Procedure for configuring a heat pump

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (30) for configuring a heat pump (2), in which ambient sound (34) is recorded at an installation location (8). A frequency spectrum (46) of the ambient sound (34) is created, and a component (54) causing operating noise is adapted depending on the frequency spectrum (46) of the ambient sound (34). The invention further relates to a heat pump (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for configuring a heat pump and to a heat pump.

[0002] Heat pumps are increasingly being used to heat buildings. These have a refrigerant circuit with a compressor driven by an electric motor. The compressor compresses a gaseous refrigerant, usually supplied through pipes, which is then fed to a first heat exchanger, which is thermally connected to another component of a heating system, for example. There, thermal energy is extracted from the refrigerant, causing the refrigerant to cool and liquefy. The liquefied refrigerant is fed to an expansion valve, which reduces the pressure and evaporates part of the liquid refrigerant. The cooled refrigerant is fed to a second heat exchanger, which in the case of an air-water heat pump is usually pressurized with ambient air. There, heat is extracted from the environment, and the refrigerant is heated again.The refrigerant is then returned to the compressor.

[0003] To ensure that a comparatively large amount of energy can be transferred through the second heat exchanger, it is usually designed with a relatively large surface area. The second heat exchanger is also usually located outside a building, allowing for a comparatively large volume flow of ambient air. To support this volume flow, a fan is usually installed, which has a fan impeller driven by another electric motor.

[0004] The operation of the electric motors creates vibrations that, for example, directly lead to sound waves. This also results in mechanical excitation of other components of the heat pump, which can be perceived as disturbing by people in the surrounding area. In order to increase comfort, comparatively extensive acoustic insulation is usually used, which leads to increased costs on the one hand and larger space requirements on the other. This also makes it more difficult to duct air to the second heat exchanger. Other solutions, for example, involve recording the ambient noise during operation and determining time windows during which the sound level of the ambient noise is low. Operation is then reduced during these time windows, which leads to less operating noise from the heat pump. However, due to the repeated changes in operating points, mechanical stress is increased.This also does not ensure that the heat demand provided by the heating system is always fully covered.

[0005] In DE 10 2014 226 997 A1, it is proposed for the self-adaptive noise control of a heat pump that a noise level of the ambient noise in the area of ​​the outdoor unit is recorded by means of a measuring unit, that an upper limit speed of a device component is determined depending on the noise level, and that the speed for the operation of the device component is limited upwards by the limit speed.

[0006] DE 10 2018 111 566 A1 discloses a method for operating an air-to-water heat pump. The air-to-water heat pump is preferably operated precisely when the ambient noise level is already elevated.

[0007] DE 10 2017 115 160 A1 shows a heat pump with a damping element which is fixedly connected to a refrigerant line and to a static bearing, wherein the damping element is designed to dampen vibrations of the refrigerant line in amplitude relative to the static bearing.

[0008] DE 10 2022 200 475 A1 discloses a heat pump device with at least one control unit. The control unit is designed to take into account an operating parameter value to be avoided, selected from a permissible range of operating parameters, stored in the memory unit when controlling the heat pump.

[0009] The invention is based on the object of specifying a particularly suitable method for configuring a heat pump and a particularly suitable heat pump, wherein comfort is expediently increased and / or a construction is simplified, and wherein effort, manufacturing costs and / or complexity are suitably reduced.

[0010] With regard to the method, this object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 and with regard to the heat pump by the features of claim 8. Advantageous further developments and refinements are the subject of the respective subclaims.

[0011] The method is used to configure a heat pump. The heat pump is used, for example, for cooling and, when installed, is in particular a component of an air conditioning system. However, the heat pump is preferably a component of a heating system or heating system. The heat pump is used, in particular, for heating a building, for example, a single-family home, an apartment building, or a factory building. In particular, the heat pump has a nominal heat output of between 2.6 kW and 15 kW or of up to 60 kW. The heat pump is particularly suitable, expediently provided, and configured for this purpose. In particular, the heat pump is a so-called air-water heat pump.

[0012] The heat pump preferably comprises a compressor driven by a first electric motor. The first electric motor is in particular a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. The compressor is suitably used to compress a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit of the heat pump. The compressor, for example a compressor head of the compressor, is expediently fluidically connected, in particular by means of a pipe, to a first heat exchanger. For example, the first heat exchanger is a component of the heat pump or is spaced apart from it. The first heat exchanger is expediently fluidically connected to an expansion valve, which in turn is preferably connected to a second heat exchanger. This is connected to the compressor, thus creating a refrigerant circuit. In particular, the refrigerant circuit is filled with a refrigerant.

[0013] The second heat exchanger preferably has cooling fins or a cooling network. A fan is expediently assigned to the second heat exchanger, which fan has a fan wheel driven by a second electric motor. This is expediently designed as a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. When the fan is operating, an air flow is generated, which is guided over any cooling fins or through any cooling network. For this purpose, the heat pump suitably comprises appropriate air guiding elements.

[0014] In particular, the heat pump has a housing within which the compressor and the first electric motor, as well as the second heat exchanger and the fan, are arranged. The housing is expediently suitable, in particular designed and configured, for outdoor use. The housing preferably comprises one or more openings through which ambient air can be guided to the second heat exchanger. In a further development, for example, the first heat exchanger and / or the expansion valve are also arranged within the housing, or they are arranged in a further housing, which is arranged at a distance, for example.

[0015] The heat pump has a component that causes operating noise, which will also be referred to simply as a component below. When the heat pump is in operation, the operating noise is generated, for example, by the component itself. In other words, the operating noise is caused in particular by the operation of the component. Alternatively, the component is not operated directly, but is excited by another component in such a way that it is set into mechanical vibrations that the operating noise is emitted. In particular, the operating noise is not desired but is merely caused by the operation of the heat pump. In other words, the operating noise is particularly annoying. In summary, the component causes at least one of several operating noises of the heat pump when it is in operation.

[0016] A component that causes such operating noise is, for example, any of the electric motors, by means of which the operating noise is directly emitted. Another component that emits such operating noise is, for example, a fan impeller or a compressor. In summary, the component is, in particular, an active component. However, it is also possible for the operating noise to be emitted by a passive element that is not directly operated. In this case, the operating noise is generated in particular due to excitation of the passive element by, for example, an active element. For example, the component is one of the two heat exchangers or a pipe by means of which a fluid connection of the refrigeration circuit is established. Another such component is, for example, the housing.Furthermore, such a component is, for example, an active element, such as one of the electric motors, if it does not directly emit operating noises, but by means of which another element, such as the possible housing, is excited in such a way that it emits the operating noises.

[0017] The method provides for ambient sound to be recorded at an installation location. The installation location particularly includes the installation position, i.e. the location where the heat pump is already located. Alternatively, the heat pump is not yet at the installation position but is to be installed there. In other words, the method can be carried out both before and after the heat pump has been installed at the installation position. The installation location, for example, only refers to the installation position, i.e. the location where the heat pump stands directly on the earth / ground or is at least firmly anchored to infrastructure or real estate. However, the installation location preferably also includes the surrounding area / radius around the installation position of the heat pump. The edge of the installation location is preferably more than 10 cm or 50 cm away from the installation position.Suitably, the distance between the edge of the installation site and the mounting position is less than 10 m, 5 m, 2 m or 1 m.

[0018] The recorded ambient sound is not caused by the operation of the heat pump. In particular, the ambient sound is recorded when the heat pump is not in operation, for example because it is not yet at the installation site. If the heat pump is already at the installation site, it is not operated at or during the recording of the ambient sound. A microphone or at least an electromechanical sound transducer is expediently used to record the ambient sound. The ambient sound is therefore subsequently present, in particular, as an electronic electrical signal, which facilitates further processing. For example, the ambient sound is only recorded once. Preferably, however, the recording takes place over a specific period of time, for example once or multiple times.

[0019] In a further step, a frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is created. If the ambient sound is recorded over a comparatively long period / multiple periods, either an average of the ambient sound is calculated, or auxiliary frequency spectra of the ambient sound are created for specific time windows, such as each period or a fraction of the respective period. Subsequently, the average of the auxiliary frequency spectra of the ambient sound is expediently created and used as the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. Based on the creation of the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound, it is checked which frequencies are present within the ambient sound. This can be done continuously, for example, or preferably using discrete steps, so that in particular several frequency bands are used. This simplifies processing.A Fourier analysis, such as an FFT, is advantageously used to create the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. Alternatively, or in combination with this, filtering, particularly using a filter bank, is performed. This reduces computational effort.

[0020] The component causing the operating noise is adapted depending on the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. For example, its operating mode is changed. Suitably, the adaptation involves changing an operating point of the component so that, as a result of the adaptation, it is subsequently operated at a different operating point or in a different manner. In particular, the adaptation results in a change in the operating noise when the heat pump is subsequently operated. In particular, compared to operation without the adaptation, a frequency of the operating noise is changed, or at least the sound level at different frequencies. For example, the sound level is increased at one frequency and decreased at another. In summary, the change expediently changes a frequency spectrum of the operating noise that is caused by the component.Expediently, with the exception of the change in the frequency spectrum of the operating noise, no other effects occur, or these are compensated for (additionally or otherwise). Thus, with the exception of the changed operating noise, there is no significant change in the operation of the heat pump, with, for example, a slight deterioration in efficiency due to the change.

[0021] Due to the adaptation of the component depending on the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound, for example, components of the operating noise with a frequency that is comparatively strong in the ambient sound are only slightly altered, whereas the components of the operating noise whose frequencies are not present or only slightly present in the ambient sound are altered more significantly. In other words, due to the adaptation of the component, the frequency spectrum of the operating noise is expediently changed / shifted. In particular, the shift is such that a large part of the frequency spectrum of the operating noise is masked by the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. Thus, essentially only the non-masked part of the operating noise is perceptible to the user, which they attribute to the heat pump.As a result, the heat pump's operation is barely noticeable or even completely unnoticeable by the user. This also ensures that the heat pump blends into the environment, particularly the noise emitted by the heat pump, which also increases acceptance of the heat pump.

[0022] In summary, it is thus possible, with comparatively little effort, to adapt the unavoidable operating noise such that it is not perceived by a user, or only slightly, due to the existing ambient noise. This increases comfort without requiring comparatively extensive insulation or the like. This reduces manufacturing costs and complexity, while simplifying construction. In other words, the invention does not necessarily intend to reduce the sound level generally, but rather to focus it specifically on those parts of the frequency range where the operating noise is either not perceptible or at least perceived as pleasant.

[0023] To adapt the component, for example, one of several specifications is selected. In particular, the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is classified, and depending on the classification, the component is adapted accordingly. In other words, the recorded frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is assigned to one of several classes. In particular, each class is assigned a corresponding adaptation of the component. For example, one of the classes corresponds to the environment of a river, a mountain, or a city. This makes it possible, for example, to operate the same heat pump near a river, in a city, or on a mountain. Due to the adaptation of the component, the operation of the heat pump is only slightly noticeable, but the heat output provided is always the same.

[0024] Alternatively, several rules or specifications are stored, for example, specifying how the adaptation should be performed when certain frequencies are significantly present in the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. In one refinement, the adaptation is performed iteratively. In another alternative, a neural network is used to adapt the component, which is conveniently already trained by the heat pump manufacturer. Suitable training takes place each time the process is repeated, so that the adaptation is continually improved.

[0025] For example, only a single component is present and adjusted accordingly. Preferably, however, a plurality or multiplicity of corresponding components is present, from which, for example, one is selected and adjusted. Alternatively, several or all components are adjusted accordingly. The plurality / multiplicity allows for a comparatively extensive and thus individual adjustment to the respective installation location and the ambient noise prevailing there.

[0026] Preferably, after configuration is complete, the heat pump is operated, in particular according to current requirements. In this case, the current requirements are, in particular, the required heat output. Operation itself is expediently independent of ambient noise, i.e., in particular, solely based on the required heat output, with the adapted component resulting in the desired / preferred operating noise. In particular, the resulting operating noise differs between two otherwise identical heat pumps that are installed at different locations and thus in different ambient noise levels, even if the provided heat output is the same.

[0027] For example, the adjustment only takes place once, expediently during assembly or commissioning of the heat pump. In a further development, the ambient sound is recorded again while the heat pump is in operation, and a corresponding frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is created. In particular, the operation of the heat pump is stopped during recording. The (newly) created frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is expediently compared with a similarly recorded frequency spectrum of the ambient sound during which the heat pump is in operation, so that the ambient sound also includes the operating noise. The component is then expediently adjusted again. Suitable iterative adjustment of the component thus takes place. Preferably, the adjustment of the component to the existing ambient sound is thus controlled. This ensures that the heat pump is comparatively unnoticeable.Changes in ambient noise are also taken into account.

[0028] For example, after adjustment, the operating noise no longer has any components at certain frequencies. However, it is particularly preferred to adjust the component such that, at predetermined frequencies of the operating noise, the associated sound level is lower than the respective sound level of the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound, at least at the installation location, i.e., for example, at the mounting positions or in the vicinity thereof, preferably where the ambient sound was recorded. The (resulting) operating noise at the predetermined frequencies continues to have the sound level, for example a significantly present one, but this level is lower than the sound level of the ambient sound. Since the sound level of the operating noise does not have to be completely suppressed, adjustment is easier.At the predetermined frequencies, the operating noise caused by the component is not audible to a user due to the existing ambient noise. In particular, there is a threshold value, for example 5 dB, at which the sound level of the operating noise is lower than the sound level of the ambient noise after adjustment. Thus, even with fluctuations in the ambient noise, the operation of the heat pump is not audible, at least at the predetermined frequency. For example, if the sound level of the operating noise is 50 dB at the predetermined frequency without adjustment, but the ambient noise at that frequency has a sound level of 30 dB, the adjustment is carried out in such a way that after adjustment of the operating noise at the predetermined frequency has a sound level below 30 dB.

[0029] For example, the predetermined frequencies are all frequencies. Alternatively, they are selected such that they are perceived as unpleasant by a user. Suitably, the specification that the sound level is lower than the respective sound level of the ambient sound only applies to frequencies that are perceived as unpleasant by the user. Otherwise, the specification is not present, so that the operation of the heat pump is perceived as pleasant by the user. Thus, comfort is increased, and due to the adaptation of the component, it is not necessary to reduce the entire operation of the heat pump so that the operation of the heat pump is not perceived or is only perceived in a pleasant manner. Preferably, the adaptation is carried out in such a way that at frequencies that do not correspond to the predetermined frequencies, an increased sound level is possible so that there are no losses in performance during operation of the heat pump.For example, the adjustment results in an increase in the sound level at frequencies that do not correspond to the predetermined frequencies. This facilitates the adjustment without compromising performance. The sound level is expediently increased at frequencies that the user finds comfortable and / or where the sound level is already comparatively high before the adjustment. The change in the sound level is only slightly perceptible to the user at these frequencies, although the sound level at the predetermined frequencies can be significantly reduced, making them imperceptible.

[0030] For example, the component is adjusted solely depending on the ambient sound. However, it is particularly preferred to also take a hearing area into account, so that the component is also adjusted depending on the hearing area. The hearing area, which is also referred to as the hearing range or hearing field, specifies a sound level for each frequency, the so-called hearing threshold, above which sound of that particular frequency can be perceived. The hearing threshold is not constant. In addition, the hearing area is limited by the minimum and maximum perceivable frequencies and is therefore located specifically between 16 Hz and 21 kHz. When adjusting the component, it is advisable to shift the operating noise to a frequency whose sound level is below the hearing threshold, whereby the sound level itself is not changed. For example, at 200 Hz the hearing threshold is 10 dB.If the operating noise at 200 Hz has a sound level of 30 dB, this is perceptible to the human ear. In this case, the component is conveniently adjusted so that the operating noise is at approximately 50 Hz. In this case, the hearing threshold is 40 dB, so the operating noise is then imperceptible. The adjustment can even be made in such a way that the absolute sound level increases, for example, to 35 dB. In other words, the component can also be adjusted in such a way that the sound level increases, but the sound level remains below the hearing threshold.

[0031] Alternatively or in combination with this, the component is adjusted depending on user input. In particular, the user input is first recorded for this purpose. Using the user input, for example, the age of the person living at the installation site is entered. With increased age, high frequencies in particular are not audible or only slightly audible, so that in this case it is expedient to adjust the operating noise to audible frequencies. Alternatively or in combination with this, for example, certain frequencies are specified using the user input which the user / person finds pleasant. The change is then suitably carried out in such a way that the sound level of the operating housing is reduced at the remaining frequencies, whereas an increase in the sound level is at least tolerated at the specified frequencies.For example, user input can be used to specify the predetermined frequencies at which the associated sound level should be lower than the respective sound level of the ambient sound frequency spectrum. This allows the heat pump to be individually adapted to the user, or at least to the people living in the vicinity of the installation site, thus increasing their comfort.

[0032] For example, to adapt the component, a mechanical coupling or damping is changed. For this purpose, a rubber damper is replaced and / or expanded / reconfigured. For this purpose, different dampers are supplied with the heat pump, for example, by means of which one of the electric motors, if any, is attached to a support or the like. In this case, the component is, for example, the electric motor. In another alternative, additional insulation material or the like is supplied, which is preferably cut accordingly, in particular depending on a frequency response. Thus, individual adaptation is also possible here, although this is carried out manually by a person / fitter.

[0033] Preferably, the mechanical stiffness of the component is changed for adaptation. In particular, a pipe is used as the component, for example a copper pipe. Suitably, a device comprising two clamps is used for this purpose. One of the clamps is firmly attached to the pipe, and the other is slidably mounted on the pipe, expediently forming a clearance fit. The two points are also connected to one another by means of a rod or the like that runs separate from the pipe and in particular parallel to the pipe. In this case, the clamp firmly mounted on the pipe is, for example, attached to the rod, whereas the other clamp is also slidably mounted on the rod. Thus, the pipe is stabilized between the clamps by means of the rod, and due to the ability of the clamps to move relative to one another, the extent of the stabilization and thus the stiffness of the pipe can be varied.For example, one of the clamps is also attached to other components of the heat pump, such as a support. For example, the distance between the two locations can be freely adjusted or only in steps, with the steps corresponding in particular to specific frequencies whose associated sound level is reduced. This facilitates adaptation of the component depending on the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound, while reducing the effort required for implementation.

[0034] The component used is a structural element for airflow guidance. In other words, the structural element guides an airflow through the heat pump, in particular through the housing, if applicable. The structural element is suitable, in particular intended, and configured for this purpose. For the adjustment, an airflow path is altered. Thus, after the adjustment, the airflow is altered compared to before the adjustment, for example, slightly or comparatively extensively. As a result, for example, the formation of vortices is altered, so that the operating noise is also altered.

[0035] For example, the fan wheel, if any, is used as a component. In this case, to change the air flow, existing profile edges are modified, which are formed in particular by the edge or part of the edge of a fan blade of the fan wheel. To make the change, an additional element is attached to the profile edges, for example. Alternatively, the profile edges / fan blades can be replaced. For example, the profile edges have winglets or frayed edges that swirl the air and thus determine the air flow. It is advisable to include a set of profile edges with the heat pump, at least upon delivery / prior to installation. Alternatively, it is possible, for example, to break out individual sections of the fan wheel, for which appropriate perforation is expediently provided.By breaking it out, the air flow is different, which also changes the resulting operating noise.

[0036] In another alternative, the entire fan is used as a component, and a modified fan wheel is used for adaptation. For example, one of the fan wheels has an outer ring to which the fan blades are attached radially on the outside, thus increasing rigidity. This allows for an adjustment of the airflow and a change in stiffness, thereby altering the fan's operating noise.

[0037] Alternatively, or in combination with this, air guide elements are used as components, for example, which surround the fan's impeller, if present. These elements are particularly hollow-cylindrical in design. The air guide element is arranged at a distance from the fan's rotational axis, with the distance determining, in particular, the frequency of the operating noise. The distance from the rotational axis is suitably adjusted for adjustment.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment, for example, an inlet funnel and / or an inlet grille / inlet louvers are used as components, by means of which any inlet funnel through which air is sucked in from the environment by the fan during operation is covered. By means of these, the vortex formation within the air moved by the fan is influenced and thus also the operating noise. In a further alternative, for example, the length of a pipe through which the air is moved, for example, is changed. This is done, for example, by cutting it off or extending it, with the pipe expediently being designed telescopically. As a result, in particular a resonance frequency is changed and thus also the vibration behavior. Therefore, the operating noise also changes.

[0039] In a further variant, for example, an operating parameter of the heat pump is adjusted, in particular that of one of the electric motors, if any. Expediently, at least one of the electric motors is thus used as a component, i.e. the first and / or second electric motor. An operating speed is suitably specified for the adjustment. The electric motor therefore essentially subsequently excites the heat pump at the operating speed, which is adjusted to the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. Expediently, the electric motor is thus subsequently operated only at the operating speed. For example, only a single operating speed is specified. Preferably, however, several operating speeds are specified. These are, for example, spaced apart from one another.Alternatively, for example, a window of operating speeds is specified within which the operating speed can be changed, in particular depending on other requirements. For example, only a single window or several such windows / speed bands are available. This, on the one hand, reduces the perceptibility of the heat pump's operation. On the other hand, it is possible to adapt the operation of the heat pump or at least of the respective electric motor to current requirements. Advantageously, certain speeds or speed bands are specified within which the electric motor is not operated, since otherwise the heat pump would be comparatively clearly perceptible, at least given the prevailing ambient noise. For example, speed bands are available / specified that are preferred compared to other speed bands in which operation is also possible.In these cases, for example, performance is increased and / or noise levels are reduced. If, for example, the operating speed is specified for several electric motors, this is done in a coordinated manner, and the operating speed of one of the electric motors is specified based on the operating speed of another. In particular, this avoids harmonic behavior and / or the emission of sound waves that are perceptible to humans as so-called beats.

[0040] For example, the microphone used to record ambient sound is a component of the heat pump. This means that ambient sound and operating noise can also be recorded during operation of the heat pump, particularly after configuration and / or assembly has been completed, which can occur essentially continuously or at specific times. This allows for appropriate configuration to be carried out. However, the microphone is particularly preferably a component of another portable device, which is also referred to simply as an additional device. The additional device in this case is, in particular, a smartphone or other wearable, such as a smartwatch. These are comparatively widely available and require no additional hardware.In addition, the quality of such a microphone, at least with regard to the method, is comparatively high, since the microphone is sensitive to the frequency range perceptible by the human ear.

[0041] To implement the method, a corresponding app is suitably run on the additional device, and / or by means of this app, for example, any user input is also recorded, depending on which the component is also adjusted. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the heat pump is also controlled, for example, by means of the additional device. In particular, the app comprises or is formed by a computer program product.

[0042] The computer program product comprises a number of commands that, when the program (computer program product) is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out at least part of the method for configuring the heat pump. In particular, a system is formed by means of the further device and the heat pump, which serves to configure the heat pump. The invention also relates in particular to such a system and a corresponding computer program product.

[0043] In its assembled state, the heat pump is, for example, a component of a heater / heating system or an air conditioning system. In particular, the heat pump comprises a compressor which is driven by a first electric motor, and a first and / or second heat exchanger. The heat pump expediently comprises an expansion valve and / or a fan with a fan wheel and a second electric motor. The heat pump comprises at least one component which generates operating noise and which, for example, comprises one of the aforementioned components. When the heat pump is in operation, the operating noise is emitted, for example, by the component directly or by another component which is excited and / or set into vibration by the component. In other words, the operation of the component which generates the operating noise causes the operating noise to be emitted.

[0044] The heat pump is designed and configured according to a method for configuring a heat pump. This method involves recording ambient noise at an installation location and creating a frequency spectrum of the ambient noise. The component responsible for the operating noise is adjusted based on the frequency spectrum.

[0045] For example, the heat pump has the option of inputting the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound, or the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound is created, for example, by means of a component of the heat pump, for example, by means of a control unit of the heat pump. In particular, the heat pump has the option of adapting the component. For example, an input device or other input option is available through which the adaptation is carried out. Alternatively or in combination with this, several spare parts / replacement parts are available for the heat pump, so that the component can be adapted / replaced depending on the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound. In particular, for this purpose, a component of the component is removed and replaced with one of the replacement parts.Alternatively or in combination with this, it is possible, for example, to deform the component; for this purpose, for example, the component has a perforation, i.e. in particular predetermined breaking points, which are separated to adapt to the frequency spectrum of the ambient sound.

[0046] If an object is referred to as the first, second, or... object, this merely refers to a specific object. In particular, this does not mean that a corresponding number of such objects exist.

[0047] The further developments and advantages explained in connection with the process are also to be transferred analogously to the heat pump / the system / the computer program product as well as to each other and vice versa.

[0048] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. In the drawings: Fig. 1 schematically shows a heat pump at an installation site, Fig. 2 a method for configuring a heat pump, Fig. 3 a frequency spectrum of an ambient sound and frequency spectra of an operating noise, Fig. 4 schematically shows a component whose mechanical stiffness can be changed, Fig. 5 schematically shows a fan wheel, Fig. 6 - 8 different designs of profile edges of the fan wheel, Fig. 9 a fan shroud and Fig. 10-12 different designs of air guide elements of the fan frame.

[0049] Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a simplified schematic of a heat pump 2, which is designed as an air-water heat pump. The heat pump 2 is a component of a heating system and is anchored to a floor 6 at a mounting position 4. The mounting position 4 determines an installation location 8, which encompasses the area surrounding the mounting position 4 up to a distance of 4 m.

[0051] The heat pump 2 has a housing 10, within which a first and second heat exchanger (not shown in detail) are arranged. In addition, a compressor 12 is arranged in the housing 10 and is driven by a first electric motor 14. The compressor 12 is fluidly connected to the heat exchangers by means of a plurality of pipes 16. In addition, a second electric motor 18 is arranged within the housing 10 and drives a fan wheel 20, wherein the fan wheel 20 and the second electric motor 18 are components of a fan 22. The fan wheel 20 is fluidly connected by means of an inlet funnel 24 to an opening 26 in the housing 10, through which opening, when the fan 22 is in operation, air is sucked from the environment to the second heat exchanger. In this case, for example, the fan 22 is fluidly connected upstream or downstream of the second heat exchanger.Furthermore, a control unit 28 is arranged within the housing 10, by means of which the two electric motors 14, 18 are operated depending on current requirements.

[0052] The heat pump 2 is operated according to a Fig. 2. Thus, the heat pump 2 is provided and configured to be configured according to the method 30, wherein the method 30 is carried out, for example, at least partially by means of the control unit 28. The method 30 is expediently carried out as part of the commissioning / assembly of the heat pump 2. In this case, the method 30 is carried out after the heat pump 2 has been fastened to the assembly position 4. In a variant not shown in detail, the method 30 is carried out when the heat pump 2 is still at the manufacturer's or at least not yet at the assembly position 4.

[0053] In a first work step 32, ambient sound 34 is recorded at the installation location 8. The ambient sound 34 is not caused by the operation of the heat pump 2, but rather, for example, by infrastructure located near or at the installation location 8 or other sound-emitting elements. To record the ambient sound 34, a portable additional device 36, which is designed as a smartphone, is used. For recording purposes, the additional device 36 has a microphone 38, which is used during other operation of the additional device 36, for example, during a telephone call. By means of the microphone 38, the sound waves of the ambient sound 34 are converted into electrical signals, which are transmitted to a control unit 40 of the additional device 36. Thus, the method 30 is at least partially also carried out by means of the additional device 36, and a system is formed, at least temporarily, by means of the heat pump 2 and the portable device 36.In summary, the ambient sound 34 is recorded by the microphone 38 of the additional device 36. The additional device 36 has a touchscreen 42, which serves as an input device and for outputting information. The additional device 36 and the heat pump 2 also include a radio communication device (not shown in detail) by which they are connected via signaling. This enables an exchange of information / data between them.

[0054] In a subsequent second step 44, a frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound is created, which is Fig. 3. Here, the sound level of the ambient sound 34 is plotted against the respective frequency. To create this, the ambient sound 34 is recorded over a longer period of time, for example, one hour, and the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34 is created using a Fourier transformation. The frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34 depends on the installation location 8 and differs between different installation locations 8.

[0055] In the example, several discrete frequency bands are used, so that the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34 is stepped. The frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34 is generated using the additional device 36, thus reducing the hardware required for the heat pump 2, particularly in the control unit 28.

[0056] In a subsequent third work step 48, a user input 50 is recorded. For this purpose, a corresponding query is first sent to the user of the additional device 36 via the touchscreen 42, requesting the age of the user or at least of the people living in the vicinity of the installation location 8. The resulting activation of the touchscreen 42, i.e., the age, is used as the user input 50.

[0057] In a subsequent fourth step 52, a component 54 causing operating noise is adjusted. If the heat pump 2 were to be operated without the adjustment of the component 54, this would result in a Fig. 3 also shows the first frequency spectrum 56 of the operating noise. Here, the operating noise is caused, for example, directly by the component 54 itself or due to excitation of other components of the heat pump 2 due to the operation of the component 54. In the example shown, at low frequencies, the sound level of the operating noise is much higher than the sound level of the ambient sound 34 at the same frequencies. At higher frequencies, however, the respective sound levels are alternately higher, with the sound level of the operating noise dropping comparatively sharply after reaching the maximum, whereas the ambient sound 34 rises again after a drop.

[0058] The adjustment of component 54 results in a second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise. The adjustment is performed as a function of the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34, specifically such that, at predetermined frequencies, the associated sound level of the (second frequency spectrum 58 of the) operating noise is lower than the respective sound level of the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34. The predetermined frequencies extend correspondingly to a frequency band in the mid-frequency range.

[0059] In addition, the adjustment of component 54 is dependent on a height surface, namely the hearing threshold above which sound is perceptible to humans, as well as the maximum frequency 60 that can still be perceived by humans, which is 21 kHz. Due to the adjustment of component 54, the sound level at low frequencies of the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise is reduced, but still higher than the sound level of the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34. The hearing threshold is comparatively high at low frequencies, so that after the adjustment of component 54, it cannot be perceived by a person at low frequencies.

[0060] Based on the user input 50, i.e. the age of the people in the vicinity of the installation location 8, a cutoff frequency 62 is determined which corresponds to the maximum frequency that can still be perceived by the people and which is lower than the maximum frequency 60. The cutoff frequency 62 determines the upper end of the frequency band of the predetermined frequencies. Thus, above the cutoff frequency 62, the sound level of the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise can be greater than the associated sound levels of the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34. Due to the adaptation, a comparatively strong increase occurs there, so that the sound level of the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise is greater there than the sound level of the first frequency spectrum 56 of the operating noise.

[0061] After adjusting component 54, the configuration is complete, and heat pump 2 is operated accordingly. This results in the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise. Due to the adjustment of component 54, the sound level of the operating noise at the frequencies that are perceptible to people is lower than the sound level of the ambient sound 34, provided the latter is not changed. Consequently, the operation of heat pump 2, or at least of component 54, is not perceptible to people. In summary, due to the ambient sound 34, the operating noise in particular is masked at the frequencies perceptible to people. At other frequencies, however, the sound level is sometimes comparatively significantly increased due to the adjustment, so that the output provided by heat pump 2 is not changed. However, this is not perceptible to people.Furthermore, it is possible that additional noises may occur during operation of the heat pump 2, which, however, are not caused by component 54.

[0062] In one variant, one or both of the electric motors 14, 18 are used as component 54. The operating speed is specified for adjustment. Thus, the fan wheel 22 / compressor 12 is operated only at the operating speed.

[0063] In Fig. 4 schematically shows one of the pipes 16, to which a device 64 is connected. In one variant, the device 64 and the pipe 16 form the component 54, or at least an embodiment of the component 54. The device 64 has two clamps 66 which surround the pipe 16 on the circumference, and one of which is rigidly attached to the pipe 16. The other clamp 66 is movable along the pipe 16, with a clearance fit being formed between them. Thus, the distance between the clamps 66 can be changed. Furthermore, the device 64 has a rod 68 which is arranged parallel to and spaced from the pipe 16 and which is attached to the clamp 66 rigidly attached to the pipe 16. The other clamp 66 is guided along the rod 68 and can be attached there, for example.

[0064] The distance between the two clamps 66 determines the mechanical stiffness of the component 54, thus changing the vibration behavior. Consequently, by changing the distance between the two clamps 66, the frequency spectrum of the operating noise generated by the component 54 is changed. The distance between the two clamps 66 is specified manually, for example, or an actuator, such as a linear motor, is provided to adjust the distance. This allows for automatic implementation of the method 30.

[0065] In an alternative or in combination, the component 54 to be adapted is the fan wheel 20 which is Fig. 5. Here, in Fig. 5 one of a total of four profile edges 70 is omitted, which are at least partially formed by one of the wing tips. In the Fig. Figures 6-8 show different variants of the profile edge 70, which can be realized, for example, by attaching corresponding elements. Alternatively, the fan wheel 20 is a single piece, and this is replaced for adaptation.

[0066] In Fig. 6, the profile edge 70 is comparatively narrow, whereas in Fig. 7 this is enlarged. In Fig. 8, the profile edge 70 is frayed. These different configurations result in different turbulences at the radially outer ends of the fan wheel 20 and thus different operating noises, while the resulting airflow is essentially the same. By appropriately selecting the profile edge 70, in particular in conjunction with the appropriate selection of the operating speed of the second electric motor 18, it is possible to fully or at least partially realize the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise.

[0067] In Fig. 9 shows a fan shroud 72, within which the fan wheel 20 is arranged, and which partially forms the inlet funnel 24. In a further development, the fan shroud 72 is adapted depending on the frequency spectrum 46 of the ambient sound 34, so that the fan shroud 72 forms the component 54. The air flow created during operation of the fan 20 is guided by means of the fan shroud 72, just as it is by means of the fan wheel 20. In summary, a component used for air flow guidance is used as component 54.

[0068] The fan frame 72 has several air guide elements 74, one of which is omitted and for which one in the Fig. 10-12 can be used, which differ. The Fig. 10 shown air guide element 74 corresponds to the Fig. 9 and has a smooth edge on the radial inside with respect to the rotational axis of the fan wheel 20. Thus, the inner radius of the air guide element 74 is constant. Fig. 11, the inner edge is varied and, for example, wavy. Fig.In the variant shown in Figure 12, fins 76 pointing radially inward are arranged on the inner edge. Depending on the design of the air guide element 74, the air vortices generated during operation of the fan 22 are altered, resulting in a different operating noise. To adapt the component 54, one of the air guide elements 74 is selected accordingly, resulting in the second frequency spectrum 58 of the operating noise, particularly in conjunction with the predetermined operating speed of the second electric motor 18. For example, several corresponding air guide elements 74 are included with the heat pump 2, or the air guide elements 74 can be mounted in different ways, resulting in different characteristics.

[0069] The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the subject matter of the invention. In particular, all individual features described in connection with the individual exemplary embodiments can also be combined with one another in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the invention. List of reference symbols 2 heat pumps 4 Mounting position 6 Floor 8 Installation location 10 housings 12 Compressor 14 first electric motor 16 pipe 18 second electric motor 20 Fan wheel 22 fans 24 inlet funnels 26 Opening 28 Control unit 30 procedures 32 first step 34 Ambient noise 36 additional devices 38 Microphone 40 Control unit 42 touchscreen 44 second step 46 Frequency spectrum of ambient sound 48 third step 50 User input 52 fourth step 54 component 56 first frequency spectrum of the operating noise 58 second frequency spectrum of the operating noise 60 maximum frequency 62 cutoff frequency 64 Device 66 clamp 68 staff 70 profile edge 72 fan shroud 74 Air guide element 76 Finn

Claims

[1] Method (30) for configuring a heat pump (2), in which - an ambient sound (34) is recorded at a location (8), - a frequency spectrum (46) of the ambient sound (34) is created, and - a component (54) causing operating noise is adapted as a function of the frequency spectrum (46) of the ambient sound (34), wherein a component used for air flow guidance is used as the component (54), and wherein an air guide is changed for the purpose of adaptation. [2] Method (30) according to claim 1, characterized by that the component (54) is adapted such that at predetermined frequencies of the operating noise the associated sound level is lower than the respective sound level of the frequency spectrum (46) of the ambient sound (34). [3] Method (30) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the component (54) is also adapted depending on a listening area [4] Method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that a user input (50) is detected, depending on which the component (54) is also adapted. [5] Method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that a mechanical stiffness of the component (54) is changed for adaptation. [6] Method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that an electric motor (14, 18) is used as component (54), wherein an operating speed is specified for adaptation. [7] Method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the ambient sound (34) is detected by means of a microphone (38) of a portable further device (36). [8] Heat pump (2) which has a component (54) causing operating noise, namely a component used for air flow guidance, and which is provided and arranged to be configured according to a method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 7.

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