Heat pump system for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat pump system for a vehicle, which can cool or heat the interior of the vehicle using a natural refrigerant to comply with environmental regulations, and efficiently adjust the temperature of a battery module using a single cooler that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and coolant. The heat pump system can operate in a supercritical cycle in which the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are higher than the critical pressure and critical temperature by applying a natural refrigerant R744 refrigerant using carbon dioxide, thereby maximizing the cooling and heating performance.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0181006, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 6, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a heat pump system for vehicles, and more specifically, to a vehicle heat pump system capable of cooling or heating the interior of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] A vehicle air conditioning system includes an air conditioning unit that circulates refrigerant to heat or cool the interior of the vehicle.

[0004] This air conditioning unit can maintain a suitable temperature inside the vehicle when the external temperature changes, so as to maintain a comfortable in-vehicle environment. Its configuration is as follows: when the refrigerant discharged by the compressor flows back to the compressor after passing through the condenser, receiver-drier, expansion valve and evaporator, heat exchange occurs through the condenser and evaporator, thereby heating or cooling the interior of the vehicle.

[0005] In summer cooling mode, the air conditioning unit works as follows: the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant produced by the compressor is condensed in the condenser, and then the refrigerant passes through the receiver-dryer and expansion valve, and then evaporates in the evaporator, thereby reducing the temperature and humidity inside the vehicle.

[0006] Environmental protection technology for vehicles is a core technology for the future automotive industry. Major leading automakers are focusing their efforts on the research and development of environmentally friendly vehicles to meet environmental and fuel efficiency regulations.

[0007] With increasing public concern about energy efficiency and environmental pollution, the development of environmentally friendly vehicles that can substantially replace internal combustion engine vehicles has become an inevitable requirement. Environmentally friendly vehicles are categorized into electric vehicles powered by fuel cells or electricity, and hybrid vehicles powered by both engines and batteries.

[0008] Electric vehicles are receiving widespread attention as a future mode of transportation for solving environmental and energy resource problems.

[0009] These electric vehicles utilize a heat pump system, which is an air conditioning device used to regulate the temperature inside the vehicle.

[0010] However, refrigerants traditionally used in heat pump systems contain a large number of substances restricted by environmental regulations, such as perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Therefore, there is a need to develop a system that can control the interior temperature of a vehicle using new, non-flammable refrigerants or natural refrigerants that do not contain PFAS.

[0011] The information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancing the understanding of the background of this invention, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0012] This invention provides a vehicle heat pump system that can use environmentally compliant natural refrigerants to cool or heat the vehicle interior, and utilizes a single cooler that allows heat exchange between the refrigerant and coolant to efficiently regulate the temperature of the battery module.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention provides a vehicle heat pump system that, by using R744 refrigerant (a natural refrigerant utilizing carbon dioxide), can operate under supercritical cycles (where the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are higher than the critical pressure and critical temperature), thereby maximizing cooling and heating performance.

[0014] This invention provides a vehicle heat pump system, comprising a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a first expansion valve, and a third heat exchanger, these components being connected via refrigerant lines to achieve refrigerant circulation. The heat pump system also includes a first connecting line, with a first end connected to a refrigerant line connecting the second heat exchanger and the first expansion valve, and a second end connected to a refrigerant line connecting the third heat exchanger and the compressor. The heat pump system also includes a cooler disposed on the first connecting line, the cooler being used to regulate the temperature of the coolant by exchanging heat between the supplied refrigerant and the coolant. The heat pump system also includes a second expansion valve disposed between the first end of the first connecting line and the cooler. The heat pump system also includes a second connecting line, with a first end connected to a refrigerant line between the first and second heat exchangers, and a second end connected to a first connecting line between the second end of the first connecting line and the cooler. The heat pump system also includes a third connecting line, with a first end connected to a refrigerant line between the compressor and the first heat exchanger, and a second end connected to a refrigerant line between the first and second heat exchangers.

[0015] The heat pump system may further include: a first valve disposed on a refrigerant line between the compressor and the first heat exchanger; a second valve disposed on a refrigerant line between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; a third valve disposed on a first connecting line between the second end of the first connecting line and the cooler; a third expansion valve disposed on the second connecting line; and a fourth valve disposed on the third connecting line.

[0016] The heat pump system may also include a fourth connecting line and a fifth valve, wherein the first end of the fourth connecting line is connected to the refrigerant line between the third heat exchanger and the compressor, and the second end is connected to the refrigerant line between the second valve and the second heat exchanger; the fifth valve is located on the fourth connecting line.

[0017] When the battery module needs cooling in the vehicle's interior cooling mode, a portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger, as well as a portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first heat exchanger and the second end of the third connecting line, can be closed by the first valve. The remaining refrigerant lines connecting the second end of the third connecting line to the second heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the compressor can be opened by the second valve and the first expansion valve. The first connecting line can be opened by the second expansion valve and the third valve; the second connecting line can be closed by the third expansion valve; the third connecting line can be opened by the fourth valve; and the fourth connecting line can be closed by the fifth valve.

[0018] The first expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state. The second expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state to cool the battery module using the coolant that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the cooler. Refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows into the second heat exchanger along the third connecting line and the open refrigerant line. A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger flows into the cooler along the first connecting line. The remaining refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger flows into the first expansion valve along the refrigerant line. The refrigerant discharged from the cooler and the refrigerant discharged from the third heat exchanger are supplied to the compressor along the refrigerant line.

[0019] In the vehicle's interior cooling and dehumidification mode, the refrigerant lines connecting the compressor, first heat exchanger, second heat exchanger, first expansion valve, and third heat exchanger can be opened by the first valve, second valve, and first expansion valve. The first connecting line can be closed by the second expansion valve and third valve. The second connecting line can be closed by the third expansion valve. The third connecting line can be closed by the fourth valve, and the fourth connecting line can be closed by the fifth valve.

[0020] The first expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state, and the refrigerant discharged from the compressor can flow along the refrigerant pipeline to pass through the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger in sequence.

[0021] When ambient air heat needs to be recovered to heat the battery module in the vehicle's interior heating mode, a portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger can be opened by the first valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first end of the second connecting line to the second end of the fourth connecting line can be closed by the second valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the second end of the first connecting line to the first end of the fourth connecting line can be closed by the first expansion valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line to the first end of the first connecting line can be opened. A portion of the first connecting line can be opened by the second expansion valve, allowing the first end of the second connecting line to connect to the second heat exchanger via a refrigerant line. The remaining portion of the first connecting line can be closed by the third valve. The second connecting line can be opened by the third expansion valve. The third connecting line can be closed by the fourth valve, and the fourth connecting line can be opened by the fifth valve.

[0022] The cooler allows the supplied refrigerant to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing in from the battery module. A second expansion valve allows a portion of the refrigerant flowing into the cooler via the first connecting line to flow in an expanded state. A third expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion. Refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger can flow into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line. Refrigerant discharged from the cooler, after expanding in the second expansion valve, can flow into the second heat exchanger along a portion of the refrigerant line. Refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger can be supplied to the compressor along the fourth connecting line and an open portion of the refrigerant line.

[0023] When it is necessary to recover ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating mode, a portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger can be opened by the first valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first end of the second connecting line to the second end of the fourth connecting line can be closed by the second valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first end of the first connecting line to the first end of the fourth connecting line can be closed by the first expansion valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line to the first end of the first connecting line can be opened. A portion of the first connecting line can be opened by the second expansion valve, allowing the first end of the second connecting line to connect to the second heat exchanger via a refrigerant line. The remaining portion of the first connecting line can be closed by the third valve. The second connecting line can be opened by the third expansion valve, the third connecting line can be closed by the fourth valve, and the fourth connecting line can be opened by the fifth valve.

[0024] The cooler allows heat exchange between the supplied refrigerant and the refrigerant flowing in from the electrical components. A second expansion valve allows refrigerant flowing into the cooler via a portion of the first connecting line to flow without expansion. A third expansion valve allows the flowing refrigerant to flow in an expanded state. Refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger can flow into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line. Refrigerant discharged from the cooler can flow into the second heat exchanger along the open portion of the first connecting line and a portion of the refrigerant line. Refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger can be supplied to the compressor along the fourth connecting line and the open portion of the refrigerant line.

[0025] When waste heat from electrical components needs to be recovered during vehicle interior heating and dehumidification mode, a portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger can be opened by the first valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first end of the second connecting line to the second end of the fourth connecting line can be closed by the second valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first end of the first connecting line to the first end of the fourth connecting line can be opened by the first expansion valve. A portion of the refrigerant line connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line to the first end of the first connecting line is closed. A portion of the first connecting line can be opened by the second expansion valve, allowing the first end of the second connecting line to connect to the first expansion valve via a refrigerant line. The remaining portion of the first connecting line can be closed by the third valve, the second connecting line can be opened by the third expansion valve, the third connecting line can be closed by the fourth valve, and the fourth connecting line can be closed by the fifth valve.

[0026] The first expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion. The cooler allows the supplied refrigerant to exchange heat with the coolant flowing in from the electrical components. The second expansion valve allows the refrigerant flowing into the cooler via a portion of the first connecting line to flow without expansion. The third expansion valve allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state. The refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger can flow into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line. The refrigerant discharged from the cooler can flow into the third heat exchanger via the open portion of the first connecting line and a portion of the refrigerant line through the first expansion valve. The refrigerant discharged from the third heat exchanger can be supplied to the compressor via the open portion of the refrigerant line.

[0027] The first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves can be check valves, configured to allow the refrigerant flowing in the corresponding pipeline to flow in only one direction.

[0028] The first expansion valve, the second expansion valve, and the third expansion valve can be electronic expansion valves, configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

[0029] The heat pump system may also include a receiver-and-discharge device on the refrigerant line located between the third heat exchanger and the compressor.

[0030] The second heat exchanger and cooler can be configured to cool or evaporate the refrigerant flowing into the interior.

[0031] The first, second, and third heat exchangers can be air-cooled gas coolers configured to allow the refrigerant flowing into them to exchange heat with the air. The coolers can also be water-cooled gas coolers configured to allow the refrigerant flowing into them to exchange heat with the coolant.

[0032] The refrigerant can be R744, which is formed from carbon dioxide.

[0033] The cooler can be connected to the electrical components and the battery module via a first pipeline and a second pipeline for coolant circulation, respectively.

[0034] As described above, the vehicle heat pump system according to embodiments of the present invention can utilize natural refrigerants to cool or heat the interior of the vehicle, thereby complying with environmental regulations and improving the overall market competitiveness of the vehicle.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by applying the natural refrigerant R744, which utilizes carbon dioxide, the cooling and heating performance of the vehicle interior can be maximized by operating in the supercritical region where the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are higher than the critical pressure and critical temperature.

[0036] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by utilizing a single cooler that allows heat exchange between the coolant and refrigerant, the temperature of the battery module can be efficiently regulated according to the vehicle's mode, thereby achieving system simplification and streamlining.

[0037] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by efficiently regulating the temperature of the battery module, the battery module can achieve optimal performance, and by efficiently managing the battery module, the overall driving range of the vehicle can be increased.

[0038] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by using a coolant heated through heat exchange with the refrigerant to heat the battery module, a separate coolant heater for heating the battery module can be eliminated, and the energy consumption for raising the battery module temperature can be minimized.

[0039] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by streamlining the entire system, manufacturing costs can be reduced, weight can be decreased, and space utilization can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used for cooling the battery module in the vehicle's interior cooling mode.

[0042] Figure 3 This is an operational diagram of the vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention in the vehicle interior cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0043] Figure 4 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used to recover ambient air heat and heat the battery module in the vehicle's interior heating mode.

[0044] Figure 5 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used to recover ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating mode.

[0045] Figure 6 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used for recovering waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] The embodiments of the present invention described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention and do not cover the full scope of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalent forms and variations of the disclosed embodiments may exist when applying the technical concepts of this specification.

[0048] To clarify the invention, parts unrelated to the detailed description may be omitted. Furthermore, throughout the specification, the same elements or equivalents will be indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0049] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each element in the accompanying drawings may be shown arbitrarily, but the invention is not limited thereto. The thicknesses of layers, films, panels, regions, etc., may be exaggerated in the drawings for clarity.

[0050] Furthermore, unless there is an explicit description to the contrary, the word “including” and its variations such as “comprising” or “containing” should be understood as including the stated elements, but not excluding any other elements.

[0051] Furthermore, each term described in the specification, such as "...unit," "...device," "...part," "...component," and "...building element," refers to a comprehensive element unit that performs at least one function or operation. When a component, device, unit, module, controller, detector, element, etc., of the present invention is described as having a certain purpose or performing a certain operation or function, it should be considered here as "configured" to achieve that purpose or perform that operation or function. The present invention describes a controller and a data detector for a cooling system. Controllers, data detectors, or other such components may be embodied separately or included as part of a controller or component, together with a processor and memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium).

[0052] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle heat pump system can use natural refrigerants that comply with environmental regulations to cool or heat the interior of a vehicle, and can efficiently regulate the temperature of the battery module 5 through a single cooler 20 that allows the refrigerant and coolant to exchange heat with each other.

[0054] The refrigerant can be R744, which is formed from carbon dioxide and has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 0 and a global warming potential (GWP) of 1.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle heat pump system, by using R744 refrigerant, a natural refrigerant utilizing carbon dioxide, can operate under supercritical cycling conditions where the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are higher than the critical pressure and critical temperature, thereby maximizing cooling and heating performance.

[0056] The heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a compressor 10, a first heat exchanger 13, a second heat exchanger 14, a first expansion valve 15, a third heat exchanger 16, a liquid receiver 17, and a cooler 20. These components are connected by a refrigerant line 11, through which the refrigerant circulates.

[0057] The compressor 10 can compress the incoming refrigerant and make the compressed refrigerant flow through the refrigerant line 11, thereby circulating the refrigerant along the refrigerant line 11.

[0058] The first heat exchanger 13 enables the refrigerant selectively supplied from the compressor 10 to exchange heat with the air.

[0059] The second heat exchanger 14 can be connected to the first heat exchanger 13 via the refrigerant line 11. Therefore, the refrigerant supplied from the refrigerant line 11 can flow through the second heat exchanger 14.

[0060] The second heat exchanger 14 may be located at the front of the vehicle, and when the vehicle is in motion, it can cool or evaporate the refrigerant by exchanging heat with air flowing in from the outside. A cooling fan 7 may be provided downstream of the second heat exchanger 14.

[0061] Since R744 refrigerant is a supercritical refrigerant, unlike conventional refrigerants, it does not undergo a phase change. Therefore, the term "gas cooling" can be used instead of "condensation".

[0062] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first expansion valve 15 may be disposed on the refrigerant line 11 between the second heat exchanger 14 and the third heat exchanger 16. The first expansion valve 15 may selectively expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line 11.

[0063] The first expansion valve 15 can selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

[0064] In addition, a third heat exchanger 16 may be installed on the refrigerant line 11 between the first expansion valve 15 and the compressor 10.

[0065] The first heat exchanger 13 and the third heat exchanger 16 may be located inside the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) module 12.

[0066] The first heat exchanger 13, the second heat exchanger 14, and the third heat exchanger 16 can be air-cooled gas coolers configured to allow refrigerant flowing into them to exchange heat with air.

[0067] When the expanded refrigerant flows in, the second heat exchanger 14 can cause the refrigerant to evaporate; when the unexpanded refrigerant flows in, the second heat exchanger 14 can cool the refrigerant.

[0068] In an embodiment of the present invention, the liquid receiver 17 may be disposed on the refrigerant line 11 between the third heat exchanger 16 and the compressor 10.

[0069] The receiver 17 can supply only gaseous refrigerant to the compressor 10, thereby improving the efficiency and durability of the compressor 10.

[0070] In an embodiment of the present invention, the cooler 20 can be connected to the electrical component 3 via a first pipeline 2 for supplying coolant circulation.

[0071] Electrical component 3 may include power conversion devices, such as power control unit (EPCU), motor, inverter or on-board charger (OBC), and autonomous driving controller, etc.

[0072] Electrical components 3 configured in this way can be connected to the first pipeline 2 for water cooling.

[0073] The cooler 20 can use the coolant after heat exchange with the refrigerant to regulate the temperature of the electrical components 3 and can recover the waste heat of the electrical components 3.

[0074] Furthermore, the cooler 20 can be connected to the battery module 5 via a second pipeline 4 for coolant circulation. Therefore, coolant can be selectively circulated in the cooler 20.

[0075] Cooler 20 regulates the temperature of the coolant by exchanging heat between the supplied refrigerant and the coolant. Cooler 20 may be a water-cooled gas cooler configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant flowing into it and the coolant.

[0076] The cooler 20 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 via the first connecting line 21.

[0077] The first end of the first connecting line 21 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 connecting the second heat exchanger 14 and the first expansion valve 15. In addition, the second end of the first connecting line 21 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 connecting the third heat exchanger 16 and the compressor 10.

[0078] The second end of the first connecting line 21 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the third heat exchanger 16 and the liquid receiver 17.

[0079] The cooler 20 can regulate the temperature of the coolant by exchanging heat between the coolant selectively flowing in through the first pipeline 2 or the second pipeline 4 and the refrigerant selectively supplied through the first connecting pipeline 21.

[0080] Therefore, the coolant that has undergone heat exchange in the cooler 20 can circulate in the electrical component 3 through the first pipeline 2. Furthermore, the coolant that has undergone heat exchange in the cooler 20 can circulate in the battery module 5 through the second pipeline 4.

[0081] Water pumps (not shown) may be installed on the first pipeline 2 and the second pipeline 4.

[0082] The coolant can circulate along the first pipeline 2 and the second pipeline 4 depending on the operation of each water pump (not shown).

[0083] Therefore, the coolant that has undergone heat exchange with the refrigerant in the cooler 20 can be selectively supplied to the electrical components 3 and the battery module 5, while regulating the temperature of the electrical components 3 and the battery module 5.

[0084] The heat pump system may also include a first valve 18, a second valve 19, a second expansion valve 23, a third valve 25, a second connecting line 31, a third expansion valve 33, a third connecting line 41, a fourth valve 43, a fourth connecting line 51, and a fifth valve 53.

[0085] The first valve 18 can be installed on the refrigerant line 11 between the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13.

[0086] The first valve 18 can selectively open and close the refrigerant line 11 so that refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 flows into the first heat exchanger 13.

[0087] The first valve 18 prevents refrigerant from flowing back from the first heat exchanger 13 to the compressor 10. The first valve 18 may also be a check valve, allowing refrigerant to flow unidirectionally along the refrigerant line 11.

[0088] In the vehicle's interior cooling mode, the first valve 18 configured in this way can close part of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13, so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 will not flow into the first heat exchanger 13.

[0089] When the vehicle's interior cooling mode requires dehumidification, the first valve 18 can open part of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13, allowing the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 to flow into the first heat exchanger 13.

[0090] In the vehicle's interior heating mode, the first valve 18 can open part of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13, so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 flows into the first heat exchanger 13.

[0091] The second valve 19 can be installed on the refrigerant line 11 between the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14.

[0092] The second valve 19 can selectively open and close the refrigerant line 11 so that the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger 13 can selectively flow into the second heat exchanger 14.

[0093] The second valve 19 prevents refrigerant from flowing back from the second heat exchanger 14 to the first heat exchanger 13. The second valve 19 can be a check valve, allowing refrigerant to flow in only one direction along the refrigerant line 11.

[0094] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second expansion valve 23 may be disposed on the first connecting pipeline 21 between the first end of the first connecting pipeline 21 and the cooler 20.

[0095] Depending on the selected air conditioning mode inside the vehicle, the second expansion valve 23 can selectively expand the refrigerant flowing into the first connecting line 21, and allow the selectively expanded refrigerant to flow into the cooler 20.

[0096] In addition, the second expansion valve 23 can supply refrigerant flowing into the first connecting line 21 to the cooler 20 without expansion, or it can close the first connecting line 21 to prevent refrigerant from being supplied to the cooler 20.

[0097] The second expansion valve 23 configured in this way can selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

[0098] More specifically, when the battery module 5 is cooled by the coolant after heat exchange with the refrigerant in the cooler 20, the second expansion valve 23 can open the first connecting line 21. At the same time, the second expansion valve 23 can cause the refrigerant flowing into the first connecting line 21 to expand, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow into the cooler 20.

[0099] The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 to reduce its temperature, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow into the cooler 20, thereby further reducing the temperature of the coolant flowing through the cooler 20.

[0100] Therefore, the coolant whose temperature drops as it flows through the cooler 20 can flow into the battery module 5, thereby achieving more efficient cooling.

[0101] In the selected air conditioning mode inside the vehicle, the second expansion valve 23 can selectively expand the refrigerant supplied from the cooler 20 via the first connecting line 21, and allow the refrigerant to flow through the refrigerant line 11 connected to the first end of the first connecting line 21.

[0102] When the battery module 5 is heated in the vehicle's interior heating mode, the second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant flowing in from the cooler 20, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow along the refrigerant line 11 connected to the second heat exchanger 14.

[0103] In an embodiment of the present invention, the third valve 25 may be disposed on the first connecting pipeline 21 between the second end of the first connecting pipeline 21 and the cooler 20.

[0104] The third valve 25 can selectively open a portion of the first connecting line 21 to allow refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 to flow into the receiver 17.

[0105] The third valve 25 prevents refrigerant from flowing back from the second end of the first connecting line 21 to the cooler 20. The third valve 25 can be a check valve, allowing refrigerant to flow unidirectionally along the first connecting line 21.

[0106] When the battery module 5 needs to be cooled in the vehicle's interior cooling mode, the third valve 25, configured as such, can open a portion of the first connecting line 21 to allow refrigerant flowing through the cooler 20 to flow into the receiver 17.

[0107] In the vehicle's interior heating mode, the third valve 25 can close a portion of the first connecting line 21, preventing refrigerant from flowing into the cooler 20 from the second end of the first connecting line 21.

[0108] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first end of the second connecting line 31 may be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14. The second end of the second connecting line 31 may be connected to the first connecting line 21 between the second end of the first connecting line 21 and the cooler 20.

[0109] The third expansion valve 33 may be installed on the second connecting line 31. The third expansion valve 33 may selectively open and close the second connecting line 31, and may selectively expand the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31.

[0110] In vehicle interior cooling mode, the third expansion valve 33 can close the second connecting line 31. In vehicle interior heating mode, the third expansion valve 33 can open the second connecting line 31.

[0111] In addition, in the vehicle's interior heating mode and heating and dehumidification mode, the third expansion valve 33 can open the second connecting line 31 and allow the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31 to expand.

[0112] Furthermore, when the battery module 5 needs to be heated in the vehicle's interior heating mode, the third expansion valve 33 can open the second connecting line 31, allowing the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31 to flow without expansion.

[0113] The third expansion valve 33 can selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

[0114] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first end of the third connecting line 41 may be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13. The first end of the third connecting line 41 may also be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the compressor 10 and the first valve 18.

[0115] The second end of the third connecting line 41 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14. The second end of the third connecting line 41 can also be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the first heat exchanger 13 and the second valve 19.

[0116] A fourth valve 43 may be installed on the third connecting line 41. The fourth valve 43 may selectively open and close the third connecting line 41.

[0117] The fourth valve 43 prevents refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger 13 to the second heat exchanger 14 from flowing back to the compressor 10 through the third connecting line 41.

[0118] The fourth valve 43 can be a check valve, allowing refrigerant to flow in only one direction along the third connecting line 41.

[0119] In the vehicle's interior cooling mode, the fourth valve 43 can open the third connecting line 41.

[0120] In the vehicle's interior cooling / dehumidification mode, heating mode, or heating / dehumidification mode, the fourth valve 43 can close the third connecting line 41.

[0121] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first end of the fourth connecting line 51 may be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the third heat exchanger 16 and the compressor 10. The first end of the fourth connecting line 51 may be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the third heat exchanger 16 and the receiver 17.

[0122] The second end of the fourth connecting line 51 can be connected to the refrigerant line 11 between the second valve 19 and the second heat exchanger 14.

[0123] Furthermore, a fifth valve 53 may be installed on the fourth connecting line 51. The fifth valve 53 can selectively open and close the fourth connecting line 51 to control the flow of refrigerant.

[0124] The fifth valve 53 prevents refrigerant flowing from the third heat exchanger 16 or cooler 20 to the receiver 17 from flowing back to the second heat exchanger 14 through the fourth connecting line 51.

[0125] The fifth valve 53 can be a check valve, allowing refrigerant to flow in only one direction along the fourth connecting line 51.

[0126] In the vehicle's interior cooling mode, cooling dehumidification mode, or heating dehumidification mode, the fifth valve 53 configured in this way can shut off the fourth connecting line 51.

[0127] When the battery module needs to be heated in the vehicle's interior heating mode, or when the vehicle's interior heating mode is in operation, the fifth valve 53 can open the fourth connecting line 51.

[0128] The first valve 18, the second valve 19, the third valve 25, the fourth valve 43, and the fifth valve 53 can be bidirectional check valves used to open and close the refrigerant line 11, the first connecting line 21, the third connecting line 41, and the fourth connecting line 51, and to control the backflow of refrigerant and the flow rate of refrigerant.

[0129] Furthermore, the first expansion valve 15, the second expansion valve 23, and the third expansion valve 33 may be electronic expansion valves configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

[0130] Below, in conjunction with Figures 2 to 5The operation and function of the vehicle heat pump system configured as described above according to an embodiment of the present invention are described in detail.

[0131] The following is combined Figure 2 The process of cooling battery module 5 in the vehicle's interior cooling mode is described in detail.

[0132] Figure 2 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used for cooling the battery module in the vehicle's interior cooling mode.

[0133] Reference Figure 2 The coolant circulates along the first pipeline 2 through the operation of a water pump (not shown). Simultaneously, the coolant circulates along the second pipeline 4 through the operation of a water pump (not shown).

[0134] The coolant flowing through the electrical component 3 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the first pipeline 2, and the coolant flowing through the battery module 5 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the second pipeline 4.

[0135] In the heat pump system, various components can operate to cool the vehicle interior. Accordingly, refrigerant can circulate along refrigerant line 11.

[0136] The portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13, and the portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the first heat exchanger 13 and the second end of the third connecting line 41, can be closed by the first valve 18.

[0137] The remaining refrigerant lines 11 connecting the second end of the third connecting line 41 to the second heat exchanger 14, the third heat exchanger 16 and the compressor 10 can be opened through the second valve 19 and the first expansion valve 15.

[0138] The first expansion valve 15 allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state.

[0139] To cool the electrical components 3 and the battery module 5, the first connecting line 21 can be opened via the second expansion valve 23 and the third valve 25.

[0140] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the battery module 5 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the second pipeline 4.

[0141] The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the first connecting line 21, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow into the cooler 20 to cool the battery module 5 through the coolant that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the cooler 20.

[0142] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the cooler 20 can be cooled by exchanging heat with the expanded refrigerant supplied to the cooler 20.

[0143] The coolant flowing through the cooler 20 can be cooled by exchanging heat with the expanded refrigerant supplied to the cooler 20. The coolant cooled in the cooler 20 can be supplied to the battery module 5 along the second line 4. Accordingly, the battery module 5 can be efficiently cooled by the coolant cooled in the cooler 20.

[0144] The second connecting line 31 can be closed by the third expansion valve 33. The third connecting line 41 can be opened by the fourth valve 43.

[0145] In addition, the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed via the fifth valve 53.

[0146] In this state, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow along the third connecting line 41 without passing through the first heat exchanger 13.

[0147] The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow along the third connecting line 41 and flow into the second heat exchanger 14 along the portion of the refrigerant line 11 connected to the second heat exchanger 14.

[0148] The second heat exchanger 14 can use air flowing in from the outside to perform preliminary cooling of the refrigerant.

[0149] A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 can flow into the cooler 20 along the first connecting pipe 21.

[0150] The refrigerant flowing into the cooler 20 can exchange heat with the refrigerant supplied through the first pipeline 2 and the second pipeline 4 respectively, and then flow into the compressor 10 through the refrigerant pipeline 11 connected to the first connecting pipeline 21 and the liquid receiver 17.

[0151] In addition, the remainder of the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 into the first expansion valve 15 to cool the interior of the vehicle.

[0152] The first expansion valve 15 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line 11, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow into the third heat exchanger 16.

[0153] The refrigerant flowing through the third heat exchanger 16 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 sequentially through the receiver 17 and the compressor 10.

[0154] The refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 and the refrigerant discharged from the third heat exchanger 16 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 through the receiver 17 and then be supplied to the compressor 10.

[0155] The air flowing into the HVAC module 12 can be cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the third heat exchanger 16 as it flows through the third heat exchanger 16.

[0156] The cooled air can flow through the first heat exchanger 13, which is not supplied with refrigerant, and flow directly into the vehicle interior, thereby cooling the vehicle interior.

[0157] When the above process is repeated, in the vehicle interior cooling mode, the refrigerant can cool the vehicle interior while simultaneously cooling the coolant through heat exchange as it flows through the cooler 20.

[0158] Furthermore, the cryogenic coolant cooled in the cooler 20 can flow into the battery module 5 through the second pipeline 4. Accordingly, the battery module 5 can be efficiently cooled by the supplied cryogenic coolant.

[0159] In the embodiments of the present invention, the following is combined with Figure 3 Describe in detail the operation process of the vehicle's interior cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0160] Figure 3 This is an operational diagram of the vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention in the vehicle interior cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0161] Reference Figure 3 The coolant does not circulate through the first pipeline 2 and the second pipeline 4.

[0162] In the heat pump system, various components can operate to cool the vehicle interior. Accordingly, refrigerant can circulate along refrigerant line 11.

[0163] The refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10, the first heat exchanger 13, the second heat exchanger 14, the first expansion valve 15, and the third heat exchanger 16 can be opened through the first valve 18, the second valve 19, and the first expansion valve 15.

[0164] The first connecting line 21 can be closed via the second expansion valve 23 and the third valve 25. The second connecting line 31 can be closed via the third expansion valve 33.

[0165] The third connecting line 41 can be closed via the fourth valve 43. Furthermore, the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed via the fifth valve 53.

[0166] In this state, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow sequentially along the refrigerant line 11 through the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14.

[0167] The first heat exchanger 13 can use the air flowing into the HVAC module 12 to cool the refrigerant.

[0168] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the second heat exchanger 14 along the refrigerant line 11. The second heat exchanger 14 can use air flowing in from the outside to further cool the refrigerant.

[0169] In addition, the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 into the first expansion valve 15 to cool the interior of the vehicle.

[0170] The first expansion valve 15 can expand the refrigerant flowing in through the refrigerant line 11, and allow the expanded refrigerant to flow into the third heat exchanger 16.

[0171] The refrigerant, which has been cooled more rapidly as it flows through the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14, can expand and be supplied to the third heat exchanger 16.

[0172] In embodiments of the present invention, the first heat exchanger 13 and the second heat exchanger 14 can cool the refrigerant by exchanging heat with air, respectively.

[0173] Through this operation, the heat pump system can cool R744 refrigerant, which is composed of carbon dioxide, more efficiently, thereby ensuring that the refrigerant has a larger phase change heat transfer section.

[0174] Furthermore, as the refrigerant with a larger phase change heat transfer section evaporates in the third heat exchanger 16, the temperature of the air flowing through the third heat exchanger 16 can be further reduced, thereby improving refrigeration performance and efficiency.

[0175] The refrigerant flowing through the third heat exchanger 16 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 sequentially through the receiver 17 and the compressor 10.

[0176] The air flowing into the HVAC module 12 can be cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the third heat exchanger 16 as it flows through the third heat exchanger 16.

[0177] The cooled air flows into the vehicle interior in a dehumidified state as it passes through the first heat exchanger 13, thus effectively cooling and dehumidifying the vehicle interior.

[0178] When the above process is repeated, in the vehicle interior cooling and dehumidification mode, the refrigerant can cool and dehumidify the vehicle interior.

[0179] The following is combined Figure 4 The following describes in detail the operation process of recovering ambient air heat and heating the battery module 5 in the vehicle interior heating mode in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0180] Figure 4 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used to recover ambient air heat and heat the battery module in the vehicle's interior heating mode.

[0181] Reference Figure 4In the vehicle's interior heating mode, the heat pump system can recover heat from the ambient air and use the coolant, after heat exchange with the refrigerant, to raise the temperature of the battery module 5.

[0182] The coolant does not circulate through the first pipeline 2. Instead, it circulates along the second pipeline 4 via the operation of a water pump (not shown).

[0183] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the battery module 5 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the second pipeline 4.

[0184] In the heat pump system, various components can operate to heat the vehicle interior. Accordingly, refrigerant can circulate along refrigerant line 11.

[0185] A portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13 can be opened via the first valve 18.

[0186] The portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the first end of the second connecting line 31 to the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed by the second valve 19.

[0187] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant pipeline 11 connecting the first end of the first connecting pipeline 21 to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline 51 can be closed by the first expansion valve 15.

[0188] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 to the first end of the first connecting line 21 can be opened.

[0189] A portion of the first connecting line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23, so that the first end of the second connecting line 31 can be connected to the second heat exchanger 14 via the refrigerant line 11. The remaining portion of the first connecting line 21 can be closed by the third valve 25.

[0190] The second expansion valve 23 allows refrigerant flowing from the cooler 20 through the open portion of the first connecting line 21 to flow in an expanded state.

[0191] The second connecting line 31 can be opened via the third expansion valve 33. The third expansion valve 33 allows the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion.

[0192] In an embodiment of the invention, the third connecting line 41 can be closed by the fourth valve 43. Furthermore, the fourth connecting line 51 can be opened by the fifth valve 53.

[0193] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 into the first heat exchanger 13. The refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0194] Air flowing into the HVAC module 12 from the outside can be converted to a high temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13, and then flow into the vehicle interior to heat the vehicle interior.

[0195] In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the third expansion valve 33 along the second connecting line 31.

[0196] The third expansion valve 33 allows the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31 to flow to the open portion of the first connecting line 21 without expansion.

[0197] The refrigerant flowing from the compressor 10 and through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the cooler 20 along the second connecting line 31 and a portion of the first connecting line 21.

[0198] The refrigerant flowing into the cooler 20 can increase the temperature of the coolant when it exchanges heat with the coolant supplied from the battery module 5 through the second pipeline 4.

[0199] The coolant heated in the cooler 20 can be supplied to the battery module 5 along the second pipeline 4. Accordingly, the temperature of the battery module 5 can be efficiently increased by the coolant heated in the cooler 20.

[0200] The refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 can flow along the first connecting line 21 into the second expansion valve 23. The second expansion valve 23 can expand the refrigerant to supply the expanded refrigerant to the second heat exchanger 14.

[0201] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 expands in the second expansion valve 23 and can flow into the second heat exchanger 14 along part of the refrigerant line 11.

[0202] The second heat exchanger 14 can recover ambient air heat while evaporating the expanded refrigerant through heat exchange with air flowing in from the outside.

[0203] Since the heat pump system uses recovered ambient air heat to raise the temperature of the refrigerant, it can reduce the power consumption of the compressor 10 and improve heating efficiency.

[0204] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 can flow through the open portion of the fourth connecting line 51 and the refrigerant line 11, pass through the receiver 17, and then be supplied to the compressor 10.

[0205] Furthermore, the refrigerant compressed to a high temperature and high pressure state in the compressor 10 can be sent back to the first heat exchanger 13, thereby repeating the above process.

[0206] The refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0207] Accordingly, the air flowing into the HVAC module 12 can be converted to a high-temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13 and then flow into the vehicle interior, thereby heating the vehicle interior.

[0208] The coolant, heated in the cooler 20 through heat exchange with the refrigerant, can be supplied to the battery module 5 along the second pipeline 4. Accordingly, the battery module 5 can be rapidly heated by the coolant heated in the cooler 20.

[0209] The following is combined Figure 5 The following describes in detail the operation process of recovering ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components 3 in one embodiment of the present invention during vehicle interior heating mode.

[0210] Figure 5 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used to recover ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating mode.

[0211] Reference Figure 5 The coolant circulates along the first line 2 via the operation of a water pump (not shown). The coolant does not flow through the second line 4, which can be kept closed.

[0212] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the electrical component 3 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the first pipeline 2.

[0213] In the heat pump system, various components can operate to heat the vehicle interior. Accordingly, refrigerant can circulate along refrigerant line 11.

[0214] A portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13 can be opened via the first valve 18.

[0215] The portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the first end of the second connecting line 31 to the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed by the second valve 19.

[0216] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant pipeline 11 connecting the first end of the first connecting pipeline 21 to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline 51 can be closed by the first expansion valve 15.

[0217] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 to the first end of the first connecting line 21 can be opened.

[0218] A portion of the first connecting line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23, so that the first end of the second connecting line 31 can be connected to the second heat exchanger 14 via the refrigerant line 11. The remaining portion of the first connecting line 21 can be closed by the third valve 25.

[0219] The second expansion valve 23 allows refrigerant flowing from the cooler 20 through the open portion of the first connecting line 21 to flow without expansion.

[0220] The second connecting line 31 can be opened via the third expansion valve 33. The third expansion valve 33 allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state.

[0221] In an embodiment of the invention, the third connecting line 41 can be closed by the fourth valve 43. Furthermore, the fourth connecting line 51 can be opened by the fifth valve 53.

[0222] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow along the refrigerant line 11 into the first heat exchanger 13. The refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0223] Air flowing into the HVAC module 12 from the outside can be converted to a high temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13, and then flow into the vehicle interior to heat the vehicle interior.

[0224] In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the third expansion valve 33 along the second connecting line 31.

[0225] The third expansion valve 33 allows the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31 to flow to the open portion of the first connecting line 21 in an expanded state.

[0226] The refrigerant flowing from the compressor 10 and through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the cooler 20 along the second connecting line 31 and a portion of the first connecting line 21.

[0227] The cooler 20 can evaporate the expanded refrigerant by exchanging heat with the coolant supplied via the first pipeline 2. The cooler 20 can recover the waste heat of the electrical components 3 from the coolant that is heated by recovering the waste heat of the electrical components 3.

[0228] The refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 can flow along the first connecting line 21 into the second expansion valve 23. The second expansion valve 23 allows the refrigerant to flow without expansion.

[0229] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 does not expand in the second expansion valve 23, but can flow into the second heat exchanger 14 along part of the refrigerant line 11.

[0230] The second heat exchanger 14 can recover ambient air heat while evaporating the incoming refrigerant through heat exchange with air flowing in from the outside.

[0231] The heat pump system increases the temperature of the refrigerant by utilizing the waste heat from the recovered electrical components 3 and ambient air heat, thereby reducing the power consumption of the compressor 10 and improving heating efficiency.

[0232] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 14 can flow through the open portion of the fourth connecting line 51 and the refrigerant line 11, pass through the receiver 17, and then be supplied to the compressor 10.

[0233] Furthermore, the refrigerant compressed to a high temperature and high pressure state in the compressor 10 can be sent back to the first heat exchanger 13, thereby repeating the above process.

[0234] The refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0235] Accordingly, the air flowing into the HVAC module 12 can be converted to a high-temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13 and then flow into the vehicle interior, thereby heating the vehicle interior.

[0236] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, when it is necessary to simultaneously recover the waste heat of battery module 5, coolant can circulate along the second pipeline 4 by operating a water pump (not shown). Accordingly, the coolant flowing through battery module 5 can be supplied to cooler 20 along the second pipeline 4.

[0237] The following is combined Figure 6 The following describes in detail the operation process of recovering waste heat from electrical components 3 in the vehicle interior heating and dehumidification mode in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0238] Figure 6 This is an operational diagram of a vehicle heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present invention, used for recovering waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode.

[0239] Reference Figure 6 The coolant circulates along the first line 2 via the operation of a water pump (not shown). The coolant does not flow through the second line 4, which can be kept closed.

[0240] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the electrical component 3 can be supplied to the cooler 20 along the first pipeline 2.

[0241] In the heat pump system, various components can operate to heat and dehumidify the vehicle interior. Accordingly, refrigerant can circulate along refrigerant line 11.

[0242] A portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the compressor 10 and the first heat exchanger 13 can be opened via the first valve 18.

[0243] The portion of the refrigerant line 11 connecting the first end of the second connecting line 31 to the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed by the second valve 19.

[0244] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant pipeline 11 connecting the first end of the first connecting pipeline 21 to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline 51 can be opened via the first expansion valve 15.

[0245] The first expansion valve 15 allows the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion.

[0246] In addition, the portion of refrigerant line 11 connecting the second end of the fourth connecting line 51 to the first end of the first connecting line 21 can be shut off.

[0247] A portion of the first connecting line 21 can be opened by the second expansion valve 23, so that the first end of the second connecting line 31 can be connected to the first expansion valve 15 via the refrigerant line 11. The remaining portion of the first connecting line 21 can be closed by the third valve 25.

[0248] The second expansion valve 23 allows refrigerant flowing from the cooler 20 through the open portion of the first connecting line 21 to flow without expansion.

[0249] The second connecting line 31 can be opened via the third expansion valve 33. The third expansion valve 33 allows the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state.

[0250] In an embodiment of the invention, the third connecting line 41 can be closed by the fourth valve 43. Furthermore, the fourth connecting line 51 can be closed by the fifth valve 53.

[0251] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 can flow into the first heat exchanger 13 along the refrigerant line 11. The first heat exchanger 13 can use the air flowing into the HVAC module 12 to cool the incoming refrigerant.

[0252] The refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0253] Air flowing into the HVAC module 12 from the outside can be converted to a high temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13, and then flow into the vehicle interior to heat the vehicle interior.

[0254] In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the third expansion valve 33 along the second connecting line 31.

[0255] The third expansion valve 33 allows the refrigerant flowing in through the second connecting line 31 to flow to the open portion of the first connecting line 21 in an expanded state.

[0256] The refrigerant flowing from the compressor 10 and through the first heat exchanger 13 can flow into the cooler 20 along the second connecting line 31 and a portion of the first connecting line 21.

[0257] The cooler 20 can evaporate the expanded refrigerant by exchanging heat with the coolant supplied via the first pipeline 2. The cooler 20 can recover the waste heat of the electrical components 3 from the coolant that is heated by recovering the waste heat of the electrical components 3.

[0258] The refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 can flow along the first connecting line 21 into the second expansion valve 23. The second expansion valve 23 allows the refrigerant to flow without expansion.

[0259] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 does not expand in the second expansion valve 23, but can flow into the first expansion valve 15 along part of the refrigerant line 11.

[0260] Since the heat pump system uses the waste heat from the recovered electrical components 3 to raise the temperature of the refrigerant, the power consumption of the compressor 10 can be reduced and the heating efficiency can be improved.

[0261] The refrigerant discharged from the first expansion valve 15 can flow into the third heat exchanger 16 along the open refrigerant line 11.

[0262] The refrigerant discharged from the cooler 20 can flow along the open portion of the first connecting line 21 and a portion of the refrigerant line 11 through the first expansion valve 15 and into the third heat exchanger 16.

[0263] The refrigerant flowing through the third heat exchanger 16 can flow along the open portion of the refrigerant line 11 through the receiver 17. In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the receiver 17 can be supplied to the compressor 10.

[0264] Subsequently, the refrigerant, compressed to a high temperature and high pressure state by the compressor 10, can be supplied again along the refrigerant pipeline 11 to the first heat exchanger 13, thereby repeating the above process.

[0265] As described above, the refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13 can increase the temperature of the air flowing into the HVAC module 12.

[0266] The air flowing into the HVAC module 12 is dehumidified by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the third heat exchanger 16. Then, the air is converted to a high-temperature state when it flows through the first heat exchanger 13 and is then flowed into the vehicle interior, thus effectively heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior.

[0267] Therefore, as described above, when the vehicle heat pump system according to the embodiments of the present invention is applied, natural refrigerants can be used to cool or heat the interior of the vehicle, thereby complying with environmental regulations and improving the overall market competitiveness of the vehicle.

[0268] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by applying the natural refrigerant R744, which utilizes carbon dioxide, the cooling and heating performance of the vehicle interior can be maximized by operating in the supercritical region where the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are higher than the critical pressure and critical temperature.

[0269] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by utilizing a single cooler 20 that allows the coolant and refrigerant to exchange heat with each other, the temperature of the battery module 5 can be efficiently regulated according to the vehicle mode, thereby achieving system simplification and streamlining.

[0270] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by efficiently regulating the temperature of the battery module 5, the battery module 5 can achieve optimal performance, and by efficiently managing the battery module 5, the overall driving range of the vehicle can be increased.

[0271] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by using a coolant heated through heat exchange with the refrigerant to heat the battery module 5, a separate coolant heater for heating the battery module 5 can be eliminated, and the energy consumption for raising the temperature of the battery module 5 can be minimized.

[0272] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by streamlining the entire system, manufacturing costs can be reduced, weight can be decreased, and space utilization can be improved.

[0273] While the invention has been described in conjunction with embodiments currently considered practical, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather, it is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0274] Symbol Explanation 2, 4: First pipeline and second pipeline 3: Electrical components 5: Battery Module 7: Cooling fan 10: Compressor 11: Refrigerant Piping 12: HVAC Module 13, 14, 16: First heat exchanger, second heat exchanger, and third heat exchanger 15: First expansion valve 17: Liquid reservoir 18, 19: First valve and second valve 20: Cooler 21: First connecting pipeline 23: Second expansion valve 25: Third valve 31: Second connecting pipeline 33: Third expansion valve 41: Third connecting pipeline 43: Fourth valve 51: Fourth connecting pipeline 53: Fifth Valve

Claims

1. A heat pump system for a vehicle, the heat pump system comprising: The compressor, the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first expansion valve, and the third heat exchanger are connected by refrigerant lines to circulate refrigerant. The first connecting line includes a first end connected to a refrigerant line connecting the second heat exchanger and the first expansion valve, and a second end connected to a refrigerant line connecting the third heat exchanger and the compressor; A cooler is provided on the first connecting pipeline, the cooler being configured to regulate the temperature of the coolant through heat exchange between the refrigerant and the coolant; The second expansion valve is disposed on the first connecting pipeline between the first end of the first connecting pipeline and the cooler; The second connecting line includes a first end of a refrigerant line connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, and a second end of a first connecting line connected between the second end of the first connecting line and the cooler. as well as The third connecting line includes a first end of a refrigerant line connected between the compressor and the first heat exchanger, and a second end of a refrigerant line connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

2. The heat pump system according to claim 1, further comprising: The first valve is installed on the refrigerant pipeline between the compressor and the first heat exchanger; The second valve is installed on the refrigerant pipeline between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; The third valve is installed on the first connecting pipeline between the second end of the first connecting pipeline and the cooler; The third expansion valve is installed on the second connecting pipeline; as well as The fourth valve is located on the third connecting pipeline.

3. The heat pump system according to claim 2, further comprising: The fourth connecting line includes a first end of a refrigerant line connected between the third heat exchanger and the compressor, and a second end of a refrigerant line connected between the second valve and the second heat exchanger; as well as The fifth valve is located on the fourth connecting pipeline.

4. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, When cooling the battery module in the vehicle's interior cooling mode: The portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger, and the portion of the refrigerant line connecting the first heat exchanger and the second end of the third connecting line, are configured to be closed by the first valve; The remaining refrigerant in the refrigerant pipeline, which connects the second end of the third connecting pipeline to the second heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the compressor, is configured to be opened by the second valve and the first expansion valve; The first connecting line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve and the third valve; The second connecting line is configured to be closed by the third expansion valve; The third connecting line is configured to be opened by the fourth valve; and The fourth connecting line is configured to be closed by the fifth valve.

5. The heat pump system according to claim 4, wherein: The first expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state; The second expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state, so that the battery module can be cooled by the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the cooler. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows into the second heat exchanger along the third connecting line and the open refrigerant line; A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger flows into the cooler along the first connecting pipeline; The remaining refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger flows into the first expansion valve along the refrigerant line; and The refrigerant discharged from the cooler and the refrigerant discharged from the third heat exchanger are supplied to the compressor along the refrigerant pipeline.

6. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, In vehicle interior cooling and dehumidification mode: The refrigerant line connecting the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first expansion valve, and the third heat exchanger is configured to be opened by the first valve, the second valve, and the first expansion valve; The first connecting line is configured to be closed by the second expansion valve and the third valve; The second connecting line is configured to be closed by the third expansion valve; The third connecting line is configured to be closed by the fourth valve; and The fourth connecting line is configured to be closed by the fifth valve.

7. The heat pump system according to claim 6, wherein: The first expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state; and The refrigerant discharged from the compressor is configured to flow along a refrigerant line to pass sequentially through the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger.

8. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, When ambient air heat is recovered and used to heat the battery module in the vehicle's interior heating mode: The portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger is configured to be opened by the first valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the first end of the second connecting pipeline to the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the second valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the second end of the first connecting pipeline to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the first expansion valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline that connects the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline to the first end of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be open; A portion of the first connecting line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve, such that the first end of the second connecting line is connected to the second heat exchanger via a refrigerant line; The remainder of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the third valve; The second connecting line is configured to be opened by the third expansion valve; The third connecting line is configured to be closed by the fourth valve; and The fourth connecting line is configured to be opened by the fifth valve.

9. The heat pump system according to claim 8, wherein: The cooler is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the refrigerant flowing in from the battery module; The second expansion valve is configured to allow refrigerant flowing from the cooler via a portion of the first connecting line to flow in an expanded state; The third expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion; The refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger flows into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line; The refrigerant discharged from the cooler expands in the second expansion valve and then flows into the second heat exchanger in its expanded state along a portion of the refrigerant line; and The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger is supplied to the compressor along the fourth connecting line and the open portion of the refrigerant line.

10. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, When recovering ambient air heat and waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating mode: The portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger is configured to be opened by the first valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the first end of the second connecting pipeline to the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the second valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the first end of the first connecting pipeline to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the first expansion valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline that connects the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline to the first end of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be open; A portion of the first connecting line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve, such that the first end of the second connecting line is connected to the second heat exchanger via a refrigerant line; The remainder of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the third valve; The second connecting line is configured to be opened by the third expansion valve; The third connecting line is configured to be closed by the fourth valve; and The fourth connecting line is configured to be opened by the fifth valve.

11. The heat pump system according to claim 10, wherein: The cooler is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the refrigerant flowing in from the electrical components; The second expansion valve is configured to allow refrigerant flowing from the cooler via a portion of the first connecting line to flow without expansion; The third expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state. The refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger flows into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line; The refrigerant discharged from the cooler flows into the second heat exchanger along the open portion of the first connecting pipe and a portion of the refrigerant pipe; and The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger is supplied to the compressor along the fourth connecting line and the open portion of the refrigerant line.

12. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, When recovering waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's interior heating and dehumidification mode: The portion of the refrigerant line connecting the compressor and the first heat exchanger is configured to be opened by the first valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the first end of the second connecting pipeline to the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the second valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline connecting the first end of the first connecting pipeline to the first end of the fourth connecting pipeline is configured to be opened by the first expansion valve; The portion of the refrigerant pipeline that connects the second end of the fourth connecting pipeline to the first end of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be closed; A portion of the first connecting line is configured to be opened by the second expansion valve, such that the first end of the second connecting line is connected to the first expansion valve via a refrigerant line; The remainder of the first connecting pipeline is configured to be closed by the third valve; The second connecting line is configured to be opened by the third expansion valve; The third connecting line is configured to be closed by the fourth valve; and The fourth connecting line is configured to be closed by the fifth valve.

13. The heat pump system according to claim 12, wherein: The first expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow without expansion; The cooler is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the refrigerant flowing in from the electrical components; The second expansion valve is configured to allow refrigerant flowing from the cooler via a portion of the first connecting line to flow without expansion; The third expansion valve is configured to allow the incoming refrigerant to flow in an expanded state. The refrigerant flowing from the compressor and through the first heat exchanger flows into the cooler along the second connecting line and a portion of the first connecting line; The refrigerant discharged from the cooler flows along the open portion of the first connecting line and a portion of the refrigerant line through the first expansion valve to flow into the third heat exchanger; and The refrigerant discharged from the third heat exchanger is supplied to the compressor along the open portion of the refrigerant pipeline.

14. The heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein, The first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fourth valve, and the fifth valve are check valves configured to allow the refrigerant flowing in the corresponding pipeline to flow in only one direction.

15. The heat pump system according to claim 2, wherein, The first expansion valve, the second expansion valve, and the third expansion valve are electronic expansion valves configured to selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the refrigerant flow.

16. The heat pump system according to claim 1 further includes a liquid receiver disposed on a refrigerant line between the third heat exchanger and the compressor.

17. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The second heat exchanger and the cooler are configured to cool or evaporate the refrigerant.

18. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein: The first, second, and third heat exchangers are air-cooled gas coolers configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and air; and The cooler is a water-cooled gas cooler, configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the coolant.

19. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerant is R744 refrigerant, which is formed from carbon dioxide.

20. The heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The cooler is connected to the electrical components and battery module via a first pipeline and a second pipeline for coolant circulation.

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