HEAT PUMP SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

Abstract

A heat pump system for a vehicle is provided such that the heat energy generated by the refrigerant during condensation and evaporation is selectively heat-exchanged with the coolant. The temperature in the vehicle interior is adjusted by using the heat-exchanged low-temperature or high-temperature coolant. The vehicle's heating efficiency is improved by selectively utilizing ambient air heat, waste heat from the electrical component (13), and waste heat from the battery module (22) when heating the vehicle interior. The vehicle's heating efficiency is further improved by increasing the overall vehicle range through efficient temperature adjustment of the battery module (22), thus achieving optimal battery module performance (22).

Description

Background of the Revelation: Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure and invention relate to a heat pump system for a vehicle, and in particular to a heat pump system for a vehicle which is capable of improving heating performance. Description of the related technology

[0002] A vehicle air conditioning system has an (air) air conditioning unit which circulates a refrigerant to heat or cool the vehicle's interior.

[0003] The air conditioning unit, which serves to maintain the vehicle interior at a suitable temperature regardless of changes in the outside temperature in order to maintain a comfortable interior environment, is designed to heat or cool the interior of the vehicle by means of heat exchange through a condenser and an evaporator in a process in which a refrigerant discharged by the operation of a compressor is circulated through the condenser, a collector-dryer, an expansion valve and the evaporator back to the compressor.

[0004] In other words, the air conditioning unit lowers the temperature and humidity of the interior by condensing a high-temperature, high-pressure gas phase refrigerant compressed by the compressor through the condenser, passing the refrigerant through the collector-dryer and expansion valve, and then evaporating the refrigerant in the evaporator in a cooling mode during the summer.

[0005] In line with the ever-increasing interest in energy efficiency and the problem of environmental pollution, the development of an environmentally friendly vehicle that can largely replace a vehicle with an internal combustion engine is necessary, whereby environmentally friendly vehicles are divided into an electric vehicle, which is powered using a fuel cell or electricity as an energy source, and a hybrid vehicle, which is powered using an internal combustion engine and a battery.

[0006] In contrast to the air conditioning system of a general vehicle, the electric or hybrid vehicle among these environmentally friendly vehicles does not use a separate heating device, and an air conditioning system used in the environmentally friendly vehicle is generally referred to as a heat pump system.

[0007] The electric vehicle, powered by a fuel cell, generates propulsion by converting the chemical reaction energy between oxygen and hydrogen into electrical energy. This process generates heat energy through a chemical reaction within the fuel cell. Therefore, to ensure the fuel cell's efficiency, it is necessary to dissipate the generated heat effectively.

[0008] Furthermore, the hybrid vehicle generates propulsion by operating an electric motor using electricity from the fuel cell or electric battery described above, in conjunction with an internal combustion engine that runs on conventional fuel. Therefore, the heat generated by the fuel cell or battery and the electric motor must be effectively dissipated to ensure the electric motor's performance.

[0009] Therefore, in accordance with the relevant technology, the hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle should be equipped with cooling devices, a heat pump system and a battery cooling system, each as separate closed circuits, to prevent the generation of heat by the electric motor, an electrical component and the battery, including a fuel cell.

[0010] Therefore, there is a disadvantage in that the size and weight of the cooling module, which is located at the front of the vehicle, increase, and the arrangement of the connecting pipes, which supply refrigerant or coolant to the heat pump system, the cooling system and the battery cooling system, becomes complicated within an engine compartment.

[0011] Furthermore, since a separate battery cooling system is provided to heat or cool the battery depending on the vehicle's condition, so that the battery can deliver optimal performance, and since a number of valves are used to connect all the connecting pipes, noise and vibrations generated by frequent opening and closing of these valves are transmitted to the vehicle interior, which has a detrimental effect on driving comfort.

[0012] Since a separate heat exchanger is also required to recover waste heat from numerous heat sources in the vehicle's heating mode, there is also a disadvantage in terms of increased manufacturing costs.

[0013] The above information disclosed in this background section is intended only to improve the understanding of the general background of the present disclosure / invention and may therefore contain information that does not constitute the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art in this field. Explanation of Revelation

[0014] The present disclosure or invention (hereinafter also referred to as: disclosure) provides a heat pump system for a vehicle in which the heat energy generated by the refrigerant during condensation and evaporation of the refrigerant is selectively exchanged with the coolant and the vehicle interior temperature is adjusted / set using the low-temperature or high-temperature coolant subjected to heat exchange.

[0015] The present disclosure provides a heat pump system for a vehicle that is capable of improving the vehicle's heating efficiency by selectively utilizing ambient air heat, waste heat from the electrical components, and waste heat from the battery module when heating the vehicle interior. The improved heating efficiency of the vehicle contributes to increasing its overall range (e.g., total driving distance) by efficiently adjusting the battery module temperature to achieve optimal battery module performance.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a heat pump system for a vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle, for example, a passenger car) comprises: a valve module with at least one port through which coolant is introduced or discharged, and a first line configured to allow the flow of coolant, which has a first end and a second end connected to the valve module, wherein a (e.g., front) radiator, an electrical component, and a first water pump are connected to the first line. The heat pump system further comprises a second line configured to allow the flow of coolant, which has a first end and a second end connected to the valve module, wherein a battery module and a first heat exchanger (where "heat exchanger" means, for example, a battery module, a first heat exchanger, etc.) are connected to the first line.The heat pump system also includes a third line, which is configured to allow the flow of coolant and has a first end and a second end connected to the valve module, with a heating core and a condenser connected to the third line. The heat pump system further includes a fourth line, which is configured to allow the flow of coolant and has a first end and a second end connected to the valve module, with a cooling core and a second heat exchanger connected to the fourth line.The heat pump system further comprises a first connecting line, which connects the first line and the third line, and a second connecting line, which connects the first line and the fourth line. In particular, the valve module, based on at least one mode for adjusting (e.g., setting) a vehicle interior temperature and a battery module temperature, is configured to control the coolant flow by selectively connecting the first line, the second line, the third line, the fourth line, the first connecting line, and the second connecting line.

[0017] The first end of the first connecting cable can be connected to the first cable between the cooler and the electrical component. The second end of the first connecting cable can be connected to the third cable at a downstream end of the condenser. The first end of the second connecting cable can be connected to the first cable at a downstream end of the electrical component. The second end of the second connecting cable can be connected to the fourth cable at an upstream end of the second heat exchanger.

[0018] The at least one mode may include a first mode for cooling the vehicle interior. The at least one mode may include a second mode for cooling the vehicle interior and the electrical components and battery module using the coolant. The at least one mode may include a third mode for cooling and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and cooling the electrical components using the coolant, as well as cooling the battery module using the coolant after heat exchange with a refrigerant. The at least one mode may include a fourth mode for heating the vehicle interior and recovering heat from the ambient air, waste heat from the electrical components, and waste heat from the battery module. The at least one mode may include a fifth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and recovering waste heat from the battery module.At least one mode may include a sixth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for heating the battery module. In particular, the cooling level in the first mode is higher than the cooling level in modes two through six.

[0019] In the first mode, the first line, connected to the radiator, can be connected via the valve module to the first line connected to the electrical component and to the third line, connected to the condenser, so that the coolant cooled in the radiator is introduced into the electrical component and the condenser. The second line can form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, so that the coolant circulates, flowing successively through the battery module and the first heat exchanger along the second line. A section of the third line, extending from the valve module across the heating core to the first connecting line, can be closed.The fourth line can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate and flow successively through the cooling core and the second heat exchanger along the fourth line. The first connecting line can link the third line and the first line together, so that the coolant flowing from the condenser along the third line is introduced into the first line, which is connected to the radiator, and the flow of coolant through the second connecting line can be stopped.

[0020] In the second mode, the first, second, and third lines can be connected via the valve module, allowing the coolant, cooled in the radiator, to be routed to the electrical component and the battery module. The fourth line can form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, circulating the coolant to flow sequentially along the fourth line through the cooling core and the second heat exchanger. The first connecting line can link the third and first lines together, allowing a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) flowing from the condenser along the third line to be routed into the first line, which is connected to the radiator.a portion of the coolant, which is introduced from the electrical component along the first line into the radiator, is introduced into the third line, which is connected to the heating core, and the coolant can stop flowing through the second connecting line.

[0021] In the third mode, the first and third lines can be connected via the valve module, allowing the coolant, cooled in the radiator, to flow into the electrical component, the condenser, and the heating element. The second line can form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, circulating the coolant to flow successively along the second line through the battery module and the first heat exchanger. The fourth line can also form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, circulating the coolant to flow successively along the fourth line through the cooling element and the second heat exchanger. The first connecting line can link the third and first lines together, allowing a portion (e.g.,A portion of the coolant flowing from the condenser along the third line is introduced into the first line, which is connected to the radiator, or a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) flowing from the electrical component along the first line into the radiator is introduced into the third line, which is connected to the heating element. The coolant may then cease flowing through the second connecting line.

[0022] In the fourth mode, the first line, connected to the radiator, and the fourth line, connected to the second heat exchanger, can be connected via the valve module to the first line, which is connected to the electrical component. This allows the coolant that has flowed through the radiator and the coolant that has flowed through the second heat exchanger to be introduced into the electrical component. A section of the fourth line, which is connected from the valve module via the cooling core to the second connecting line, can be closed. The second line can form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate, flowing sequentially along the second line through the battery module and the first heat exchanger.The third line can form an independent closed circuit via the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate and flow sequentially through the condenser and heating element along the third line. The coolant can then stop flowing through the first connecting line. The second connecting line can link the first and fourth lines together, so that a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) flowing from the electrical component along the first line is introduced into the second heat exchanger.

[0023] In the fifth mode, the first line can be closed by the valve module. The second and fourth lines can be connected by the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate through the battery module, the first heat exchanger, the cooling core, and the second heat exchanger in succession. The third line can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate through the condenser and the heating core in succession along the third line. The coolant can then stop flowing through the first and second connecting lines.

[0024] In the sixth mode, the first line can be closed by the valve module. The second and third lines can be connected by the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate through the condenser, heating core, battery module, and first heat exchanger in sequence. The fourth line can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module, allowing the coolant to circulate through the cooling core and second heat exchanger in sequence along the fourth line. The coolant can then stop flowing through the first and second connecting lines.

[0025] The valve module can have a first port to which a first end of the first line is connected, a second port to which a second end of the first line is connected, a third port to which a first end of the second line is connected, a fourth port to which a second end of the second line is connected, a fifth port to which a first end of the third line is connected, a sixth port to which a second end of the third line is connected, a seventh port to which a first end of the fourth line is connected, and an eighth port to which a second end of the fourth line is connected.

[0026] The heat pump system can further include a second water pump, which is provided on (e.g. along / in) the second pipe, a third water pump, which is provided on (e.g. along / in) the third pipe, and a fourth water pump, which is provided on (e.g. along / in) the fourth pipe.

[0027] In at least one mode, at least two water pumps, which are provided in the lines connected by the valve module, can be operated by the first water pump, the second water pump, the third water pump and the fourth water pump at different speeds (e.g. revolutions per minute (1 / min)) for flow control of the coolant.

[0028] The first water pump, the second water pump, the third water pump and the fourth water pump can be pumps with different delivery heads for controlling the flow of the coolant in at least one mode.

[0029] Furthermore, an electric heating device may be provided in the third line, and the coolant flowing in the third line flows, for example, through the condenser and the electric heating device in succession.

[0030] An autonomous driving control device can be provided on (e.g. along / in) the second line.

[0031] In one embodiment, a heat pump system for a vehicle comprises: a valve module with a plurality of ports through which a coolant is introduced or discharged; a first line with opposite ends connected to the valve module, to which a radiator, an electrical component, and a first heat exchange device are connected; a second line with opposite ends connected to the valve module, to which a battery module and a first water exchange device are connected; a third line with opposite ends connected to the valve module, to which a heating element and a condenser are connected; a fourth line with opposite ends connected to the valve module, to which a cooling element and a second water exchange device are connected; and a first connecting line.which connects the first and third lines, and a second connecting line which connects the first and fourth lines. In particular, the valve module is configured to selectively connect the first to fourth lines and the first and second connecting lines based on at least one operating mode for adjusting (e.g., setting) a temperature of a vehicle interior and a temperature of the battery module.

[0032] As described above, according to a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat energy generated by the refrigerant during condensation and evaporation of the refrigerant is selectively subjected to heat exchange with the coolant, and the vehicle interior temperature is adjusted / set using the low-temperature or high-temperature coolant subjected to heat exchange, so that the entire system is streamlined (e.g., slimmed down and / or standardized) and the arrangement of connecting lines in which refrigerant circulates is streamlined (e.g., slimmed down and / or standardized).

[0033] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the heating efficiency can be improved and the overall range (e.g. total driving distance) of the vehicle can be increased by efficiently adjusting the temperature of the battery module so that the optimal performance of the battery module can be achieved by selectively using the ambient air heat, the waste heat of the electrical component or the waste heat of the battery module when heating the vehicle interior.

[0034] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the temperature of the electrical component and the battery module can be efficiently adjusted / set by the operation of the valve module, thus improving the overall marketability of the vehicle.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce manufacturing costs and overall weight by rationalizing the entire system and to improve space utilization by minimizing the number of components. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is an operating diagram according to a first mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is an operating diagram according to a second mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is an operating diagram according to a third mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is an operating diagram according to a fourth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is an operating diagram according to a fifth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is an operating diagram according to a sixth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] The embodiments of the present disclosure in this description and the constructions illustrated in the drawings are only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and do not cover the entire scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that at the time of application of the technical concepts of this description, numerous equivalents and variations of the disclosed embodiments may exist.

[0038] For the sake of clarity, elements not related to the description may have been omitted from this disclosure. Furthermore, identical elements or equivalents throughout the description are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0039] Furthermore, the size and thickness of each element in the drawings may be arbitrarily represented, and the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to such representations. The thickness of layers, films, panels, areas, and the like may be exaggerated in the drawings for clarity.

[0040] Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms “contain”, “include”, “include” and variations thereof such as “contains” or “indicating” are to be understood as meaning the inclusion of the specified elements, but not the exclusion of further elements.

[0041] Furthermore, terms such as "...unit," "...means," "...sections," "...part," and "...element," as described in the disclosure, each denote a unit of a comprehensive element that performs at least one function or operation. When a component, device, unit, module, control device, detector, element, or the like of this disclosure is described as having a purpose or performing an operation, function, or the like, the component, device, unit, module, control device, detector, or element herein shall be considered "configured" to fulfill that purpose or to perform that operation or function. This disclosure describes a control device and a data acquisition device for a cooling system.The control device, the data acquisition device or other such components may be implemented separately or be contained in a processor and a memory, such as a non-volatile computer-readable medium, as part of the control device or component.

[0042] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] According to a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat energy generated by the refrigerant during the condensation and evaporation of a refrigerant can be selectively or optionally (hereinafter referred to as: selectively - e.g., in a targeted manner) subjected to heat exchange with a coolant, and a low-temperature or high-temperature coolant can be used to cool or heat a vehicle interior.

[0044] In addition, when heating the vehicle interior, the heat pump system can selectively use the ambient air heat, the waste heat of an electrical component 13 and the waste heat of a battery module 22 to improve the heating efficiency of the vehicle, and by efficiently adjusting the temperature of the battery module 22 to achieve the optimal performance of the battery module 22, the overall range (e.g. total driving distance) of the vehicle can be increased.

[0045] Such a heat pump system can be used in a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle (e.g., a purely electric vehicle).

[0046] Referring to Fig. 1 The heat pump system can have a valve module 2, a first line 11, a second line 21, a third line 31, a fourth line 41, a first connecting line 51 and a second connecting line 61.

[0047] The valve module 2 can be designed with at least one connection through which the coolant is introduced or discharged and can control the flow (e.g. flow rate) of the introduced coolant.

[0048] The first line 11 can have a first end and a second end, which are connected to the valve module 2 to allow the coolant to flow through it. A (e.g., front) cooler (e.g., radiator) 12, the electrical component 13, and a first water pump 14 can be provided on (e.g., along / in) the first line 11.

[0049] The radiator 12 can be located at the front of the vehicle, and a cooling fan (not shown) can be provided on a downstream side of the radiator 12. Accordingly, the radiator 12 can cool the coolant by operating the cooling fan and exchanging heat with the ambient air.

[0050] Consequently, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be directed along the first line 11 to the valve module 2.

[0051] The electrical component 13 may include an electrical power control unit (EPCU) with an electric motor, an on-board charger (OBC), or the like.

[0052] The electrical power control unit can generate heat while driving, and the on-board charging device can generate heat when the battery module 22 present in the vehicle is being charged.

[0053] In other words, if the waste heat from the electrical component 13 is to be recovered when heating the vehicle interior, the heat generated by the electrical power control unit can be recovered, and the heat generated by the on-board charging device can be recovered when charging the battery module 22.

[0054] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second line 21 can have a first end and a second end which are connected to the valve module 2 to allow the coolant to flow through it. The battery module 22, a second water pump 24, and a first heat exchange device (where "heat exchange device" can also be referred to, for example, as a "chiller," "chiller device," or "cooler device," for example, a coolant-refrigerant heat exchange device) 104 can be provided on (e.g., along / in) the second line 21.

[0055] In addition, an autonomous driving control device 23 can be provided on (e.g. along / in) the second line 21 between the battery module 22 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0056] The selectively expanded refrigerant can be introduced into the first heat exchanger 104. The first heat exchanger 104 can be operated to cool the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23, or to recover heat from the refrigerant, whose temperature has been increased by the waste heat from the battery module 22, when heating the vehicle interior.

[0057] The third line 31 can have a first and a second end, which are connected to the valve module 2 to allow the coolant to flow through it. A heating core 32, a third water pump 34, and a capacitor 102 can be provided on (e.g., along / in) the third line 31.

[0058] The condenser 102 can be connected to a compressor (not shown) via the refrigerant line. The condenser 102 can condense the refrigerant by heat exchange between the coolant circulating along the third line 31 and the refrigerant.

[0059] In other words, the condenser 102 can condense the introduced refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant and can supply the heat energy generated during the condensation of the refrigerant to the coolant in order to increase the temperature of the coolant.

[0060] The condenser 102 thus configured can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the coolant is introduced.

[0061] Furthermore, an electric heating device 33 can be provided on (e.g., along / in) the third line 31. The electric heating device 33 can be arranged on the third line 31 between the heating core 32 and the capacitor 102.

[0062] Such an electric heating device 33 can selectively heat the coolant introduced through the third line 31 in order to increase the temperature of the coolant.

[0063] Accordingly, the third line 31 can connect the capacitor 102, the electric heating device 33 and the heating core 32, so that the coolant flowing along the third line 31 can successively flow through the capacitor 102, the electric heating device 33 and the heating core 32.

[0064] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth line 41 can have a first and a second end which are connected to the valve module 2 to allow the coolant to flow. A cooling core (e.g., heat sink, cooling element) 42, a fourth water pump 44, and a second heat exchanger 106 can be provided on (e.g., along / in) the fourth line 41.

[0065] The selectively expanded refrigerant can be introduced into the second heat exchanger 106. If the cooled refrigerant is to be supplied to the cooling core 42 when cooling or heating the vehicle interior, the second heat exchanger 106 can be operated in such a way that it recovers the heat from the refrigerant whose temperature has been increased by the ambient air or the waste heat from the electrical component 13 (e.g., using the refrigerant with the increased temperature as a heat source).

[0066] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first connecting line 51 can connect the first line 11 and the third line 31.

[0067] One end of the first connecting line 51 can be connected to the first line 11 between the cooler 12 and the electrical component 13. A second end of the first connecting line 51 can be connected to the third line 31 at a downstream end of the condenser 102 based on the coolant flow direction.

[0068] The upstream end of condenser 102 and the downstream end of condenser 102 can be determined depending on the flow direction of the coolant.

[0069] In other words, based on the direction in which the coolant flows in the third line 31, the position at which the coolant is introduced into the condenser 102 can be defined as an upstream end of the condenser 102, and the position at which the coolant is released from the condenser 102 can be defined as a downstream end of the condenser 102.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second connecting line 61 can connect the first line 11 and the fourth line 41.

[0071] A first end of the second connecting line 61 can be connected to the first line 11 at a downstream end of the electrical component 13 based on the coolant flow direction. A second end of the second connecting line 61 can be connected to the fourth line 41 at an upstream end of the second heat exchanger 106.

[0072] The upstream end and downstream end of the electrical component 13, the upstream end of the second heat exchange device 106 and a downstream end of the second heat exchange device 106 can be determined based on the flow direction of the coolant.

[0073] In other words, based on the direction in which the coolant flows in the first line 11, the position at which the coolant is introduced into the electrical component 13 can be defined as an upstream end of the electrical component 13, and the position at which the coolant is released from the electrical component 13 can be defined as a downstream end of the electrical component 13.

[0074] Furthermore, based on the direction in which the coolant flows in the fourth line 41, the position at which the coolant is introduced into the second heat exchange device 106 can be defined as an upstream end of the second heat exchange device 106, and the position at which the coolant is released from the second heat exchange device 106 can be defined as a downstream end of the second heat exchange device 106.

[0075] Furthermore, the first water pump can be 14, the second water pump 24, the third water pump 34 and the fourth water pump 44 electric water pumps.

[0076] In at least one mode, at least two water pumps, which are provided in the lines connected by the valve module 2, can be operated by the first water pump 14, the second water pump 24, the third water pump 34 and the fourth water pump 44 at different speeds (e.g. revolutions per minute (1 / min)) for flow control of the coolant.

[0077] In other words, if the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 are designed as pumps with the same delivery head, the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 can be operated at different speeds (i.e. revolutions per minute), so that there is a difference between the flow rates of the coolant flowing through the first line 11 and the third line 31.

[0078] The delivery head refers to the height that a pump can reach when pumping liquids.

[0079] For example, if the first line 11 is connected to the third line 31 through the valve module 2, the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 can be operated at different speeds (i.e., operate) so that the coolant flows through the first connecting line 51.

[0080] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant released by the electrical component 13 can be introduced along the first line 11 into the radiator 12.

[0081] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant released by the electrical component 13 can flow along the first connecting line 51 and then be introduced into the heating core 32 along the third line 31, which is connected to the first connecting line 51.

[0082] In other words, the law of conservation of mass in fluid mechanics can be applied to the coolant, which is an incompressible fluid.

[0083] By operating the first water pump 14 at a high speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, at a rate of 15 LPM (liters per minute).

[0084] Furthermore, by operating the third water pump 34 at a low speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the third line 31, which is connected to the condenser 102, at a rate of 10 LPM (liters per minute).

[0085] The coolant of 10 LPM from the coolant of 15 LPM, which has flowed through the electrical component 13, can flow to the valve module 2 through the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0086] In addition, the coolant introduced into the valve module 2 at a rate of 10 LPM can flow through the third line 31, which is connected to the condenser 102, by operating the third water pump 34.

[0087] The remaining coolant of 5 LPM, which does not flow through the first line 11 connected to the cooler 12, can flow along the first connecting line 51. Afterwards, the coolant of 5 LPM can combine with the coolant of 10 LPM that has flowed through the condenser 102.

[0088] Accordingly, the coolant of a total of 15 LPM can flow through the heating core 32 along the third line 31 to be introduced into the valve module 2, and can then be released back into the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0089] If, on the other hand, the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant released by the condenser 102 can be introduced into the heating core 32 along the third line 31.

[0090] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) from the coolant released from the condenser 102 can flow along the first connecting line 51 and then be introduced into the radiator 12 along the first line 11, which is connected to the first connecting line 51.

[0091] By operating the first water pump 14 at a low speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, at a rate of 10 LPM (liters per minute).

[0092] Furthermore, by operating the third water pump 34 at a high speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the third line 31, which is connected to the condenser 102, at a rate of 15 LPM (liters per minute).

[0093] The coolant of 10 LPM from the coolant of 15 LPM, which has flowed through the condenser 102, can flow to the valve module 2 through the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0094] In addition, the coolant introduced into the valve module 2 at a rate of 10 LPM can flow through the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, by operating the first water pump 14.

[0095] The remaining coolant of 5 LPM, which does not flow through the third line 31 connected to the heating core 32, can flow along the first connecting line 51. Afterwards, the coolant of 5 LPM can combine with the coolant of 10 LPM that has flowed through the electrical component 13.

[0096] Accordingly, the coolant of a total of 15 LPM can flow along the first line 11 through the cooler 12 to be introduced into the valve module 2, and then be released back to the third line 31, which is connected to the condenser 102, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0097] While the first line 11 is connected to the third line 31 through the valve module 2, the flow of coolant in the first connecting line 51 can be stopped if the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 are operated at the same speed.

[0098] In other words, while the first line 11 and the third line 31 are connected to each other by the valve module 2, the coolant can only flow through the first connecting line 51 and the flow direction of the coolant can only be changed if the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 are operated at different speeds.

[0099] As another example, if the first line 11 is connected to the fourth line 41 via the valve module 2, the first water pump 14 and the fourth water pump 44 can be operated at different speeds, so that the coolant flows through the second connecting line 61.

[0100] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the fourth water pump 44, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant discharged by the electrical component 13 can be introduced into the radiator 12 along the first line 11.

[0101] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) from the coolant released from the electrical component 13 can flow along the second connecting line 61 and then be introduced into the second heat exchange device 106 along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second connecting line 61.

[0102] By operating the first water pump 14 at high speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, at a rate of 15 LPM (liters per minute).

[0103] Furthermore, by operating the fourth water pump 44 at a low speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchanger device 106, at a rate of 10 LPM (liters per minute).

[0104] The coolant of 5 LPM from the coolant of 15 LPM, which has flowed through the electrical component 13, can flow to the valve module 2 through the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0105] The remaining coolant of 10 LPM, which does not flow through the first line 11 connected to the cooler 12, can flow through the second connecting line 61. Afterwards, the coolant of 10 LPM can flow along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchanger 106.

[0106] The coolant of 10 LPM, which flows along the fourth line 41, can flow through the second heat exchanger 106 to be introduced into the valve module 2, and flow through the cooler 12 to combine with the coolant of 5 LPM, which is introduced into the valve module 2.

[0107] Accordingly, the coolant of a total of 15 LPM can be released back into the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0108] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the fourth water pump 44, a portion (e.g., part of the coolant) of the coolant discharged by the second heat exchanger 106 can be introduced into the electrical component 13 through the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, inside the valve module 2.

[0109] In addition, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant released by the second heat exchange device 106 can be introduced into the cooler 12 inside the valve module 2 via the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0110] Accordingly, after flowing through the cooler 12 and the electrical component 13 respectively, the coolant can flow along the second connecting line 61, which is connected to the first line 11. From the second connecting line 61, the coolant can then flow along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchanger 106.

[0111] By operating the first water pump 14 at a low speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, at a rate of 10 LPM (liters per minute).

[0112] Furthermore, by operating the fourth water pump 44 at a high speed, the coolant can flow from the valve module 2 to the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchanger device 106, at a rate of 15 LPM (liters per minute).

[0113] The coolant of 15 LPM, which has flowed through the second heat exchanger 106, can be introduced into the valve module 2 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0114] The coolant of 10 LPM from the coolant of 15 LPM introduced into the valve module 2 can flow out of the valve module 2 through the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0115] In addition, the remaining coolant of 5 LPM can flow from the coolant of 15 LPM introduced into the valve module 2 through the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0116] The coolant of 5 LPM, which has flowed through the cooler 12, can combine with the coolant of 10 LPM, which has flowed through the electrical component 13.

[0117] Accordingly, the coolant can flow at a total rate of 15 LPM along the second connecting line 61 and then through the second heat exchanger 106 along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchanger 106, to be introduced into the valve module 2, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0118] While the first line 11 is connected to the fourth line 41 through the valve module 2, the flow of coolant in conjunction with the radiator 12 in the first line 11 can be stopped if the first water pump 14 and the fourth water pump 44 are operated at the same speed.

[0119] In other words, while the first line 11 and the fourth line 41 are connected to each other through the valve module 2, the coolant connected to the radiator 12 can only flow through the first line 11 if the first water pump 14 and the fourth water pump 44 are operated at different speeds.

[0120] One embodiment of the present disclosure shows an example in which the first to fourth water pumps 14, 24, 34 and 44 are arranged as pumps with the same delivery head, and the flow of the coolant is controlled by controlling the speeds of the respective water pumps, but is not limited to this.

[0121] In other words, the first water pump 14, the second water pump 24, the third water pump 34 and the fourth water pump 44 can each be pumps with different delivery heads.

[0122] If the first water pump is 14, the second water pump is 24, the third water pump is 34 and the fourth water pump is 44, and these are pumps with different delivery heads, the heat pump system can control the flow of coolant in at least one mode by simply controlling the operation of the corresponding water pumps without individually controlling the speeds of each water pump.

[0123] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into the condenser 102.

[0124] Accordingly, the condenser 102 can selectively exchange heat between the heat energy generated during the condensation of the refrigerant and the coolant flowing through the third line 31.

[0125] Depending on the selected mode of the vehicle, the high-temperature coolant, which has exchanged heat in the condenser 102, can be introduced into the heating core 32 provided in the third line 31 by selective operation (e.g. selective actuation, for example targeted actuation) of the valve module 2 and the third water pump 34.

[0126] The condenser 102 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the coolant is introduced.

[0127] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat exchange device 104 and the second heat exchange device 106 can be connected to each other via respective expansion valves and the refrigerant line not shown in the drawings, and the selectively expanded refrigerant or the non-expanded refrigerant can be introduced therein.

[0128] The first heat exchange device 104 can condense or evaporate the refrigerant by heat exchange between the coolant circulating in the second line 21 and the refrigerant.

[0129] Accordingly, the first heat exchanger 104 can selectively exchange heat between the heat energy generated during the condensation or evaporation of the refrigerant and the coolant flowing through the second line 21.

[0130] The first heat exchanger 104 can transfer the high-temperature heat energy generated during the condensation of the refrigerant to the refrigerant in order to increase the temperature of the refrigerant. Conversely, the first heat exchanger 104 can transfer the low-temperature heat energy generated during the evaporation of the refrigerant to the refrigerant in order to lower the temperature of the refrigerant (e.g., during evaporation of the refrigerant and heat exchange with the evaporated refrigerant, removing heat energy from the refrigerant and thus lowering the temperature of the refrigerant).

[0131] The first heat exchange device 104 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the coolant is introduced.

[0132] In other words, the high-temperature or low-temperature coolant undergoing heat exchange in the first heat exchange device 104 can be introduced into the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23, which are provided on the second line 21, by the selective operation of the valve module 2 and the second water pump 24 in the selected mode of the vehicle.

[0133] Accordingly, the temperature of the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23 can be adjusted / set by the high-temperature or low-temperature coolant introduced.

[0134] In addition, the second heat exchange device 106 can evaporate the refrigerant by heat exchange between the coolant circulating along the fourth line 41 and the refrigerant.

[0135] In other words, the second heat exchanger 106 can evaporate the introduced refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant and transfer the low-temperature heat energy generated during the evaporation of the refrigerant to the coolant in order to lower the coolant's temperature. The second heat exchanger 106 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the coolant is introduced.

[0136] If the vehicle interior needs to be cooled, or if dehumidification is required when heating the vehicle interior, the coolant, which has been cooled as it flows through the second heat exchanger 106, can accordingly be introduced into the cooling core 42 along the fourth line 41.

[0137] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heating core 32 and the cooling core 42 can be provided in an HVAC module (not shown).

[0138] In other words, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be brought into a high-temperature or low-temperature state by heat exchange with the high-temperature coolant or the low-temperature coolant, which is introduced into at least one of the heating core 32 or the cooling core 42, by the operation of a blower fan (not shown).

[0139] Ambient air of high or low temperature can be directed into the vehicle interior, thereby cooling or heating the vehicle interior.

[0140] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the valve module 2 can be an eight-way valve (8-way valve) with eight ports through which the coolant is introduced or discharged. The valve module 2 is described in detail below.

[0141] The valve module 2 can have a first port 2a, a second port 2b, a third port 2c, a fourth port 2d, a fifth port 2e, a sixth port 2f, a seventh port 2g and an eighth port 2h.

[0142] One end of the first line 11 can be connected to the first port 2a of the valve module 2. A second end of the first line 11 can be connected to the second port 2b of the valve module 2.

[0143] One end of the second line 21 can be connected to the third port 2c of the valve module 2. The other end of the second line 21 can be connected to the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2.

[0144] One end of the third line 31 can be connected to the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2. A second end of the third line 31 can be connected to the sixth port 2f of the valve module 2.

[0145] Furthermore, a first end of the fourth line 41 can be connected to a seventh port 2g of the valve module 2. A second end of the fourth line 41 can be connected to an eighth port 2h of the valve module 2.

[0146] One embodiment of the present disclosure shows an example in which the valve module 2 is an eight-way valve with eight ports through which the coolant is introduced and discharged, without this constituting a limitation, and the valve module 2 can further be provided with (additional) ports to which a separate component in which the coolant circulates can be connected.

[0147] Depending on at least one mode for adjusting / setting a temperature of a vehicle interior and for adjusting / setting a temperature of the battery module 22, the valve module 2, configured as such, can control the flow of coolant by operating (e.g. actuating) it in such a way as to selectively connect the first line 11, the second line 21, the third line 31, the fourth line 41, the first connecting line 51 and the second connecting line 61.

[0148] The at least one mode can have a first to a sixth mode.

[0149] In the first mode, the vehicle interior can be cooled to the maximum. In other words, the cooling level in the first mode is higher than the cooling level in modes two through six.

[0150] In a second mode, the vehicle interior can be cooled, and the electrical component 13 and the battery module 22 can be cooled by means of the coolant cooled in the radiator 12.

[0151] In a third mode, the vehicle interior can be cooled and dehumidified, and the electrical component 13 can be cooled using the coolant, and the battery module 22 can be cooled using the coolant which has exchanged heat with the refrigerant.

[0152] In a fourth mode, the vehicle interior can be heated, whereby the ambient air heat, the waste heat of the electrical component 13 and the waste heat of the battery module 22 can be recovered.

[0153] In a fifth mode, the vehicle interior can be heated and dehumidified, and the waste heat from the battery module 22 can be recovered.

[0154] In addition, in the sixth mode the vehicle interior can be heated and dehumidified and the battery module 22 can be heated.

[0155] The following describes an operation and an activity for each mode of a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above, with reference to Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. 7 described in detail.

[0156] Operation in the first mode for maximum cooling of the vehicle interior in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to Fig. 2 described in detail.

[0157] Fig. Figure 2 is an operating diagram according to the first mode in a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] Referring to Fig. 2 The first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12, can be connected through the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, and to the third line 31, which is connected to the capacitor 102, so that the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 is introduced into the electrical component 13 and the capacitor 102.

[0159] A section of the third line 31, which is connected from the valve module 2 via the heating core 32 to the first connecting line 51, can be closed.

[0160] The second line 21 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the second line 21 through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0161] In addition, the fourth line 41 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the fourth line 41 through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0162] The first connecting line 51 can connect the third line 31 and the first line 11, so that the coolant flowing from the condenser 102 along the third line 31 is introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0163] Furthermore, the flow of coolant in the second connecting line 61 may be stopped (e.g., no coolant may flow through the second connecting line 61).

[0164] The refrigerant can circulate through the condenser 102, the first heat exchanger 104, and the second heat exchanger 106. The expanded refrigerant (e.g., a given one) can be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104 and the second heat exchanger 106, respectively.

[0165] In such a condition, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be introduced into the second connection 2b of the valve module 2 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0166] A portion (e.g., part of the coolant) introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2 can be released into the third line 31, which is connected to the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2, by the operation of the third water pump 34.

[0167] The coolant introduced into the third line 31 can flow through the condenser 102 and then through the first connecting line 51.

[0168] The condenser 102 can condense the introduced refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant supplied by the cooler 12.

[0169] Any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant introduced into the first connection 2a of the valve module 2 can be released through the first connection 2a of the valve module 2 by the operation of the first water pump 14 and supplied to the electrical component 13 along the first line 11.

[0170] Furthermore, the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can flow along the first line 11.

[0171] Accordingly, the coolant flowing along the first connecting line 51 and the coolant flowing from the electrical component 13 along the first line 11 can be combined (i.e., merged) and introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0172] During repeated execution of such a process, the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 can condense the refrigerant supplied to the condenser 102 and efficiently cool the electrical component 13.

[0173] By operating the second water pump 24, the coolant can circulate through the second line 21.

[0174] In other words, the second line 21 can form a second independent closed circuit, so that the coolant, cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the first heat exchange device 104, is supplied to the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23.

[0175] More precisely, the coolant, which is introduced from the first heat exchange device 104 along the second line 21 into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2, can be released into the second line 21, which is connected to the third port 2c of the valve module 2, by the operation (i.e., actuation) of the valve module 2.

[0176] The coolant released into the second line 21 can successively flow through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104, and can then be introduced along the second line 21 into the fourth terminal 2d of the valve module 2.

[0177] The first heat exchange device 104 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced through the second line 21 and the supplied refrigerant.

[0178] Therefore, the coolant cooled in the first heat exchanger 104 can efficiently cool the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23 as it circulates along the second line 21.

[0179] In addition, the coolant can circulate through the fourth line 41 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0180] In other words, the fourth line 41 can form another independent closed circuit, so that the low-temperature refrigerant, cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the second heat exchange device 106, can circulate through the cooling core 42.

[0181] More precisely, the coolant, which is introduced from the second heat exchanger 106 along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2, can be discharged into the fourth line 41, which is connected to the eighth port 2h of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0182] The coolant introduced into the fourth line 41 can successively flow through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106 and can then be introduced along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2.

[0183] The second heat exchange device 106 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced through the fourth line 41 and the supplied refrigerant and can evaporate the refrigerant.

[0184] Accordingly, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can flow through the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41.

[0185] In other words, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can be supplied to the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 51 through the operation of the fourth water pump 44.

[0186] An open / close flap (not shown) can be provided between the cooling core 42 and the heating core 32 (e.g., in the HVAC module). The open / close flap can close one side facing the heating core 32, allowing the ambient air cooled as it flows through the cooling core 42 to be directed into the vehicle interior.

[0187] In such a state, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be cooled during a heat exchange with the low-temperature coolant supplied to the cooling core 42 by the operation of a blower fan (not shown). The cooled ambient air can then efficiently cool the vehicle interior by being introduced directly into the vehicle interior.

[0188] Operation in the second mode for cooling a vehicle interior and for cooling the electrical component 13 and the battery module 22 using the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to Fig. 3 described in detail.

[0189] Fig. Figure 3 is an operating diagram according to the second mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] Referring to Fig. 3. The first line 11, the second line 21 and the third line 31 can be connected to each other by the operation (i.e., actuation) of the valve module 2, so that the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 is introduced into the electrical component 13, the battery module 22 and the capacitor 102.

[0191] The fourth line 41 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the fourth line 41 through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0192] The first connecting line 51 can connect the third line 31 and the first line 11, so that a part (e.g., a part of the coolant) of the coolant flowing from the condenser 102 to the third line 31 is introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12, or a part (e.g., a part of the coolant) of the coolant introduced by the electrical component 13 along the first line 11 into the cooler 12 is introduced into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0193] In addition, the flow of coolant in the second connecting line 61 may be stopped.

[0194] The refrigerant can be supplied to the condenser 102 and the second heat exchanger 106, and the refrigerant cannot be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104. The expanded refrigerant can be supplied to the second heat exchanger 106.

[0195] In such a condition, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be introduced into the second connection 2b of the valve module 2 along the first line 11 by the first water pump 14, the second water pump 24 and by the operation of the third water pump 34.

[0196] The coolant introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the third line 31, which is connected to the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0197] The coolant released into the third line 31 can flow through the condenser 102.

[0198] The condenser 102 can condense the introduced refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant supplied by the cooler 12.

[0199] All or part of the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102 can flow along the third line 31 through the heating core 32 to be introduced into a sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2.

[0200] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102, together with the coolant that flows along the first connecting line 51, can be introduced into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0201] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102 can be introduced into the first line 11, on which the radiator 12 is provided, along the first connecting line 51.

[0202] In addition, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) from the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102 can be introduced into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0203] The coolant that has flowed through the heating core 32 can be introduced along the third line 31 into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2.

[0204] The coolant introduced into the sixth port 2f of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the second line 21, which is connected to the third port 2c of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0205] The coolant discharged into the second line 21 can flow successively through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23, and the first heat exchanger 104. Afterwards, the coolant can be introduced along the second line 21 into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2.

[0206] The coolant introduced into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the first line 11, which is connected to the first port 2a of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0207] The coolant discharged into the first line 11 can flow along the first line 11 through the electrical component 13. Afterwards, all or part of the coolant (e.g., a portion of the coolant) that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can flow through the radiator 12 along the first line 11 to be introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2.

[0208] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can be introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12.

[0209] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can flow through the first connecting line 51 and through the capacitor 102 to be introduced, together with the coolant flowing through the third line 31, into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0210] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13, together with the coolant that is introduced from the third line 31 through the first connecting line 51, can be introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12.

[0211] Through the operating sequence described above, the coolant can flow through the first connecting line 51 from the first line 11 to the third line 31 or from the third line 31 to the first line 11.

[0212] In other words, the heat pump system can control the flow direction of the coolant flowing through the first connecting line 51 by operating the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 at different speeds.

[0213] Accordingly, in the second mode, the first line 11, the second line 21 and the third line 31 can form a closed circuit in which the coolant circulates through the operation of the valve module 2.

[0214] In such a condition, the coolant can circulate along the first line 11, the second line 21 and the third line 31, which are connected to each other, by the operation of the first water pump 14, the second water pump 24 and the third water pump 34.

[0215] In other words, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can circulate along the first line 11, the second line 21 and the third line 31 while the process described above is repeated.

[0216] Accordingly, the electrical component 13, the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23 can be efficiently cooled by the coolant cooled in the radiator 12.

[0217] In addition, the coolant can circulate through the fourth line 41 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0218] In other words, the fourth line 41 can form a second independent closed circuit, so that the low-temperature refrigerant, cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the second heat exchanger device 106, can circulate through the cooling core 42.

[0219] The coolant, which is introduced from the second heat exchange device 106 along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2, can be discharged into the fourth line 41, which is connected to the eighth port 2h of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0220] The coolant released into the fourth line 41 can successively flow through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106 and can then be introduced along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2.

[0221] The second heat exchange device 106 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced through the fourth line 41 and the supplied refrigerant and evaporate the refrigerant.

[0222] Accordingly, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchange device 106 can flow through the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41.

[0223] In other words, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can be supplied to the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41 through the operation of the fourth water pump 44.

[0224] Since the fourth line 41 forms an independent closed circuit, the coolant cannot flow through the second connecting line 61.

[0225] The opening / closing flap (not shown) can be provided between the cooling core 42 and the heating core 32. The opening / closing flap can close one side towards the heating core 32, so that the ambient air, which is cooled as it flows through the cooling core 42, is directed into the vehicle interior.

[0226] In such a state, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be cooled during a heat exchange with the low-temperature coolant supplied to the cooling core 42 by means of a blower fan (not shown). The cooled ambient air can then efficiently cool the vehicle interior by being introduced directly into the vehicle interior.

[0227] Operation in the third mode for cooling and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for cooling the electrical component 13 by means of the coolant and for cooling the battery module 22 by means of the coolant which has exchanged heat with the refrigerant in a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to Fig. 4 described in detail.

[0228] Fig. Figure 4 is an operating diagram according to the third mode in a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0229] With reference to Fig. 4. The refrigerant can circulate through the condenser 102, the first heat exchanger 104, and the second heat exchanger 106. The expanded refrigerant (e.g., a respective one) can be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104 and the second heat exchanger 106, respectively.

[0230] In addition, the first line 11 can be connected to the third line 31 by the operation of the valve module 2, so that the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 is introduced into the electrical component 13, the capacitor 102 and the heating core 32.

[0231] The second line 21 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the second line 21 through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0232] Furthermore, the fourth line 41 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the fourth line 41 through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0233] The first connecting line 51 can connect the third line 31 and the first line 11, so that the coolant flowing from the condenser 102 along the third line 31 is introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12.

[0234] In addition, the flow of coolant in the second connecting line 61 may be stopped.

[0235] In such a condition, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be introduced into the second connection 2b of the valve module 2 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0236] The coolant introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the third line 31, which is connected to the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2, by the operation of the third water pump 34.

[0237] The coolant released into the third line 31 can flow through the condenser 102.

[0238] The condenser 102 can condense the introduced refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant supplied by the cooler 12.

[0239] Afterwards, all or part (e.g., part of the coolant) that has flowed through the condenser 102 can flow along the third line 31 through the heating core 32 to be introduced into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2.

[0240] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102, together with the coolant that flows along the first connecting line 51, can be introduced into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0241] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102 can be introduced into the first line 11, on which the radiator 12 is provided, along the first connecting line 51.

[0242] In addition, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant that has flowed through the condenser 102 can be introduced into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0243] The coolant that has flowed through the heating core 32 can be introduced along the third line 31 into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2.

[0244] The coolant introduced into the sixth port 2f of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the first line 11, which is connected to the first port 2a of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0245] The coolant discharged into the first line 11 can flow along the first line 11 through the electrical component 13. Afterwards, all or part of the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can flow along the first line 11 through the radiator 12 to be introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2.

[0246] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can be introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12.

[0247] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) from the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13 can flow through the first connecting line 51 and through the capacitor 102 to be introduced, together with the coolant flowing through the third line 31, into the third line 31, which is connected to the heating core 32.

[0248] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the third water pump 34, the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 13, together with the coolant that is introduced from the third line 31 through the first connecting line 51, can be introduced into the first line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12.

[0249] If such a process is repeated, the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 can condense the refrigerant supplied to the condenser 102.

[0250] The coolant flowing through the condenser 102 can increase its temperature through heat exchange with the refrigerant. The coolant, now at a higher temperature, can be cooled again through heat exchange with the ambient air as it flows through the heating core 32. The cooled coolant can then efficiently cool the electrical component 13.

[0251] Through the process described above, the coolant can flow from the first line 11 through the first connecting line 51 to the third line 31 or from the third line 31 to the first line 11.

[0252] In other words, the heat pump system can control the flow direction of the coolant flowing through the first connecting line 51 by operating the first water pump 14 and the third water pump 34 at different speeds.

[0253] The coolant can circulate through the second line 21 by operating the second water pump 24.

[0254] In other words, the second line 21 can form a second independent closed circuit, so that the coolant, which is cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the first heat exchanger device 104, is supplied to the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23.

[0255] The coolant, which is introduced from the first heat exchanger 104 along the second line 21 into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2, can be discharged into the second line 21, which is connected to the third port 2c of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0256] The coolant released into the second line 21 can successively flow through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104 and then be introduced into the fourth terminal 2d of the valve module 2 along the second line 21.

[0257] The first heat exchange device 104 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced through the second line 21 and the supplied refrigerant.

[0258] Therefore, the coolant cooled in the first heat exchanger 104 can efficiently cool the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23 as it circulates along the second line 21.

[0259] In addition, the coolant can circulate through the fourth line 41 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0260] In other words, the fourth line 41 can form another independent closed circuit, so that the low-temperature refrigerant, cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the second heat exchanger device 106, can circulate through the cooling core 42.

[0261] The coolant introduced by the second heat exchanger 106 along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be discharged by the operation of the valve module 2 into the fourth line 21, which is connected to the eighth port 2h of the valve module 2.

[0262] The coolant released into the fourth line 41 can successively flow through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106 and then be introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2.

[0263] The second heat exchange device 106 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced through the fourth line 41 and the supplied refrigerant and evaporate the refrigerant.

[0264] Accordingly, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can flow through the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41.

[0265] In other words, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can be supplied to the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41 through the operation of the fourth water pump 44.

[0266] The open / close flap (not shown), which is provided between the cooling core 42 and the heating core 32, can open a section to allow passage through the heating core 32, so that the ambient air, which has been cooled as it flows through the cooling core 42, can flow through the heating core 32.

[0267] Accordingly, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be cooled during a heat exchange with the low-temperature coolant supplied to the cooling core 42 by the operation of a blower fan (not shown). The cooled ambient air can then be dehumidified as it flows through the heating core 32 and is subsequently introduced into the vehicle interior, thereby cooling and dehumidifying the interior uniformly.

[0268] Operation in the fourth mode for heating a vehicle interior and for recovering ambient air heat, waste heat from the electrical component 13 and waste heat from the battery module 22 in a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to Fig. 5 described in detail.

[0269] Fig. Figure 5 is an operating diagram according to the fourth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0270] With reference to Fig. 5. The first line 11, which is connected to the cooler 12, and the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second heat exchange device 106, can each be connected by the valve module 2 to the first line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 13, so that the coolant which has flowed through the cooler 12 and the coolant which has flowed through the second heat exchange device 106 are introduced into the electrical component 13.

[0271] A section of the fourth line 41, which is connected from the valve module 2 via the cooling core 42 to the second connecting line 61, may be closed.

[0272] The second line 21 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the second line 21 through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0273] In addition, the third line 31 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the third line 31 through the condenser 102 and the heating core 32.

[0274] The flow of coolant in the first connecting line 51 may be stopped (e.g., no coolant can flow through the first connecting line 51).

[0275] Furthermore, the second connecting line 61 can connect the first line 11 and the fourth line 41, so that a part (e.g. a part of the coolant) of the coolant flowing from the electrical component 13 along the first line 11 is introduced into the second heat exchange device 106.

[0276] The refrigerant can circulate through the condenser 102, the first heat exchanger 104, and the second heat exchanger 106. The expanded refrigerant (e.g., a given one) can be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104 and the second heat exchanger 106, respectively.

[0277] In such a state, the coolant that has flowed through the second heat exchange device 106 can be introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0278] All or part (e.g. part of the coolant) of the coolant introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be released through the first port 2a of the valve module 2 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0279] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is higher than the rotational speed of the fourth water pump 44, the coolant introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the first line 11, which is connected to the first port 2a, in order to be fully supplied to the electrical component 13.

[0280] A portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant discharged from the electrical component 13 can be introduced into the radiator 12 along the first line 11. The coolant that has flowed through the radiator 12 can then be introduced into the second port 2b of the valve module 2.

[0281] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., a residue) of the coolant released from the electrical component 13 can flow along the second connecting line 61 and then be introduced into the second heat exchange device 106 along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second connecting line 61.

[0282] If the rotational speed of the first water pump 14 is lower than the rotational speed of the fourth water pump 44, a portion (e.g., a portion of the coolant) of the coolant introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be released into the first line 11, which is connected to the first port 2a, to flow through the electrical component 13.

[0283] Furthermore, any remaining coolant (e.g., residual coolant) that is introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be released into the first line 11, which is connected to the second port 2b, to flow through the cooler 12.

[0284] The coolant, which has flowed through the radiator 12 and the electrical component 13, can flow along the second connecting line 61, which is connected to the first line 11.

[0285] The coolant can be introduced into the second heat exchanger 106 along the fourth line 41, which is connected to the second connecting line 61.

[0286] Through the process described above, the coolant introduced into the valve module 2 by the second heat exchanger 106 can be completely discharged through the first port 2a and the second port 2b, or discharged through the first port 2a together with the coolant introduced through the second port 2b.

[0287] Accordingly, the coolant can flow through the first line 11, which connects the cooler 12 and the electrical component 13, from the cooler 12 towards the electrical component 13 or from the electrical component 13 towards the cooler 12.

[0288] In other words, the heat pump system can control the flow direction of the coolant flowing through the first line 11, which connects the radiator 12 and the electrical component 13, by operating the first water pump 14 and the fourth water pump 44 at different speeds.

[0289] Accordingly, the coolant can absorb (e.g. recover) the ambient air heat by exchanging heat with the ambient air as it flows through the cooler 12 and increase its temperature by absorbing the waste heat from the electrical component 13.

[0290] The coolant, whose temperature has been increased, can flow through the second heat exchanger device 106 successively along the first line 11, the second connecting line 61 and the fourth line 41 by operating the first water pump 14 and the fourth water pump 44.

[0291] Therefore, the ambient air heat absorbed in the cooler 12 and the waste heat generated by the electrical component 13 can increase the temperature of the refrigerant supplied to the second heat exchanger 106.

[0292] In other words, the second heat exchanger 106 can recover the ambient air heat and the waste heat from the electrical component 13 by heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant and use it to increase the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0293] The coolant that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 106 can be introduced along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2.

[0294] The coolant introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be completely discharged through the first port 2a and the second port 2b by the operation of the valve module 2, or it can be discharged through the first port 2a together with the coolant introduced through the second port 2b.

[0295] In addition, the coolant can flow through the cooler 12 and the electrical component 13 and then be reintroduced into the valve module 2, allowing the processes described above to be repeated.

[0296] The coolant can circulate through the second line 21 by operating the second water pump 24.

[0297] In other words, the coolant can be released into the second line 21, which is connected to the third port 2c, by the operation of the valve module 2 and the second water pump 24.

[0298] The coolant released into the second line 21 can flow through the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23 to be introduced along the second line 21 into the fourth terminal 2d of the valve module 2.

[0299] The coolant can increase its temperature by absorbing the waste heat from the battery module 22 as it flows through the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23.

[0300] The coolant, whose temperature has been increased, can be fed into the first heat exchanger 104 along the second line 21. Therefore, the waste heat generated by the battery module 22 can increase the temperature of the refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 104.

[0301] In other words, the first heat exchange device 104 can recover the waste heat from the battery module 22 by heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant and use it to increase the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0302] The coolant that has flowed through the first heat exchanger 104 can be introduced along the second line 21 into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0303] In addition, the coolant can circulate through the third line 31 by operating the third water pump 34.

[0304] In other words, the third line 31 can form another independent closed circuit, so that the high-temperature coolant, whose temperature has been increased by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the condenser 102, can circulate through the heating core 32.

[0305] The coolant introduced through the third line 31 into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2 can be released at a fifth connection 2e of the valve module 2 by the operation of the third water pump 34 and the valve module 2.

[0306] The refrigerant circulating along the third line 31 can flow successively through the condenser 102 and the electric heating device 33. The condenser 102 can condense the refrigerant using the refrigerant flowing along the third line 31.

[0307] The coolant can increase its temperature during condensation of the refrigerant in the condenser 102. The coolant, whose temperature has increased as it flows through the condenser 102, can be introduced into the heating core 32 along the third line 31.

[0308] In such a state, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be brought into a high-temperature state, while heat is exchanged with the high-temperature coolant supplied to the heating core 32 by the operation of a blower fan (not shown).

[0309] The high-temperature ambient air can be introduced into the vehicle interior, thereby heating the vehicle interior.

[0310] In other words, in a heat pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when heating the vehicle interior, the ambient air heat, the waste heat of the electrical component 13 and the waste heat of the battery module 22 can be absorbed by means of the first and second heat exchange devices 104 and 106 and used to increase the temperature of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the compressor and improving heating efficiency.

[0311] The coolant that has flowed through the heating core 32 can flow along the third line 31 and be introduced into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2, thereby repeating the processes described above.

[0312] Operation in the fifth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for recovering the waste heat from the battery module 22 in a heat pump system for the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to Fig. 6 described in detail.

[0313] Fig. Figure 6 is an operating diagram according to the fifth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0314] With reference to Fig. 6. The first line 11 can be closed through the valve module 2.

[0315] In addition, the second line 21 and the fourth line 41 can be connected to each other through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control device 23, the first heat exchange device 104, the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0316] The third line 31 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the third line 31 through the condenser 102 and the heating core 32.

[0317] The flow of coolant in the first connecting line 51 and in the second connecting line 61 may be stopped.

[0318] The refrigerant can circulate through the condenser 102, the first heat exchanger 104, and the second heat exchanger 106. The expanded refrigerant (e.g., a given one) can be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104 and the second heat exchanger 106, respectively.

[0319] In such a state, the coolant that has flowed through the second heat exchange device 106 can be introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0320] The coolant introduced into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 can be discharged through the third port 2c of the valve module 2 by the operation of the second water pump 24.

[0321] The coolant released through the third port 2c can flow successively along the second line 21 through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0322] The coolant can increase its temperature by absorbing the waste heat from the battery module 22 as it flows through the battery module 22 and the autonomous driving control unit 23.

[0323] The coolant, whose temperature has been increased, can be supplied along the second line 21 to the first heat exchanger 104. Therefore, the waste heat generated by the battery module 22 can increase the temperature of the refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 104.

[0324] In other words, the first heat exchange device 104 can recover the waste heat from the battery module 22 by heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant and use it to increase the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0325] Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 104 can cool the coolant circulating along the second line 21 by heat exchange with a low-temperature refrigerant and evaporate the refrigerant. Additionally, the low-temperature refrigerant, which is cooled as it flows through the first heat exchanger 104, can be introduced along the second line 21 into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2.

[0326] The coolant introduced into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2 can be released through an eighth port 2h of the valve module 2.

[0327] The coolant released through the eighth connection 2h of the valve module 2 can flow successively along the fourth line 41 through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0328] Accordingly, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the first heat exchanger 104 can be supplied to the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchanger 106, while circulating along the second line 21 and the fourth line 41 through the operation of the second water pump 24 and the fourth water pump 44.

[0329] The coolant that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 106 can be introduced along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2 and repeat the processes described above.

[0330] Furthermore, the coolant can circulate through the third line 31 by operating the third water pump 34.

[0331] In other words, the third line 31 can form another independent closed circuit, so that the high-temperature coolant, whose temperature is increased by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the condenser 102, can circulate through the heating core 32.

[0332] The coolant introduced through the third line 31 into the sixth port 2f of the valve module 2 can be released through the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2 by the operation of the third water pump 34 and the valve module 2.

[0333] The refrigerant circulating along the third line 31 can flow successively through the condenser 102 and the electric heating device 103. The condenser 102 can condense the refrigerant using the refrigerant flowing through the third line 31.

[0334] The coolant can increase its temperature during condensation of the refrigerant in the condenser 102. The coolant, whose temperature has increased as it flows through the condenser 102, can be introduced into the heating core 32 along the third line 31.

[0335] In such a state, the opening / closing flap (not shown), which is provided between the cooling core 42 and the heating core 32, can open a section for passage through the heating core 32, so that the ambient air, which has been cooled as it flows through the cooling core 42, can flow through the heating core 32.

[0336] Accordingly, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be dehumidified by heat exchange with the low-temperature coolant supplied to the cooling core 42 by operating a blower fan (not shown).

[0337] The dehumidified ambient air can be brought into a high-temperature state as it flows through the heating core 32 and introduced into the vehicle interior, thereby heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior evenly.

[0338] Furthermore, operation in the sixth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for heating the battery module 22 in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to Fig. 7 described in detail.

[0339] Fig. Figure 7 is an operating diagram according to the fifth mode in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0340] With reference to Fig. 7 the first line 11 can be closed through the valve module 2.

[0341] In addition, the second line 21 and the third line 31 can be connected to each other through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively through the condenser 102, the heating core 32, the battery module 22 and the first heat exchanger device 104.

[0342] In other words, the second line 21 can be connected to the third line 31 by the operation of the valve module 2, so that the coolant, whose temperature is increased as it flows through the capacitor 102, is introduced into the battery module 22.

[0343] The fourth line 41 can form an independent closed circuit through the valve module 2, so that the coolant circulates to flow successively along the fourth line 41 through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106.

[0344] The flow of coolant in the first connecting line 51 and in the second connecting line 61 may be stopped.

[0345] The refrigerant can circulate through the condenser 102, the first heat exchanger 104, and the second heat exchanger 106. The expanded refrigerant (e.g., a given one) can be supplied to the first heat exchanger 104 and the second heat exchanger 106, respectively.

[0346] In such a condition, the coolant can be released into the second line 21, which is connected to the third connection 2c of the valve module 2, by operating the second water pump 24.

[0347] The coolant released into the second line 21 can flow successively through the battery module 22, the autonomous driving control unit 23 and the first heat exchange device 104.

[0348] The coolant can be introduced along the second line into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2.

[0349] The coolant introduced into the fourth port 2d of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the third line 31, which is connected to the fifth port 2e of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2 and the third water pump 34.

[0350] The refrigerant discharged into the third line 31 can flow successively through the condenser 102, the electric heating element 33, and the heating core 32. The condenser 102 can condense the refrigerant using the refrigerant flowing through the third line 31.

[0351] The coolant can increase its temperature during condensation of the refrigerant in the condenser 102. The coolant, whose temperature increases as it flows through the condenser 102, can be introduced into the heating core 32 via the third line 31.

[0352] The coolant that has flowed through the heating core 32 can flow through the third line 31 and be introduced into the sixth connection 2f of the valve module 2.

[0353] The coolant introduced into the sixth port 2f of the valve module 2 can be discharged into the second line 21, which is connected to the third port 2c of the valve module 2, by the operation of the second water pump 24 and the valve module 2.

[0354] The coolant released into the second line 21 can increase the temperature of the battery module 22 as it flows through the battery module 22.

[0355] In other words, such a process allows battery module 22 to efficiently increase its temperature, as the coolant, whose temperature has been increased, is supplied.

[0356] Accordingly, in the sixth mode, the second line 21 and the third line 31 can form a closed circuit in which the coolant circulates through the operation of the valve module 2.

[0357] In such a condition, the coolant can circulate along the second line 21 and the third line 31, which are connected to each other, by the operation of the second water pump 24 and the third water pump 34.

[0358] In other words, if heating of the battery module 22 is required, the heat pump system can efficiently increase the temperature of the battery module 22 by supplying the coolant, whose temperature is increased as it flows through the capacitor 102, to the battery module 22.

[0359] The coolant can circulate through the fourth line 41 by operating the fourth water pump 44.

[0360] In other words, the fourth line 41 can form another independent closed circuit, so that the low-temperature refrigerant, cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant as it flows through the second heat exchanger device 106, can circulate through the cooling core 42.

[0361] The coolant, which is introduced from the second heat exchange device 106 along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2, can be discharged into the fourth line 41, which is connected to the eighth port 2h of the valve module 2, by the operation of the valve module 2.

[0362] The coolant introduced into the fourth line 41 can flow successively through the cooling core 42 and the second heat exchange device 106 and then be introduced along the fourth line 41 into the seventh port 2g of the valve module 2.

[0363] The second heat exchange device 106 can cool the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant introduced via the fourth line 41 and the supplied refrigerant and evaporate the refrigerant.

[0364] Accordingly, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can flow through the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41.

[0365] In other words, the low-temperature coolant cooled in the second heat exchanger 106 can be supplied to the cooling core 42 while circulating along the fourth line 41 through the operation of the fourth water pump 44.

[0366] In such a state, the opening / closing flap (not shown), which is provided between the cooling core 42 and the heating core 32, can open a section for passage through the heating core 32, so that the ambient air, which has been cooled as it flows through the cooling core 42, can flow through the heating core 32.

[0367] Accordingly, the ambient air introduced into the vehicle interior can be dehumidified during the heat exchange with the low-temperature coolant supplied to the cooling core 42 by the operation of a blower fan (not shown).

[0368] The dehumidified ambient air can be converted into a high-temperature state as it flows through the heating core 32 and introduced into the vehicle interior, thereby heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior evenly.

[0369] As described above, in a heat pump system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the entire system can be rationalized (e.g., streamlined and / or standardized) and the arrangement of the connecting lines in which the refrigerant circulates can be rationalized (e.g., streamlined and / or standardized) by selective heat exchange between the heat energy generated by the refrigerant during condensation and evaporation with the coolant and by adjusting the temperature in the vehicle interior using the low-temperature or high-temperature coolant subjected to heat exchange.

[0370] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, when heating the vehicle interior, the heating efficiency of the vehicle can be improved and the total range (e.g. total driving distance) of the vehicle can be increased by efficient temperature adjustment of the battery module 22, so that the optimal performance of the battery module 22 can be achieved.

[0371] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the temperature of the electrical component 13 and the battery module 22 can be efficiently adjusted / set by controlling the valve module 2, thereby improving the overall marketability of the vehicle.

[0372] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce manufacturing costs and overall weight by streamlining (e.g., slimming down and / or standardizing) the entire system and to improve space utilization by minimizing the number of components.

[0373] Although this disclosure has been described in connection with embodiments of the present disclosure currently considered practical, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to encompass numerous modifications and equivalent arrangements which are included within the meaning and scope of the appended claims. Reference symbol list 2 valve modules 11 First line 12 coolers (radiators) 13 Electrical Component 14 First water pump 21 Second line 22 Battery module 23 Autonomous driving control unit 24 Second water pump 31 Third line 32 heating core 33 Electric heating device 34 Third water pump 41 Fourth line 42 cooling core 44 Fourth water pump 102 Capacitor 104 First heat exchanger 106 Second heat exchanger

Claims

Heat pump system for a vehicle, comprising: a valve module (2) with at least one port through which coolant is introduced or discharged; a first line (11) configured to allow coolant to flow, and having a first end and a second end connected to the valve module (2), wherein a radiator (12), an electrical component (13), and a first water pump (14) are connected to the first line (11); a second line (21) configured to allow coolant to flow, and having a first end and a second end connected to the valve module (2), wherein a battery module (22) and a first heat exchanger (104) are connected to the second line (21); a third line (31) configured to allow coolant to flow, and having a first end and a second end,which are connected to the valve module (2), wherein a heating core (32) and a capacitor (102) are connected to the third line (31), a fourth line (41) which is configured to allow the coolant to flow, and which has a first end and a second end which are connected to the valve module (2), wherein a cooling core (42) and a second heat exchange device (106) are connected to the fourth line (41), a first connecting line (51) which connects the first line (11) and the third line (31), and a second connecting line (61) which connects the first line (11) and the fourth line (41), wherein, based on at least one mode for adjusting a temperature of a vehicle interior and a temperature of the battery module (22), the valve module (2) is configured to allow a flow of the coolant by selectively connecting the first line (11), the second line (21),to control the third line (31), the fourth line (41), the first connecting line (51) and the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to claim 1, wherein: a first end of the first connecting line (51) is connected to the first line (11) between the cooler (12) and the electrical component (13), a second end of the first connecting line (51) is connected to the third line (31) at a downstream end of the condenser (102), a first end of the second connecting line (61) is connected to the first line (11) at a downstream end of the electrical component (13), and a second end of the second connecting line (61) is connected to the fourth line (41) at an upstream end of the second heat exchange device (106). Heat pump system according to claim 2, wherein the at least one mode comprises: a first mode for cooling the vehicle interior, a second mode for cooling the vehicle interior and for cooling the electrical component (13) and the battery module (22) using the coolant, a third mode for cooling and dehumidifying the vehicle interior, for cooling the electrical component (13) using the coolant, and for cooling the battery module (22) using the coolant which has exchanged heat with a refrigerant, a fourth mode for heating the vehicle interior and for recovering ambient air heat, waste heat from the electrical component (13), and waste heat from the battery module (22), a fifth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for recovering waste heat from the battery module (22), and a sixth mode for heating and dehumidifying the vehicle interior and for heating the battery module (22).where the cooling level in the first mode is higher than the cooling level in the second to sixth modes. Heat pump system according to claim 3, wherein in the first mode: the first line (11), which is connected to the cooler (12), is connected via the valve module (2) respectively to the first line (12), which is connected to the electrical component (13), and to the third line (31), which is connected to the condenser (102), so that the coolant cooled in the cooler (12) is introduced respectively into the electrical component (13) and the condenser (102); the second line (21) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the second line (12) and flows successively through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchanger (104); a section of the third line (31), which extends from the valve module (2) through the heating core (32) to the first connecting line (51), is configured to be closed.The fourth line (41) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the fourth line (41) and flows successively through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchanger (106), the first connecting line (51) connects the third line (31) and the first line (11) together, so that the coolant flowing from the condenser (102) along the third line (31) is introduced into the first line (11), which is connected to the radiator (12), and the flow of coolant through the second connecting line (61) is stopped. Heat pump system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein in the second mode: the first line (11), the second line (21) and the third line (31) are connected to each other through the valve module (2), so that the coolant cooled in the radiator (12) is introduced into the electrical component (13) and the battery module (22); the fourth line (41) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the fourth line (41) and flows successively through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchanger (106); the first connecting line (51) connects the third line (31) and the first line (11) to each other, so that a portion of the coolant flowing from the condenser (102) along the third line (31) is introduced into the first line (11), which is connected to the radiator (12), or a portion of the coolantwhich is introduced from the electrical component (13) along the first line (11) into the cooler (12), is introduced into the third line (31), which is connected to the heating core (32), and the flow of the coolant flowing through the second connecting line (61) is stopped. Heat pump system according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein in the third mode: the first line (11) and the third line (31) are connected to each other through the valve module (2), so that the coolant cooled in the cooler (12) is introduced into the electrical component (13), the condenser (102) and the heating core (32); the second line is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the second line (12) and flows successively through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchange device (104); the fourth line (41) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the fourth line (41) and flows successively through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchange device (106).the first connecting line (51) connects the third line (31) and the first line (11) together, so that a portion of the coolant flowing along the third line (31) from the condenser (102) is introduced into the first line (11), which is connected to the radiator (12), or a portion of the coolant being introduced from the electrical component (13) along the first line (11) into the radiator (12) is introduced into the third line (31), which is connected to the heating core (32), and the coolant thus ceases to flow through the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein in the fourth mode: the first line (11), which is connected to the cooler (12), and the fourth line (41), which is connected to the second heat exchanger (106), are connected by the valve module (2) to the first line (11), which is connected to the electrical component (13), so that the coolant which has flowed through the cooler (12) and the coolant which has flowed through the second heat exchanger (106) are introduced into the electrical component (13); a section of the fourth line (41), which is connected by the valve module (2) via the cooling core (42) to the second connecting line (61), is configured to be closed; the second line (21) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2).so that the coolant circulates along the second line (21) and flows successively through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchanger (12), the third line (31) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2), so that the coolant circulates along the third line (31) and flows successively through the condenser (102) and the heating core (32), the flow of coolant through the first connecting line (51) is stopped, and the second connecting line (61) connects the first line (1) and the fourth line (41) together, so that a portion of the coolant flowing from the electrical component (13) along the first line (11) is introduced into the second heat exchanger (106). Heat pump system according to one of claims 3 to 7, wherein in the fifth mode: the first line (11) is configured to be closed by the valve module (2), the second line (21) and the fourth line (41) are connected to each other by the valve module (2) so that the coolant circulates to flow successively through the battery module (22), the first heat exchange device (104), the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchange device (106), the third line is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2) so that the coolant circulates and flows successively along the third line (31) through the condenser (102) and the heating core (32), and the coolant stops flowing through the first connecting line (51) and the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to one of claims 3 to 8, wherein in the sixth mode: the first line (11) is configured to be closed by the valve module (2), the second line (21) and the third line (31) are connected to each other by the valve module (2) so that the coolant circulates and flows successively through the condenser (102), the heating core (32), the battery module (22) and the first heat exchange device (104), the fourth line (41) is configured to form an independent closed circuit through the valve module (2) so that the coolant circulates along the fourth line (41) and flows successively through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchange device (106), and the flow of the coolant through the first connecting line (51) and the second connecting line (62) is stopped. Heat pump system according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the valve module (2) has: a first connection (2a) to which the first end of the first line (11) is connected, a second connection (2b) to which the second end of the first line (11) is connected, a third connection (2c) to which the first end of the second line (21) is connected, a fourth connection (2d) to which the second end of the second line (21) is connected, a fifth connection (2e) to which the first end of the third line (31) is connected, a sixth connection (2f) to which the second end of the third line (31) is connected, a seventh connection (2g) to which the first end of the fourth line (41) is connected, and an eighth connection (2h) to which the second end of the fourth line (41) is connected. Heat pump system according to one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: a second water pump (24) which is provided on the second line (21), a third water pump (34) which is provided on the third line (31), and a fourth water pump (44) which is provided on the fourth line (41). Heat pump system according to claim 11, wherein, in the at least one mode, at least two water pumps of the first water pump (14), the second water pump (24), the third water pump (34) and the fourth water pump (44), which are provided on lines connected to each other by the valve module (2), are arranged to be operated at different speeds in order to control the flow of the coolant. Heat pump system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first water pump (14), the second water pump (24), the third water pump (34) and the fourth water pump (44) are configured as pumps with different delivery heads to control the flow of the coolant in the at least one mode. Heat pump system according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein an electric heating device (103) is further provided on the third line (31), and the coolant flowing in the third line (31) successively flows through the condenser (102) and the electric heating device (103). Heat pump system according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein an autonomous driving control device (23) is provided on the second line (21). Heat pump system for a vehicle, comprising: a valve module (2) with a plurality of connections (2a - 2h) through which a coolant is introduced or discharged; a first line (11) having opposite ends connected to the valve module (2) and to which a radiator (12), an electrical component (13) and a first water pump (14) are connected; a second line (21) having opposite ends connected to the valve module (2) and to which a battery module (22) and a first heat exchanger (104) are connected; a third line (31) having opposite ends connected to the valve module (2) and to which a heating element (32) and a condenser (102) are connected; a fourth line (41) having opposite ends connected to the valve module (2).comprising and to which a cooling core (42) and a second heat exchange device (106) are connected, a first connecting line (51) which connects the first line (11) and the third line (31), and a second connecting line (61) which connects the first line (11) and the fourth line (41), wherein the valve module (2) is configured to selectively connect the first to fourth lines (11, 21, 31, 41) and the first and second connecting lines (51, 61) based on at least one operating mode for adjusting a temperature of a vehicle interior and a temperature of the battery module (22). Heat pump system according to claim 16, wherein the at least one operating mode has a first mode and the valve module (2) in the first mode is configured to: connect the first line (11) to the cooler (12), the electrical component (13) and the third line, which is connected to the condenser (102), so that coolant cooled in the cooler (12) flows into the electrical component (13) and the condenser (102); form an independent closed circuit along the second line (12) to circulate coolant through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchanger (104); form an independent closed circuit along the fourth line (41) to circulate coolant through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchanger (106); connect the third line (31) and the first line (11) to each other via the first connecting line (51).to return the coolant from the condenser (102) to the radiator (12), and to block coolant flow through the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the at least one operating mode has a second mode and the valve module (2) in the second mode is configured to: connect the first line (11), the second line (21) and the third line (31) together, so that coolant cooled in the cooler (12) flows to the electrical component (13) and the battery module (22), form an independent closed circuit along the fourth line (41) to circulate coolant through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchange device (106), connect the third line (31) and the first line (11) together via the first connecting line (51) to allow partial coolant exchange between the condenser (102) and the cooler (12), and block coolant flow through the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the at least one operating mode has a third mode and the valve module (2) in the third mode is configured to: connect the first line (11) and the third line (31) to each other in order to direct coolant cooled in the cooler (12) into the electrical component (13), the condenser (102) and the heating core (32); form an independent closed circuit along the second line (21) to circulate coolant through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchanger (104); form an independent closed circuit along the fourth line (41) to circulate coolant through the cooling core (42) and the second heat exchanger (106); connect the third line (31) and the first line (11) to each other via the first connecting line (51) for partial coolant exchange between the condenser (102) and the heating core (32).and to block the flow of coolant through the second connecting line (61). Heat pump system according to one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the at least one operating mode has a fourth mode and the valve module (2) in the fourth mode is configured to: connect the first line (11) from the cooler (12) and the fourth line (41) from the second heat exchanger (106) to the electrical component (13), close a section of the fourth line (41) extending over the cooling core (42) to the second connecting line (62), form an independent closed circuit along the second line (21) to circulate coolant through the battery module (22) and the first heat exchanger (104), form an independent closed circuit along the third line (31) to circulate coolant through the condenser (102) and the heating core (32), block coolant flow through the first connecting line (51), and the first and fourth lines (11,41) to connect them via the second connecting line (61) in order to direct a partial coolant flow from the electrical component (13) to the second heat exchanger (106).

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