Heat pump system for a vehicle

Abstract

A heat pump system for a vehicle, comprising: a compressor; an air conditioning and heating module including a heater core and an evaporator connected to the compressor; and a door regulating air flowing through the evaporator to selectively flow into the heater core; a condenser connected to the compressor; a sub-condenser connected to the condenser and selectively condensing refrigerant discharged from the condenser; a first expansion valve provided between the sub-condenser and the evaporator; a refrigerant connection line having a first end connected between the sub-condenser and the first expansion valve and a second end connected between the evaporator and the compressor; a cooler provided on the refrigerant connection line; a first cooling device connected to the condenser via a first coolant line and including a first radiator provided on the first coolant line, an electrical component, and a first water pump; and a second cooling device connected to the sub-condenser via a second coolant line and including a second radiator provided on the second coolant line and a second water pump.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0181001, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 6, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a heat pump system for vehicles, and more specifically, to a heat pump system for vehicles capable of improving cooling performance and efficiency. Background Technology

[0004] Air conditioning systems for vehicles include air conditioning units that circulate refrigerant to heat or cool the interior of the vehicle.

[0005] The air conditioning system maintains a suitable temperature inside the vehicle to ensure a comfortable interior environment, regardless of changes in the external temperature. It is configured to heat or cool the vehicle interior by means of heat exchange between the condenser and evaporator as the refrigerant discharged by the compressor returns to the compressor cycle through the condenser, receiver-drier, expansion valve, and evaporator.

[0006] In other words, in summer cooling mode, the air conditioning unit reduces the internal temperature and humidity by condensing the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant after compression by the compressor into the condenser, flowing through the liquid receiver dryer and expansion valve, and then evaporating in the evaporator.

[0007] With increasing concern about energy efficiency and environmental pollution, there is a demand for the development of environmentally friendly vehicles that can substantially replace internal combustion engine vehicles. These environmentally friendly vehicles are classified into electric vehicles that use fuel cells or electricity as a power source and hybrid vehicles that use both engines and batteries.

[0008] In these environmentally friendly vehicles, whether electric or hybrid, the air conditioners do not use a separate heater, unlike those in conventional vehicles. The air conditioners used in environmentally friendly vehicles are usually called heat pump systems.

[0009] Electric vehicles powered by fuel cells generate propulsion by converting the chemical reaction between oxygen and hydrogen into electrical energy. During this process, the chemical reaction within the fuel cell produces heat. Therefore, to ensure the performance of the fuel cell, the generated heat must be effectively removed.

[0010] Furthermore, hybrid vehicles generate propulsion by using an electric motor powered by electricity supplied from the aforementioned fuel cell or battery, in conjunction with an engine running on conventional fuel. Therefore, to ensure the performance of the electric motor, the heat generated from the fuel cell or battery and the electric motor must be effectively removed.

[0011] Therefore, in hybrid or electric vehicles according to the prior art, in order to prevent the electric motor, electrical components, and batteries including fuel cells from overheating, the cooling device, heat pump system, and battery cooling device should be configured as separate closed loops.

[0012] Therefore, there is a drawback that the layout of the connecting pipes supplying refrigerant or coolant to the heat pump system, cooling device and battery cooling device in the engine compartment becomes complicated.

[0013] Furthermore, because battery cooling devices are individually installed to heat or cool the battery according to the vehicle's condition to achieve optimal battery performance, multiple valves are used to selectively connect the connecting pipes to each other. As a result, noise and vibration generated by the frequent opening and closing of the valves are introduced into the vehicle interior, thereby reducing ride comfort.

[0014] In traditional heat pump systems, a separate air-cooled condenser is used to improve the refrigerant condensation rate, but this also has the disadvantages of excessively increasing the size and weight of the cooling module located at the front of the vehicle and raising the overall manufacturing cost.

[0015] In addition, since a separate heat exchanger is required to recover waste heat from various heat sources in the vehicle's heating mode, there is also the disadvantage of increased manufacturing costs.

[0016] The information disclosed in this background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background of the present invention, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0017] The present invention provides a heat pump system for vehicles that can heat the vehicle interior by using a high-temperature coolant and improve overall cooling performance and efficiency by employing a separate condenser that uses coolant supplied from a dedicated radiator to subcool the refrigerant.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat pump system for a vehicle includes: a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant; a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) module including a heater core and an evaporator connected to the compressor via a refrigerant line; and a door configured to open and close when cooling or heating the vehicle interior to regulate the selective flow of air through the evaporator into the heater core. The heat pump system also includes a condenser connected to the compressor via a refrigerant line and configured to condense the refrigerant. The heat pump system further includes a secondary condenser connected to the condenser via a refrigerant line and configured to selectively condense refrigerant discharged from the condenser. The heat pump system also includes a first expansion valve disposed between the secondary condenser and the evaporator and connected to both via a refrigerant line. The heat pump system also includes a refrigerant connection line, a first end of which is connected to a refrigerant line between the secondary condenser and the first expansion valve, and a second end of which is connected to a refrigerant line between the evaporator and the compressor. The heat pump system also includes a cooler disposed on the refrigerant connection line. The heat pump system further includes a first cooling device connected to the condenser via a first coolant line, and includes a first radiator, electrical components, and a first water pump disposed on the first coolant line to allow the first coolant to flow along the first coolant line. The heat pump system also includes a second cooling device connected to the auxiliary condenser via a second coolant line, and includes a second radiator and a second water pump disposed on the second coolant line to allow the second coolant to flow along the second coolant line.

[0019] The first cooling device can be connected to the cooler via a coolant connection line connected to the first coolant line, so that the first coolant is selectively supplied to the cooler.

[0020] The heat pump system may also include: a second expansion valve located on a refrigerant connection line upstream of the cooler; and a battery module connected to the cooler via a third refrigerant line, and a heater core connected to the condenser via a fourth refrigerant line.

[0021] In the vehicle's internal cooling mode, the refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, condenser, auxiliary condenser, first expansion valve, and evaporator can be opened. The first coolant line can be opened, allowing first coolant to be supplied from the first cooling unit to the condenser. The second coolant line can be opened, allowing second coolant to be supplied from the second cooling unit to the auxiliary condenser. The coolant connection lines can be closed. The fourth coolant line can be closed. The first expansion valve expands the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant lines and supplies the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator.

[0022] The auxiliary condenser can further condense the refrigerant that has been condensed in the condenser while exchanging heat between the second coolant supplied from the second cooling unit via the second coolant line and the refrigerant supplied from the condenser.

[0023] When the battery module needs to be cooled in the vehicle's internal cooling mode, the refrigerant connection line can be opened by the second expansion valve, the third coolant line can be opened, and the second expansion valve can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line and supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler.

[0024] In the vehicle's interior heating mode, the refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, condenser, and auxiliary condenser can be opened. The refrigerant lines connecting the auxiliary condenser and the first end of the refrigerant connection line can be opened. The refrigerant lines connecting the first end of the refrigerant connection line to the second end of the refrigerant connection line via the first expansion valve and the evaporator can be closed by the first expansion valve. The refrigerant connection lines can be opened by the second expansion valve. A portion of the first coolant lines and the coolant connection lines can be opened, allowing first coolant to be supplied from the first cooling unit to the cooler. The remaining first coolant lines connected to the condenser can be closed. The second coolant line can be closed, preventing second coolant from being supplied from the second cooling unit to the auxiliary condenser. The fourth coolant line can be opened. The first expansion valve can be deactivated. The second expansion valve allows the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection lines to expand, supplying the expanded refrigerant to the cooler.

[0025] The cooler can evaporate the refrigerant while exchanging heat between the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device via the first coolant line and the refrigerant, and then supply the evaporated refrigerant to the compressor.

[0026] In the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode, the refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, condenser, auxiliary condenser, first expansion valve, and evaporator can be opened. The refrigerant connection lines can be opened by the second expansion valve. Partial opening of the first coolant lines and coolant connection lines allows first coolant to be supplied from the first cooling unit to the evaporator. The remaining first coolant lines connected to the condenser can be closed. The second coolant line can be closed, preventing second coolant from being supplied from the second cooling unit to the auxiliary condenser. The fourth coolant line can be opened. The first expansion valve expands the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant lines and supplies the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator. The second expansion valve expands the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection lines and supplies the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator.

[0027] The third coolant line can be opened when recovering waste heat from the battery module in either the vehicle's interior heating mode or the vehicle's interior heating / dehumidification mode.

[0028] In either the vehicle's interior heating mode or the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode, the cooler can recover at least one of ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components while exchanging heat between the first coolant supplied via the coolant connection line and the refrigerant.

[0029] The first and second expansion valves can be electronic expansion valves configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow of the supplied refrigerant.

[0030] The coolant connection line can be connected to the first coolant line via a control valve located on the first coolant line between the electrical components and the condenser.

[0031] The heat pump system may also include a liquid receiver dryer, which is installed on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the auxiliary condenser.

[0032] The condenser, auxiliary condenser, and cooler can be water-cooled heat exchangers.

[0033] As described above, the heat pump system for vehicles according to embodiments of the present invention improves overall cooling performance and efficiency by using a high-temperature coolant to heat the vehicle interior and by employing a separate condenser that uses coolant supplied from a dedicated radiator to subcool the refrigerant.

[0034] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the heat energy generated from the refrigerant during refrigerant condensation can be selectively exchanged with the coolant, and the high-temperature coolant after heat exchange can be used to heat the vehicle interior more effectively.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present invention, when heating the interior of a vehicle, the heating efficiency of the vehicle can be improved by selectively utilizing ambient air heat, waste heat from electrical components, and waste heat from the battery module, and the total driving range of the vehicle can be increased by effectively regulating the temperature of the battery module to achieve optimal performance of the battery module.

[0036] Furthermore, according to the present invention, due to the simplification of the entire system, the overall manufacturing cost and weight can be reduced, and space utilization can be improved by minimizing the number of parts. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the cooling mode of the vehicle interior.

[0039] Figure 3 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the heating mode of the vehicle interior.

[0040] Figure 4 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the heating and dehumidification mode of the vehicle interior.

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0042] 10: Compressor

[0043] 11: Refrigerant Piping

[0044] 12: HVAC Module

[0045] 12a: Door

[0046] 12b: Air heater

[0047] 13: Condenser

[0048] 14: Liquid Storage Dryer

[0049] 15: Auxiliary condenser

[0050] 16: First expansion valve

[0051] 17: Evaporator

[0052] 20: Cooler

[0053] 21: Refrigerant connection lines

[0054] 23: Second expansion valve

[0055] 100: First cooling device

[0056] 101: First coolant line

[0057] 102: First Radiator

[0058] 103: Electrical components

[0059] 105: First water pump

[0060] 106: Coolant connection lines

[0061] 107: Control valve

[0062] 108: Third Coolant Line

[0063] 109: Battery Module

[0064] 200: Second cooling device

[0065] 201: Second Coolant Line

[0066] 202: Second radiator

[0067] 205: Second water pump

[0068] 300: Heater core

[0069] 301: Fourth coolant line. Detailed Implementation

[0070] Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the structures shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention and do not cover the full scope of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalent and modified solutions may exist at the time of application of this specification.

[0072] To clarify the invention, parts unrelated to the description may be omitted. Furthermore, throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements or equivalent elements.

[0073] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of the various components may be shown arbitrarily in the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. For clarity, the thicknesses of layers, films, plates, regions, etc., are exaggerated in the accompanying drawings.

[0074] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the words “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and variations thereof, such as “containing” or “consisting of,” should be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated element, but do not exclude any other element.

[0075] Furthermore, all terms used in this specification, such as “…unit,” “…device,” “…section,” “…component,” and “…building,” refer to a unit of integrated elements that performs at least one function or operation. When a component, device, apparatus, module, controller, detector, element, etc., of the present invention is described as having a certain purpose or performing a certain operation or function, that component, device, apparatus, module, controller, detector, or element should be considered as “configured” to satisfy that purpose or perform that operation or function. The present invention describes a controller and data detector for a cooling system. Controllers, detectors, or other such components may be implemented separately or included in a processor and memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) as part of a controller or component.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] The heat pump system for vehicles according to an embodiment of the present invention heats the interior of the vehicle by using a high-temperature coolant and by employing a separate auxiliary condenser 15 configured to subcool the refrigerant using coolant supplied from a dedicated radiator, thereby improving the overall cooling performance and efficiency.

[0078] Reference Figure 1The heat pump system may include a compressor 10 through which the refrigerant circulates, a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) module 12, a condenser 13, a secondary condenser 15, a first expansion valve 16, an evaporator 17, a cooler 20, a refrigerant connection line 21, and a second expansion valve 23.

[0079] In addition, the heat pump system may also include a first cooling device 100 in which a first coolant circulates and a second cooling device 200 in which a second coolant circulates.

[0080] The compressor 10 can compress the incoming refrigerant and cause the compressed refrigerant to flow along the refrigerant line 11, so that the refrigerant circulates along the refrigerant line 11.

[0081] In an embodiment of the present invention, the HVAC module 12 may internally include an evaporator 17 connected via a refrigerant line 11, and a heater core 300 to which a high-temperature coolant is selectively supplied.

[0082] Door 12a may be disposed inside the HVAC module 12 between the evaporator 17 and the heater core 300. Door 12a is configured to open and close to regulate or control the selective flow of ambient air through the evaporator 17 into the heater core 300.

[0083] When the vehicle interior is heated, door 12a can be opened, allowing ambient air flowing through evaporator 17 to flow into heater core 300.

[0084] In other words, the high-temperature coolant supplied to the heater core 300 can raise the temperature of the ambient air flowing through the heater core 300. In other words, the incoming ambient air can be converted to a high-temperature state while flowing through the heater core 300 and then flow into the vehicle interior, thereby achieving heating of the vehicle interior.

[0085] When cooling the interior of the vehicle, door 12a can be closed on the side facing the heater core 300, allowing ambient air that is cooled while flowing through the evaporator 17 to flow directly into the interior of the vehicle.

[0086] Therefore, the ambient air flowing through the evaporator 17 can be cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant supplied to the evaporator 17 while flowing through it. The cooled ambient air can then flow into the vehicle interior, thereby cooling the vehicle interior.

[0087] HVAC module 12 may also include an air heater 12b. The air heater 12b may be disposed inside HVAC module 12 and downstream of heater core 300 facing the vehicle interior in order to selectively heat ambient air flowing through heater core 300.

[0088] The downstream side of the heater core 300 can be set based on the direction of ambient air flow.

[0089] In other words, based on the direction of ambient air flow in the HVAC module 12, the location where ambient air flows into the heater core 300 can be defined as the upstream side of the heater core 300, while the location where ambient air is discharged from the heater core 300 can be defined as the downstream side of the heater core 300.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present invention, the condenser 13 may be connected to the compressor 10 via the refrigerant line 11.

[0091] The first cooling device 100 can be connected to the condenser 13 via a first coolant line 101. The first cooling device 100 allows the first coolant to flow along the first coolant line 101.

[0092] The first cooling device 100 may include a first radiator 102, an electrical component 103, and a first water pump 105 disposed on a first coolant pipeline 101.

[0093] The first radiator 102 may be located at the front of the vehicle. A cooling fan (not shown) may be provided downstream of the first radiator 102. Therefore, the first radiator 102 can cool the first coolant through the operation of the cooling fan and heat exchange with the ambient air.

[0094] Electrical components may include power control devices, inverters, on-board chargers (OBC), autonomous driving controllers, etc.

[0095] The first cooling device 100 configured in this way can supply the first coolant, cooled by the first radiator 102, to the electrical components 103. In addition, the first cooling device 100 can supply the first coolant to the condenser 13 via the first coolant line 101.

[0096] In other words, the first coolant can circulate along the first coolant pipeline 101 according to the operation of the first water pump 105.

[0097] Therefore, the condenser 13 can use the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the first coolant line 101 to condense the refrigerant.

[0098] The condenser 13 can recover waste heat from electrical components 103 while exchanging heat between the first coolant and the refrigerant flowing in from the first cooling device 100, or it can use the first coolant after exchanging heat with the refrigerant to cool electrical components 103.

[0099] The condenser 13 configured in this way can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the first coolant flows.

[0100] In an embodiment of the invention, a secondary condenser 15 may be connected to the condenser 13 via a refrigerant line 11. The secondary condenser 15 may selectively condense the refrigerant discharged from the condenser 13.

[0101] The second cooling device 200 can be connected to the auxiliary condenser 15 via the second coolant line 201. The second cooling device 200 allows the second coolant to flow along the second coolant line 201.

[0102] The second cooling device 200 may include a second radiator 202 and a second water pump 205 disposed on the second coolant pipeline 201.

[0103] The second radiator 202 can be positioned in front of the first radiator 102 based on the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Therefore, the second radiator 202 can cool the second coolant through the operation of a cooling fan and heat exchange with ambient air.

[0104] The second cooling device 200 configured in this way can supply the second coolant cooled by the second radiator 202 to the auxiliary condenser 15 via the second coolant line 201.

[0105] The second coolant can circulate along the second coolant pipeline 201 according to the operation of the second water pump 205.

[0106] Therefore, the auxiliary condenser 15 can use a second coolant selectively supplied from the second cooling device 200 via the second coolant line 201 to further condense the refrigerant.

[0107] In other words, the secondary condenser 15 allows the incoming refrigerant to exchange heat with the second coolant, thereby further reducing the temperature of the refrigerant and further increasing the degree of refrigerant condensation.

[0108] Therefore, the auxiliary condenser 15 can further condense the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 13, thereby increasing the subcooling of the refrigerant. As a result, the coefficient of performance (COP), which is the ratio of cooling capacity to the power required by the compressor, can be improved.

[0109] The secondary condenser 15 configured in this way can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which a second coolant flows.

[0110] In an embodiment of the present invention, a liquid receiver dryer 14 may be provided on the refrigerant line 11 between the condenser 13 and the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0111] The receiver-dryer 14 can separate the remaining gaseous refrigerant from the liquid refrigerant condensed in the condenser 13.

[0112] In other words, the liquid receiver dryer 14 can separate the gaseous components from the incoming refrigerant and filter out moisture and foreign matter, thereby discharging only the liquid refrigerant to the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0113] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first expansion valve 16 may be provided on the refrigerant line 11 connecting the auxiliary condenser 15 and the evaporator 17. The first expansion valve 16 can selectively expand the incoming refrigerant.

[0114] The first expansion valve 16 may be an electronic expansion valve configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow of refrigerant supplied via the refrigerant line 11.

[0115] The evaporator 17 can be installed on the refrigerant line 11 between the first expansion valve 16 and the compressor 10. As described above, the evaporator 17 can be installed inside the HVAC module 12.

[0116] The evaporator 17 configured in this way allows the refrigerant supplied from the first expansion valve 16 to evaporate by exchanging heat with the ambient air.

[0117] In addition, the cooler 20 can be installed on the refrigerant connection line 21.

[0118] The first end of the refrigerant connection line 21 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the auxiliary condenser 15 and the first expansion valve 16. The second end of the refrigerant connection line 21 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the evaporator 17 and the compressor 10.

[0119] In addition, the second expansion valve 23 can be installed on the refrigerant connection line 21 at the upstream end of the cooler 20.

[0120] The second expansion valve 23 may be an electronic expansion valve configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow of the supplied refrigerant.

[0121] The second expansion valve 23 can be located upstream of the cooler 20, so that refrigerant can flow into the second expansion valve 23 before being supplied to the cooler 20.

[0122] In other words, the upstream end of the cooler 20 can be set based on the flow direction of the refrigerant. Based on the direction of refrigerant flow along the refrigerant connection line 21, the position where the refrigerant flows into the cooler 20 can be defined as the upstream end of the cooler 20, while the position where the refrigerant exits from the cooler 20 can be defined as the downstream end of the cooler 20.

[0123] The first cooling device 100 can be connected to the cooler 20 via a coolant connection line 106 connected to the first coolant line 101, so that the first coolant is selectively supplied to the cooler 20.

[0124] The coolant connection line 106 can be connected to the first coolant line 101 via a control valve 107 located on the first coolant line 101 between the electrical component 103 and the condenser 13. Therefore, the coolant connection line 106 can be selectively opened and closed by the control valve 107.

[0125] In addition, the cooler 20 can be connected to the battery module 109 via a third coolant line 108. A water pump (not shown) may be installed on the third coolant line 108.

[0126] In other words, the coolant flowing through the third coolant line 108 can be selectively directed by the operation of the water pump.

[0127] Although not shown in the figure, the third coolant line 108 may be connected to the first cooling device 100 via a separate line and valve through which the first coolant flows. In other words, the first coolant may flow in the third coolant line 108.

[0128] Therefore, the cooler 20 allows heat exchange between the first coolant, which flows selectively through at least one of the coolant connection line 106 and the third coolant line 108, and the selectively supplied refrigerant, in order to regulate the temperature of the first coolant and cause the refrigerant to evaporate.

[0129] The cooler 20 may be a water-cooled heat exchanger configured to allow the refrigerant flowing into the interior to exchange heat with the first coolant.

[0130] In other words, the cooler 20 can enable heat exchange between the first coolant flowing from the battery module 109 through the third coolant line 108 and the refrigerant to recover the waste heat of the battery module 109, or the first coolant after heat exchange with the refrigerant can be used to cool the battery module 109.

[0131] In addition, in the vehicle's interior heating mode or the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode, the cooler 20 can recover at least one of ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components 103 while exchanging heat between the first coolant and the refrigerant supplied via the coolant connection line 106.

[0132] In addition, the third coolant line 108 can be opened when the waste heat of the battery module 109 is recovered in the vehicle's heating mode or the vehicle's heating and dehumidification mode.

[0133] In an embodiment of the invention, the heater core 300 may be connected to the condenser 13 via a fourth coolant line 301. The heater core 300 allows coolant to flow selectively along the fourth coolant line 301.

[0134] A water pump (not shown) may be installed on the fourth coolant line 301. Therefore, the coolant flowing through the fourth coolant line 301 can be selectively directed by the operation of the water pump.

[0135] Although not shown in the figure, the fourth coolant line 301 may be connected to the first cooling device 100 via a separate line and valve through which the first coolant flows. In other words, the first coolant may flow in the fourth coolant line 301.

[0136] Therefore, in the vehicle's interior heating mode, the condenser 13 allows the first coolant flowing along the fourth coolant line 301 to exchange heat with the high-temperature refrigerant supplied from the compressor 10, thereby causing the refrigerant to condense and raising the temperature of the first coolant.

[0137] The first coolant, whose temperature rises as it flows through the condenser 13, can be supplied to the heater core 300 along the fourth coolant line 301, thereby heating the interior of the vehicle.

[0138] The following will refer to Figures 2 to 4 The operation and function of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, configured as described above, will be described in detail.

[0139] First, refer to Figure 2 The operation of the vehicle's internal cooling mode is explained.

[0140] Figure 2 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the cooling mode of the vehicle interior.

[0141] Reference Figure 2 In the vehicle's internal cooling mode, the refrigerant line 11, which connects the compressor 10, condenser 13, receiver-dryer 14, auxiliary condenser 15, first expansion valve 16, and evaporator 17, can be opened.

[0142] The first coolant line 101 can be opened, allowing the first coolant to be supplied from the first cooling device 100 to the condenser 13.

[0143] The coolant connection line 106 can be closed by the control valve 107.

[0144] The second coolant line 201 can be opened to allow the second coolant to be supplied from the second cooling unit 200 to the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0145] Furthermore, the fourth coolant line 301 can be shut off. Therefore, the first coolant may not be supplied to the heater core 300.

[0146] In this state, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 10 can flow into the condenser 13 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0147] The condenser 13 can use a first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the first coolant line 101 to condense the refrigerant.

[0148] The refrigerant condensed in condenser 13 can flow into receiver-dryer 14 along refrigerant line 11.

[0149] The receiver-dryer 14 separates gaseous components from the incoming refrigerant and filters out moisture and foreign matter, thus discharging only liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant discharged from the receiver-dryer 14 can be supplied to the auxiliary condenser 15 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0150] The auxiliary condenser 15 can use a second coolant supplied from the second cooling unit 200 via the second coolant line 201 to further condense the supplied refrigerant.

[0151] The auxiliary condenser 15 can further condense the refrigerant that has been condensed in the condenser 13 while exchanging heat between the second coolant supplied from the second cooling device 200 via the second coolant line 201 and the refrigerant supplied from the condenser 13.

[0152] The refrigerant, after further condensation in the auxiliary condenser 15, can flow into the first expansion valve 16 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0153] The first expansion valve 16 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line 11 and supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator 17.

[0154] In this state, the ambient air flowing into the HVAC module 12 can be cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 17 while flowing through the evaporator 17.

[0155] Door 12a can close the portion leading to the heater core 300, preventing cooled ambient air from flowing through the heater core 300. Therefore, cooled ambient air can directly flow into the vehicle interior to cool the vehicle interior.

[0156] As the refrigerant flows sequentially through the condenser 13 and the auxiliary condenser 15, the increased degree of condensation causes it to expand and be supplied to the evaporator 17, thereby causing the refrigerant to evaporate to a lower temperature.

[0157] In other words, in an embodiment of the present invention, the condenser 13 can condense the refrigerant, and the auxiliary condenser 15 can further condense the refrigerant, thereby facilitating the formation of refrigerant subcooling.

[0158] Furthermore, as the subcooled refrigerant evaporates at a lower temperature in the evaporator 17, the temperature of the ambient air flowing through the evaporator 17 can be further reduced, thereby improving cooling performance and efficiency.

[0159] The refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 17 can flow into the compressor 10 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0160] When the battery module 109 needs to be cooled in the vehicle's cooling mode, the refrigerant connection line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23.

[0161] In addition, the third coolant line 108 can be opened.

[0162] Therefore, a portion of the refrigerant further condensed in the secondary condenser 15 can flow into the first expansion valve 16 along the refrigerant line 11. Simultaneously, the remaining refrigerant further condensed in the secondary condenser 15 can flow into the second expansion valve 23 along the refrigerant connection line 21.

[0163] The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line 21 and supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler 20.

[0164] The refrigerant flowing into the cooler 20 can cool the first coolant flowing along the third coolant line 108 while exchanging heat with the first coolant supplied from the battery module 109 via the third coolant line 108.

[0165] The first coolant, cooled in the cooler 20, can be supplied to the battery module 109 via the third coolant line 108. In other words, the cooler 20 can supply the first coolant, which has been cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant, to the battery module 109 via the third coolant line 108.

[0166] Therefore, the battery module 109 can be effectively cooled by the first coolant after being cooled in the cooler 20.

[0167] In other words, the first coolant circulating through the third coolant line 108 can effectively cool the battery module 109 while repeatedly performing the above-mentioned operation.

[0168] The refrigerant flowing through the cooler 20 can flow into the compressor 10 together with the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 17. The flowing refrigerant can be compressed by the compressor 10.

[0169] The refrigerant compressed in compressor 10 can be supplied to condenser 13 along refrigerant line 11.

[0170] The heat pump system can repeat the above process.

[0171] In other words, since the supercooled refrigerant evaporates at a lower temperature in the evaporator 17 while the above process is repeated, the heat pump system can further reduce the temperature of the ambient air flowing through the evaporator 17, thereby improving the overall cooling performance and efficiency, and effectively cooling the interior of the vehicle.

[0172] When cooling of the battery module 109 is required in cooling mode, the heat pump system can use the first coolant, which has been cooled in the cooler 20 at a low temperature, to effectively cool the battery module 109.

[0173] Reference Figure 3 The operation of the heating mode inside the vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0174] Figure 3 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the heating mode of the vehicle interior.

[0175] Reference Figure 3 In the vehicle's interior heating mode, the refrigerant lines 11 that connect the compressor 10, condenser 13, receiver-dryer 14, and auxiliary condenser 15 can be opened.

[0176] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the auxiliary condenser 15 and the first end of the refrigerant connection line 21 can be opened.

[0177] In addition, the portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the first end of the refrigerant connection line 21 to the first expansion valve 16 and the evaporator 17 can be closed by the first expansion valve 16.

[0178] The operation of the first expansion valve 16 can be stopped. Therefore, refrigerant will not be supplied to the evaporator 17.

[0179] The refrigerant connection line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23.

[0180] In an embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106 may be opened, so that the first coolant is supplied from the first cooling device 100 to the cooler 20.

[0181] The coolant connection line 106 can be opened by the control valve 107.

[0182] In addition, the remaining first coolant lines 101 connected to the condenser 13 can be shut off by control valve 107.

[0183] Therefore, the first coolant flowing through the first radiator 102 and the electrical components 103 can flow from the first cooling device 100, through part of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106, through the cooler 20, and then into the first radiator 102.

[0184] In addition, the second coolant line 201 can be shut off so that the second coolant is not supplied from the second cooling unit 200 to the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0185] Furthermore, the fourth coolant line 301 can be opened, allowing the first coolant to circulate through the condenser 13 and the heater core 300. Thus, the first coolant, whose temperature rises by heat exchange with the refrigerant in the condenser 13, can be supplied to the heater core 300.

[0186] In this state, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 10 can flow into the condenser 13 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0187] The condenser 13 can use a first coolant supplied from the heater core 300 via the fourth coolant line 301 to condense the refrigerant.

[0188] Therefore, the refrigerant flowing into the condenser 13 can be condensed while exchanging heat with the first refrigerant supplied from the heater core 300 via the fourth refrigerant line 301.

[0189] The first coolant, whose temperature rises by heat exchange with the refrigerant in the condenser 13, can be supplied to the heater core 300.

[0190] In other words, the condenser 13 can supply the first coolant, whose temperature rises by exchanging heat with the refrigerant, to the heater core 300 via the fourth coolant line 301.

[0191] In addition, the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 13 can flow into the receiver-dryer 14 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0192] The receiver-dryer 14 separates gaseous components from the incoming refrigerant and filters out moisture and foreign matter, thus discharging only liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant discharged from the receiver-dryer 14 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 through the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0193] The refrigerant flowing through the auxiliary condenser 15 can flow into the second expansion valve 23 along the refrigerant connection line 21.

[0194] The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line 21 and supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler 20.

[0195] The refrigerant flowing into the cooler 20 can cool the first coolant while exchanging heat with the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the coolant connection line 106.

[0196] The first coolant can increase in temperature by recovering ambient air heat and waste heat from the electrical components 103 while flowing through the first radiator 102 and the electrical components 103.

[0197] Through this operation, the first coolant, whose temperature rises, can be supplied to the cooler 20 along part of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106.

[0198] The cooler 20 can effectively recover ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components 103 while exchanging heat between the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the coolant connection line 106 and the refrigerant.

[0199] The cooler 20 can evaporate the refrigerant while heat exchange occurs between the supplied first coolant and the refrigerant.

[0200] The refrigerant that has evaporated in the cooler 20 can flow into the compressor 10 along the refrigerant connection line 21 and the open refrigerant line 11.

[0201] In addition, the refrigerant compressed in compressor 10 can be supplied to condenser 13.

[0202] The heat pump system can repeat the above process.

[0203] Door 12a can be opened to allow ambient air that has flowed into HVAC module 12 and through evaporator 17 to flow through heater core 300.

[0204] Therefore, ambient air flowing in from the outside can enter at room temperature without being cooled as it passes through the evaporator 17, which is not supplied with refrigerant. The incoming ambient air can be converted to a high-temperature state as it flows through the heater core 300 before entering the vehicle interior, thereby achieving heating of the vehicle interior.

[0205] Thus, when heating is needed inside the vehicle, the heat pump system can recover heat from the ambient air and waste heat from the electrical components 103 in the cooler 20 and use it to raise the temperature of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the power consumption of the compressor 10 and improving heating efficiency.

[0206] Thus, because heat pump systems can fully recover and utilize waste heat, they can improve heating performance and efficiency while minimizing the use of individual electric heaters.

[0207] The embodiment of the present invention is described with the example of the third coolant line 108 connected to the battery module 109 being closed in the heating mode inside the vehicle, but it is not limited thereto. When recovering the waste heat generated in the battery module 109, the third coolant line 108 can be opened.

[0208] In addition, refer to Figure 4 The operation of the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification modes is explained.

[0209] Figure 4 This is an operation diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the heating and dehumidification mode of the vehicle interior.

[0210] Reference Figure 4In the vehicle's heating and dehumidification mode, the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10, condenser 13, receiver-dryer 14, auxiliary condenser 15, first expansion valve 16, and evaporator 17 can be opened.

[0211] The refrigerant connection line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23.

[0212] In an embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106 may be opened, so that the first coolant is supplied from the first cooling device 100 to the cooler 20.

[0213] The coolant connection line 106 can be opened by the control valve 107.

[0214] In addition, the remaining first coolant lines 101 connected to the condenser 13 can be shut off by control valve 107.

[0215] Therefore, the first coolant flowing through the first radiator 102 and the electrical components 103 can flow from the first cooling device 100, through part of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106, through the cooler 20, and then into the first radiator 102.

[0216] In addition, the second coolant line 201 can be shut off so that the second coolant is not supplied from the second cooling unit 200 to the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0217] Furthermore, the fourth coolant line 301 can be opened, allowing the first coolant to circulate through the condenser 13 and the heater core 300. Thus, the first coolant, whose temperature rises by heat exchange with the refrigerant in the condenser 13, can be supplied to the heater core 300.

[0218] In this state, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 10 can flow into the condenser 13 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0219] The condenser 13 can use a first coolant supplied from the heater core 300 via the fourth coolant line 301 to condense the refrigerant.

[0220] Therefore, the refrigerant flowing into the condenser 13 can be condensed while exchanging heat with the first refrigerant supplied from the heater core 300 via the fourth refrigerant line 301.

[0221] The first coolant, whose temperature rises by heat exchange with the refrigerant in the condenser 13, can be supplied to the heater core 300.

[0222] In other words, the condenser 13 can supply the first coolant, whose temperature rises by exchanging heat with the refrigerant, to the heater core 300 via the fourth coolant line 301.

[0223] In addition, the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 13 can flow into the receiver-dryer 14 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0224] The receiver-dryer 14 separates gaseous components from the incoming refrigerant and filters out moisture and foreign matter, thus discharging only liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant discharged from the receiver-dryer 14 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 through the auxiliary condenser 15.

[0225] A portion of the refrigerant flowing through the auxiliary condenser 15 can flow into the first expansion valve 16 along the refrigerant line 11.

[0226] The first expansion valve 16 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line 11 and supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator 17.

[0227] The remaining refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing through the auxiliary condenser 15 can flow into the second expansion valve 23 along the refrigerant connection line 21.

[0228] The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line 21 and supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler 20.

[0229] The refrigerant flowing into the cooler 20 can cool the first coolant while exchanging heat with the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the coolant connection line 106.

[0230] The first coolant can increase in temperature by recovering ambient air heat and waste heat from the electrical components 103 while flowing through the first radiator 102 and the electrical components 103.

[0231] Through this operation, the first coolant, whose temperature rises, can be supplied to the cooler 20 along part of the first coolant line 101 and the coolant connection line 106.

[0232] The cooler 20 can effectively recover ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components 103 while exchanging heat between the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device 100 via the coolant connection line 106 and the refrigerant.

[0233] The cooler 20 can evaporate the refrigerant while heat exchange occurs between the supplied first coolant and the refrigerant.

[0234] The refrigerant that has evaporated in the cooler 20 can flow into the compressor 10 together with the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 17. The flowing refrigerant can be compressed by the compressor 10.

[0235] In addition, the refrigerant compressed in compressor 10 can be supplied to condenser 13.

[0236] The heat pump system can repeat the above process.

[0237] Door 12a can be opened through the portion of heater core 300, allowing ambient air that flows into HVAC module 12 and is cooled while flowing through evaporator 17 to flow through heater core 300.

[0238] Therefore, the ambient air flowing into the vehicle can be dehumidified by the operation of a blower (not shown) while exchanging heat with the low-temperature refrigerant supplied to the evaporator 17.

[0239] The dehumidified ambient air can be converted to a high temperature state as it flows through the heater core 300 and then flow into the vehicle interior, thereby providing stable heating and dehumidification to the vehicle interior.

[0240] The embodiment of the present invention is described with the example of the third coolant line 108 connected to the battery module 109 being closed in the heating and dehumidification mode inside the vehicle, but it is not limited thereto. When recovering the waste heat generated in the battery module 109, the third coolant line 108 can be opened.

[0241] As described above, the heat pump system for vehicles according to an embodiment of the present invention can improve overall cooling performance and efficiency by using a high-temperature coolant to heat the interior of the vehicle and by employing an auxiliary condenser 15 configured to subcool the refrigerant using a second coolant supplied from a second radiator 202 in a second cooling device 200.

[0242] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the heat energy generated from the refrigerant during refrigerant condensation can be selectively exchanged with the coolant, and the high-temperature coolant after heat exchange can be used to heat the vehicle interior more effectively.

[0243] Furthermore, according to the present invention, when heating the interior of a vehicle, the heating efficiency of the vehicle can be improved by selectively utilizing ambient air heat, waste heat from electrical components 103 and waste heat from battery module 109, and the total driving range of the vehicle can be increased by effectively regulating the temperature of battery module 109 to achieve optimal performance of battery module 109.

[0244] Furthermore, according to the present invention, due to the simplification of the entire system, the overall manufacturing cost and weight can be reduced, and space utilization can be improved by minimizing the number of parts.

[0245] While the invention has been described in conjunction with embodiments currently considered feasible, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heat pump system for a vehicle, the heat pump system comprising: The compressor is configured to compress the refrigerant; A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) module includes: a heater core and an evaporator connected to the compressor via a refrigerant line; and a door configured to open and close when cooling or heating the interior of a vehicle to regulate the selective flow of air through the evaporator into the heater core; A condenser, connected to the compressor via the refrigerant line, is configured to condense the refrigerant. A secondary condenser, connected to the condenser via the refrigerant line, is configured to selectively condense the refrigerant discharged from the condenser; A first expansion valve is disposed between the auxiliary condenser and the evaporator and connected to both via the refrigerant line; The refrigerant connection line has a first end connected to the refrigerant line between the auxiliary condenser and the first expansion valve, and a second end connected to the refrigerant line between the evaporator and the compressor; A cooler is installed on the refrigerant connection line; A first cooling device is connected to the condenser via a first coolant line, wherein the first cooling device includes a first radiator, electrical components, and a first water pump disposed on the first coolant line to allow the first coolant to flow along the first coolant line; and A second cooling device is connected to the auxiliary condenser via a second coolant line. The second cooling device includes a second radiator and a second water pump disposed on the second coolant line to allow the second coolant to flow along the second coolant line.

2. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The first cooling device is connected to the cooler via a coolant connection line connected to the first coolant line, such that the first coolant is selectively supplied to the cooler.

3. The heat pump system according to claim 2, further comprising: The second expansion valve is installed on the refrigerant connection line at the upstream end of the cooler; as well as The battery module is connected to the cooler via a third coolant line. The heater core is connected to the condenser via a fourth coolant line.

4. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, In the cooling mode inside the vehicle: The refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, the condenser, the auxiliary condenser, the first expansion valve, and the evaporator are configured to be open. The first coolant line is configured to be open, such that the first coolant is supplied from the first cooling device to the condenser; The second coolant line is configured to be open, so that the second coolant is supplied from the second cooling device to the auxiliary condenser; The coolant connection line is configured to be closed; The fourth coolant line is configured to be shut off; and The first expansion valve is configured to expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line and to supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator.

5. The heat pump system according to claim 4, wherein, The auxiliary condenser is configured to condense the refrigerant that has been condensed in the condenser while heat exchange occurs between the second coolant supplied from the second cooling device via the second coolant line and the refrigerant supplied from the condenser.

6. The heat pump system according to claim 4, wherein, When the battery module needs to be cooled in the cooling mode inside the vehicle: The refrigerant connection line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve; The third coolant line is configured to be open; and The second expansion valve is configured to expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line and to supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler.

7. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, In the heating mode inside the vehicle: The refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, the condenser, and the auxiliary condenser are configured to be open. The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connected to the first end of the auxiliary condenser and the refrigerant connecting pipeline is configured to be open; A portion of the refrigerant line, where the first end of the refrigerant connection line is connected to the second end of the refrigerant connection line via the first expansion valve and the evaporator, is configured to be closed by the first expansion valve; The refrigerant connection line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve; A portion of the first coolant line and the coolant connection line are configured to be open, such that the first coolant is supplied from the first cooling device to the cooler; The remaining first coolant lines connected to the condenser are configured to be closed; The second coolant line is configured to be closed, so that the second coolant is not supplied from the second cooling device to the auxiliary condenser; The fourth coolant line is configured to be open; The first expansion valve is configured to stop operating; and The second expansion valve is configured to expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line and to supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler.

8. The heat pump system according to claim 7, wherein, The cooler is configured to evaporate the refrigerant while heat exchange occurs between the first coolant supplied from the first cooling device via the first coolant line and the refrigerant, and to supply the refrigerant evaporated by the cooler to the compressor.

9. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, In the heating and dehumidification mode inside the vehicle: The refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, the condenser, the auxiliary condenser, the first expansion valve, and the evaporator are configured to be open. The refrigerant connection line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve; A portion of the first coolant line and the coolant connection line are configured to be open, such that the first coolant is supplied from the first cooling device to the cooler; The remaining first coolant lines connected to the condenser are configured to be closed; The second coolant line is configured to be closed, so that the second coolant is not supplied from the second cooling device to the auxiliary condenser; The fourth coolant line is configured to be open; The first expansion valve is configured to expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line and to supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator; and The second expansion valve is configured to expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant connection line and to supply the expanded refrigerant to the cooler.

10. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, The third coolant line is configured to be open when the waste heat of the battery module is recovered in the vehicle's heating mode or the vehicle's heating and dehumidification mode.

11. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, In the vehicle's interior heating mode or the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode, the cooler, while exchanging heat between the first coolant supplied via the coolant connection line and the refrigerant, recovers at least one of ambient air heat and waste heat from the electrical components.

12. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, The first expansion valve and the second expansion valve are electronic expansion valves configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow of the refrigerant.

13. The heat pump system according to claim 2, wherein, The coolant connection line is connected to the first coolant line via a control valve located on the first coolant line between the electrical components and the condenser.

14. The heat pump system according to claim 1 further includes a liquid receiver dryer disposed on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the auxiliary condenser.

15. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The condenser, the auxiliary condenser, and the cooler are water-cooled heat exchangers.

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