Cooling and heating system

Abstract

The present invention discloses a cooling and heating system (100) and a method for such a system.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling and heating system and a method for such a cooling and heating system.

[0002] Cooling systems and heating systems can be provided separately, for example to provide cooling (or heating) to (external) users, e.g. private households and / or commercial buildings and / or industry. Therefore, a (district) cooling network (e.g. piping) or a (district) heating network (piping) can be used.

[0003] However, known system have drawbacks. Cooling systems can only provide cooling, e.g. during summer. Heating systems can only provide heating, e.g. during winter. These types of system are not used during other months, which increases costs and / or maintenance and / or reduces efficiency. Even combined heating and cooling systems have limited flexibility to satisfy cooling and / or heating demands. In particular, providing cooling and heating simultaneously is not available or cannot be flexibly controlled based on cooling demand and / or heating demand of the users. Especially during spring and / or autumn, when both cooling and heating can be required simultaneously (e.g. based on ambient temperature and / or based on time) and in particular with comparably large variations, the options and / or flexibility of known systems is insufficient. Furthermore, the efficiency, capacity, costs, precision and / or environmental sustainability could be improved.

[0004] Consequently, it may be one objective problem of the present invention to (at least partly) overcome at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, it can be an objective to provide a cooling and heating system with improved flexibility and / or improved capacity to satisfy both cooling and heating demand, in particular when cooling and / or heating demand changes. It may also be an objective to improve efficiency, capacity, costs, precision and / or environmental sustainability.

[0005] The above objective problem is solved by a cooling and heating system for providing cooling and / or heating to external users, in particular domestic and / or commercial buildings, with the features of the independent claim regarding a system, and a method with the features of the method claim. Further features and details of the invention are shown in the dependent claims, the description (e.g. the other aspects below) and the drawings. Features and details which are described with respect to the disclosed system also apply to the disclosed method and vice versa, so that reference is or can always be made mutually with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention. In particular, features corresponding to the first aspect (or any other aspect) of the invention may also be part of the second aspect and vice versa.

[0006] According to a first aspect the invention provides a cooling and heating system for providing cooling and / or heating to external users, in particular domestic and / or commercial buildings and / or industry plants and / or factories, having a cooling and / or heating demand, the cooling and heating system comprising: a heat pump comprising: ∘ a first heat exchanger configured for providing a cooled medium with a first temperature to a first circuit, ∘ a second heat exchanger configured for exchanging an exchange medium having a second temperature with a second circuit to which at least two different external heat sources are connectable and / or connected (for an exchange of medium and / or energy, in particular heat and / or for dissipation of heat), ∘ a third heat exchanger configured for providing heated medium with a third temperature to a third circuit, a feedback circuit connecting the first circuit and the second circuit for an exchange of medium, wherein at least one valve, in particular a first valve and / or a second valve, connects the first circuit and the second circuit via the feedback circuit, an electronic control unit configured for controlling the at least one valve, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to selectively provide one of the following modes based (at least) on controlling of the at least one valve, in particular the first valve and / or the second valve: a cooling mode configured to provide cooling to users (a user or a first user) using (via) the first circuit, a heating mode configured to provide heating to users (a / the user or a second user) using (via) the third circuit, a simultaneous cooling and heating mode configured to provide cooling and heating to users (the [first and / or second] user) simultaneously, wherein cooling is provided using (via) the first circuit and heating is provided using (via) the third circuit, wherein in particular the first circuit is connected to the second circuit via the feedback circuit.

[0007] The system can be configured to provide cooling and / or heating. In particular, the system may provide a medium for cooling, in particular a cooled medium. The system may provide a medium for heating, in particular a heated medium. The (cooled and / or intermediate and / or heated) medium may comprise a fluid (in particular the same fluid), preferably water and / or glycol, in particular at different temperatures, preferably depending on a cooling demand and / or heating demand of one or more (external) users. For example, water, in particular with glycol (for temperatures below 0° Celsius), may be used in all parts of the system, preferably with different temperatures according to the depending circuit.

[0008] The (external, first, and / or second) user(s) can comprise domestic and / or commercial buildings and / or industry plants and / or factories, having a cooling and / or heating demand. The user(s) can have both a cooling demand and a heating demand. For example, a commercial building and / or factory can have a cooling demand for cooling in an industrial process (e.g. a server farm and / or production) and a heating demand (e.g. for office rooms). A user, a first user, a second user, a plurality of the users and / or all users can (simultaneously) have a (certain and / or separate) cooling and / or heating demand and / or simultaneous cooling and heating demand. A user, a first user, a second user, a plurality of the users and / or all users can be connected to the cooling and heating system such that (cooled, intermediate and / or heated) medium can be provided to the user(s), in particular via piping. The cooling / heating demand may comprise a combined and / or summed up cooling / heating demand based on the (combined and / or cumulative) cooling / heating demand of all users.

[0009] A (first and / or second) user can have an inlet (for an internal cooling circuit of the user, e.g. a cooling and / or air conditioning system) configured for receiving cooling and / or for (cooled) medium, which can be connected to the first circuit and / or (an outlet of) the first heat exchanger, in particular (via) the first valve and / or the first buffer vessel. A user can have an outlet configured for returning the (cooled) medium, preferably after (exchanging thermal energy by) extracting cooling therefrom and / or heating the medium up. The outlet can be connected to (an inlet of) the first heat exchanger, in particular (via) the third valve (which can be connected to a first pump) and / or the first buffer vessel.

[0010] A user can have an inlet (for an internal circuit of the user) configured for receiving exchange medium, which can be connected to the second circuit and / or (an outlet of) the second heat exchanger, in particular (via) the second buffer vessel. A user can have an outlet configured for returning the (exchange) medium, preferably after (exchanging thermal energy by) extracting heat / cooling therefrom and / or cooling the medium down / heating the medium up. The outlet can be connected to (an inlet of) the second heat exchanger, in particular (via) the second buffer vessel.

[0011] A user can have an inlet (for an internal heating circuit of the user, e.g. conventional heaters) configured for receiving heating and / or for (heated) medium, which can be connected to the third circuit and / or (an outlet of) the third heat exchanger, in particular (via) the third buffer vessel. A user can have an outlet configured for returning the (heated) medium, preferably after (an exchange of thermal energy by) extracting heat therefrom and / or cooling the medium down (e.g. when used for heating a room). The outlet can be connected to (an inlet of) the third heat exchanger, in particular (via) the third buffer vessel, a sixth valve and / or a third pump (in particular in that order).

[0012] A cooling and / or heating demand of a (first and / or second) user can be transmitted (from the user) to the cooling and heating system and / or to the electronic control unit, in particular via a data connection. If for example a user extracts heated and / or cooled medium from the system, e.g. via the first buffer vessel, a heating and / or cooling demand, e.g. comprising the volume of medium (per time) and / or the temperature of the (extracted) medium and / or an amount of energy and / or power, is transmitted to the system and / or the electronic control unit (of the system). This can be performed repeatedly and / or continuously, e.g. in 10 second intervals.

[0013] A cooling demand can actively be transmitted by a user. Alternatively, a cooling demand can be provided by an internal control device of the user. For example, a temperature sensor of the user, e.g. in a server room, can provide an actual temperature to the internal control device. The control device compares the temperature with a desired temperature. If the desired temperature is lower than the actual temperature, a cooling demand persists / is detected. Consequently, a cooling demand / request can be transmitted. A cooling demand can comprise a (desired and / or actual) temperature and / or volume (of medium) and / or volume per time and / or duration for cooling, which preferably is specific for the cooling needs of the user. For example, the cooling demand can comprise data that is specific for the location of the user (e. g. via a specific and / or unique ID), (desired / planned) temperature and / or volume (of medium) and / or volume per time and / or duration for cooling.

[0014] A heating demand can actively be transmitted by a user. Alternatively, a heating demand can be provided by an internal control device of the user. For example, a temperature sensor of the user, e.g. in an office, can provide an actual temperature to the internal control device. The control device compares the temperature with a desired temperature. If the desired temperature is higher than the actual temperature, a heating demand persists / is detected. Consequently, a heating demand / request can be transmitted. A heating demand can comprise a (desired) temperature and / or volume and / or volume per time and / or duration for heating, which preferably is specific for the heating needs of the user. For example, the heating demand can comprise data which is specific for the location of the user, (desired / planned) temperature and / or volume and / or volume per time and / or duration for heating.

[0015] In the context of the present invention, if not indicated differently, all (described) connections are realized by piping and / or are configured for an exchange of medium. In the context of the present invention, if not indicated differently, an inlet (of any kind) is configured for receiving, in particular a medium. In the context of the present invention, if not indicated differently, an outlet (of any kind) is configured for providing and / or extracting, in particular a medium. Internal (e.g. internal inlet / outlet) may describe that the inlet / outlet is located inside of the heat pump, e.g. between the first, second and / or third heat exchanger and another one of the first, second and / or third heat exchanger.

[0016] The cooling and heating system comprises a heat pump, in particular a two-stage heat pump and / or comprising three heat exchangers.

[0017] The heat pump comprises a first heat exchanger configured for providing (cooled) medium, e.g. water, with a first temperature (or first temperature range) to a first circuit, and preferably to a (first) user (via the first buffer vessel). The heating and cooling system, in particular the electronic control unit, can be configured to control the first temperature by controlling the first, second and / or third heat exchanger and / or the at least on valve, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, and / or eleventh valve and / or the first heat pump valve and / or the second heat pump valve and / or the first compressor and / or second compressor of the heat pump and / or the first, second and / or third pump.

[0018] The first heat exchanger may be connected with the second heat exchanger, e.g. by piping. An (internal) outlet of the first heat exchanger may be connected to an (internal) inlet of the second heat exchanger, in particular via a (internal) first compressor of the heat pump. An (internal) outlet of the second heat exchanger may be connected to an (internal) inlet of the first heat exchanger, in particular via a (first heat pump) valve of the heat pump. The first heat exchanger may be configured to provide thermal energy to the first circuit and / or extract thermal energy from the first circuit. Alternatively, and / or in addition, the first heat exchanger may be configured to extract thermal energy from the second circuit, in particular via an (internal) inlet of the first heat exchanger, which can preferably be connected with the second circuit, in particular via a second pump and / or (internal) first heat pump valve. The internal inlet of the first heat exchanger may be connected to a second internal outlet of the second heat exchanger and / or the second circuit and / or ([via] an outlet of) the second pump, in particular via the first heat pump valve.

[0019] The heat pump comprises a second heat exchanger configured for providing (exchange) medium, e.g. water, with a second temperature (or second temperature range) to a second circuit, to which at least two different external heat sources are connectable and / or connected. In particular, an (internal / first) inlet and / or (internal / first) outlet of the second heat exchanger can be connected with the second circuit. For example, a connection (intermediate outlet to the second circuit, e.g. a pipe) to the second circuit can be connected between the first compressor (or second compressor) and the (internal / first) inlet (or outlet) of the second heat exchanger. In other words, the second circuit can be connected to (a first inlet of) the second heat exchanger and / or (the first outlet of) the first heat exchanger (via the first compressor). Therefore, medium output by the first heat exchanger and / or first compressor can be provided to the second circuit, in particular via the fifth valve. Alternatively, medium output by the second heat exchanger may be provided to the second circuit, in particular by connecting (the first outlet of) the second heat exchanger to the second circuit (via the fifth valve). The heating and cooling system, in particular the electronic control unit, can be configured to control the second temperature by controlling the first, second and / or third heat exchanger and / or the at least on valve, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh valve, and / or the first heat pump valve and / or the second heat pump valve and / or first compressor and / or second compressor of the heat pump and / or the first, second and / or third pump.

[0020] The heat pump may comprise an intermediate inlet, which can be connected to the second circuit, in particular via the second pump. The intermediate inlet can be configured to receive (exchange) medium from the second circuit. The intermediate inlet can be connected to an internal outlet (or internal inlet) of the second heat exchanger (see above) and / or an internal inlet of the first heat exchanger (in particular via the first heat pump valve).

[0021] The heat pump may comprise an intermediate outlet, which can be connected to the second circuit, in particular via the fifth valve. The intermediate outlet can be configured to provide (exchange) medium to the second circuit and / or the defrost loop. The intermediate outlet can be connected to an inlet (or [first] outlet) of the second heat exchanger (see above) and / or an outlet of the first heat exchanger (in particular via the first compressor).

[0022] The second heat exchanger may be connected with the third heat exchanger, e.g. by piping. An (internal / first) outlet of the second heat exchanger may be connected to an (internal) inlet of the third heat exchanger, in particular via a (internal) second compressor of the heat pump. An (internal) outlet of the third heat exchanger may be connected to an (internal / second) inlet of the second heat exchanger, in particular via a (second heat pump) valve of the heat pump.

[0023] The at least two different external heat sources can provide and / or receive thermal energy, in particular by providing and / or receiving a medium and / or exchange of medium with / at different temperatures. This allows the cooling and heating system to harvest (thermal) energy from the at least two different external heat sources and / or dissipate heat (to them).

[0024] The heat pump comprises a third heat exchanger configured for providing (heated) medium, e.g. water, with a third temperature (or third temperature range) to a third circuit, and preferably to a (second and / or third) user (via the third buffer vessel). The heating and cooling system, in particular the electronic control unit, can be configured to control the third temperature by controlling the first, second and / or third heat exchanger and / or the at least on valve, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth and / or eleventh valve, and / or the first heat pump valve and / or the second heat pump valve and / or the first compressor and / or second compressor of the heat pump and / or the first, second and / or third pump.

[0025] The third heat exchanger may be connected with a (second) user and / or third buffer vessel, e.g. by piping. An (internal) outlet of the third heat exchanger may be connected to an inlet of the third buffer vessel and / or (second) user. An inlet of the third heat exchanger may be connected to an outlet of the third buffer vessel and / or the (second) user, in particular via / with a third pump and / or a sixth valve.

[0026] The cooling and heating system may be configured for providing (cooled and / or heated) medium with a temperature between -20°C to 95°C to the user(s). In particular, the first heat exchanger / first circuit can be configured to provide cooling, preferably by providing cooled medium at a first temperature (see below). This can be achieved by controlling and / or opening the first valve and / or third valve and / or by operating the first pump. The third heat exchanger / third circuit can be configured to provide heating, preferably by providing heated medium at a third temperature (see below). This can be achieved by controlling and / or opening the sixth valve and / or by operating the third pump.

[0027] The first circuit can comprise the first buffer vessel, the first valve, the third valve and / or the first pump.

[0028] The first pump can be controlled and / or or configured to circulate (cooled) medium within the first circuit and / or provide (cooled) medium to (an inlet of) the first heat exchanger.

[0029] The second circuit can comprise the second buffer vessel, fifth valve, seventh valve, eighth valve, ninth valve and / or second pump.

[0030] The second pump can be controlled and / or or configured to circulate (exchange) medium within the second circuit (and / or defrost loop) and / or provide (exchange) medium to (an internal / second inlet of) the first heat exchanger, in particular via the first heat pump valve, and / or (an outlet of) the second heat exchanger.

[0031] The third circuit can comprise the third buffer vessel, the sixth valve and / or the third pump.

[0032] The third pump can be controlled and / or or configured to circulate (heated) medium within the third circuit and / or provide (heated) medium (from the third buffer vessel and / or the sixth valve) to (an external / second inlet of) the third heat exchanger.

[0033] The cooling and heating system comprises a feedback circuit (selectively) connecting the first circuit and the second circuit, wherein the feedback circuit is preferably configured to provide an exchange of medium, wherein at least one valve connects the first circuit and / or first heat exchanger with the second circuit via the feedback circuit, preferably via (a first valve,) a second valve, (a third valve) and / or a fourth valve. The feedback circuit could also be described as a bridge / bridging circuit, connecting circuit, and / or shortcut circuit. The feedback circuit can provide additional flexibility and / or efficiency, which preferably can be exploited by controlling of the at least one valve, in particular of the second valve and / or fourth valve. For example, the at least two different heat sources can (selectively) be connected to the heat pump, in particular to the first heat exchanger and / or second heat exchanger, e.g. via / at different inlets and / or outlets. The second circuit and / or the at least two different heat sources can selectively be connected to an inlet and / or outlet of the heat pump and / or first heat exchanger, preferably via the feedback circuit. This can be performed by controlling the at least one valve. For example, the second valve and / or the fourth valve can be controlled to (further / fully) open, in particular to (further / fully) connect the second circuit to the first circuit and / or heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger. For example (vice versa), the second valve and / or the fourth valve can be controlled to (further / fully) close, in particular to (further / fully) disconnect the second circuit from the first circuit and / or heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger. Alternatively and / or in addition, the second circuit and / or the at least two different heat sources can selectively be connected to an intermediate inlet and / or intermediate outlet of the heat pump, the first heat exchanger and / or the second heat exchanger. This can be performed by controlling the at least one valve, the fifth valve and / or the second pump. For example, the fifth valve can be (further) closed and / or the second pump can be deactivated (or power be reduced) to (further) disconnect (reduce the exchange of [exchange] medium with) the second circuit from the (intermediate stage of the) heat pump and / or the first and / or second heat exchanger (and vice versa). Thereby, the electronic control unit can optimize the efficiency and / or flexibility, in particular depending on the cooling and / or heating demand. For example, if there is a cooling demand from the first circuit, but the third circuit has a significant and / or increased heating demand (e.g. doubling due to activation of large heaters), this can require additional energy from the first and / or second heat source. The electronic control unit can then (further) open the at least one valve, in particular the second and / or fourth valve. This can result in additional energy which is provided to the heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger.

[0034] The outlet of the first heat exchanger can be connected to a first valve, in particular a first inlet of the first valve. The first valve may be comprised by the first circuit and / or located between the first circuit and the feedback circuit and / or the first buffer vessel. The first valve may comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The first valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the first valve may be connected to the (first) user and / or a first buffer vessel. An inlet of the first valve may be connected to the second circuit, in particular via the feedback circuit. Alternatively or in addition, the inlet of the first valve may be connected to the heat pump and / or the (outlet of the) first heat exchanger. In particular, the first valve, preferably via the inlet of the first valve, can be connected to an inlet of a second valve, which may be comprised by the feedback circuit. The first valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the first valve, in particular from the heat pump, preferably (the outlet of) the first heat exchanger, towards the (first) user and / or (via) the first buffer vessel. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the first valve and / or third valve to control the volume of (heated) medium and / or heat exchange with the (first) user(s) and / or the first buffer vessel. Alternatively or in addition, the first valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the first valve, in particular from the heat pump, preferably the outlet of the first heat exchanger, such that a flow of medium towards the second circuit and / or (via) the feedback circuit and / or (via) can be reduced or increased. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the first valve and / or second valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second circuit and / or feedback circuit.

[0035] The outlet of the first heat exchanger can be connected to a second valve, in particular an inlet of the first valve. The second valve may be comprised by the first circuit or the feedback circuit and / or located between the first circuit and the feedback circuit. The second valve may comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The second valve may preferably comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the second valve may be connected to the feedback circuit and / or the second circuit. In particular, the second valve, preferably via the outlet of the second valve, can be connected to (an outlet of) the fifth valve and / or (an inlet of) the second buffer vessel.. The second valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the second valve, in particular from the first heat exchanger to the feedback circuit and / or second circuit. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the second valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange from the first heat exchanger to the second circuit and / or (via) the feedback circuit. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the second valve and / or fourth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second circuit and / or feedback circuit. Preferably, the electronic control unit can control the second valve and / or third valve such that a flow of medium from the first circuit and / or the first heat exchanger, in particular the outlet and / or inlet of the first heat exchanger, to the second circuit, in particular via the feedback circuit, is partly or fully blocked (or opened), e.g. by blocking (or opening) the second valve and / or the fourth valve.

[0036] The inlet of the first heat exchanger can be connected to a third valve, in particular an outlet of the third valve and / or via the first pump. The third valve may be comprised by the first circuit and / or located between the first heat exchanger, in particular the first pump, and the first buffer vessel. The third valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The third valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An inlet of the third valve may be connected to the (first) user and / or a first buffer vessel. An outlet of the third valve may be connected to (an inlet of) the first pump. In particular, the third valve, preferably via the outlet of the third valve, can be connected to an outlet of a fourth valve, which may be comprised by the feedback circuit. The third valve and / or first pump can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the third valve, in particular from the first user and / or first buffer vessel towards the first pump and / or (inlet of) the first heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the first valve, first pump and / or third valve to control the volume of (cooled) medium and / or heat exchange with the (first) user(s) and / or the first buffer vessel. Alternatively or in addition, the third valve and / or first pump can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the third valve, in particular to the heat pump, preferably the inlet of the first heat exchanger, such that a flow of medium towards the second circuit and / or (via) the feedback circuit and / or (via) the fourth valve can be reduced or increased. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the first valve, first pump and / or third valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second circuit and / or feedback circuit.

[0037] The inlet of the first heat exchanger can be connected to a fourth valve, in particular an outlet of the fourth valve. The fourth valve may be comprised by the first circuit or (preferably) the feedback circuit and / or located between the first circuit and the feedback circuit. The fourth valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The second valve may preferably comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the second valve may be connected to the first circuit, (an inlet of) the first pump and / or (an inlet) of the first heat exchanger. In particular, the fourth valve, preferably via the inlet of the fourth valve, can be connected to the second circuit, (an inlet of) the second pump, (an outlet of) the seventh valve and / or (an outlet of) the ninth valve. The fourth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the fourth valve, in particular from the second circuit to the feedback circuit and / or second circuit. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the fourth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange from the second circuit and / or (via) the feedback circuit to the first heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the second valve and / or fourth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second circuit and / or feedback circuit. Preferably, the electronic control unit can control the second valve and / or fourth valve such that a flow of medium from the first circuit and / or the first heat exchanger, in particular the outlet and / or inlet of the first heat exchanger, to the second circuit, in particular via the feedback circuit, is partly or fully blocked (or opened), e.g. by blocking (or opening) the second valve and / or the fourth valve.

[0038] The fifth valve may be comprised by the second circuit and / or located between the second circuit and the feedback circuit. The fifth valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The fifth valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An inlet of the fifth valve may be connected to the (inlet of the) defrost loop, the intermediate outlet of the heat pump, the (inlet of the) second heat exchanger and / or the (outlet of the) first heat exchanger, in particular via the first compressor. An outlet of the fifth valve may be connected to the (inlet of the) second buffer vessel and / or the (second) user and / or an outlet of the second valve. The fifth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the fifth valve, in particular from (the intermediate outlet of) the heat pump and / or (via) the (inlet of the) second heat exchanger to the second buffer vessel and / or (second) user. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the fifth valve and / or second pump to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second buffer vessel, the first heat source and / or the second heat source.

[0039] The sixth valve may be comprised by the third circuit and / or located between the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, in particular the (inlet of the) third pump, and the third buffer vessel. The sixth valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The sixth valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An inlet of the sixth valve may be connected to a (second) user and / or (via) the second buffer vessel. An outlet of the sixth valve may be connected to the heat pump, the (inlet of the) third pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger. Consequently, medium from the (second) user and / or third buffer vessel can be transferred to the third heat exchanger for (repeated) heating. The sixth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce (e.g. block) a flow of medium through the sixth valve, in particular from the (second) user and / or (via) the third buffer vessel to the heat pump, (inlet of the) third pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the sixth valve and / or the third pump to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the (second) user and / or the third buffer vessel. For example, the (percentage of the) volume from the third buffer vessel to the heat pump, (inlet of the) third pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger can be increased / decreased to collect heat from the third heat exchanger.

[0040] The seventh valve may be comprised by the second circuit. The seventh valve may be located between the intermediate inlet, the (input of the) second pump, the (inlet of the) fourth valve and / or the output of the ninth valve and the first heat source, the second buffer vessel and / or the eighth valve. The seventh valve may comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). Preferably, the seventh valve comprises a check valve. The seventh valve may also comprise and / or be a non-return valve, reflux valve, retention valve, foot valve, and / or one-way valve. The check valve can be controlled and / or configured to allow fluid / medium to flow through it in only one direction. In particular, the seventh valve may be configured to (only) allow a flow from the second buffer vessel to the heat exchanger, in particular via the second pump, and / or the feedback circuit (or vice versa). The seventh valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An inlet of the seventh valve may be connected to the first heat source, in particular via the first buffer vessel, and / or the eighth valve. An outlet of the seventh valve may be connected to the intermediate inlet, the (input of the) second pump, the (inlet of the) fourth valve and / or the output of the ninth valve. The seventh valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the seventh valve, in particular from the first heat source and / or second buffer vessel to the intermediate inlet, the (input of the) second pump, the (inlet of the) fourth valve and / or the output of the ninth valve. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the seventh valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the first heat source and / or second buffer vessel. Preferably, the electronic control unit can control the seventh valve such that a flow of medium from the first heat source and / or second buffer vessel is (partly or fully) blocked or opened. Preferably, the electronic control unit can control the seventh valve such that a flow of medium to the second heat source and / or second buffer vessel is (partly or fully) blocked or opened. The seventh valve may be controlled and / or configured to block any flow, in particular if the eighth valve and / or ninth valve are (partly and / or fully) open (and vice versa). This can (selectively) provide (or block) a flow of medium through the second heat source. The tenth valve and / or the eleventh valve may be controlled and / or configured to (partly or fully) open to allow a flow of medium from the eighth valve and / or ninth valve to the and / or from the second heat source, in particular when the eighth valve and / or ninth valve are (partly or fully) open.

[0041] The eighth valve may be comprised by the second circuit. The eighth valve may be located between the second heat source and / or the tenth valve and the (inlet of the) seventh valve and / or the second buffer vessel. The eighth valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The eighth valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the eighth valve may be connected to the second heat source and / or the defrost loop and / or the (first inlet of the) tenth valve. An inlet of the eighth valve may be connected to the (inlet of the) seventh valve and / or the (outlet of the) second buffer vessel. The eighth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the eighth valve, in particular from the second buffer vessel to the second heat source and / or (via) the tenth valve. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the eighth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange with the second heat source. For example, the (percentage of the) volume from the second buffer vessel to the second heat source can be increased / decreased to collect heat from the second heat source and / or dissipate heat in the second heat source.

[0042] The ninth valve may be comprised by the second circuit. The ninth valve may be located between the second heat source and / or the eleventh valve and the (inlet of the) second pump, the intermediate inlet, the (outlet of the) seventh valve and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. The ninth valve may preferably comprise a two-way valve (two-port-device). The ninth valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the ninth valve may be connected to the (inlet of the) second pump, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet, the (outlet of the) seventh valve and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. An inlet of the ninth valve may be connected to the (outlet of the) eleventh valve and / or the (outlet of the) second heat source. The ninth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the ninth valve, in particular from the second heat source to the (inlet of the) second pump, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet, the (outlet of the) seventh valve and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the ninth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange from the second heat source. For example, the (percentage of the) volume from the second heat source can be increased / decreased to collect heat from the second heat source and / or dissipate heat in the second heat source.

[0043] The tenth valve may be comprised by the second circuit and / or defrost loop. The tenth valve may be located between the second heat source and / or the (outlet of the) defrost loop and / or the (outlet of the) second pump and / or the intermediate inlet and the (outlet of the) eighth valve, the second buffer vessel and / or the seventh valve. The tenth valve may preferably comprise a three-way valve (three-port-device). The tenth valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. A (first) outlet of the tenth valve may be connected to the second heat source. A (second) outlet of the tenth valve may be connected to the (outlet [pipe] of the) defrost loop, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet and / or the (outlet of the) second pump. An inlet of the tenth valve may be connected to the (outlet of the) eighth valve, the second buffer vessel and / or the seventh valve. The tenth valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the tenth valve, in particular from the (outlet of the) eighth valve, the second buffer vessel and / or the seventh valve to the second heat source and / or the (outlet [pipe] of the) defrost loop, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet and / or the (outlet of the) second pump. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the tenth valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange to the second heat source and / or to the (outlet [pipe] of the) defrost loop, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet and / or the (outlet of the) second pump. For example, the (percentage of the) volume from to the second heat source can be increased / decreased to collect heat from the second heat source and / or dissipate heat in the second heat source. For example, the (percentage of the) volume from the (outlet of the) eighth valve, the second buffer vessel and / or the seventh valve to the (outlet [pipe] of the) defrost loop, (and therefore) the intermediate inlet and / or the (outlet of the) second pump can be increased / decreased to collect heat from the second heat source and / or dissipate heat in the second heat source.

[0044] The eleventh valve may be comprised by the second circuit and / or defrost loop. The eleventh valve may be located between the second heat source and / or the (inlet of the) defrost loop and / or the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the intermediate inlet and the (inlet of the) ninth valve and / or the (outlet of the) seventh valve. The eleventh valve may preferably comprise a three-way valve (three-port-device). The eleventh valve may comprise a pressure independent (control) valve. An outlet of the eleventh valve may be connected to the (inlet of the) ninth valve, the intermediate inlet, (via) the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. A (first) inlet of the eleventh valve may be connected to the (outlet) of the second heat source. A (second) inlet of the eleventh valve may be connected to the (inlet [pipe] of the) defrost loop, (and therefore) the intermediate outlet and / or the (inlet of the) fifth valve. The eleventh valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the eleventh valve, in particular from the (outlet of the) second heat source (and / or the [inlet of the] defrost loop) to the (inlet of the) ninth valve, the intermediate inlet, (via) the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the eleventh valve to control the volume of medium and / or heat exchange from the second heat source to the (inlet of the) ninth valve, the intermediate inlet, (via) the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the (inlet of the) fourth valve. For example, the (percentage of the) volume through the eleventh valve can be controlled.

[0045] The tenth valve may be controlled and / or configured to (partly or fully) open to allow a flow of medium from second heat source to the intermediate inlet, in particular when the eleventh valve is (partly or fully) open. The eleventh valve may be controlled and / or configured to (partly or fully) open to allow a flow of medium from the intermediate outlet to the eleventh valve and / or second heat source, in particular when the tenth valve is (partly or fully) open. This allows to activate and / or deactivate the defrost loop (at any time), in particular based on the ambient temperature, the cooling demand and / or the heating demand.

[0046] The system may comprise a defrost loop. The defrost loop may comprise piping, which preferably connects the components. The defrost loop may connect the intermediate stage, in particular the intermediate inlet and / or outlet, with the second heat source. The defrost loop may comprise the tenth valve and / or eleventh valve. The defrost loop may comprise an inlet (pipe) connected to the (inlet of the) fifth valve and / or the intermediate outlet. The inlet pipe may be connected to (a second inlet of) the eleventh valve. The defrost loop may comprise an outlet (pipe) connecting a (second) outlet of the tenth valve with the intermediate input and / or (output of) the second pump. By controlling, in particular opening, the tenth valve and / or eleventh valve, the defrost loop may be activated (or further opened) or deactivated (or further closed / disconnected). This allows to selectively activate and / or deactivate the defrost loop. The second heat source may comprise at least one (or a plurality of) dry air cooler for providing a release / dissipation of heat to ambient air of an environment and / or an air heat collector. Consequently, the efficiency can be increased by selectively activating and / or deactivating the defrost loop, for example based on the ambient temperature, the cooling demand and / or the heating demand. Preferably, the defrost loop can be used to defrost the heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger, second heat exchanger and / or (preferably) first compressor. The defrost loop may be used in the cooling mode, heating mode and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode. Preferably, the defrost loop can be used to defrost the heat pump, in particular the first / second heat exchanger and / or the first compressor. This can be initiated manually and / or by the electronic control unit, e.g. after certain time intervals. Therefore, the electronic control unit can control the tenth and / or eleventh valve, in particular to open such that medium is flowing through the second heat source, e.g. for a predetermined time interval.

[0047] The first heat pump valve can comprise a conventional valve (two-port-device). The first heat pump valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the first heat pump valve, in particular from the second heat exchanger, in particular a second (internal) outlet of the second heat exchanger, and / or the intermediate inlet, to the first heat exchanger, in particular a (internal) inlet of the first heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the flow / exchange of medium between the first heat exchanger and second heat exchanger by controlling the first heat pump valve and / or the first compressor (of the heat pump).

[0048] The second heat pump valve can comprise a conventional valve (two-port-device). The second heat pump valve can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the second heat pump valve, in particular from the third heat exchanger, in particular a (internal) outlet of the third heat exchanger, to the second heat exchanger, in particular a (second / internal) inlet of the second heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the flow / exchange of medium between the second heat exchanger and third heat exchanger by controlling the second heat pump valve and / or the second compressor (of the heat pump).

[0049] The first compressor can comprise a conventional compressor (two-port-device) configured for providing compression of the medium flowing through the compressor. The first compressor can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the first compressor (and / or a compression provided by the first compressor), in particular from the first heat exchanger, in particular a (internal) outlet of the first heat exchanger, to the second heat exchanger, in particular a (internal / first) inlet of the second heat exchanger and / or the intermediate outlet. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the flow / exchange of medium between the first heat exchanger and second heat exchanger and / or second circuit by controlling the first heat pump valve and / or the first compressor (of the heat pump) and / or the (degree / amount of) compression.

[0050] The second compressor can comprise a conventional compressor (two-port-device) configured for providing compression of the medium flowing through the compressor. The second compressor can be controlled by the electronic control unit, e.g. via a control signal transmitted via a data connection, to increase or reduce a flow of medium through the second compressor (and / or a compression provided by the second compressor), in particular from the second heat exchanger, in particular a (first and / or internal) outlet of the second heat exchanger, to the third heat exchanger, in particular a (internal) inlet of the third heat exchanger. Consequently, the electronic control unit can control the flow / exchange of medium between the second heat exchanger and third heat exchanger by controlling the second heat pump valve and / or the second compressor (of the heat pump) and / or the (degree / amount of) compression.

[0051] The electronic control unit can (constantly and / or repeatedly) receive measurement data from the first temperature sensor, second temperature sensor, third temperature sensor, first volume sensor, second volume sensor, third volume sensor, ambient temperature sensor, a first heat source sensor (configured for measuring the temperature of and / or in the first heat source) and / or a second heat source sensor (configured for measuring the temperature of and / or in the second heat source), in particular via (separate) data connections for data transmission (e.g. wiring and / or the internet). The electronic control unit can (constantly and / or repeatedly) receive a cooling and / or heating demand of the (first and / or second) user(s). The electronic control unit can be configured to control the at least one valve. The electronic control unit can be configured to control (using control signals transmitted via separate data connections) the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eights, ninth, tenth, eleventh valve, the first, second and / or third pump, the first and / or second heat pump valve and / or the first and / or second compressor. The electronic control unit can be configured to control the first, second and / or third temperature by controlling the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh valve, the first, second and / or third pump, the first and / or second heat pump valve and / or the first and / or second compressor. Therefore, a data connection between the electronic control unit and the aforementioned parts, in particular of the cooling and heating system, can be provided. This allows the control by the electronic control unit based on control signals to actuators of the aforementioned parts, e.g. actuators which open and / or close the (at least one) valve(s) and / or which control the speed of the first, second and / or third pump. The (any of the above) controlling can be performed based on a cooling and / or heating demand, in particular of the (first and / or second) user(s). Alternatively and / or in addition, the controlling can be performed based on a first, second and / or third temperature and / or filling level of a first, second and / or third buffer vessel. Alternatively and / or in addition, the controlling can be performed based on the temperature of the first and / or second heat source and / or the ambient temperature. Those can be known (to the electronic control unit) and / or measured using sensor devices (connected to the electronic control unit for providing their measurement data to the electronic control unit). The electronic control unit may comprise a (simulation) model of the system. This model can be (pre-) simulated on a computing system and / or be based on the physical properties of the cooling and heating system and the above components, e.g. by using (thermo-) fluid dynamic simulation tools and / or known simulation tools, for example TRNSYS (Transient System Simulation Tool), EnergyPRO, EnergyPlus with District Heating and Cooling Modules, MATLAB / Simulink with HVAC Toolboxes, Modelica with OpenModelica or Dymola, IDA ICE (Indoor Climate and Energy), PSS-SINCAL, Termis, HVACSIM+, Simulink with District Energy Libraries, GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System), APROS (Advanced Process Simulator) and / or FlexSim. Therefore, the system can be modelled and volume flow, temperatures, pressure and / or resulting heating and / or cooling provided to satisfy cooling and / or heating demand can be calculated. Results of the simulations can be stored in the electronic control unit, e.g. in the form of equations, look-up tables, predefined parameter sets and / or simulated models (e.g. with reduced complexity). Therefore, the electronic control unit can calculate temperatures, volumes (per time) and / or pressures and / or calculated (appropriate) control signals for the components. For example, the electronic control unit can be configured to calculate when to switch between the cooling mode, heating mode and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode. Alternatively or in addition, the electronic control unit can calculate control signals, e.g. representing the amount of opening (in percent) of the at least one valve and / or of any of the other valves described.

[0052] The electronic control unit can be configured to selectively provide one of the following modes (at a time) based (at least) on controlling of the at least one valve and / or the above components: a cooling mode configured to (exclusively) provide cooling to (first and / or second) user(s) using / via the first circuit and / or first buffer vessel and / or an (increased) opening the (first outlet and / or inlet of the) first valve and / or third valve and / or by controlling the speed of the first pump, a heating mode configured to (exclusively) provide heating to (first and / or second) user(s) using / via the third circuit and / or third buffer vessel, in particular by (partly or fully) opening the sixth valve and / or controlling the (speed of the) third pump, a simultaneous cooling and heating mode configured to provide cooling and heating to (first and / or second) user(s) simultaneously, wherein ∘ cooling is provided using / via the first circuit and / or first buffer vessel (in particular like in the cooling mode), and / or ∘ heating is provided using / via the third circuit and / or third buffer vessel (in particular like in the heating mode).

[0053] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the at least two different heat sources provide geothermal heat, waste heat and / or ambient air heat, wherein in particular a first heat source comprises a ground loop for providing geothermal heat and / or waste heat recovery loop for providing waste heat, and / or a second heat source comprises (selectively) a dry air cooler for providing a release / dissipation of heat to ambient air of an environment and / or an air heat collector for capturing heat from ambient air of the environment.

[0054] The first and / or second heat source may be connected to the (external) environment of the system and / or provide an exchange of thermal energy with the environment.

[0055] The first heat source and / or second heat source may be configured for and / or used to release excess heat and / or cold from the system (to the environment), and / or to capture heat from the environment, in particular form (ambient) air, ground, and / or waste (processes).

[0056] The second heat source may comprise at least one / a dry air cooler for providing a release / dissipation of heat to ambient air of an environment and / or at least one / an air heat collector. Preferably, the second heat source may comprise a plurality (at least two or more) dry air coolers and / or air heat collectors, which preferably can be connected in parallel and / or analogously. This can improve the amount of heat that can be harvested and / or dissipated. Consequently, this can increase the efficiency.

[0057] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the electronic control unit is configured to control the at least one valve, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh ,eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh valve, based on a heating demand and / or a cooling demand from external users, in particular first and / or second user(s), preferably to enable, control and / or change between the cooling mode, heating mode and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode.

[0058] The cooling demand can be zero, in particular during winter and / or (very) low (ambient) temperatures. The electronic control unit can (then) enable, activate and / or control the system based on a heating mode (only), preferably based on the cooling demand, in particular if the heating demand is zero or below a cooling mode threshold (e.g. below 10kWh).

[0059] The heating demand can be zero, in particular during summer and / or (very) high (ambient) temperatures. The electronic control unit can (then) enable, activate and / or control the system based on a cooling mode (only), preferably based on the heating demand, in particular if the heating demand is zero or below a heating mode threshold (e.g. below 10kWh).

[0060] If both a (combined) cooling demand and a (combined) heating demand are transmitted and / or detected by the electronic control unit, e.g. if the cooling demand is equal to or higher than a first threshold for cooling (e.g. 100kWh) and if the heating demand is equal to or higher than a second threshold for heating (e.g. 100kWh), the electronic control unit can enable, activate and / or control the system based on a simultaneous cooling and heating mode, preferably based on changing cooling demand and heating demand.

[0061] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the first circuit comprises a first buffer vessel which is located between and / or connected to the first heat exchanger, in particular the first valve and / or third valve (and / or in particular the first pump), and a user(s), in particular a first user, in particular with cooling demands, the second circuit comprises a second buffer vessel which is located between and / or connected to the second heat exchanger and the at least two different external heat sources, in particular a first (and / or second) external heat source, and / or the third circuit comprises a third buffer vessel which is located between and / or connected (in particular via the sixth valve and / or the third pump) to the third heat exchanger and a user(s), in particular a second user with heating demands.

[0062] The first and / or second user(s) can be connected to the first and / or third buffer vessel(s), for example with internal cooling and / or heating systems of the user(s).

[0063] The first buffer vessel may comprise a first inlet configured for receiving (cooled) medium from the heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger and / or (via) the (outlet) of the first valve. The first buffer vessel may comprise a first outlet configured for providing (cooled) medium to the (first) user(s). The first buffer vessel may comprise a second inlet configured for receiving (cooled) medium, in particular slightly heated (e.g. by 3°C) by the (first) user(s) due to heat transfer from the (first) user(s) to the (cooled) medium, from the (first) users. The first buffer vessel may comprise a second outlet configured for providing (cooled) medium, in particular slightly heated medium (e.g. due to a positioning of the second outlet at a higher position compared to the first inlet, which can exploit the different density of the medium depending on its temperature inside of the vessel) to the heat pump, in particular the (inlet of the) first heat exchanger and / or (via) the (inlet of the) third valve and / or the first pump.

[0064] The second buffer vessel may comprise a first inlet configured for receiving (exchange) medium from the heat pump, in particular the second heat exchanger and / or (via) the intermediate outlet and / or the fifth valve. The second buffer vessel may comprise a first outlet configured for providing (exchange) medium to the first heat source. The second buffer vessel may comprise a second inlet configured for receiving (exchange) medium, in particular slightly heated (e.g. by 3°C) by the first heat source due to heat transfer from the first heat source to the (exchange) medium, from the first heat source. The second buffer vessel may comprise a second outlet configured for providing (exchange) medium, in particular slightly heated medium (e.g. due to a positioning of the second outlet at a higher position compared to the first inlet, which can exploit the different density of the medium depending on its temperature inside of the vessel) to the heat pump, in particular the intermediate inlet and / or the first / second heat exchanger and / or (via) the seventh valve and / or the second pump. Alternatively or in addition the medium may be provided to the second heat source and return therefrom (see above).

[0065] The third buffer vessel may comprise a first inlet configured for receiving (heated) medium from the heat pump, in particular the (outlet of the) third heat exchanger. The third buffer vessel may comprise a first outlet configured for providing (heated) medium to the (second) user(s). The third buffer vessel may comprise a second inlet configured for receiving (heated) medium, in particular slightly heated (e.g. by 3°C) by the (second) user(s) due to heat transfer from the (second) user(s) to the (heated) medium, from the (second) users. The third buffer vessel may comprise a second outlet configured for providing (heated) medium, in particular slightly heated medium (e.g. due to a positioning of the second outlet at a higher position compared to the first inlet, which can exploit the different density of the medium depending on its temperature inside of the vessel) to the heat pump, in particular the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, (via) the sixth valve and / or the third pump.

[0066] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the first buffer vessel comprises a first temperature sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel temperature, the second buffer vessel comprises a second temperature sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel temperature, and / or the third buffer vessel comprises a third temperature sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel temperature, wherein controlling by the electronic control unit is based on the first, second and / or third buffer temperature(s), in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users and / or to determine change of the temperature in the first, second and / or third buffer vessel (e.g. to detect a leak and / or defect). The buffer vessels can be configured for storing medium, such that changing cooling demand and / or heating demand can (at least partly) be compensated.

[0067] The first, second and / or third temperature sensor may provide a (first, second and / or third) sensor signal, which preferably is specific for a (measured) temperature (of the medium) in the first, second and / or third vessel, to the electronic control unit, preferably via a data connection between the first, second and / or third temperature sensor and the electronic control unit. The first, second and / or third temperature sensor(s) can (each) comprise a plurality of temperature sensors, e.g. distributed over the first, second and / or third buffer vessel. Alternatively the first, second and / or third temperature sensor(s) may be elongated and / or distributed along the size and / or volume of the first, second and / or third buffer vessel. This allows for a more precise measurement.

[0068] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the first buffer vessel comprises a first volume sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel filling level, the second buffer vessel comprises a second volume sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel filling level, and / or the third buffer vessel comprises a third volume sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel filling level, wherein controlling by the electronic control unit is (alternatively and / or additionally) based on the first, second and / or third buffer filling level, in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users.

[0069] The first, second and / or third volume sensor may provide a sensor signal, which preferably is specific for a (measured) volume and / or filling level (of the medium) in the first, second and / or third vessel, to the electronic control unit, preferably via a data connection between the first, second and / or third volume sensor and the electronic control unit.

[0070] The first, second and / or third volume, filling level and / or temperature may be specific for the ability to provide (sufficient) cooled, exchange and / or heated medium.

[0071] The electronic control, in particular in a cooling mode and / or in a simultaneous cooling and heating mode, unit may be configured to control (based on an increased / decreased cooling demand), in particular by (further) opening / closing the first valve and / or third valve and / or first pump (increase / decrease speed) to increase / decrease the flow of medium between the first buffer vessel and the first heat exchanger, the volume and / or filling level of the first buffer vessel, in particular to provide an increased / decreased amount of cooled medium to the first buffer vessel and / or (first) user(s), preferably based on an increased / decreased cooling demand. Naturally, also the remaining components can be controlled in addition, for example the speed / volume of the first compressor can be increased / decreased and / or the first heat pump valve can be (further) opened / closed.

[0072] The electronic control unit, in particular in a heating mode and / or in a simultaneous cooling and heating mode, may be configured to control (based on an increased / decreased heating demand), in particular by (further) opening / closing the sixth valve, increasing / decreasing the volume (per time) of the third pump, by (further) opening / closing the second heat pump valve and / or increasing / decreasing the volume (per time) of the second compressor to increase / decrease the flow of medium between the third buffer vessel and the third heat exchanger, the volume and / or filling level of the third buffer vessel, in particular to provide an increased / decreased amount of (heated) medium to the third buffer vessel and / or (second) user(s), preferably based on an increased / decreased heating demand. Naturally, also the remaining components can be controlled in addition, for example the speed / volume of the second pump can be increased / decreased and / or the fifth valve can be (further) opened / closed.

[0073] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the at least on valve, preferably all valves (and / or the first and / or second valve), comprises a pressure independent control valve, which in particular comprises an actuating element which can be controlled by the electronic control unit by a control signal such that only a (predefined and / or controlled) percentage of medium passes through the valve, in particular from a first inlet and / or second inlet to a first outlet and / or second outlet. This can be performed independent of the pressure at the (inlet and / or outlet of the) valve. Therefore, the flexibility of controlling is increased.

[0074] A pressure independent control valve can be configured to be controlled by the electronic control unit, preferably such that the volume and / or the percentage of a volume flowing from a first and / or second inlet of the valve to a first and / or second outlet of the valve is increased and / or decreased. Preferably, all valves and / or (all) pressure independent control valve(s) comprise a three-way valve with a first and / or second inlet and a first and / or second outlet. For example, the first valve, third valve, fourth valve, sixth valve and / or eleventh valve can comprise a first inlet and a first outlet and a second outlet. For example, the second valve, third valve, fifth valve and / or tenth valve can comprise a first inlet and a second inlet and a first outlet. Preferably, the pressure independent control valve is configured to open / close the first and / or second inlet and / or first and / or second outlet based on a control signal of the electronic control unit. This allows for an optimized flexibility for controlling.

[0075] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the first temperature is lower than the second temperature and the third temperature, wherein in particular the second temperature is lower than the third temperature, wherein in particular the first temperature is between -14°C and -9°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the (outlet of the) first heat exchanger to the first circuit comprises a first outflow temperature of -14°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the (inlet of the) first heat exchanger from the first circuit comprises a first inflow temperature of -9°C, and / or the second temperature is between 30°C and 35°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the (intermediate outlet of the) heat pump, in particular the first and / or second heat exchanger and / or the intermediate outlet, to the second circuit comprises a second outflow temperature of 30°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the (intermediate inlet of the) heat pump, in particular the first and / or second heat exchanger and / or the intermediate inlet, from the second circuit comprises a second inflow temperature of 35°C, and / or the third temperature is between 72°C and 95°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the (outlet of the) third heat exchanger to the third circuit comprises a third outflow temperature of 95°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger from the third circuit comprises a third inflow temperature of 72°C.

[0076] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein the electronic control unit is configured to connect the heat pump (preferably via the intermediate outlet and / or intermediate inlet), in particular the first heat exchanger and / or second heat exchanger, selectively with at least one of the at least two different external heat sources, in particular based on the cooling mode, heating mode and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode and / or the cooling demand and / or heating demand.

[0077] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the cooling mode, the heating mode and / or the simultaneous cooling and heating mode, the first heat exchanger is operated as an evaporator, wherein the first heat exchanger is activated and / or operated by the electronic control unit, in particular by opening a first heat pump valve and / or operating a first compressor.

[0078] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the cooling mode, the electronic control unit controls the second heat exchanger which acts as a condenser to dissipate heat from and / or the medium (coming) from the first heat exchanger, wherein in particular the electronic control unit controls a first heat pump valve and / or a first compressor between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger to maintain a fixed (temperature) operational setpoint and / or (second) temperature of the second heat exchanger (and / or the medium flowing between the first and second heat exchanger), in particular at 35°C. This can be advantageous to optimize the pressure-temperature relationship in the heat pump and / or to ensure a stable operation, in particular without imposing undue strain on the (first and / or second) compressor.

[0079] In the cooling mode, the heat pump, in particular via the intermediate inlet and / or outlet, can reject heat to the at least two different heat sources, in particular (selectively) to the first heat source and / or second heat source. Using both the first and second heat source can increase the overall cooling capacity and / or improve achieving / maintaining the setpoint more efficiently. The parallel operation can provide increased flexibility and / or handling of larger thermal loads.

[0080] In the cooling mode, the electronic control unit can selectively connect the second heat source, in particular a dry air cooler, to the intermediate inlet and / or outlet. Preferably, a plurality of dry air coolers may selectively be connected based on a cooling demand. This allows to increase the efficiency and / or flexibility. The electronic control unit can control the eighth valve, ninth valve, tenth valve and / or eleventh valve to connect (or disconnect) the second heat source and / or dry air cooler(s).

[0081] In the cooling mode, the electronic control unit can control the the first pump to pump medium from the (first) user(s) and / or the first buffer vessel and / or the third valve to the heat pump and / or the first heat exchanger, the second pump to pump medium from the (second) user(s) and / or the second buffer vessel to the first and / or second heat exchanger and / or intermediate inlet, the third pump to be deactivated and / or to block a flow of medium, the first valve to open / allow (or even increase by controlling the first pump, in particular by increasing the pumped volume per time) flow of (cooled) medium to the (first) user(s) and / or first buffer vessel, the second valve to block a flow of (cooled) medium to the second circuit and / or (via) the feedback circuit, the third valve to open / allow flow (or even increase by controlling the first pump, in particular by increasing the pumped volume per time) of medium from the (first) user(s) and / or first buffer vessel to the first heat exchanger, the fourth valve to block a flow of medium from the second circuit and / or feedback circuit, the fifth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second buffer vessel and / or first heat source, the sixth valve to block a flow of medium, in particular from the third buffer vessel to the third pump and / or third heat exchanger, the seventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, the seventh valve to block flow through the seventh valve, in particular if the eighth valve and / or ninth valve are open, the eighth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the second heat source and / or (via) the tenth valve, wherein alternatively the eighth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the ninth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, wherein alternatively the ninth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the eighth valve to the second heat source, the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source and / or seventh valve to the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the ninth valve and / or the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second heat source and / or the ninth valve, the first compressor, in particular (increasing / reducing) a (electrical) power and / or volume (per time) provided to the first compressor, in particular if the cooling demand increases / is reduced, the first heat pump valve to partly or fully open to allow a flow of medium between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the second compressor, in particular blocking and / or stopping the second compressor, and / or the second heat pump valve to block a flow of medium between the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger.

[0082] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the cooling mode, the electronic control unit blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger and the second circuit, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger to the second circuit, in particular via the feedback circuit, via and / or by controlling a second valve and inflowing medium from the second circuit, in particular via the feedback circuit, to the first heat exchanger via and / or by controlling a fourth valve.

[0083] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the cooling mode, the electronic control unit blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the third heat exchanger and the third circuit, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, outflowing medium from the third heat exchanger to the third circuit, in particular by controlling a second heat pump valve and / or a second compressor and / or a third pump (P3) and / or a sixth valve (V6), and / or inflowing medium from the third circuit to the third heat exchanger, in particular by controlling the second heat pump valve and / or the second compressor and / or a third pump (P3) and / or a sixth valve (V6).

[0084] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the heating mode, the electronic control unit blocks any inflowing medium to the first and / or second heat exchanger and / or intermediate inlet from the second circuit and / or any outflowing medium from the first and / or second heat exchanger and / or intermediate outlet to the second circuit, preferably if an ambient temperature (around and / or outside of the system), which in particular is measured by an ambient temperature sensor (e.g. attached to system and / or located outside of the system and / or connected via a data communication to the electronic control unit), is equal to or higher than a (predefined) switch-off-temperature, in particular 20°C, wherein in particular blocking is achieved by controlling, in particular closing, a fifth valve, a seventh valve, a tenth valve, an eleventh valve and / or deactivating a second pump by the electronic control unit. Consequently, heat for the first heat exchanger may be gathered from the at least two different heat sources, in particular (preferably) the first heat source and / or the second heat source (e.g. in addition).

[0085] By deactivating and / or disconnecting the first circuit during the heating mode, the system can isolate the cooling and / or focus all thermal energy extraction on maintaining heat transfer for heating (to satisfy the heating demand).

[0086] In the heating mode, the first heat source may comprise a temperature which is (e.g. 10 K) below the ambient temperature. The first heat source may (primarily) be used for providing heat to the heat pump and / or the first heat exchanger. Therefore, the heat pump can be designed and / or configured for providing heated medium, in particular at low ambient temperatures and / or during winter, preferably (even) at minimum ambient temperatures of -5 °C. For example, the first heat source, in particular comprising ground heat and / or waste heat, can comprise a 5K temperature differential between flow and return lines. This temperature differential allows heat to be extracted from the first heat source and transfer it to the heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger. It may be possible to activate an additional (first) heat source, e.g. an additional ground heat source, when the temperature differential is not achieved and / or available. The at least two different heat sources, in particular the first heat source, may comprise a heat exchanger, e.g. an evaporator. This means that medium may flow from the heat exchanger to the second buffer vessel and back to the ground loop in an attempt to balance the system and / or to provide additional / sufficient heat. In the heating mode, the second heat source can be used in addition. The second heat source may comprise a dry air cooler and / or (a plurality of) dry air coolers. In the heating mode, the dry air cooler(s) may be operated in reverse and / or (therefore) act as air heat collector(s). The second heat source may be configured to absorb heat from the ambient air and transfer it to the system.

[0087] This can be advantageous to maintain the (5K) differential temperature. The second heat source may be activated / deactivated by controlling the eighth, ninth, tenth and / or eleventh valve to open / close. An increased / decreased flow of medium and / or heat exchange (extraction from) the second heat source may be achieved by controlling the eighth, ninth, tenth and / or eleventh valve to further open / close.

[0088] In the heating mode, the electronic control unit can control the the first pump to pump medium from the at least one (first and / or second) heat source(s) and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the fourth valve and(or the seventh valve to the heat pump and / or the first heat exchanger, in particular depending on the heating demand, the second pump to be deactivated and / or to block a flow of medium, the third pump to pump medium from the (second) user(s) and / or the third buffer vessel and / or the sixth valve to the heat pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, in particular depending on the heating demand, the first valve to block a flow of (cooled) medium to the (first) user(s) and / or the first buffer vessel, the second valve to flow (or even increase by controlling the first pump, in particular by increasing the pumped volume per time) of medium from the first circuit and / or heat pump and / or the (outlet of the) first heat exchanger to the second buffer vessel and / or the first heat source, the third valve to block a flow of medium from the (first) user(s) and / or the first buffer vessel to the heat pump and / or the (inlet of the) first heat exchanger, the fourth valve to open / allow flow (or even increase by controlling the first pump, in particular by increasing the pumped volume per time) of medium from the second circuit and / or the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the second heat source to the heat pump and / or the (inlet of the) first heat exchanger, the fifth valve to block a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second buffer vessel and / or the first heat source, the sixth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the (second) user(s) and / or the third buffer vessel to the third pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, the seventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, the seventh valve to block flow through the seventh valve, in particular if the eighth valve and / or ninth valve are open, the eighth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the second heat source and / or (via) the tenth valve, wherein alternatively the eighth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the ninth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, wherein alternatively the ninth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the eighth valve to the second heat source, the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source and / or seventh valve to the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the ninth valve and / or the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second heat source and / or the ninth valve, the first compressor, in particular (increasing / reducing) a (electrical) power and / or volume (per time) provided to the first compressor, in particular if the heating demand increases / is reduced, the first heat pump valve to partly or fully open to allow a flow of medium between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the second compressor, in particular (increasing / reducing) a (electrical) power and / or volume (per time) provided to the second compressor, in particular if the heating demand increases / is reduced, and / or the second heat pump valve to partly or fully open to allow a flow of medium between the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger.

[0089] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the heating mode, the electronic control unit blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger and the first circuit, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking (reducing any flow [through the valves] to zero), outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger to the first circuit, in particular via and / or by controlling the first valve, and inflowing medium from the first circuit to the first heat exchanger, in particular via and / or by controlling the third valve.

[0090] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the heating mode, the electronic control unit controls, in particular heat transferred to, the heat pump, in particular the first heat exchanger, by controlling a fifth valve and / or a seventh valve, an eighth valve, a ninth valve, a tenth valve and / or an eleventh valve to connect a second heat source with the first heat exchanger, and / or in particular the second buffer vessel. This allows (preferably) extracting additional heat.

[0091] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode, the electronic control unit controls the at least one valve, in particular the second valve and / or the fourth valve, and / or preferably the first valve and / or third valve, to provide both cooling and heating simultaneously, wherein a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger to the first circuit and a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger, in particular via the second valve, to the feedback circuit and / or second circuit (when summed up) are constant. In other words, the first valve and the second valve, which preferably comprise pressure independent control valves, can be configured and / or controlled by the electronic control valve to operate in an inversely proportional manner, in particular depending on the cooling demand and / or heating demand of the (first and / or second) user(s). This can mean that the two valves are controlled and / or configured such that the degree of opening of one valve increases / decreases proportionally as the other decreases / increases. In other words the valves can be controlled such that the sum of their respective flow (coefficients) remains constant, enforcing an inverse proportionality.

[0092] In the simultaneous cooling and heating mode, the electronic control unit can control the the first pump to pump medium from the at least one (first and / or second) heat source(s) and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the fourth valve and(or the seventh valve to the heat pump and / or the first heat exchanger, in particular depending on the cooling demand and / or heating demand, the second pump to be deactivated and / or to block a flow of medium, the third pump to pump medium from the (second) user(s) and / or the third buffer vessel and / or the sixth valve to the heat pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, in particular depending on the heating demand, the first valve to open / allow a flow of (cooled) medium to the (first) user(s) and / or first buffer vessel, in particular by a first percentage (e.g. by opening 60% and / or such that 60% of the medium [output by the first heat exchanger] flows in that direction), and preferably (at the same time) the second valve to open / allow a flow of (cooled) medium to the second circuit and / or feedback circuit, in particular by a second percentage (e.g. by opening 40% and / or such that 40% of the [available / possible] medium flows in that direction), the third valve to open / allow a flow of medium from the first circuit and / or (first) user(s) and / or first buffer vessel to the first pump and / or first heat exchanger, the fourth valve to open / allow a flow of (exchange) medium from the second circuit and / or feedback circuit and / or seventh valve and / or ninth valve to the first circuit and / or feedback circuit and / or first pump and / or first heat exchanger, the fifth valve to block a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second buffer vessel and / or the first heat source, the sixth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the (second) user(s) and / or the third buffer vessel to the third pump and / or the (inlet of the) third heat exchanger, the seventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, the seventh valve to block flow through the seventh valve, in particular if the eighth valve and / or ninth valve are open, the eighth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel to the second heat source and / or (via) the tenth valve, wherein alternatively the eighth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the ninth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the intermediate inlet and / or the (inlet of the) second pump, wherein alternatively the ninth valve blocks any flow (such that no flow of medium is provided to the second heat source), the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the first heat source and / or the second buffer vessel and / or the eighth valve to the second heat source, the tenth valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source and / or seventh valve to the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the second heat source to the ninth valve and / or the (inlet of the) second pump and / or the intermediate inlet, the eleventh valve to (at least partly, preferably fully) open and / or allow a flow of medium, in particular from the intermediate outlet to the second heat source and / or the ninth valve, the first compressor, in particular (increasing / reducing) a (electrical) power and / or volume (per time) provided to the first compressor, in particular if the cooling demand and / or heating demand increases / is reduced, the first heat pump valve to partly or fully open to allow a flow of medium between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the second compressor, in particular (increasing / reducing) a (electrical) power and / or volume (per time) provided to the second compressor, in particular if the heating demand increases / is reduced, and / or the second heat pump valve to partly or fully open to allow a flow of medium between the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger.

[0093] Preferably, the electronic control unit performs the controlling such that the flow in each of the different parts of the system is balanced and / or optimized.

[0094] Preferably, the electronic control unit performs the controlling such that the temperature (of medium) in the first buffer vessel is (approximately) constant. This can be achieved by controlling the (pump speed of the) third pump, the sixth valve, the second compressor and / or the second heat pump valve.

[0095] Preferably, the electronic control unit performs the controlling such that the temperature (of medium) in the third buffer vessel is (approximately) constant. This can be achieved by controlling the (pump speed of the) first pump, the first valve, the third valve, the first compressor and / or the first heat pump valve.

[0096] In the context of the present invention, a system may be provided wherein in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode, the electronic control unit controls the at least one valve, in particular the first valve, the second valve, the third valve and / or the fourth valve, in particular based on the cooling demand (and / or heating demand) of the users, wherein when the cooling demand increases, the first valve is controlled such (by at least partly and / or further opening) that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger to the first circuit increases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably decrease, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources, in particular by controlling (partly and / or further closing) the second valve, fourth valve, fifth valve, seventh valve, eighth valve and / or ninth valve, and / or when the cooling demand decreases, the first valve is controlled such (by at least partly and / or further closing) that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger to the first circuit decreases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably increase, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources, in particular by controlling (partly and / or further opening) the second valve, fourth valve, fifth valve, seventh valve, eighth valve and / or ninth valve.

[0097] When the cooling demand increases, the flow of medium to the (first) user(s) and / or first buffer vessel can be increased while the extraction of thermal heat from the at least two different heat source, the first heat source and / or the second heat source is limited and / or reduced (and vice versa). This allows to increase the efficiency and / or flexibility.

[0098] Using an inverse proportional operation can ensure that when the cooling demand is increased, the heat pump can focus on meeting that cooling demand by reducing heat extraction from the at least two different heat sources. Instead (more) heat is absorbed from (medium from) the (first) user(s).

[0099] According to a second aspect the invention provides a method for controlling a cooling and heating system according to the first aspect, the method comprising: receiving, by an electronic control unit of the cooling and heating system, a heating demand and / or a cooling demand of external users, controlling, by the electronic control unit, at least one valve of the cooling and heating system based on the heating demand and / or cooling demand.

[0100] This means that the same technical advantages may be realized with respect to the method according to the second aspect, which have already been described above for the system according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0101] According to a third aspect which may be part of the invention, the above objective problem is solved by a computer program product comprising instructions, which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0102] This means that the same technical advantages may be realized with respect to the computer program product according to the third aspect, which have already been described above for the device according to the first aspect of the invention and / or the method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0103] According to a fourth aspect which may be part of the invention, the above objective problem is solved by a computer-readable storage medium in which instructions are stored which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0104] This means that the same technical advantages may be realized with respect to the computer-readable storage medium according to the fourth aspect, which have already been described above for the device according to the first aspect of the invention and / or the method according to the second aspect of the invention and / or the computer program product according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0105] According to a fifth aspect which may be part of the invention, the above objective problem is solved by an electronic control unit, comprising a computing unit and / or a memory unit, in which instructions are stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit, implement a method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0106] This means that the same technical advantages may be realized with respect to the electronic control unit according to the fifth aspect, which have already been described above for the device according to the first aspect of the invention and / or the method according to the second aspect of the invention and / or the computer program product according to the third aspect of the invention and / or the computer-readable storage medium according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0107] Additional technical features, advantages and details of the invention are disclosed by the following description of the figures. The figures provide a detailed description of possible embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the features described by the claims and the description can be realized alone or in (any) combination. The following exemplary description includes: Fig. 1a cooling and heating system, Fig. 2a cooling and heating system in a cooling mode (I), Fig. 3a cooling and heating system in a heating mode (II), Fig. 4a cooling and heating system in a simultaneous cooling mode and heating mode (III), Fig. 5a method.

[0108] In the following figures identical reference signs are used for identical (or corresponding) features, in particular for different embodiments of the invention.

[0109] Fig. 1 shows a cooling and heating system 100 (and its components) for providing cooling and / or heating to external users 201, 202, in particular domestic and / or commercial buildings, having a cooling and / or heating demand, the cooling and heating system 100 comprising: a heat pump 10 comprising: ∘ a first heat exchanger 11 configured for providing cooled medium with a first temperature T1 to a first circuit 1, ∘ a second heat exchanger 12 configured for exchanging an exchange medium having a second temperature T2 with a second circuit 2 to which at least two different external heat sources S1, S2 are connectable, ∘ a third heat exchanger 13 configured for providing heated medium with a third temperature T3 to a third circuit 3, a feedback circuit 4 connecting the first circuit 1 and the second circuit 2 for an exchange of medium, wherein at least one valve V1, V2 connects the first circuit 1 and the second circuit 2 via the feedback circuit 4, an electronic control unit ECU configured for controlling 120 the at least one valve V1, V2, wherein the electronic control unit ECU is configured to selectively provide one of the following modes based on controlling 120 of the at least one valve V1, V2: a cooling mode I (see Fig. 2) configured to provide cooling to users 201, 202 using the first circuit 1, a heating mode II (see Fig. 3) configured to provide heating to users 201, 202 using the third circuit 3, a simultaneous cooling and heating mode III (see Fig. 4) configured to provide cooling and heating to users 201, 202 simultaneously, wherein cooling is provided using the first circuit 1 and heating is provided using the third circuit 3.

[0110] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the at least two different heat sources S1, S2 provide geothermal heat, waste heat and / or ambient air heat, wherein in particular a first heat source S1 comprises a ground loop for providing geothermal heat and / or waste heat recovery loop for providing waste heat, and in particular is connected to a defrost loop, a second heat source S2 comprises a dry air cooler for providing a release of heat to ambient air of an environment and / or an air heat collector for capturing heat from ambient air of the environment.

[0111] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the electronic control unit ECU is configured to control 120 the at least one valve V1, V2 based on a heating demand and a cooling demand from external users 201, 202.

[0112] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the first circuit 1 comprises a first buffer vessel B1 which is located between and / or connected to the first heat exchanger 11, in particular the first valve V1 and / or third valve V3, and a user 201, 202, in particular a first user 201, with cooling demands, the second circuit 2 comprises a second buffer vessel B2 which is located between and / or connected to the second heat exchanger 12 and the at least two different external heat sources S1, S2, in particular a first external heat source S1 (and / or a second external heat source S2), and / or the third circuit 3 comprises a third buffer vessel B3 which is located between and / or connected to the third heat exchanger 13 and a user 201, 202, in particular a second user 202 with heating demands.

[0113] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the first buffer vessel B1 comprises a first temperature sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel temperature, the second buffer vessel B2 comprises a second temperature sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel temperature, and / or the third buffer vessel B3 comprises a third temperature sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel temperature, wherein controlling 120 by the electronic control unit ECU is based on the first, second and / or third buffer temperature(s), in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users.

[0114] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the first buffer vessel B1 comprises a first volume sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel filling level, the second buffer vessel B2 comprises a second volume sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel filling level, and / or the third buffer vessel B3 comprises a third volume sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel filling level, wherein controlling 120 by the electronic control unit ECU is based on the first, second and / or third buffer filling level, in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users.

[0115] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the at least on valve V1, V2, preferably all valves V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7, V8, comprises a pressure independent control valve, which in particular comprises an actuating element which can be controlled by the electronic control unit ECU by a control signal such that only a percentage of medium passes through the valve.

[0116] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the first temperature T1 is lower than the second temperature T2 and the third temperature T3, wherein in particular the second temperature T2 is lower than the third temperature T3, wherein in particular the first temperature T1 is between -14°C and -9°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the first circuit 1 comprises a first outflow temperature of -14°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the first heat exchanger 11 from the first circuit 1 comprises a first inflow temperature of -9°C, and / or the second temperature T2 is between 30°C and 35°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the heat pump 10, in particular the second heat exchanger 12, to the second circuit 2 comprises a second outflow temperature of 30°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the heat pump 10, in particular the second heat exchanger 12, from the second circuit 2 comprises a second inflow temperature of 35°C, and / or the third temperature T3 is between 72°C and 95°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the third heat exchanger 13 to the third circuit 3 comprises a third outflow temperature of 95°C, and o inflowing medium to the third heat exchanger 13 from the third circuit 3 comprises a third inflow temperature of 72°C.

[0117] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein the electronic control unit ECU is configured to connect the heat pump 10, in particular the first heat exchanger 11 and / or second heat exchanger 12, selectively with at least one of the at least two different external heat sources S1, S2, in particular based on the cooling mode I, heating mode II and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode III.

[0118] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the cooling mode I, the heating mode II and the simultaneous cooling and heating mode III, the first heat exchanger 11 is operated as an evaporator, wherein the first heat exchanger is activated, in particular by opening a first heat pump valve V12 and / or operating (or activating) a first compressor C12.

[0119] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the cooling mode I, the electronic control unit ECU controls the second heat exchanger 12 which acts as a condenser to dissipate heat from the first heat exchanger 11, wherein in particular the electronic control unit ECU controls a first heat pump valve V12 and / or a first compressor C12 between the first heat exchanger 11 and the second heat exchanger 12 to maintain a fixed operational setpoint of the second heat exchanger 12, in particular at 35°C.

[0120] Fig. 2 exemplarily shows a cooling and heating system 100 in a cooling mode I.

[0121] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the cooling mode I (shown in Fig. 2), the electronic control unit ECU blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger 11 and the second circuit 2, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the second circuit 2, in particular via the feedback circuit 4, via and / or by controlling a second valve V2 and inflowing medium from the second circuit 2, in particular via the feedback circuit 4, to the first heat exchanger 11 via and / or by controlling a fourth valve V2.

[0122] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the cooling mode I (shown in Fig. 2), the electronic control unit ECU blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the third heat exchanger 13 and the third circuit 3, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, outflowing medium from the third heat exchanger 13 to the third circuit 3, in particular by controlling a second heat pump valve V13 and / or a second compressorcompressor C13 and / or a third pump P3 and / or a sixth valve V6, and inflowing medium from the third circuit 3 to the third heat exchanger 13, in particular by controlling the second heat pump valve V13 and / or the second compressor C13 and / or a third pump P3 and / or a sixth valve V6.

[0123] Fig. 3 exemplarily shows a cooling and heating system 100 in a heating mode II.

[0124] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the heating mode II (shown in Fig. 3), the electronic control unit ECU blocks any inflowing medium to the second heat exchanger 12 from the second circuit 2 and / or any outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger 11 and / or second heat exchanger 12 to the second circuit 2, if an ambient temperature, which in particular is measured by an ambient temperature sensor, is equal to or higher than a switch-off-temperature, in particular 20°C, wherein in particular blocking is achieved by controlling, in particular closing, a fifth valve V5, a seventh valve V7, a tenth valve V10, an eleventh valve V11 and / or deactivating a second pump P2 by the electronic control unit ECU.

[0125] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the heating mode II (shown in Fig. 3), the electronic control unit ECU blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger 11 and the first circuit 1, in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the first circuit 1, in particular via and / or by controlling the first valve V1, and inflowing medium from the first circuit 1 to the first heat exchanger 11, in particular via and / or by controlling the third valve V3.

[0126] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the heating mode II (shown in Fig. 3), the electronic control unit ECU controls, in particular heat transferred to, the heat pump 10, in particular the first heat exchanger 11, by controlling a fifth valve V5, a seventh valve V7, an eighth valve V8 and / or a ninth valve V9 to connect a second heat source S2 with the first heat exchanger 11, and / or in particular the second buffer vessel B2.

[0127] Fig. 4 exemplarily shows a cooling and heating system 100 in a simultaneous heating and cooling mode III.

[0128] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode III (shown in Fig. 4), the electronic control unit ECU controls the at least one valve V1, V2, in particular the second valve V2 and the fourth valve V4, to provide both cooling and heating simultaneously, wherein a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the first circuit 1 and a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the feedback circuit 4 are constant.

[0129] A cooling and heating system 100 may be provided, wherein in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode III (shown in Fig. 4), the electronic control unit ECU controls the at least one valve V1, V2, in particular the second valve V2 and the fourth valve V4, in particular based on the cooling demand and / or heating demand of the users, wherein when the cooling demand increases, the first valve V1 is controlled such that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the first circuit 1 increases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably decrease, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources S1, S2, in particular by controlling the second valve V2, fourth valve V4, fifth valve V5, seventh valve V7, eighth valve V8 and / or ninth valve V9, or when the cooling demand decreases, the first valve V1 is controlled such that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger 11 to the first circuit 1 decreases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably increase, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources S1, S2, in particular by controlling the second valve V2, fourth valve V4, fifth valve V5, seventh valve V7, eighth valve V8 and / or ninth valve V9.

[0130] Fig. 5 shows a method for controlling 120 a cooling and heating system 100 according to the first aspect and / or Fig. 1, 2, 3 and / or 4, the method comprising: receiving 110 by an electronic control unit ECU of the cooling and heating system 100, a heating demand and a cooling demand of external users 201, 202, controlling 120 by the electronic control unit ECU at least one valve V1, V2 of the cooling and heating system 100 based on the heating demand and cooling demand. Reference signs

[0131] 1first circuit 2second circuit 3third circuit 4feedback circuit 5defrost loop 10heat pump 11first heat exchanger (low stage, evaporator) 12second heat exchanger (intermediate stage, condenser) 13third heat exchanger (high stage, condenser) 100cooling and heating system 110receiving 120controlling 201, 202external users 201first user 202second user ECUelectronic control unit CUcomputing unit MUmemory unit B1first buffer vessel B2second buffer vessel B3third buffer vessel P1first pump P2second pump P3third pump C12first compressor C13second compressor S1first heat source (ground source / waste source) S2second heat source (dry air cooler / air heat collector) T1first temperature T2second temperature T3third temperature V1first valve (pressure independent control valve) V2second valve (pressure independent control valve) V3third valve (two-way control valve) V4fourth valve (two-way control valve) V5fifth valve (two-way control valve) V6sixth valve (two-way control valve) V7seventh valve (check-valve) V8eighth valve (two-way control valve) V9ninth valve (two-way control valve) V10tenth valve (three-way control valve) V11eleventh valve (three-way control valve) V12first heat pump valve (two-way or three-way control valve) V13second heat pump valve (two-way control valve)

Claims

1. Cooling and heating system (100) for providing cooling and / or heating to external users (201, 202), in particular domestic buildings, industry plants, factories and / or commercial buildings, having a cooling and / or heating demand, the cooling and heating system (100) comprising: - a heat pump (10) comprising: ∘ a first heat exchanger (11) configured for providing cooled medium with a first temperature (T1) to a first circuit (1), ∘ a second heat exchanger (12) configured for exchanging an exchange medium having a second temperature (T2) with a second circuit (2) to which at least two different external heat sources (S1, S2) are connectable, ∘ a third heat exchanger (13) configured for providing heated medium with a third temperature (T3) to a third circuit (3), - a feedback circuit (4) connecting the first circuit (1) and the second circuit (2) for an exchange of medium, wherein at least one valve (V1, V2) connects the first circuit (1) and the second circuit (2) via the feedback circuit (4), - an electronic control unit (ECU) configured for controlling (120) the at least one valve (V1, V2), wherein the electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to selectively provide one of the following modes based on controlling (120) of the at least one valve (V1, V2): - a cooling mode (I) configured to provide cooling to users (201, 202) using the first circuit (1), - a heating mode (II) configured to provide heating to users (201, 202) using the third circuit (3), - a simultaneous cooling and heating mode (III) configured to provide cooling and heating to users (201, 202) simultaneously, wherein cooling is provided using the first circuit (1) and heating is provided using the third circuit (3).

2. Cooling and heating system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the at least two different heat sources (S1, S2) provide geothermal heat, waste heat and / or ambient air heat, wherein in particular - a first heat source (S1) comprises a ground loop for providing geothermal heat and / or waste heat recovery loop for providing waste heat, and / or - a second heat source (S2) comprises a dry air cooler for providing a release of heat to ambient air of an environment and / or an air heat collector for capturing heat from ambient air of the environment.

3. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, the electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to control (120) the at least one valve (V1, V2) based on a heating demand and a cooling demand from external users (201, 202).

4. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, - the first circuit (1) comprises a first buffer vessel (B1) which is located between and / or connected to the first heat exchanger (11), in particular the first valve (V1) and / or third valve (V3), and a user (201, 202), in particular a first user (201), with cooling demands, - the second circuit (2) comprises a second buffer vessel (B2) which is located between and / or connected to the second heat exchanger (12) and the at least two different external heat sources (S1, S2), in particular a first external heat source (S1), and / or - the third circuit (3) comprises a third buffer vessel (B3) which is located between and / or connected to the third heat exchanger (13) and a user (201, 202), in particular a second user (202), with heating demands, in particular wherein - the first buffer vessel (B1) comprises a first temperature sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel temperature, - the second buffer vessel (B2) comprises a second temperature sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel temperature, and / or - the third buffer vessel (B3) comprises a third temperature sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel temperature, wherein controlling (120) by the electronic control unit (ECU) is based on the first, second and / or third buffer temperature, in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users.

5. Cooling and heating system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, - the first buffer vessel (B1) comprises a first volume sensor configured for measuring a first buffer vessel filling level, - the second buffer vessel (B2) comprises a second volume sensor configured for measuring a second buffer vessel filling level, and / or - the third buffer vessel (B3) comprises a third volume sensor configured for measuring a third buffer vessel filling level, wherein controlling (120) by the electronic control unit (ECU) is based on the first, second and / or third buffer filling level, in particular to determine the cooling demand and / or the heating demand of the users and / or the at least one valve (V1, V2), preferably the second valve (V2), comprises a pressure independent control valve, which in particular comprises an actuating element which can be controlled by the electronic control unit (ECU) by a control signal such that only a percentage of medium passes through the valve.

6. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, the first temperature (T1) is lower than the second temperature (T2) and the third temperature (T3), wherein in particular the second temperature (T2) is lower than the third temperature (T3), wherein in particular - the first temperature (T1) is between -14°C and -9°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the first circuit (1) comprises a first outflow temperature of -14°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the first heat exchanger (11) from the first circuit (1) comprises a first inflow temperature of -9°C, and / or - the second temperature (T2) is between 30°C and 35°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the heat pump (10), in particular the second heat exchanger (12), to the second circuit (2) comprises a second outflow temperature of 30°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the heat pump (10), in particular the second heat exchanger (12), from the second circuit (2) comprises a second inflow temperature of 35°C, and / or - the third temperature (T3) is between 72°C and 95°C, wherein in particular ∘ outflowing medium from the third heat exchanger (13) to the third circuit (3) comprises a third outflow temperature of 95°C, and ∘ inflowing medium to the third heat exchanger (13) from the third circuit (3) comprises a third inflow temperature of 72°C.

7. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, the electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to connect the heat pump (10), in particular the first heat exchanger (11) and / or second heat exchanger (12), selectively with at least one of the at least two different external heat sources (S1, S2), in particular based on the cooling mode (I), heating mode (II) and / or simultaneous cooling and heating mode (III) and / or wherein in the cooling mode (I), the heating mode (II) and the simultaneous cooling and heating mode (III), the first heat exchanger (11) is operated as an evaporator, wherein the first heat exchanger is activated, in particular by opening a first heat pump valve (V12) and / or operating a first compressor (C12).

8. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the cooling mode (I), the electronic control unit (ECU) controls the second heat exchanger (12) which acts as a condenser to dissipate heat from the first heat exchanger (11), wherein in particular the electronic control unit (ECU) controls a first heat pump valve (V12) and / or a first compressor (C12) between the first heat exchanger (11) and the second heat exchanger (12) to maintain a fixed operational setpoint of the second heat exchanger (12), in particular at 35°C.

9. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the cooling mode (I), the electronic control unit (ECU) blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger (11) and the second circuit (2), in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, - outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the second circuit (2), in particular via the feedback circuit (4), via and / or by controlling a second valve (V2) and - inflowing medium from the second circuit (2), in particular via the feedback circuit (4), to the first heat exchanger (11) via and / or by controlling a fourth valve (V4).

10. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the cooling mode (I), the electronic control unit (ECU) blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the third heat exchanger (13) and the third circuit (3), in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, - outflowing medium from the third heat exchanger (13) to the third circuit (3), in particular by controlling a second heat pump valve (V13) and / or a second compressor (13) and / or a third pump (P3) and / or a sixth valve (V6), and - inflowing medium from the third circuit (3) to the third heat exchanger (13), in particular by controlling the second heat pump valve (V13) and / or the second compressor (13) and / or a third pump (P3) and / or a sixth valve (V6).

11. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the heating mode (II), the electronic control unit (ECU) blocks any inflowing medium to the second heat exchanger (12) from the second circuit (2) and / or any outflowing medium from the second heat exchanger (12) to the second circuit (2), if an ambient temperature, which in particular is measured by an ambient temperature sensor, is equal to or higher than a switch-off-temperature, in particular 20°C, wherein in particular blocking is achieved by controlling, in particular closing, a fifth valve (V5), a seventh valve (V7), a tenth valve (V10), an eleventh valve (V11) and / or deactivating a second pump (P2) by the electronic control unit (ECU).

12. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the heating mode (II), the electronic control unit (ECU) blocks any inflowing and / or outflowing medium between the first heat exchanger (11) and the first circuit (1), in particular by controlling, in particular blocking, - outflowing medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the first circuit (1), in particular via and / or by controlling the first valve (V1), and - inflowing medium from the first circuit (1) to the first heat exchanger (11), in particular via and / or by controlling the third valve (V3).

13. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the heating mode (II), the electronic control unit (ECU) controls, in particular heat transferred to, the heat pump (10), in particular the first heat exchanger (11), by controlling a fifth valve (V5), a seventh valve (V7), an eighth valve (V8) and / or a ninth valve (V9) to connect a second heat source (S2) with the first heat exchanger (11), and / or in particular the second buffer vessel (B2) and / or wherein in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode (III), the electronic control unit (ECU) controls the at least one valve (V1, V2), in particular the second valve (V2) and the fourth valve (V4), and preferably the first valve (V1) and / or third valve (V3), to provide both cooling and heating simultaneously, wherein a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the first circuit (1) and a flow of medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the feedback circuit (4) are constant.

14. Cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the simultaneous cooling and heating mode (III), the electronic control unit (ECU) controls the at least one valve (V1, V2), in particular the second valve (V2) and the fourth valve (V4), in particular based on the cooling demand and / or heating demand of the users, wherein - when the cooling demand increases, the first valve (V1) is controlled such that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the first circuit (1) increases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably decrease, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources (S1, S2), in particular by controlling the second valve (V2), fourth valve (V4), fifth valve (V5), seventh valve (V7), eighth valve (V8) and / or ninth valve (V9), or - when the cooling demand decreases, the first valve (V1) is controlled such that the flow of medium from the first heat exchanger (11) to the first circuit (1) decreases, and in particular simultaneously control, preferably increase, a heat extraction from the at least two different external heat sources (S1, S2), in particular by controlling the second valve (V2), fourth valve (V4), fifth valve (V5), seventh valve (V7), eighth valve (V8) and / or ninth valve (V9).

15. Method for controlling (120) a cooling and heating system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: - receiving (110) by an electronic control unit (ECU) of the cooling and heating system (100), a heating demand and a cooling demand of external users (201, 202), - controlling (120) by the electronic control unit (ECU) at least one valve (V1, V2) of the cooling and heating system (100) based on the heating demand and cooling demand.

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