Connection module for fluid-conducting connection of an outdoor unit to an indoor unit of a heat exchanger system

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connection module for fluidically connecting an outdoor unit to an indoor unit of a heat exchanger system through an opening in a building's exterior wall section. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a connection arrangement of a heat exchanger system and a method for installing a connection arrangement, wherein the connection arrangement comprises a building's exterior wall section through which an opening is formed, an outdoor unit arranged on the outside of the exterior wall section, an indoor unit arranged on the inside of the exterior wall section, and a connection module arranged in the opening.

[0002] The term "heat exchanger system" refers to air conditioning systems that generate a cooling effect inside a building, and heating systems, particularly heat pump systems, that generate a heating effect inside a building. However, the term "heat exchanger system" also includes local heating, district heating, geothermal, and solar thermal systems.

[0003] The heat exchanger wall penetration according to the invention is suitable for a wall penetration for the above-ground installation of a heat exchanger system with multiple lines. However, the heat exchanger wall penetration can also be used for other purposes, such as a wall box for electric cars, water pipes and power lines, or as a house penetration for supplying other structures such as a swimming pool, garden shed, pool bar, tool and equipment shed, or the like.

[0004] The current state of the art involves laying fluid lines between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit through the ground. However, especially when retrofitting such heat exchanger systems to existing buildings, connecting the outdoor unit to the indoor unit above ground, without contact with the ground, is also known, in which the fluid lines are laid through an exterior wall of a building.

[0005] It has been found that in many construction site situations, the cables are routed through the building's exterior wall, and the remaining gap between the cable and the surrounding wall surface is simply filled with suitable construction foam. This solution has the disadvantage of providing completely inadequate sealing against environmental influences such as moisture, cold, noise, UV radiation, etc. Another disadvantage is that such solutions are not bird-pecking resistant.

[0006] Furthermore, these state-of-the-art solutions often only achieve a comparatively low level of tightness due to the different thermal expansion coefficients of, for example, the outer wall section and the pipes routed through the outer wall section. Furthermore, this type of pipe routing can lead to unwanted sound transmission from the heat exchanger system to the building wall.

[0007] There are also known solutions that use so-called connection sets, in which partially insulated fluid lines are routed through the wall in a casing, with the casings being sporadically sealed to the wall with simple sealing rings. Even if the seal between the casing and the wall is sufficiently tight—which, according to observation, is actually not regularly the case—these systems leave a void within the casing that is not adequately sealed against one or more of the above-mentioned environmental influences.

[0008] Even when using the aforementioned connection sets, depending on the skill of an installer entrusted with the installation of such systems, it may happen that the system is not airtight or does not remain so permanently, thus creating cold bridges between the outside and inside of the building.

[0009] US 2005 / 109523 A1 discloses a passage for lines or pipes of a heat exchanger through a wall of a building. US 4,607,469 A1 relates to a device and a method for sealing a pipe routed through a wall section, in which one or more supply lines are arranged. US 2005 / 109885 A1 discloses a mounting plate assembly designed for the quiet passage of a heating pipe assembly through a vehicle dashboard.

[0010] The invention was therefore based on the object of demonstrating a connection module for the fluid-conducting connection of an outdoor unit to an indoor unit of a heat exchanger system, a connection arrangement of a heat exchanger system and a method for installing a connection arrangement, by means of which the problems described above are eliminated as far as possible and, in particular, a secure seal against the building's outer wall section can be achieved simply and reliably and undesirable cold bridges can be avoided.

[0011] According to a first aspect, the invention solves the underlying problem with a connection module for fluidically connecting an outdoor unit that can be arranged on the outside of a building to an indoor unit of a heat exchanger system that can be arranged in the building through an opening in a building's outer wall section, having the features of claim 1. In particular, the connection module is provided with a first connection interface for the outdoor unit and a second connection interface for the indoor unit, at least one line section that can be inserted into the opening in the building's outer wall section and fluidically connects the first and second connection interfaces, a first closure unit, preferably assigned to the outer wall-side region of the opening, and a second closure unit, preferably assigned to the inner wall-side region of the opening, each with one or more passages for the line section,wherein at least one of the two closure units, and preferably both, is designed for sealing the passage of the line section and for sealing the opening in the building's outer wall section, and wherein the two closure units are arranged spaced apart from one another along the line section and define between them a receiving space which is designed to receive thermal insulation material.

[0012] The present invention pursues the approach that at least one closure unit of the connection module provides a sealing function against the outside of the line section as well as the wall surface surrounding the at least one line section and defining the opening. Fluid tightness according to DIN EN 60529 is thus achieved at at least one point of the connection module according to the invention, which prevents the passage of fluids such as water. The connection module according to the invention preferably has a protection class of at least IP44.

[0013] In the present case, an outdoor and indoor unit is understood to mean any device of a heat exchanger system, whereby one of the two devices, regardless of its respective arrangement, i.e. whether inside or outside, can also be designed as a component without its own control circuit of the other device, which is arranged on the opposite wall-side area.

[0014] The two closure units are arranged spaced apart from one another along the line section, with the two closure units defining a receiving space between them for accommodating a thermal insulation material. Thus, the thermal insulation material that can be inserted between the closure units can provide thermal insulation and, if necessary, additional sealing against fluid penetration. In addition to a thermal insulation effect, the thermal insulation material inserted into the receiving space between the closure units can also have sound-insulating properties. Any vibrations generated at the outdoor and / or indoor unit during operation of the heat exchanger system are introduced into the building's outer wall section via the at least one line section, at least significantly reduced.

[0015] A preferred development of the connection module provides that the first and / or the second closure unit has / have a sealing body surrounding the line section for sealing the passage of the line section and for sealing the opening in the building's outer wall section. With the help of the sealing body, which is preferably made of an elastically deformable material, the desired sealing effect is possible with respect to the outside of the line section as well as with respect to the wall surface defining the opening. The sealing body preferably has a cylindrical outer contour and, depending on the number of line sections, has a corresponding number of passages. In preferred embodiments, the sealing body is formed in one or more parts and more preferably partially or completely from silicone, EPDM, rubber, such as, for example,NBR, cellular rubber or another suitable elastomer sealing material.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the passages are designed as cylindrical recesses or openings.

[0017] Preferably, the sealing body is assigned at least one tensioning device for axially clamping the sealing body. It should be understood that the clamping in the axial direction is related to the center axis of the sealing body. When the sealing body is clamped in the axial direction, the elastic material used to form the sealing body deflects transversely to the clamping direction, and thus primarily in the radial direction, both inwards and outwards. This achieves sealing with respect to the wall surface defining the opening and the outside of the line section. The sealing body of the closure unit is matched to the dimensions of the opening or the line sections to be passed through it, with its external nominal dimension as well as with regard to its passages accommodating the line sections.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the connection module, the first and / or second closure unit comprises a tensioning device for tensioning the sealing body or the tensioning device associated with it. In the tensioned state, the sealing body is configured to seal the opening in the outer region of the outer wall section in a fluid-tight manner. This counteracts the ingress of fluid into the opening of the building's outer wall section and any resulting damage to the outer wall section from the inside.

[0019] In preferred embodiments, the first and / or second closure unit is in sealing contact with the wall surface defining the opening, ie inside the bore or the opening, which may be cylindrical or non-circular, through the wall, and / or with areas of the outside of the outer wall section surrounding the opening.

[0020] In a preferred development of the connection module, the clamping device, when inserted into the opening, can be actuated from the outside and / or inside of the exterior wall section, preferably from outside the opening. This allows for simple and precisely positioned mounting of the locking unit in the area of ​​the opening of the exterior wall section. In one possible embodiment, the first locking unit is mounted approximately flush with the outside of the building's exterior wall section, terminating within the opening. Furthermore, the preferred actuation of the clamping device from outside the opening facilitates installation by an installer.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the clamping device comprises two clamping bodies arranged axially on either side of the sealing body, wherein the clamping bodies are connected to one another by one or more clamping elements. The clamping elements are designed, for example, as clamping bolts or clamping screws. The distance between the clamping bodies can be varied by actuating the clamping element.

[0022] A further development of the connection module provides that the clamping device is a first clamping device, and the connection module additionally has a second clamping device for clamping the second closure unit. The second closure unit can further increase the sealing effect of the connection module.

[0023] Depending on the design of the clamping module, the first and / or second clamping unit is preferably configured to be clamped against the outer wall section on the outside or inside. With the aid of the second clamping device, a clamping force is applied to the second closure unit so that it comes into at least sealing contact with the outer wall section in the inner wall region of the opening. For sealing contact with the outside of the line section, sealing elements protruding radially inward, such as lips, lamellae, flat seals or rings, can be provided, in particular at the passages of the second closure unit, which implement at least a pressureless sealing function. The sealing elements enable, in particular, sealing against the outside of the at least one line section, the diameter of which can vary within a predetermined range due to the flexibility of the sealing lamellae.

[0024] The second clamping device preferably has at least one clamping means which cooperates with a fastening section provided on the first clamping device and preferably protruding axially into the opening. The first closure unit and the second closure unit preferably cooperate with one another, which further simplifies the assembly and handling of the connection module according to the invention by an installer within an opening. In addition to providing a fluid-tight seal against the opening and line section, the first closure unit preferably positions the connection module in the axial direction relative to the opening in the outer wall section. The first or second closure unit, which is preferably fixed in the opening, functions as a type of anchor or fixed bearing in the opening for clamping the first or second closure unit.

[0025] The second clamping device preferably has a clamping means, such as a clamping screw or threaded rod, extending between the first closure unit and the second closure unit. Preferably, an approximately axially projecting fastening section is arranged on the first clamping device, with which the clamping means of the second clamping device interacts. The fastening section can, for example, be a profile body, such as a long nut, preferably projecting centrally on the first closure unit, which has a threaded section that interacts with the clamping means.

[0026] According to a preferred development, the at least one clamping means extends through the second closure unit and is designed to be actuable from the inside of the outer wall section, preferably from outside the opening. This further simplifies the operation of the connection module according to the invention. In addition, the second closure unit creates a clean finish on the inside of the outer wall section. With the clamping means extending through the second closure unit, which preferably has a screw head that can be brought into contact with the closure unit, the clamping force generated by the second clamping device can be securely applied to the second closure unit. In one possible embodiment, the second clamping device has only a single clamping means, which is formed by a recess or slot formed in the central region of the second closure unit.protrudes through an opening and corresponds to the fastening section which also protrudes axially approximately in the middle of the first locking unit.

[0027] The first and / or second clamping device, the latter in the case of multiple clamping devices, is preferably partially or completely made of an electrically and / or thermally insulating material, preferably plastic. This prevents or at least limits the formation of cold bridges or current flow along the clamping devices or through the first and / or second clamping devices.

[0028] Preferably, the first and / or second closure unit has a sealing disc extending outside the opening, comprising a sealing element configured to form a seal against the outside and / or inside of the outer wall section. Providing an approximately circular sealing disc results in a simple design of the second closure unit. The sealing element is preferably formed circumferentially along the periphery of the surface area of ​​the sealing disc facing the outer wall section, thereby ensuring complete sealing of the closure unit against the wall section.In an alternative embodiment, the sealing element assigned to the second closure unit is designed as a sealing element extending over its entire surface area, which realizes a sealing engagement with both the inner side of the outer wall section and with the at least one line section extending through a passage on the second closure unit.

[0029] In preferred embodiments, the sealing element also extends partially into the opening in the wall and thus creates a seal against the wall surface of the opening.

[0030] The sealing element is preferably made of a deformable material, such as rubber or plastic, which is arranged as a prefabricated molded part in a recess on the inside of the sealing disc. The sealing element can also be designed as an expandable tape. The expandable tape is preferably designed as a polyurethane compression tape, polyethylene round cord, polyurethane round cord, or ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDK) foam tape. According to an alternative embodiment, thick-film adhesive and / or foam adhesive tape can also be used as the sealing element, which are applied to the inside of the closure unit before it is mounted.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, it is alternatively provided that the first and second closure units have a single clamping device, which is provided for clamping the first and second closure units against the inner and outer wall region of the outer wall section. The clamping device preferably has one or more clamping means coupling the closure units to one another. In particular, in conjunction with the design of the first and second closure units as a sealing disc extending outside the opening and equipped with a sealing element, the use of a single clamping device offers an assembly advantage in that it can pull the closure units from opposite sides into contact with the wall regions of the outer wall section.

[0032] In principle, three embodiments of the connection module can be distinguished. A first embodiment comprises two differently designed closure units, of which a first closure unit is arranged within the opening in the building's outer wall section and the second closure unit is arranged outside the opening and overlaps it. In the second and third embodiments, identically designed closure units are used. In the second embodiment, both closure units are arranged inside the opening at opposite ends of the opening. In the third embodiment, both closure units are arranged outside the opening and overlap it, resting against the wall areas of the outer wall section.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the connection module, two fluid-conducting line sections are provided.

[0034] The two fluid lines are used to create a forward and return line between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, for example, for transporting heat transfer fluid. Preferably, the two fluid-conducting line sections of the connection module are arranged horizontally and / or vertically spaced apart from one another, particularly halfway up the opening. Each of the first and second closure units has a corresponding number of passages for the fluid-conducting line sections to be passed through.

[0035] According to a further preferred embodiment, the closure units, in addition to the one or more passages for fluid-conducting line sections, have one or more passages for a power or signal line, wherein the passages are preferably each connected by means of a conduit for accommodating power or signal lines. The connection module is thus also configured for the electrical and / or data-transmitting connection of the outdoor unit to the indoor unit.

[0036] This means that both the power supply to the outdoor unit and the control of the outdoor unit are preferably based on the indoor unit of the heat exchanger system. The cable sections accommodated by the closure units form a common first connection interface, for example, on the outside, and a common second connection interface, on the inside. A cable section designed as a power or signal line can, for example, have a connector as a connection interface, with which a power or signal-conducting connection is established via a corresponding connector to another cable section coupled to the outdoor and / or indoor unit.

[0037] Preferably, the conduit(s) is / are designed to electromagnetically shield the internal cables. This can reduce or prevent electromagnetic interference or influences caused by electromagnetic interaction between the electrical cables, in particular interference with the signal line. The conduit(s) also simplify trade separation regarding assembly and installation work: The specialist tradesman on the shell installs or inserts the feed-through module into the opening in the building's exterior wall section and seals it. The electrician routes the electrical cables through the feed-through module and electrically connects the outdoor unit, whereas the heating or heat pump installer installs and connects the fluid-conducting line sections between the indoor and outdoor units and the connection module.

[0038] In preferred embodiments, the through-openings for the power or signal lines or the conduits preferably have closed cable bushings, particularly preferably with a diameter corresponding to the electrical line to be passed through. This allows the passage or conduit to be sealed against the electrical line passing through it. Cable glands, heat-shrink tubing, or waterproof cable connectors are preferably used as cable bushings.

[0039] According to a further development, one of the two closure units has a filling opening for a thermal insulation material to be introduced into the receiving space. By providing a filling opening on one of the closure units, the introduction of thermal insulation material into the receiving space after mounting the connection module in the wall section is simplified. Preferably, a filling aid is fluidly connected to the filling opening, which also facilitates the introduction of the thermal insulation material into the receiving space. For example, a two-component foam can be introduced into the receiving space via the filling opening. Preferably, the thermal insulation material introduced via the filling opening of the closure unit has sound-decoupling and / or sound-damping properties and / or vibration-damping properties.

[0040] The filling openings preferably also serve as vents. For example, if thermal insulation material is poured into the receiving space via the side of the first closure unit, air can escape from the filling opening in the second closure unit.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, in a preferred embodiment, one or more dedicated vent openings are provided on one or both closure units.

[0042] Alternatively, the thermal insulation material is formed from one or more molded parts designed for insertion into the receiving space. The molded-part-based thermal insulation material is designed to be installed around the line sections and any empty conduits before inserting the connection module into the exterior wall section. The molded-part-based thermal insulation material is preferably partially or entirely made of mineral wool, Styrofoam (in spherical form or as formwork / molded part), molded polyurethane (PU foam), glass wool or glass wool formwork, or foam glass molded parts in order to combine good conformability with low thermal conductivity. The molded-part-based thermal insulation material preferably has sound-decoupling and / or sound-damping properties or vibration-damping properties.

[0043] In preferred embodiments, it is also provided to use both a molded part-based thermal insulation material and to fill any remaining volumes in the receiving space between the closure units by filling in thermal insulation material as described above.

[0044] Preferably, the line section is provided with its own thermal and / or acoustic insulation on its exterior. Accordingly, in addition to the thermal insulation material of the connection module, the line section has its own thermal insulation on its exterior, which is preferably made of thermal insulation and / or sound-insulating material. The insulation preferably has a thickness of several millimeters and is preferably designed to directly seal with the passages on the sealing body of the first closure unit.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, one of the connection interfaces of the line sections preferably has a quick connector, preferably with a sealing element. Preferably, the connection interfaces each have a quick connector. The quick connector(s) is / are designed for connection to another line section that can be brought into contact with the outdoor and / or indoor unit. Providing quick connectors, such as screw connectors or quick couplings, at the connection interfaces simplifies installation.

[0046] Preferably, all connection interfaces, especially the fluid-conducting ones, have markings for a supply and / or return flow to be implemented via the line sections. When using screw connectors, these preferably have threads with opposite pitches, i.e., a right-hand and a left-hand thread, on the line sections, thus preventing incorrect installation of the outdoor and indoor units.

[0047] When using screw connectors, the connections of the line sections are preferably closed using screw plugs or sealing screws, which are removed before connecting further line sections.

[0048] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a connection arrangement of a heat exchanger system, comprising a building outer wall section through which an opening is formed, an outdoor unit arranged on the outside of the outer wall section, an indoor unit arranged on the inside of the outer wall section, and a connection module arranged in the opening, which connects the outdoor unit and the indoor unit to one another through the outer wall section.

[0049] The invention also achieves the object underlying the connection module according to the invention in that the connection module arranged in the opening is designed according to one of the preferred embodiments of the invention described above. With such a connection arrangement of a heat exchanger system according to the invention, despite the simplified design of the connection module arranged in the opening of the outer wall section, on the one hand, an improved seal between the outside and inside of the outer wall section and, on the other hand, an advantageous insulating effect between the at least one line section guided through the opening and the outer wall section extending radially around the line section are achieved.

[0050] The second aspect makes use of the same advantages as the first aspect, and preferred embodiments of the first aspect are also preferred embodiments of the second aspect and vice versa, which is why reference is made to the above statements in this regard to avoid repetition.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, a thermal insulation material is arranged in the receiving space defined by the wall surface of the opening and the connection module, which is in particular clamped in the opening. With the aid of the thermal insulation material surrounding the closure units and in particular the line section(s) extending through the closure units, the tightness of the connection arrangement according to the invention is further improved, and the line sections are received by the surrounding thermal insulation material, preferably in a sound-insulating manner, from the outer wall section. Preferably, the thermal insulation material around the at least one line section in the opening prevents leaks and the associated cold bridges.

[0052] Preferably, the connection module in the exterior wall section ensures airtightness according to DIN 4108-7. The thermal insulation material is sound-insulating in the direction of the wall surface bordering the opening in such a way that the vibrations generated during operation of the heat exchanger on the outdoor and / or indoor unit and transmitted by the connection module of the connecting arrangement to the exterior wall section in the form of structure-borne sound are reduced to a minimum. These vibrations can still be detected with measuring devices but are no longer perceived as disturbing. Thus, the desired sound insulation according to DIN 4109 is met.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the thermal insulation material is a two-component foam. This allows for easy processing and, at the same time, ensures good filling of the receiving space surrounding the pipe sections and extending between the termination units. In particular, non-circular openings in the wall section can be easily and, above all, completely sealed with a two-component foam.

[0054] Alternatively, a pourable thermal insulation material can be used, or the thermal insulation material can be formed from one or more molded parts. Materials such as mineral wool, Styrofoam (in sphere form or as formwork / molded parts), molded polyurethane (so-called PU foam), glass wool or glass wool formwork, or foam glass molded parts can be used.

[0055] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for installing a connection module in a building exterior wall section, through which an opening is formed, for connection to an outdoor unit arranged on the outside of the exterior wall section and an indoor unit arranged on the inside of the exterior wall section. Changed Description pages (fair copy)

[0056] The method according to the invention achieves the object described at the outset, wherein the connection module is designed according to one of the embodiments described above, comprising the steps of: providing or producing an opening in the building's outer wall section; inserting and mounting the connection module in the opening of the outer wall section such that a receiving space is defined in the opening by the distance between the closure units; and introducing thermal insulation material into the receiving space defined at least by the distance between the closure units.

[0057] Mounting the connection module preferably comprises sealing at least one closure unit relative to the line section and relative to the opening in the building's outer wall section.

[0058] The method preferably comprises the step of connecting the indoor and outdoor units to the connection module, in particular by means of a first and second connection interface formed on the connection module.

[0059] The third aspect utilizes the same advantages as the first and second aspects, and preferred embodiments of the first and second aspects are also preferred embodiments of the third aspect and vice versa, which is why reference is made to the above statements in this regard to avoid repetition.

[0060] The invention is based on the finding that, using the method steps according to the invention, a fluid-tight connection assembly can be produced that is easy to manufacture, not only for an installer but also for a building contractor, in just a few simple steps. The easily repeatable installation sequence prevents errors during assembly, ensuring a satisfactory end product after installation of the connection assembly.

[0061] Typically, in a building's exterior wall section in which such a connecting arrangement according to the invention is to be installed, an opening is created above ground level, i.e., above ground. This can be done in two different ways in the construction sequence: Either the exterior wall section in question is completely constructed and then, at a later time, the opening is created in it, or the exterior wall section is constructed with the intended opening in a single operation.

[0062] After providing or creating the opening in the outer wall section, a connection module according to the invention is inserted into the opening of the outer wall section and then firmly mounted within the opening. For installation, preferably at least one of the closure units is sealed fluid-tight against the opening, and in particular also against the line section extending through the opening.

[0063] Preferably, in addition to sealing a first of the closure units against the opening and the line section, the other, in particular second, closure unit arranged on the inside is clamped at least against the inner wall region of the opening. This seals the second closure unit at least against the outer wall section.

[0064] The clamping of the first and second locking units is preferably carried out by means of at least one, preferably two clamping devices, which are actuated in particular one after the other on the connection module.

[0065] The sealing of the first closure unit is preferably carried out by clamping the first closure unit in the opening, whereby it is firmly positioned within the opening in the outer wall section.

[0066] In an alternative embodiment with the two closure units that can preferably be brought into contact with the wall surfaces of the outer wall section, the clamping of the first and second closure units is preferably carried out with only one clamping device.

[0067] After the connection module has been mounted in the opening of the outer wall section, a thermal insulation material is filled through a filling opening into the receiving space defined by the distance between the closure units. The receiving space is preferably defined by the two spaced-apart closure units, at least by the closure units and the opening in the outer wall section, as well as the wall surface bordering the opening in the outer wall section. This receiving space is preferably almost completely filled with the preferably flowable thermal insulation material, which can be a two-component foam, for example. Once the thermal insulation material has set, the sealing function of the connection module arranged in the outer wall section is further improved.

[0068] An alternative embodiment of the method provides for the thermal insulation material to be arranged around the line sections between the closure units before inserting the connection module into the opening, and then the connection module equipped with thermal insulation material is inserted into the opening in the wall section. The installation, in particular the bracing and sealing of the connection module relative to the opening in the wall section, thus takes place subsequently.

[0069] Preferably, after the connection module has been installed in the above-ground opening in the exterior wall section, the outdoor unit located on the outside of the building and the indoor unit of the heat exchanger system located inside the building are connected to each other using the connection interfaces arranged on both sides. Each connection interface preferably has a screw connector for a fluid-tight connection with additional line sections to be mounted thereon. Furthermore, in addition to the fluid-conducting line sections, power or signal lines can also extend through the opening in the exterior wall section, which can be connected directly to the outdoor and / or indoor unit, for example, via any plug-in connectors arranged at the ends of the power or signal lines.

[0070] In a further aspect, the invention relates to the use of a connection module, designed according to one of the preferred embodiments described above, for fluid-conducting connection of an outdoor unit that can be arranged on the outside of a building with an indoor unit of a heat exchanger system that can be arranged in the building through an opening in a building's outer wall section.

[0071] The connection module according to the invention of the first aspect, the connection arrangement according to the invention of the second aspect, and the method according to the invention of the third aspect utilize the same advantages as the use according to the invention. The preferred embodiments and further developments described in this regard are also simultaneously preferred embodiments of the use according to the invention, and vice versa, which is why reference is made to the above statements in this regard to avoid repetition.

[0072] The invention is described in more detail below using a preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying figures. Fig. 1: a view of a connection arrangement according to the invention; Fig. 2: a view of a first embodiment of a connection module according to the invention; Fig. 3: a view of the inner closure unit of the connection module according to Fig. 2 ; Fig. 4: a view of the connection module inserted into an opening in an outer wall section according to Fig. 2 ; Fig. 5: a view of the connection module mounted in the opening of the outer wall section according to Fig.2 , Fig. 6: a view of a second embodiment of a connection module according to the invention, and Fig. 7: a heat exchanger system with a connection arrangement according to Fig. 1 and a connection module according to the Fig. 2 to 6 .

[0073] Fig. 1shows a connection arrangement 100 of a heat exchanger system, such as a heat pump or an air conditioning system, for heating or cooling a building. The connection arrangement 100 comprises a building exterior wall section 102 through which an above-ground opening 104 is formed. An outdoor unit 108 of the heat exchanger system is arranged on the outer side 106 of the exterior wall section 102. An indoor unit 112 of the heat exchanger system is arranged on the inner side 110 of the exterior wall section 102. The outdoor unit 108 and the indoor unit 112 are fluidly connected to one another via at least one, in this case two, fluid lines 114, 114'. Furthermore, the outdoor and indoor units 108, 112 are connected via power or signal lines (not shown in detail) for the power supply and the control of the outdoor unit 108.

[0074] Within the opening 104, a connection module 1, shown schematically here, is arranged, by means of which the outdoor and indoor units 108, 112 are connected through the building's outer wall section 102. The connection module 1 according to the invention simplifies the installation of a connection arrangement 100 according to the invention. Furthermore, the connection module 1 enables a permanently secure seal in the area of ​​the opening 104 of the outer wall section 102.

[0075] Fig. 2shows an enlarged view of a first embodiment of a connection module 1. The connection module 1 has a first connection interface 2 for the outdoor unit 108 and a second connection interface 4 for the indoor unit 112. The connection module 1 further comprises at least one, in this case two, line sections 6, 6' connecting the first and second connection interfaces 2, 4 to one another in a fluid-conducting manner. In addition, the connection module comprises a first closure unit 8 assigned to the outer wall-side region of the opening 104 and a second closure unit 10 assigned to the inner wall-side region of the opening 104. Each closure unit comprises passages (not shown in detail) for the line sections 6, 6'.

[0076] At least one of the two closure units 8, 10 is configured to seal the passage of the line sections 6, 6' and to seal the opening 104 in the building's outer wall section 102. In the present case, the first closure unit 8, which is assigned to the outer wall-side area of ​​the opening 104, seals the line sections 6, 6' and the opening 104 in the outer wall section 102.

[0077] Both closure units 8, 10 are arranged at a distance from one another along the line sections 6, 6'. One of the closure units 8, 10, in particular the closure unit 10 assigned to the inner wall region of the opening 104, has a filling opening for at least one thermal insulation material. The filling opening is designed as a filling hose 14 extending from outside the opening into the interior of the opening.

[0078] The closure unit 8 arranged on the outside has a sealing body 16 surrounding the line sections for sealing against the line sections 6, 6' and the opening 104. Associated with the sealing body 16 is a clamping device 18 for axially clamping the sealing body 16. The clamping device 18 has two clamping bodies 20, 20' arranged on either side of the sealing body 16. The clamping bodies 20, 20' are connected to one another by means of at least one or more clamping elements 22.

[0079] By actuating the clamping device 18, the clamping bodies 20, 20' are moved axially toward each other, and the sealing body 16 located between the clamping bodies 20, 20' is axially compressed. The sealing body, which is made of an elastically deformable material such as silicone, EPDM, rubber such as NBR, cellular rubber, or other suitable elastomer sealing materials, expands radially inward and outward due to the axial compression, thereby sealing the opening 104 as well as the line sections 6, 6'.

[0080] The clamping device 18 is a first clamping device, and in addition to the first clamping device, a second clamping device 24 is provided for clamping the second closure unit 10, arranged on the inner wall side, against the inner side 110 of the outer wall section 102. The second clamping device 24 comprises a clamping means 26 that extends through the second closure unit 10 and cooperates with a fastening section 28 arranged on the first clamping device 18.

[0081] The fastening section 28 is arranged, in particular, on the inside of the clamping body 20 of the first clamping device 18, projecting axially into the opening 104 of the outer wall section 102. In the presently shown embodiment, the clamping means 26 is designed as a clamping screw, which, with an external thread (not shown in detail), corresponds to an internal thread (not shown in detail) on the fastening section 28. By actuating the clamping means 26, which is possible from the inside of the outer wall section 102, the second closure unit 10 is moved toward the first closure unit 8 and clamped against the inside 110 of the outer wall section 102.

[0082] In the embodiment shown here, the second closure unit 10 has a sealing disc 30 extending outside the opening with a sealing element 32 resting against the inner side 110 of the outer wall section 102. Fig. 3shows a detailed view of the second closure unit 10 with its sealing disc 30. In addition to the passages for the line sections 6, 6', the first and second closure units have passages 34, 34' for power or signal lines. The passages 34, 34' have dimensions, in particular diameters, adapted to the diameter of the power or signal lines (not shown in detail).

[0083] In the embodiment shown, the cable sections 6, 6' are provided with insulation on their outer surfaces. The connection interfaces 2, 4 at each end of the cable sections 6, 6' have a screw connector 36 that interacts with the cable section and with a corresponding screw connector of another cable section to be coupled to the connection module 1.

[0084] The Fig. 4 and 5show in schematic form a method for installing a connection arrangement 100, in particular a connection module 1, within an opening 104 of an outer wall section. The method comprises the steps of providing or producing an opening 104 in a building outer wall section 102. Subsequently, as can be seen from Fig. 4 to be taken, the insertion of the connection module 1 into the opening 104 (directional arrow 50) of the outer wall section and the subsequent mounting of the connection module 1.

[0085] Preferably, the mounting of the connection module 1 seals at least one closure unit 8, 10 with respect to the two line sections 6, 6' and the opening 104 in the building's outer wall section 102. For sealing, in particular the first clamping device 18 on the closure unit 8 arranged in the outer wall-side region of the opening 104 is actuated from the outer side 106 of the outer wall section 102, in particular from outside the opening 104. By clamping the sealing body 16 on the closure unit 8, in addition to sealing with respect to the line sections 6, 6' and the opening 104, the connection module 1 is positioned in the opening 104. The closure unit 8 is mounted in the opening 104 approximately flush with the outer side 106 of the outer wall section 102.

[0086] After sealing and securing the closure unit 8, the second closure unit 10 is clamped against the inner side 110 of the outer wall section 102 by means of the second clamping device 24. The second clamping device 24 can be actuated from the inner side 110, preferably also from outside the opening 104.

[0087] The two closure units 8, 10 are spaced apart from each other such that the closure units 8, 10, the at least one, in this case two, line sections 6, 6' and the wall surface of the opening 104 define a receiving space 38 intended for receiving a thermal insulation material. As can be seen from Fig. 5As can be seen, preferably after mounting the connection module 1, a thermal insulation material 40 in the form of a two-component foam is introduced into the receiving space 38 via the filling opening 12 on the second closure unit 10. After the thermal insulation material has set / cured, in addition to an improved sealing function between the outer side 106 and the inner side 110 of the outer wall section 102, an insulating area is created within the opening 104, by means of which any cold bridges in the area of ​​the connection module 1 are minimized.

[0088] Finally, corresponding further line sections are mounted on the connection module 1, in particular on the first and second connection interfaces 2, 4, by means of the screw connectors 36 arranged on the line sections 6, 6' in order to Fig. 1 to complete the inventive connection arrangement 100 shown.

[0089] Fig. 6shows a view of a second embodiment of a connection module 1'. The connection module 1' also has a first connection interface 2 for the outdoor unit 108 and a second connection interface 4 for the indoor unit 112. The connection module 1' further comprises at least one, in this case two, line sections 6, 6' that fluidically connect the first and second connection interfaces 2, 4. In addition, the connection module comprises a first closure unit 8' assigned to the outer wall-side region of the opening 104 and a second closure unit 10 assigned to the inner wall-side region of the opening 104. Each closure unit comprises passages (not shown in detail) for the line sections 6, 6'.

[0090] One of the two, preferably both, closure units 8', 10 is / are designed for sealing the passage of the line sections 6, 6' and for sealing the opening 104 in the building's outer wall section 102.

[0091] Both closure units 8, 10 are arranged at a distance from one another along the line sections 6, 6'. One of the closure units 8, 10, in particular the closure unit 10 assigned to the inner wall region of the opening 104, has a filling opening for at least one thermal insulation material. The filling opening is designed as a filling hose 14 extending from outside the opening into the interior of the opening.

[0092] In the embodiment shown here, the first and second closure units 8', 10 have a sealing disc 30 extending outside the opening and having a sealing element 32 resting against the outer side 106 and the inner side 110 of the outer wall section 102. In addition to the passages for the line sections 6, 6', the first and second closure units have passages (not shown in detail) for one or more conduits 42 accommodating power or signal lines. The passages have dimensions, in particular an inner diameter, adapted to the diameter of the conduits 42.

[0093] In this embodiment, the cable sections 6, 6' can also be provided with insulation on their outside. The connection interfaces 2, 4 at each end of the cable sections 6, 6' have a screw connector 36 that interacts with the cable section and that connects to a corresponding screw connector of another cable section 114, 114' ( Fig.1 ) interacts.

[0094] The closure units 8', 10 are assigned only one clamping device 24' for clamping the first closure unit 8', arranged on the outer wall side, and the second closure unit 10, arranged on the inner wall side, against the outer and inner sides 106, 110 of the outer wall section 102. The second clamping device 24' comprises a clamping means 26 that extends through the second closure unit 10 and cooperates with a fastening section 28 arranged on the first closure unit 8'.

[0095] The fastening section 28 is arranged, in particular, on the inside of the closure unit 8', protruding into the receiving space 38. In the embodiment shown here, the clamping means 26 is designed as a clamping screw, which engages with an external thread (not shown in detail) into an internal thread (not shown in detail) on the fastening section 28. Upon actuation of the clamping means 26, which is possible from the inside 110 of the outer wall section 102, the first and second closure units 8', 10 are moved toward one another and clamped against the outside 106 and inside 110 of the outer wall section 102, respectively.

[0096] After the connection module 1' has been mounted, a thermal insulation material can be filled in via the filling hose 14 or, alternatively, before the connection module 1' is inserted, thermal insulation material, for example as a prefabricated molded part, can be arranged around the line sections 6, 6'.

[0097] Fig. 7shows a compilation of the Fig. 1 and 4 for the purposes of summary. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the above comments on those figures. List of reference symbols:

[0098] 1, 1'Connection module 2, 4Connection interface 6, 6'Line section 8, 8', 10Closing unit 12Filling opening 14Filling hose 16Sealing body 18First clamping device 20, 20'Clamping body 22Clamping element 24Second clamping device 24'Clamping device 26Clamping device 28Fastening section 30Sealing disc 32Sealing element 34, 34'Passage 36Screw connector 38Receiving space 40Thermal insulation material 42Empty pipe 50Directional arrow 100Connection arrangement 102Building exterior wall section 104Opening 106Outside 108Outdoor unit 110Inside 112Indoor unit 114, 114'Fluid line

Claims

1. A connection module (1, 1') for connecting an outdoor unit (108) of a heat exchanger system with an indoor unit (112) in a fluid-conducting manner through an opening (104) in an exterior building wall section (102), comprising a first connection interface (2) for the outdoor unit (108) and a second connection interface (4) for the indoor unit (112), at least one line section (6, 6') which is insertable into the opening (104) in the exterior building wall section (102) and which connects the first and second connection interfaces (2, 4) to each other in a fluid-conducting manner, a first closing unit (8, 8') and a second closing unit (10), each having one or more passageways for the line section (6, 6'), at least one of the two closing units (8, 8', 10), and preferably both, being configured to produce a sealing passage of the line section (6, 6') and a sealing closure with respect to the opening (104) in the exterior building wall section (102), and wherein the two closing units (8, 8', 10) are spaced apart from each other along the line section (6, 6') and define between themselves a receiving space (38), which is configured to receive thermal insulation material (40).

2. The connection module (1, 1') according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and / or second closing unit (8, 8', 10) for passage of the line section (6, 6') and for closing with respect to the opening (104) in the exterior building wall section (102) has a sealing body (16) surrounding the line section (6, 6').

3. The connection module (1, 1') according to claim 2, characterized in that at least one clamping device (18) for axial clamping of the sealing body (16) is associated with the sealing body (16), wherein preferably the first and / or second closing unit (8, 8', 10) includes the sealing body (16) with the clamping device (18) associated therewith.

4. The connection module (1, 1') according to claim 3, characterized in that when the connection module (1, 1') is inserted into the opening (104), the clamping device (18) can be actuated from the outside (106) and / or inside (110) of the exterior wall section (102), preferably from outside the opening (104).

5. The connection module (1, 1') according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the clamping device (18) has two clamping bodies (20, 20') arranged on both sides of the sealing body (16) in the axial direction, wherein the clamping bodies (20, 20') are connected with each other by means of one or more clamping elements (22).

6. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the clamping device (18) is a first clamping device, and additionally a second clamping device (24) is provided for clamping the second closing unit (8, 10), preferably wherein the second clamping device (24) has at least one clamping means (26), which preferably cooperates with a fastening section (28) provided on the first clamping device (24), further preferably wherein the at least one clamping means (26) extends through the second closing unit (10) and is actuatable from the inside (110) of the exterior wall section (102), preferably from outside the opening (104).

7. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or the second closing unit (8', 10) has a sealing washer (8) extending outside the opening (104) with a sealing element (32), which is configured to rest in a sealing manner against the outside (104) and / or inside (110) of the exterior wall section (32).

8. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second closing unit (8, 10) have a single clamping device (24'), which is provided for clamping the first and second closing unit (8, 10) against the inner and outer exterior wall region of the exterior wall section (102).

9. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two fluid-conducting line sections (6, 6') are provided, and the closing units (8, 8', 10) have one or more passageways (34, 34') for a power or signal line or empty conduits (42) for receiving the power or signal line.

10. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the two closing units (8, 8',10) has a filling opening (12) for a thermal insulation material (40) to be introduced into the receiving space (38).

11. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thermal insulation material (40) is made up of one or more molded parts configured to be inserted into the receiving space (38).

12. The connection module (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the line section (6, 6') is insulated on its outside; and / or at least one of the connection interfaces (2, 4) has a screw connector (36), preferably with a sealing element.

13. A connection assembly (100) of a heat exchanger system, comprising - an exterior building wall section (102) through which an opening (104) is formed, - an outdoor unit (108) located on the outside (106) of the exterior wall section (102), - an indoor unit (112) located on the inside (110) of the exterior wall section (102), and - a connection module (1, 1') according to one of claims 1 bis 12 arranged in the opening (104) by means of which the outdoor unit (108) and the indoor unit (112) are connected to each other through the exterior wall section (102).

14. A method for installing a connection module (1, 1') according to one of claims 1 to 12 and / or a connection assembly (100) according to claim 13 in an exterior building wall section (102) through which an opening (104) is formed, for connecting to an outdoor unit (108) located on the outside (106) of the exterior wall section (102) and to an indoor unit (112) located on the inside (110) of the exterior wall section (102), comprising the steps: - providing or producing an opening (104) in the exterior building wall section (102); - inserting and mounting the connection module (1, 1') in the opening (104) of the exterior wall section (102) so that a receiving space (38) in the opening (104) is defined by a distance between the closing units (8, 8', 10); and - introducing thermal insulation material (40) into the receiving space (38) defined at least by the distance between the closing units (6, 6').

15. The method according to claim 14, comprising one, some, or all of the following steps: - wherein the mounting of the connection module (1) comprises sealing at least one closing unit (8, 10) with respect to the line section (6, 6') and the opening (104) in the exterior building wall section (102); - inserting the thermal insulation material (40) into the receiving space (38) defined by the closing unit (8, 8', 10) before inserting the connection module (1, 1') into the opening (104) or after mounting the connection module (1, 1') in the opening (104); and - connecting the indoor and outdoor unit (108, 112) to the connection module (1, 1'), in particular by means of their first and second connection interface (2, 4).

16. A use of a connection module (1, 1') embodied according to one of claims 1 to 12 for connecting an outdoor unit (108) to be arranged on the outside of a building in fluid-conducting manner with an indoor unit (112) of a heat exchanger system to be arranged in the building through an opening (104) in an exterior building wall section (102).