discharged from compressor 12 (hereinafter referred to as discharge pressure), temperature of refrigerant flowing into compressor 12 (hereinafter referred to as suction temperature), pressure of refrigerant flowing into compressor 12 (hereinafter referred to as suction pressure), electricity used by heat pump 100, electricity supplied from grid 200, electricity stored in energy storage system (ESS) 400, charging status of battery module 410, electricity supplied from energy storage system (ESS) 400, etc.

[0161] The heat pump 100 can store the acquired operational data. For example, the heat pump 100 can store the acquired operational data in memory 150. For example, the heat pump 100 can send the acquired operational data to server 500, so that the acquired operational data is stored in memory 530 of server 500. In this disclosure, the example of operational data being stored in memory 150 of the heat pump 100 will be described.

[0162] In operation S620, heat pump 100 can confirm whether the operation data has been stored for a preset period of time or longer. For example, heat pump 100 can confirm whether the operation data has been stored for a preset period of time (e.g., 1 week) or longer after the initial operation begins.

[0163] The heat pump 100 can determine the full-load range during operation S630. The heat pump 100 can determine the time, period, etc., when the full-load range will occur after the current moment. That is, the heat pump 100 can predict the full-load range that will occur thereafter. Here, the full-load range can refer to the time interval during which the load of the heat pump 100 corresponds to full load when the heat pump 100 is operating normally. For example, when the load of the heat pump 100 corresponds to full load, the load of the heat pump 100 can correspond to the maximum value. In this case, during the full-load range, the operating frequency of the compressor 12 can correspond to a preset maximum frequency.

[0164] The full-load range in heat pump 100 may occur when hot water is used, such as for hot water supply or underfloor heating. For example, when a user sets the operating mode of heat pump 100 to hot water supply operation, heat pump 100 can raise the temperature of the water stored in hot water supply tank 58 to the hot water supply set temperature. In this case, in order to quickly provide hot water to the user, heat pump 100 can set the operating frequency of compressor 12 to the maximum frequency, thereby rapidly raising the temperature of the water stored in hot water supply tank 58 to the hot water supply set temperature. Here, the hot water supply set temperature may be referred to as the target temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank. In this disclosure, the full-load range in heat pump 100 due to the user's hot water use will be described as an example.

[0165] According to the implementation method, the heat pump 100 can determine the full-load range based on a predetermined period. The predetermined period can be set to 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, etc. For example, the heat pump 100 can predict the full-load range that will occur within 24 hours based on midnight.

[0166] The heat pump 100 can determine its full-load range based on operating data stored in the memory 150. For example, the heat pump 100 can determine its full-load range by calculating the pattern of changes in the operating frequency of the compressor 12. In this case, the heat pump 100 can determine its full-load range based on the time, period, etc., of the changes in the operating frequency of the compressor 12. For example, the heat pump 100 can determine its full-load range by calculating the pattern of temperature changes in the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58. In this case, the heat pump 100 can determine its full-load range based on the time when the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 decreases, the time when the temperature of the water increases, the degree of temperature change of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, etc.

[0167] According to the implementation, the heat pump 100 can use a learning model to predict the full-load range to determine the full-load range. For example, the input values ​​of the learning model for predicting the full-load range may include the day of the week, operating mode, outdoor temperature, hot water supply set temperature, temperature of water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, temperature of water supplied to the water supply section 62, temperature of water discharged from the drain section 64, discharge temperature, suction temperature, etc. For example, the output values ​​of the learning model may include the time of day and time period of the full-load range.

[0168] According to the implementation, the heat pump 100 can determine the full-load range based on user-related data received from the server 500 and / or external device 600. For example, when the heat pump 100 receives data about the user's arrival time, it can determine that time as the full-load range. Similarly, when the heat pump 100 receives data about the use of hot water supply, it can determine the predetermined time for hot water use as the full-load range. The heat pump 100 can determine in operation S640 whether a full-load range will occur. For example, if a full-load range does not occur, the heat pump 100 can perform operations based on user input, preset settings, etc.

[0169] The heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption (hereinafter referred to as estimated power consumption) expected to be used in the preparatory operation based on the determination of the full-load interval in operation S650. Here, the preparatory operation may refer to the operation of the heat pump 100 to meet predetermined conditions corresponding to the full-load interval. For example, the heat pump 100 may perform a preparatory operation to raise the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 to the hot water supply set temperature before a predetermined time corresponding to the full-load interval.

[0170] The heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time. For example, when the predetermined time is 5 minutes, the heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption that the heat pump 100 is expected to use within 5 minutes when performing the preparatory operation. At the same time, the heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption for each of various intervals, including 5-minute intervals, 10-minute intervals, 30-minute intervals, 1-hour intervals, etc.

[0171] The heat pump 100 can calculate the expected power consumption corresponding to various conditions. For example, the heat pump 100 can calculate and estimate the power consumption for each of the various combinations of conditions such as the operating frequency of the compressor 12, the outdoor temperature, the hot water supply set temperature, and the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58.

[0172] That is, the heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption for each of various intervals based on various conditions. For example, the heat pump 100 can calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump 100 during the 5 minutes of preparatory operation for each frequency set as the operating frequency of the compressor 12.

[0173] The heat pump 100 can use a learning model to predict and estimate power consumption to calculate the estimated power consumption. For example, the input values ​​to the learning model may include the operating mode, outdoor temperature, indoor temperature, hot water supply set temperature, the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, the operating frequency of the compressor 12, whether hot water supply is used, and whether underfloor heating is used. For example, the output values ​​of the learning model may include the estimated power consumption and the temperature change of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58.

[0174] In operation S660, heat pump 100 can determine a schedule for controlling the load of heat pump 100 during preparatory operation. Here, the schedule can include a sequence of setpoints (e.g., the operating frequency of compressor 12) for each component included in heat pump 100. For example, heat pump 100 can be scheduled to operate at the compressor 12 within a predetermined interval for performing preparatory operation. In this case, the schedule can include a sequence of compressor 12 operating frequencies set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time.

[0175] Heat pump 100 can determine a scheduling plan that minimizes the power consumption used in preparatory operations. Heat pump 100 can calculate the total power consumption used in preparatory operations based on a combination of estimated power consumption calculated for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time. In this case, heat pump 100 can determine a scheduling plan for preparatory operations that minimizes the total power consumption used in preparatory operations based on the combination of estimated power consumption.

[0176] According to the implementation, the heat pump 100 can determine the scheduling plan based on rule-based learning schemes, linear optimization schemes, etc. For example, the heat pump 100 can determine the scheduling plan based on the objective function of the total power consumption used in the preliminary operation as shown in Formula 1 below. In this case, the heat pump 100 can determine the scheduling plan that minimizes the objective function.

[0177] [Formula 1]

[0178]

[0179] f can represent the operating frequency of compressor 12, and T can represent the temperature of the water stored in hot water supply tank 58. ext P can represent outdoor temperature, and t can represent estimated electricity consumption. s t can represent the start time of the preparatory operation. e f can represent the end time of the preparatory operation. opt The scheduling plan can be represented. In this disclosure, the estimated power consumption is described as corresponding to the operating frequency of the compressor 12, the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, and the outdoor temperature, but is not limited to these.

[0180] Meanwhile, the heat pump 100 can determine a scheduling plan that minimizes the objective function of the total amount of electricity used in the preparatory operation based on the constraints of the following formula 2.

[0181] [Formula 2]

[0182]

[0183] T(t s ) = Ts

[0184] T(t e ) = T e

[0185] q can represent the change in temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, T e This can represent the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 at the start of the preparatory operation, and T e It can indicate the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 at the end of the preparatory operation.

[0186] According to the implementation, heat pump 100 can determine a scheduling plan that minimizes the rate corresponding to the total electricity used in the preparatory operation. In this case, the cost corresponding to the electricity used in the preparatory operation can correspond to the time-of-use (ToU) rate of electricity supplied from the grid 200 and / or the state of charge of battery module 410. For example, heat pump 100 can determine the scheduling plan based on an objective function corresponding to the rate of the total electricity used in the preparatory operation as described in Formula 3 below.

[0187] [Formula 3]

[0188]

[0189] ToU can represent the time-of-use rate for electricity supplied from the grid 200.

[0190] Meanwhile, when heat pump 100 performs standby operation, as the power received by heat pump 100 from energy storage system (ESS) 400 increases, the rate corresponding to the total electricity used in standby operation may decrease. For example, heat pump 100 can determine the scheduling plan based on the objective function corresponding to the rate of the total electricity used in standby operation, as shown in Formula 4 below.

[0191] [Formula 4]

[0192]

[0193] P ess This can represent the amount of electricity that can be supplied from the energy storage system (ESS) 400, corresponding to the state of charge of the battery module 410. For example, when the heat pump 100 uses only the electricity supplied from the energy storage system (ESS) 400 during standby operation, the rate corresponding to the total amount of electricity used in standby operation can be minimized.

[0194] The heat pump 100 can perform operations in operation S670 according to a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump 100 in preparatory operation. For example, the heat pump 100 can control the operating frequency of the compressor 12 according to the scheduling plan.

[0195] at the same time, Figure 6 At least some of the operations of the heat pump 100 described herein can also be performed by the server 500. For example, the server 500 can obtain operational data from the heat pump 100. For example, the server 500 can calculate the full-load range of the heat pump 100 and / or the estimated power consumption for pre-operation. For example, the server 500 can determine a scheduling plan for pre-operation and transmit the determined scheduling plan to the heat pump 100.

[0196] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing a graph corresponding to the electricity used and / or generated by system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] Figure 7 The charts shown can represent the power consumption 711 and 721 of heat pump 100 in each time zone, the power consumption 712 and 722 of system 1, the charging state 713 and 723 of battery module 410, the amount of power charged in battery module 410 714 and 724, and system 1.

[0198] The excess electricity generated is 715 and 725, the electricity supplied from the energy storage system (ESS) 400 to the heat pump 100 is 716 and 726, and the electricity supplied from the grid 200 to the heat pump 100 is 717 and 727, etc.

[0199] Referring to reference numeral 701, during the first peak period 718 when the power consumption 711 of the heat pump 100 is at its maximum, power may not be supplied to the heat pump 100 from the grid 200. That is, during the first peak period 718, the heat pump 100 can be operated according to user demand using only the power supplied from the energy storage system (ESS) 400. The first peak period 718 may not correspond to the full load period.

[0200] Referring to reference numeral 702, during the second peak period 728 when the power consumption 721 of the heat pump 100 is at its maximum, electricity may be supplied to the heat pump 100 from both the grid 200 and the energy storage system (ESS) 400. That is, during the second peak period 728, the heat pump 100 may not be able to operate according to user demand using only the power supplied from the energy storage system (ESS) 400. In this case, the heat pump 100 can receive additional power from the grid 200 to perform operation according to user demand. The second peak period 728 may correspond to the full-load period.

[0201] Meanwhile, there may be excess electricity 725 generated by system 1 before the second peak interval 728. In this case, by utilizing the electricity 724 stored in the energy storage system (ESS) 400 and / or the excess electricity 725 generated by system 1 before the second peak interval 728 to perform preparatory operation of heat pump 100 in response to user demand, the power supplied from grid 200 to heat pump 100 during the second peak interval 728 can be reduced.

[0202] refer to Figure 8 The remote controller 800 can transmit user control commands to the heat pump 100. The remote controller 800 can output information about the heat pump 100. The remote controller 800 can communicate with the controller 180 of the heat pump 100 via wired or wireless means.

[0203] The remote control 800 can output a screen 810 that displays settings related to the operation of the heat pump 100. For example, the remote control 800 can display communication-related settings 811, external boiler-related settings 812, water temperature-related settings 813, hot water supply operation-related settings 814, etc.

[0204] Referring to reference numeral 801, when the hot water supply operation-related setting 814 is set to "Comfort," the heat pump 100 can raise the water temperature to the hot water supply set temperature as quickly as possible when the user uses the hot water supply. In this case, the heat pump 100 can determine that the operating frequency of the compressor 12 is set to the full-load range of the maximum frequency. For example, the heat pump 100 can receive power from both the grid 200 and the energy storage system (ESS) 400 based on the user's hot water supply demand, and compress the refrigerant at the operating frequency of the compressor 12 set to the maximum frequency.

[0205] Meanwhile, referring to reference numeral 802, when the hot water supply operation related setting 814 is set to "Eco-saving (ECO)", the heat pump 100 can preheat the water temperature according to the hot water supply set temperature before the user uses the hot water supply. For example, the heat pump 100 can receive electricity from the energy storage system (ESS) 400 before the user uses the hot water supply and compress the refrigerant at the operating frequency of the compressor 12, which is set to a frequency lower than the maximum frequency.

[0206] refer to Figure 9 The heat pump 100 can calculate the expected temperature pattern 912 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 based on operating data. For example, the heat pump 100 can determine the expected temperature pattern 912 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 using a preset learning model. In this case, the temperature 911 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 when the hot water supply operation-related setting is set to "comfort" can correspond to the expected temperature pattern 912 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58.

[0207] When the hot water supply operation settings are set to "comfort", the heat pump 100 can raise the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 at the times t1 and t2 when the user uses the hot water supply. In this case, the times t1 and t2 when the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 rises can correspond to the time when the power 921 used by the heat pump 100 becomes the maximum full-load range.

[0208] The heat pump 100 can use a learning model to predict the full-load interval to determine the full-load interval. For example, the input values ​​of the learning model to predict the full-load interval may include the operating mode, the temperatures 911 and 912 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58, the outdoor temperature 913, etc. For example, the output values ​​of the learning model may include the times t1 and t2 of the full-load interval.

[0209] refer to Figure 10 The heat pump 100 can calculate a desired pattern 1002 of the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58. For example, the heat pump 100 can use a preset learning model to determine the desired pattern 1002 of the temperature stored in the hot water supply tank 58. The desired pattern 1002 of the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 can correspond to the actual pattern 1001 of the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58.

[0210] When the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 decreases to a level equal to or higher than a certain level, the heat pump 100 can determine that the user is using hot water. When the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 increases to a level equal to or higher than a certain level, the heat pump 100 can determine that the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 is increased by the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12. In this case, the heat pump 100 can determine the intervals 1010 and 1020 where the temperature change of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 is equal to or higher than a certain level as the full-load interval.

[0211] refer to Figure 11 When the settings related to hot water supply operation are set to "energy saving", the heat pump 100 can perform a preparatory operation. For example, the heat pump 100 can control the operating frequency of the compressor 12 (1101) according to the scheduling plan during the preparatory operation. In this case, according to the preparatory operation performed according to the scheduling plan, the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 can be maintained at the end of the preparatory operation at time t. e The hot water supply setting temperature is raised to 60°C (1102).

[0212] refer to Figure 12As indicated by reference numeral 1201 in the attached diagram, at times t1 and t2 when the hot water supply operation related setting is determined to be in the full load range, the temperature 1211 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 can be higher than the temperature 911 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 when the hot water supply operation related setting is set to "comfort". That is, when the hot water supply operation related setting is set to "energy saving", the temperature 1211 of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 can rise before times t1 and t2 because a preparatory operation is performed before times t1 and t2 when the full load range is determined.

[0213] refer to Figure 12 As indicated by reference numeral 1202 in the attached diagram, when the hot water supply operation-related settings are set to "comfort," the power 921 used by the heat pump 100 may increase sharply at times t1 and t2, which are determined to be in the full load range. Simultaneously, when the hot water supply operation-related settings are set to "energy saving," the power 1221 used by the heat pump 100 can be maintained at a certain level during the heat pump 100's preparatory operation.

[0214] When the hot water supply operation settings are set to "Energy Saving," the total power consumption of the heat pump 100 can be less than when the hot water supply operation settings are set to "Comfort." The tariff rate corresponding to the total power consumption of the heat pump 100 when the hot water supply operation settings are set to "Energy Saving" can also be less than the tariff rate corresponding to the total power consumption of the heat pump 100 when the hot water supply operation settings are set to "Comfort."

[0215] refer to Figure 13 The remote controller 800 can output a screen 1300 displaying the amount of electricity used by the heat pump 100 (hereinafter referred to as the power consumption screen). For example, the heat pump 100 and / or the server 500 can calculate the amount of electricity used by the heat pump 100 in each time zone based on operating data corresponding to a predetermined period (e.g., one month). In this case, the remote controller 800 can output the power consumption screen 1300 displaying the amount of electricity used by the heat pump 100 in each time zone.

[0216] Referring to reference numeral 1301, when the hot water supply operation setting is set to "Comfort," the remote control 800 can output a message 1310 recommending an "Energy Saving" setting when displaying the consumed electricity on the power consumption screen 1300. The "Energy Saving" message 1310 may include the difference between the electricity used by the heat pump 100 when the hot water supply operation setting is set to "Comfort" and the estimated electricity that the heat pump 100 is expected to use when the hot water supply operation setting is set to "Energy Saving."

[0217] Meanwhile, the power consumption screen 1300 may include an indicator 1315 for indicating settings related to hot water supply operation. The indicator 1315 for indicating settings related to hot water supply operation may correspond to "Energy Saving". When the settings related to hot water supply operation are set to "Comfort", the indicator 1315 for indicating settings related to hot water supply operation may be displayed in a first color.

[0218] Using the user interface provided by the remote control 800, the user can change the hot water supply operation setting from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving" on the power consumption screen 1300. For example, when the remote control 800 includes a touchscreen, the user can change the hot water supply operation setting from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving" by selecting the indicator 1315 indicating the hot water supply operation setting on the power consumption screen 1300, or by selecting the setting object included in the message 1310 recommending "Energy Saving" settings. For example, the user can also maintain the hot water supply operation setting as "Comfort" by selecting the rejection object included in the message 1310 recommending "Energy Saving" settings.

[0219] The remote control 800 can send user input regarding settings related to hot water supply operation to the heat pump 100. The heat pump 100 can change or maintain the settings related to hot water supply operation based on the user input received from the remote control 800.

[0220] Referring to reference numeral 1302, when the hot water supply operation setting is changed from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving", the remote control 800 can output a message 1320 indicating the "Energy Saving" setting. The message 1320 recommending the "Energy Saving" setting can include the difference between the electricity used by the heat pump 100 when the hot water supply operation setting is set to "Comfort" and the estimated electricity that the heat pump 100 is expected to use when the hot water supply operation setting is set to "Energy Saving".

[0221] Simultaneously, when the hot water supply operation setting is changed from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving," the indicator 1315 included in the power consumption screen 1300, which indicates the hot water supply operation setting, can be displayed in a second color. In this disclosure, the example given is that the color of the indicator 1315 changes according to the hot water supply operation setting; however, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the shape, pattern, text, etc., of the indicator 1315 can be changed according to the change in the hot water supply operation setting.

[0222] refer to Figure 14The power consumption screen 1400 can also be output via an external device 600. For example, the heat pump 100 and / or the server 500 can calculate the power consumption of the heat pump 100 in each time zone based on operating data corresponding to a predetermined period (e.g., one month). In this case, the external device 600 can output the power consumption screen 1400, which displays the power consumption of the heat pump 100 in each time zone transmitted from the heat pump 100 and / or the server 500.

[0223] Referring to reference numerals 1401 and 1402, when the hot water supply operation-related settings are set to "Comfort," the external device 600 can output a message 1410 recommending the setting to "Energy Saving" when displaying the consumed power screen 1400. The consumed power screen 1400 may include an indicator 1415 indicating the hot water supply operation-related settings.

[0224] Using the user interface provided by the external device 600, the user can change the hot water supply operation setting from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving" on the power consumption screen 1400. Alternatively, using the user interface provided by the external device 600, the user can maintain the hot water supply operation setting at "Comfort" on the power consumption screen 1400.

[0225] External device 600 can send user input regarding hot water supply operation settings to heat pump 100 and / or server 500. Heat pump 100 can change or maintain hot water supply operation settings based on user input received from server 500 and / or external device 600.

[0226] When the hot water supply operation setting is changed from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving", the external device 600 can output a message 1420 indicating the "Energy Saving" setting. When the hot water supply operation setting is changed from "Comfort" to "Energy Saving", the indicator 1415 indicating the hot water supply operation setting included in the power consumption screen 1400 can be displayed in a second color.

[0227] In this disclosure, the screen, user interface, etc. provided by either the external device 600 or the remote controller 800 may also be provided by the other of the external device 600 and the remote controller 800.

[0228] refer to Figure 15 The remote controller 800 can output a screen (hereinafter referred to as the operation scheduling screen) 1500 for performing a scheduling plan for preparatory operations. For example, the remote controller 800 can provide the operation scheduling screen 1500 to the user before the heat pump 100 performs a preparatory operation, during the heat pump 100 is performing a preparatory operation, or when the heat pump 100 terminates the preparatory operation.

[0229] The operation scheduling plan screen 1500 may include the time when the preparatory operation starts, the time when the preparatory operation ends, and the scheduling plan for controlling the operating frequency of the compressor 12 during the execution of the preparatory operation.

[0230] refer to Figure 16 External device 600 can output a screen (hereinafter referred to as hot water supply temperature screen) 1600 showing the temperature of the water stored in hot water supply tank 58 according to the pre-operation.

[0231] External device 600 can output hot water supply temperature screen 1600 before or during heat pump 100 performs preparatory operation. For example, when heat pump 100 and / or server 500 control the operating frequency of compressor 12 according to the preparatory operation scheduling plan, heat pump 100 and / or server 500 can use a preset learning model to calculate the expected pattern of water temperature stored in hot water supply tank 58. In this case, external device 600 can output hot water supply temperature screen 1600 based on the expected pattern of water temperature stored in hot water supply tank 58 transmitted from heat pump 100 and / or server 500.

[0232] When the heat pump 100 terminates its preparatory operation, the external device 600 can output a hot water supply temperature screen 1600. For example, the heat pump 100 and / or the server 500 can calculate the actual temperature pattern of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 based on operational data acquired during the heat pump 100's preparatory operation. In this case, the external device 600 can output the hot water supply temperature screen 1600 based on the actual temperature pattern of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 transmitted from the heat pump 100 and / or the server 500.

[0233] The hot water supply temperature screen 1600 may include the start time of the preparatory operation, the end time of the preparatory operation, and the temperature mode of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58.

[0234] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 External device 600 may output messages (hereinafter referred to as notification messages) 1710 and 1810 that provide notification of the commencement of preparatory operations. For example, external device 600 may output notification messages 1710 and 1810 based on a notification received from heat pump 100 and / or server 500 that preparatory operations have commenced.

[0235] refer to Figure 17 External device 600 can output a first notification message 1710 corresponding to the full-load range determined based on the operating data of heat pump 100. For example, the first notification message 1710 may include the time corresponding to the full-load range of hot water use, information about preparatory operations performed before the full-load range, etc.

[0236] refer to Figure 18 External device 600 can output a second notification message 1810 corresponding to a full-load interval determined based on user-related data. For example, the second notification message 1810 may include the time corresponding to the full-load interval when the user returns home, information about preparatory operations to be performed before the full-load interval, etc.

[0237] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the full-load range with high power consumption can be predicted.

[0238] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, an operational scheduling plan can be determined that minimizes power consumption while meeting user demand corresponding to full-load intervals.

[0239] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the time-of-use (ToU) rate of electricity consumption can be taken into account to determine the operation scheduling plan.

[0240] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the operational scheduling plan can be determined by taking into account the extent to which electricity is stored in the energy storage system (ESS) and / or the extent to which the stored electricity is used.

[0241] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, user data forwarded from external devices can be considered to determine the operation scheduling plan.

[0242] refer to Figures 1 to 18 According to one aspect of this disclosure, a heat pump 100 may include: a compressor 12 that compresses a refrigerant; at least one heat exchanger 50 in which heat exchange occurs between water and the refrigerant; a memory 150 that stores operating data related to the operation of the heat pump 100; and a controller 180, which may: calculate, based on the operating data, an estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump 100 in a predetermined operation, the predetermined operation being for setting the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank 58 corresponding to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank storing the heat-exchanged water; and, based on the estimated power consumption, determine a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump 100 during the operating time when the heat pump 100 performs the predetermined operation.

[0243] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the controller 180 can predict, based on operating data, the full load range corresponding to the full load of the heat pump 100, and calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used in predetermined operations performed by the heat pump 100 before the full load range.

[0244] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the controller 180 may use a learning model stored in the memory 150 to predict the full load range, and the input values ​​of the learning model may include at least the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 in the operating data.

[0245] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the controller 180 can calculate the estimated power consumption by using a learning model for calculating the estimated power consumption stored in the memory 150, and the input values ​​of the learning model can include at least the operating frequency of the compressor 12 in the operating data.

[0246] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the scheduling plan may include a sequence of operating frequencies of the compressor 12.

[0247] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the sequence may consist of the operating frequency of the compressor 12 set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time included in the operating time.

[0248] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, controller 180 can calculate an estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval that minimizes a first objective function of the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0249] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, controller 180 can calculate an estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan that minimizes a second objective function of the rate corresponding to the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval and the time-of-use (ToU) rate.

[0250] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, controller 180 can calculate an estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan that minimizes a third objective function of the rate corresponding to the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation, based on the difference between the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval and the power consumption available to be supplied by the energy storage system (ESS) and the time-of-use (ToU) rate.

[0251] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the heat pump 100 may further include a communication interface 130, and when preset data related to the user is received through the communication interface 130, the controller 180 may determine the full load range based on the received data.

[0252] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a server 500 may include: a communication interface 510 for communicating with a heat pump 100; a memory 530; and a processor 560 that stores operation data received via the communication interface 510 related to the operation of the heat pump 100 in the memory 530, and the processor 560 may: calculate, based on the operation data, an estimated power consumption expected to be used by the heat pump 100 in a predetermined operation, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank 58 correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank storing water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the heat pump 100; and, based on the estimated power consumption, determine a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump 100 during the operation time during which the heat pump 100 performs the predetermined operation.

[0253] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 can predict, based on operating data, that the load of the heat pump 100 corresponds to a full-load range, and calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used in predetermined operations performed by the heat pump 100 before the full-load range.

[0254] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 may use a learning model stored in the memory 530 to predict the full load range, and the input values ​​of the learning model may include at least the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank 58 in the operating data.

[0255] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 can calculate the estimated power consumption by using a learning model for calculating the estimated power consumption stored in the memory 530, and the input values ​​of the learning model can include at least the operating frequency of the compressor 12 of the heat pump 100 in the operating data.

[0256] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the scheduling plan may include a sequence of operating frequencies of the compressor 12 of the heat pump 100.

[0257] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the sequence may consist of the operating frequency of the compressor set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time included in the operating time.

[0258] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 can calculate an estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan that minimizes a first objective function of the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval.

[0259] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 can calculate the estimated power consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan that minimizes a second objective function of the rate corresponding to the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval and the time-of-use (ToU) rate.

[0260] Additionally, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the processor 560 can calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time, and determine a scheduling plan that minimizes a third objective function of the rate corresponding to the total electricity consumption used in the predetermined operation, based on the difference between the estimated electricity consumption calculated for each interval and the electricity that the energy storage system (ESS) can supply to the heat pump 100, and the time-of-use (ToU) rate.

[0261] A method of operating a heat pump according to one aspect of this disclosure may include: calculating an estimated amount of electricity to be used by the heat pump in a predetermined operation based on operating data related to the operation of the heat pump 100 stored in a memory 150 of the heat pump 100, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank 58 correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank storing water that exchanges heat with refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 of the heat pump 100; and determining a scheduling plan for controlling the load of the heat pump 100 during the operation time when the heat pump 100 performs the predetermined operation based on the estimated amount of electricity.

[0262] Since the accompanying drawings are only provided for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, it should be understood that the technical concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the drawings, and all changes, equivalents or substitutions are included within the scope of the concepts and techniques disclosed herein.

[0263] Furthermore, the operational methods of this disclosure can also be embodied as processor-readable code on a processor-readable recording medium. Processor-readable recording media include all kinds of recording devices that store data readable by a processor. Examples of processor-readable recording media are ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage devices, and those implemented in the form of carrier waves, such as data transmission via the Internet. Moreover, processor-readable recording media are distributed across computer systems connected by a network, allowing processor-readable code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner.

[0264] This disclosure includes non-restrictive examples of the following provisions:

[0265] Clause 1. A heat pump, said heat pump comprising:

[0266] A compressor configured to compress refrigerant;

[0267] At least one heat exchanger in which heat exchange occurs between water and refrigerant;

[0268] A memory configured to store operational data related to the operation of the heat pump; and

[0269] The controller is configured to:

[0270] Based on the operational data, an estimated power consumption of the heat pump is calculated during a predetermined operation, wherein the predetermined operation is used to bring the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank to a preset target temperature, and the hot water supply tank is used to store the heat-exchanged water; and

[0271] Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

[0272] Clause 2. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to:

[0273] Based on the operational data, a full-load range is predicted, in which the load of the heat pump corresponds to full load, and

[0274] Calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used during the predetermined operations performed by the heat pump before the full load range.

[0275] Clause 3. The heat pump according to Clause 2, wherein the controller is configured to predict the full load range using a learning model stored in the memory for predicting the full load range, and

[0276] The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank from the operational data.

[0277] Clause 4. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to calculate the estimated power consumption by using a learning model stored in the memory for calculating the estimated power consumption, and

[0278] The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the operating frequency of the compressor in the operating data.

[0279] Clause 5. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the scheduling plan includes a sequence of operating frequencies of the compressor.

[0280] Clause 6. The heat pump according to Clause 5, wherein the sequence consists of the operating frequency of the compressor set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time included in the operating time.

[0281] Clause 7. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to:

[0282] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time period, and

[0283] Based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0284] Clause 8. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to:

[0285] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time, and

[0286] Based on the estimated electricity consumption and time-of-use (ToU) rates calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the rate corresponding to the total electricity consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0287] Clause 9. The heat pump according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to:

[0288] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time, and

[0289] Based on the difference between the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval and the power consumption that the energy storage system (ESS) can supply, and the time-of-use (ToU) rate, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the rate corresponding to the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0290] Clause 10. The heat pump according to Clause 2, further comprising:

[0291] Communication interface,

[0292] The controller is configured to determine the full load range based on the received user-related preset data received through the communication interface.

[0293] Clause 11. A server, said server comprising:

[0294] A communication interface configured to communicate with a heat pump;

[0295] Memory; and

[0296] A processor configured to store operational data related to the operation of the heat pump, received via the communication interface, in the memory.

[0297] The processor is configured as follows:

[0298] Based on the operational data, the estimated power consumption of the heat pump during a predetermined operation is calculated. This predetermined operation aims to bring the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank to a preset target temperature. The hot water supply tank stores water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the heat pump.

[0299] Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

[0300] Clause 12. The server as described in Clause 11, wherein the processor is configured to:

[0301] Based on the operational data, a full-load range is predicted, in which the load of the heat pump corresponds to full load, and

[0302] Calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used during the predetermined operations performed by the heat pump before the full load range.

[0303] Clause 13. The server according to Clause 12, wherein the processor is configured to predict the full load interval using a learning model stored in the memory for predicting the full load interval, and

[0304] The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank from the operational data.

[0305] Clause 14. The server according to Clause 11, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the estimated power consumption by using a learning model stored in the memory for calculating the estimated power consumption, and

[0306] The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the operating frequency of the heat pump compressor in the operating data.

[0307] Clause 15. The server as described in Clause 11, wherein the scheduling plan includes a sequence of operating frequencies of the heat pump's compressor.

[0308] Clause 16. The server as described in Clause 15, wherein the sequence comprises the operating frequency of the compressor set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time included in the operating time.

[0309] Clause 17. The server as described in Clause 11, wherein the processor is configured to:

[0310] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time period, and

[0311] Based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0312] Clause 18. The server as described in Clause 11, wherein the processor is configured to:

[0313] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time period, and

[0314] Based on the estimated electricity consumption and time-of-use (ToU) rates calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the rate corresponding to the total electricity consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0315] Clause 19. The server as described in Clause 11, wherein the processor is configured to:

[0316] Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time period, and

[0317] Based on the difference between the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval and the power consumption that the energy storage system (ESS) can supply to the heat pump, and the time-of-use (ToU) rate, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the rate corresponding to the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

[0318] Clause 20. A method of operating a heat pump, the method comprising:

[0319] Based on operational data related to the operation of the heat pump stored in its memory, an estimated power consumption of the heat pump is calculated for a predetermined operation to bring the temperature of water stored in a hot water supply tank to a preset target temperature. The hot water supply tank stores water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant compressed by the heat pump's compressor.

[0320] Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

[0321] Although this disclosure has been specifically shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the concept and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims, and such modifications and variations should not be construed solely from the technical concept or aspects of this disclosure.

[0322] Cross-reference to related applications

[0323] This application claims the benefit and priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0177862, filed on December 3, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A heat pump, the heat pump comprising: A compressor configured to compress refrigerant; At least one heat exchanger in which heat exchange occurs between water and refrigerant; A memory configured to store operational data related to the operation of the heat pump; as well as The controller is configured to: Based on the operational data, the estimated power consumption of the heat pump during a predetermined operation is calculated. The predetermined operation is used to make the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank correspond to a preset target temperature. The hot water supply tank is used to store the water after heat exchange. and Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

2. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: Based on the operational data, a full-load range is predicted, in which the load of the heat pump corresponds to full load, and Calculate the estimated power consumption expected to be used during the predetermined operations performed by the heat pump before the full load range.

3. The heat pump according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is configured to predict the full load interval using a learning model stored in the memory for predicting the full load interval, and The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank from the operational data.

4. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to calculate the estimated power consumption by using a learning model stored in the memory for calculating the estimated power consumption, and The input values ​​of the learning model include at least the operating frequency of the compressor in the operating data.

5. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein, The scheduling plan includes a sequence of the operating frequencies of the compressor.

6. The heat pump according to claim 5, wherein, The sequence consists of the operating frequency of the compressor set for each interval corresponding to a predetermined time included in the operating time.

7. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time period, and Based on the estimated power consumption calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the total power consumption used in the predetermined operation.

8. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: Calculate the estimated electricity consumption for each interval corresponding to the predetermined time, and Based on the estimated electricity consumption and time-of-use (ToU) rates calculated for each interval, a scheduling plan is determined that minimizes the objective function of the rate corresponding to the total electricity consumption used in the predetermined operation.

9. A server, the server comprising: A communication interface configured to communicate with a heat pump; Memory; and A processor configured to store operational data related to the operation of the heat pump, received via the communication interface, in the memory. The processor is configured as follows: Based on the operational data, the estimated power consumption of the heat pump during a predetermined operation is calculated. This predetermined operation aims to bring the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank to a preset target temperature. The hot water supply tank stores water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the heat pump. Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

10. A method of operating a heat pump, the method comprising: Based on the operation data related to the operation of the heat pump stored in the memory of the heat pump, the estimated power consumption of the heat pump in a predetermined operation is calculated, the predetermined operation being used to make the temperature of the water stored in the hot water supply tank correspond to a preset target temperature, the hot water supply tank being used to store water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant compressed by the compressor of the heat pump; as well as Based on the estimated power consumption, a scheduling plan is determined for controlling the load of the heat pump during the operation time when the heat pump performs the predetermined operation.

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