Heat pump system and its management process

Abstract

TITLE: Heat pump system and management method. Heat pump system (100), in particular a compression heat pump system comprising a hermetically sealed heat pump module (300) for receiving a refrigerant circuit and a detection system (500) for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300), the system characterized in that it comprises: - a verification system (600) for checking the operation of the detection system (500), the verification system (600) simulating a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300). Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Heat pump system and its management method FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat pump system and a method for managing it. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] According to the prior art, heat pump systems are known, in particular compression heat pump systems comprising a heat pump module for recovering heat and a refrigerant circuit as well as a detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak in the heat pump module.

[0003] DESCRIPTION AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The invention relates to a heat pump system, in particular a compression heat pump system comprising a hermetically sealed heat pump module for receiving a refrigerant circuit and a detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module, this system being characterized in that it comprises a verification system for controlling the operation of the detection system which simulates the refrigerant leak from the heat pump module.

[0005] In other words, the invention relates to a heat pump system, particularly a compression heat pump system, comprising a hermetically sealed heat pump module with a heat exchanger, a refrigerant circuit, and a detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module. The system includes a verification or control system for monitoring the detection system and its operation, as well as the proper functioning of the detection system. The verification system allows for the simulation of a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module, particularly in an automatic manner. This simulation increases the safety of the heat pump system. The term "operability" of the detection system refers, in particular, to its ability to function, that is, to detect the refrigerant and the control fluid.

[0006] The term "heat pump" refers in particular to a circulation system for extracting heat from a heat source at a low temperature and supplying the heat to a heat exchanger at a higher temperature. The term "compression heat pump system" refers to such a heat pump system. heat to refrigerant fluid passing through a circuit and which will be alternately compressed and expanded in order to raise and lower the operating temperatures of the refrigerant fluid.

[0007] The heat pump system is, in particular, a system installed in a room (installation room) of a building. The heat pump system includes, in particular, a control unit for regulating the functions and components of the heat pump system. The "control" includes, in particular, control and / or monitoring characteristics. The term "functions of the heat pump system" refers, in particular, to the supply of useful power (heating power, cooling power). The term "components of the heat pump system" refers, in particular, to the components of the heat pump module and / or the heat source module (in particular, a fan or a well pump) and / or a temperature reduction module (in particular, a refrigerant circulation pump). The term "refrigerant" refers, in particular, to a flammable or harmful refrigerant.For example, a refrigerant such as propane, propylene, ammonia; the term "heat pump module" refers in particular to a part of the heat pump system that receives the refrigerant and circulates it through a circuit.

[0008] The heat pump module includes, in particular, the following components: an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant, a compressor for compressing the refrigerant, a condenser for liquefying the refrigerant, an expansion device for reducing the pressure of the refrigerant, and tubular lines for distributing the refrigerant between the components listed above. If the heat source and / or heat sink is an air stream, this air stream will preferably be transferred by an air transfer system, in particular a fan, to the evaporator and / or condenser. The fact that the heat pump module is "hermetically sealed" means that the components mentioned above are thus hermetically sealed and the refrigerant does not escape into the environment of the heat pump module.In particular, the heat pump module is hermetically sealed from the room in which the heat pump is installed.

[0009] The required seal may be slightly defective, which is why the seal of the heat pump module in such a system must be monitored. A leak may occur at the site of an accidental leak. The expression "detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak" refers to the seal of the system monitoring the heat pump module. The detection system may be part of a control unit for the heat pump system. In particular, the detection system detects a characteristic of a refrigerant leak. The expression "characteristic of a heat pump leak" refers to the existence of a component of the refrigerant fluid and / or a concentration of the refrigerant fluid diluted in the air.

[0010] The term "verification system" refers to a system for detecting a deterioration in the operation of the detection system. The term "operation of the detection system" refers to the detection of a leak property, the detection of a refrigerant property, the measurement or recording of a property, including the refrigerant concentration, the emission of a signal representing the detection, measurement, or recording, or the reliability or sensitivity of the detector. The fact that the verification system is designed to "simulate a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module" refers, in particular, to an installation for verifying the operational suitability of the detection system.

[0011] If the detection system detects the leak simulated by the verification system, the detection system is not malfunctioning and is able to detect a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module. The term "simulate" means to copy or "act as." The term "simulated leak" refers to a control leak. A control leak is not a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module, but a controlled release of a control fluid for the purpose of verifying the detection system. The control fluid acts on the detection system in the same or comparable way as the refrigerant. The control leak is an operation or state that acts on the detection system like an actual refrigerant leak from the heat pump module.

[0012] According to an advantageous development, the detection system includes a detection means for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module and / or a simulated refrigerant leak. The detection means may be a sensor, in particular, a gas sensor for detecting the refrigerant. This makes it possible to detect a refrigerant leak. Detecting a refrigerant leak or a control fluid leak here means not only detecting a pure, undiluted refrigerant or a control fluid, but also, for example, detecting a refrigerant diluted in air or a control fluid diluted in air. The heat pump module, along with at least a substantial part of its components, is housed in a module housing. Advantageously, the detection means or detector is installed in this module housing.

[0013] The detection means or detector is installed where the refrigerant from a leak or the control fluid, released earlier, is likely to be found. If the refrigerant and / or control fluid are heavier than the air exiting the heat pump module, in the module housing where the leak would occur, the detection means or detector is preferably installed in the lower part of the module housing. If the refrigerant or control fluid are lighter than the air from the The module housing, where a leak is likely to occur, is then fitted with a detection device or detector, preferably in the upper part of the module housing. Alternatively, or in addition, the detection device can be installed, for example, near a potential leak in the heat pump module. The detection device is typically at least one non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor for molecular property spectroscopy.

[0014] Advantageously, the verification system (also called the control system) includes at least one control fluid, in particular a control gas; this system is designed to release the control fluid. This allows for simple verification of the detection system. The simulated leak or control leak is achieved, in particular, by releasing the control fluid. The control fluid is preferably released near the detection system and, most preferably, within the module housing. The control fluid may be, in particular, a gaseous or liquid substance. The control fluid may be an undiluted refrigerant, advantageously the same refrigerant as that of the heat pump module.

[0015] Alternatively, the control fluid may advantageously be a diluted refrigerant, the same refrigerant as that of the heat pump module, but in a diluted state, for example, with air or nitrogen. Such a diluted refrigerant has the advantage of being non-flammable or less hazardous. Furthermore, the control fluid may be a replacement fluid that has a comparable effect on the detection system as the refrigerant leak and / or the refrigerant contained in the heat pump module (in particular if the detection means reacts similarly to different substances). Such a replacement fluid may have the advantage of being non-flammable and / or harmless.

[0016] According to a preferred development, the control system includes at least one control fluid reservoir for storing the control fluid. Thus, the heat pump system, in particular the verification system, is particularly simple. The control fluid reservoir is preferably located near the detection system, and most preferably within the module housing.

[0017] Such a control fluid reservoir can also be easily replaced for operation, for example, when the control fluid is depleted. The volume of the control fluid reservoir is, for example, on the order of 0.05 liters to 1.0 liter. The control fluid in the reservoir can be, in particular, in a gaseous, liquid, or solid state. The control fluid in the control fluid reservoir can, in particular, be under pressure. The control fluid reservoir has at least one orifice, in particular, that opens in a controlled manner and / or closes for filling and / or emptying the control fluid. The control fluid can vaporize or turn into a gas upon exiting the control fluid reservoir.

[0018] According to another advantageous development, the control system includes a dosing device for releasing the control fluid in a controlled manner. The dosing device releases a predetermined quantity of control fluid. This corresponds to economical use of the control fluid. The dosing device is located in the control fluid reservoir. For example, the dosing device is a valve. Preferably, the dosing device is a switching valve that can be switched to the open and / or closed position. Alternatively, it is a regulating valve that allows different degrees of opening to be set. The dosing device may have a defined opening, for example, a restrictor or a nozzle. The dosing device allows the opening of the control fluid reservoir to be opened or closed in a controlled manner and / or the flow of control fluid through the opening to be controlled.The term "controlled release of control fluid" here refers to the release of a predefined quantity of control fluid. For example, the dosing device opens, specifically to release control fluid in a controlled manner for a predefined dosing duration (this duration is also called the second duration). This duration is within a range of 1 to 30 seconds. The "predefined quantity of control fluid" is chosen to ensure the activation of the detection means (detector).

[0019] Preferably, the verification system includes a supply device for providing the control fluid to the detection system via a detection means (sensor) in a controlled manner. The supply device includes at least one pipe and / or outlet and / or nozzle. The outlet of the supply device allows the control fluid to be released in the immediate vicinity of the detection means. This ensures the application of the control fluid to the detection means. Alternatively, the outlet is located near the most probable leak point. The term "most probable leak point" here refers to a location on the heat pump module where a refrigerant leak is known or assumed to occur most frequently or earliest.This ensures verification to detect whether both the detection method (sensor) and the accessibility of the detection method are ensured for the "real" refrigerant leak.

[0020] Advantageously, the verification system includes a self-contained control unit for regulating and / or controlling the verification system. This allows for safe, self-monitored operation of the detection system and / or the verification system. The control unit is used, in particular, for the operation of the verification system. The control unit is used to release the control fluid. The control unit is used for the operation of the dosing device and / or for the controlled release of the control fluid. The control unit is fault-protected and guaranteed to be safe to operate. The main functions The control system components can be redundant. For example, the control system may be autonomous and / or independent of the operation of the heat pump system and / or the detection system. Alternatively, the control system may be part of a control unit for the heat pump system. The control system may also have its own power supply, separate from that of the heat pump system. The control system for the verification system is designed to manage a flushing or air renewal system for the heat pump system and / or the heat pump module, ensuring the reliable removal of any escaping refrigerant.Alternatively, the heat pump system control unit includes a flushing system or a ventilation system for the heat pump system and / or the heat pump module, to ensure the removal of the emitted refrigerant.

[0021] The invention also relates to a method for managing a heat pump system having a heat pump module hermetically sealed for the refrigerant circuit and a detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module.

[0022] The method has the advantage of having at least one process step to verify the detection system and / or its operation or suitability for operation. This is achieved by simulating, with a verification system, a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module. Depending on the detection system's response to the simulated refrigerant leak, the heat pump system is switched to normal operating mode or backup operating mode. This ensures the operation of the heat pump system, particularly the detection system. The term "normal operating mode" here refers to operation corresponding to the intended purpose of the heat pump system. The term "normal mode" specifically refers to heating and / or cooling mode for heating and / or cooling a building and / or space and / or water.

[0023] The term "emergency operating mode" refers, in particular, to operation that reduces or eliminates any risk of the heat pump system to persons and / or installations. For example, a refrigerant leak can represent such a risk. In particular, a faulty detection system for detecting a refrigerant leak can constitute such a risk. The "emergency operating mode" refers, in particular, to the shutdown of the heat pump module; the shutdown of the compressor; the evacuation of the refrigerant from the heat pump module or the module housing into a receiving device or into an area outside the building, for example, into the external environment; the shutdown of electrical components; and / or the activation of at least one ventilation system. Tilation, in particular, of a fan or a suction device.

[0024] In particular, the detection system is checked with a controlled-released test fluid to determine its suitability for operation.

[0025] In particular, at least one subsequent step of the process allows verification of the operation of the detection system during the ongoing operation of the heat pump system. Alternatively, at least this step of the process also allows verification of the operation of the detection system during the shutdown of the heat pump system.

[0026] An advantageous process development includes the following steps to verify the operation of the detection system, consisting of:

[0027] A) start a clock to determine the sequence of a first predefined duration,

[0028] B) when the first predefined duration is reached or after it has been reached: activate a dosing device to release, in a controlled manner, control fluid and supply the dosed control fluid to the detection system,

[0029] C) generate a detection signal corresponding to a detection of control fluid by the detection means,

[0030] D) capture and / or process the detection signal using the detection system,

[0031] E) compare the captured detection signal to a predefined detection signal threshold,

[0032] F) in the event of equality or exceedance of the detection signal threshold by the signal of Detection detected: operate the heat pump system in normal mode and proceed to process step A.

[0033] G) in case of exceeding the detection signal threshold downwards by the captured detection signal: operate the heat pump system in backup mode.

[0034] The sequence of the different steps of the process can be oriented according to the order presented above. Alternatively, this sequence of steps of the process can also differ from this order.

[0035] A clock is started at a start time. This start time can be defined as the moment the heat pump system is installed, in particular the moment the heat pump module is filled with refrigerant, or the moment of quality control during assembly. Alternatively, the start time can also be the moment the heat pump system is first started, from the moment the heat pump module is first started.

[0036] The "first predefined period" refers to a period of approximately 1 to 6 months. This first period includes, in particular, a cycle of regular checks or controls of the detection system and / or the operation or proper functioning of the detection system.

[0037] The expression "activate a dosing device" corresponds to the release of the control fluid, for example, by switching, by opening or by making the connection or ejection.

[0038] The expression "control the release of the control fluid" refers to a release predefined in time or volume, in particular, by a monitored release. The expression "detection signal" refers to a signal or response from the detection system, in particular from the detection means (sensor), in reaction to the release of the control fluid or refrigerant that has escaped and that acts on the detection system. The detection signal represents the released control fluid or leaking refrigerant, for example, in the form of a quantitative or qualitative assessment, in the form of a detection measurement value. If the detection signal represents the concentration of the control fluid or refrigerant, the detection measurement value will then be a concentration measurement value.

[0039] The expression "detection signal threshold" refers, in particular, to a threshold used to verify whether—under normal operating conditions—a detection signal indicates a refrigerant leak, that is, whether, "in control mode," a detection signal signifies that the detection system is functioning correctly. This verification or control is performed by comparison. If the detection system is functioning correctly and the control system is functioning correctly, then the detection system, in control mode, provides a detection signal that exceeds or is equal to the detection signal threshold. In other words, if the detection system provides, in control mode, a detection signal equal to or exceeding the detection signal threshold, it can be concluded that both the detection system and the control system are functioning correctly, that is, they are operating reliably.For the safe operation of the heat pump system, it is important to be able to definitively rule out any fault in the detection system. In this case, the heat pump system can continue to operate normally. This also constitutes the starting point for restarting the timer and determining the sequence of the first predefined duration.

[0040] Conversely, if, in control mode, the detection system provides a detection signal that is below the detection signal threshold, it can be concluded that the detection system and / or the control system are defective, i.e., they are malfunctioning. This defect may be located in the detection system domain and / or in the control system domain. A defect in the detection system domain corresponds, for example, to a dirty, poisoned, aged, and / or defective detection means (sensor); such a defective detection system might not be able to detect a possible refrigerant leak or might not detect it reliably. For the safe operation of the pump system In a heat pump system, it is important to detect any faults in the detection system. A fault in the control system could be, for example, an empty control fluid reservoir, a defective dosing device, or a faulty power supply device—because such a faulty control system might fail to detect a faulty detection system or not guarantee such detection. For the safe operation of the heat pump system, it is crucial to detect any faults in the control system. If a potential refrigerant leak is detected due to a fault in the detection and / or control system, and this leak cannot be reliably detected, the heat pump system switches to backup operating mode.

[0041] The expression "control mode" here refers to a detail of the operation of the heat pump system during which the suitability of the detection system is checked, a period during which the detection system receives refrigerant.

[0042] According to a preferred development of the process, step B-activating a dosing device to control the release of the control fluid as well as the supply of dosed control fluid to the detection system comprises the following partial substeps:

[0043] Bl) when or after reaching the first predefined time: open a dosing device, in particular to control, release control fluid for a second predefined time and supply the dosed control fluid to the detection system,

[0044] B2) when or after reaching the second predefined duration: close the dosing device.

[0045] Activating the dosing device thus consists of opening and closing the dosing device. The second duration begins with the opening and ends with the closing of the dosing device. An "opening for a second predefined duration" followed by a subsequent closing signifies the control of the release of a predefined quantity of control fluid.

[0046] Another advantageous development of the method is characterized by the following steps for controlling the operation of the detection system, consisting of:

[0047] H) Starting a clock to determine the sequence of a first predefined duration,

[0048] I) when the first predefined duration is reached or has been reached: emit an activation signal, this activation signal serving to activate the verification system to control the release of control fluid and supply the metered control fluid to the detection system,

[0049] J) record a response signal from the detection system, in particular from the unit operating in the heat pump system control unit,

[0050] interpret the response signal, in particular as the result of a detection of the control fluid and / or a comparison of the detection signal entered to a predefined detection signal threshold;

[0051] K) in the event of a positive response signal representing in particular a detected control signal and / or the equality or exceeding of the detection signal threshold by the captured detection signal:

[0052] - operate the heat pump system in normal mode and continue by process step H,

[0053] L) In the event of a negative response signal which represents in particular the non-detection of the control fluid and / or the downward exceedance of the detection signal threshold by the captured detection signal: operate the heat pump system in backup mode.

[0054] The term "activation signal" refers to a signal emitted by the control unit of the heat pump system and / or the control system's control installation and transmitted via a second signal line. The activation signal may be emitted by the control unit and serves to activate the control system.

[0055] Alternatively or in addition, an activation signal can be sent to the control unit, which releases the control fluid. In particular, the activation signal opens and controls the dosing device. The term "response signal" refers specifically to a signal sent by the control unit as a response to the system's detection of the control fluid application by means of a sensor. The term "detection" in process step (J) corresponds to a control fluid detection step. The term "detection signal received" in process step (J) corresponds to a null signal or the absence of a signal, for example, due to a fault in the first signal line. Brief description of the drawings

[0056] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to an example of a heat pump system and its operating method shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] [Fig. 1] Diagram of a heat pump system with a detection system and a control system,

[0058] [Fig.2] step in the process of managing a heat pump system.

[0059] DESCRIPTION OF A MODE OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0060] Figure 1 schematically shows a heat pump system 11 not shown to scale; it comprises a detection system 500 and a verification system 600. The embodiment is an R / O heat pump system, for The system recovers heat from the outside air 1 and uses this heat to heat a room in a building and / or water. Alternatively or in addition, the heat pump system 100 could also be used to cool a room in a building. The heat pump system 100 comprises a heat source module 200, a heat pump module 300, and a heat storage module 400. The heat pump system 100 also includes a control unit 102.

[0061] The heat pump module 200 includes an evaporator 202 for exchanging heat between the air stream 2 and the refrigerant stream 3, as well as an air fan 204 for driving the air stream 2 and an air duct 206 for guiding the air stream 2 and optionally a connection to air ducts 20. The air stream 2 is drawn in by the fan 204 from the outside air 1 of the environment to pass through the air duct 206 and the evaporator 202 and be discharged back into the environment.

[0062] The heat recovery module 400 includes a condenser 402 for transferring heat between the refrigerant line 3 and the heat transfer fluid line 4, a circulation pump 404 for circulating the heat transfer fluid line 4, and fluid lines 40 for the heat transfer fluid line 4 and for connecting to a central heating circuit of a building (this circuit is not shown). The heat transfer fluid line 4 is drawn by the circulation pump 404 from the heating circuit; it passes through the lines 40 and the condenser 402 to return to the heating circuit.

[0063] The heat pump module 300 comprises a compressor 302, a condenser 402, a sensing or expansion unit 304, an evaporator 202, and refrigerant lines 306 for the heat transfer fluid, connecting the aforementioned components. The components 202, 302, 304, 306, and 402 of the heat pump module 300 receive a heat transfer fluid flowing through them. In the case of a simple circuit (not shown), the refrigerant line 3 is drawn in by the compressor 302, which compresses it; the refrigerant then flows through the line 306 to the condenser 402, where it condenses (liquefies); and finally, the heat transfer fluid flows through the refrigerant line 306 to the expansion unit 304, where it expands. Then it passes through the refrigerant line 306 to reach the evaporator 202 in which it is evaporated; then finally it passes through the refrigerant line 306 back to the compressor 302.The heat pump module 300 is housed in a module housing 308; the evaporator 202 is advantageously only partially housed in the module housing 308. In particular, the refrigerant line connections 306 for the evaporator 202 are provided in the module housing 308.

[0064] The detection system 500 includes at least one detection means 502 that detects the heat transfer fluid exiting the heat pump module 300. This is, in Part 502 is a gas sensor that detects the heat transfer fluid. In this detection process, the detector 502 generates a detection signal. A first signal line 504 transmits the detection signal from the detector 502 to an operating unit 506 of the detection system 500. Alternatively, the signal transmission between the detector 502 and the operating unit 506 can be wireless. The operating unit 506 processes the detection signal and, by comparing it with a predefined detection signal threshold, detects a refrigerant leak in the heat pump module 300. The operating unit 506 can be integrated into the control unit 102 of the heat pump system 100.

[0065] If the detection system 500 detects a refrigerant leak, the control unit 102 reacts by taking appropriate safety measures and / or emits a warning signal to neutralize the risk of presenting the refrigerant leak.

[0066] The refrigerant escaping from the heat pump module 300 into the module housing 308 can be discharged, in particular, to the outside via the overflow port 310 of the module housing. Advantageously, the escaping refrigerant is discharged with the air stream 2 exiting through the air duct 206 and opening to the outside. For example, the overflow port 310 is located between the module housing 308 and the air duct 206 so that the exiting refrigerant is drawn by the air fan 204 into the air duct 206.

[0067] Alternatively or in addition, the escaping refrigerant can be extracted using a suction device 312 to remove it from the module housing 308 and discharge it to the outside. Advantageously, such a suction device 312 comprises a pump whose suction side is connected to the inside of the module housing 308 and whose discharge side opens to the outside, into the air duct 206, or into a pipe connected to the outside. The suction device is activated, in particular, when the detection system 500 detects a refrigerant leak.

[0068] 36 The detector 502 of the detection system 500 is advantageously installed at proximity of the heat pump module 300 in the module housing 308.

[0069] The verification system 600 verifies the proper functioning of the detection system 500. The verification system (or control system) 600 includes a control fluid reservoir 602 for storing the control fluid, in particular a control gas, a dosing device 604, a supply device 606, and a control unit 608. By releasing control fluid from the reservoir 602 via the dosing device 604, a refrigerant leak is simulated. The control fluid is specifically chosen so that it can be detected by the detector 502. At least the supply device 606 for providing the control fluid or the detector 502 is located in the module housing 308, specifically in close proximity to the detector 502. so that the detector 502 will be reliably exposed to the control fluid. In the embodiment shown, the control fluid reservoir 602, the dosing device 604, and / or the control unit 608 are housed in the module housing 308. The release and supply of the control fluid allows verification of the proper functioning of the entire detection system 500.

[0070] When the detection system 500 is operating, the detector 502, exposed to the released control fluid, generates a detection signal and transmits it via the first signal line 504 to the operating unit 506. The operating unit 506 processes the detection signal and determines that the detection system 500 is functioning correctly, notably by comparing the detection signal with a predefined detection signal threshold. This correct operation is indicated by a positive response signal to the control unit 102 of the heat pump system 100. The verification of the detection system 500 is thus successful. The heat pump system 100 then continues to operate in normal mode.

[0071] If the detection system 500 is defective, the control unit 102 of the heat pump system 100 receives a negative response signal from the operating unit 506.

[0072] The absence of a response signal can also constitute a negative response signal. The causes of a negative response signal may be the following:

[0073] a) the detector 502 does not generate a detection signal (this may be due to a defective detector 502, but also to an empty control fluid reservoir 602, a defective dosing device 604, or a defective feeding device 606) and / or

[0074] b) the first signal line 504, in particular defective, does not transmit the detection signal to the operating unit 506 and / or,

[0075] c) the operating unit 506, in particular defective, does not utilize the detection signal and / or does not perform a comparison of the detection signal with a predefined detection signal threshold and / or

[0076] d) the comparison indicates that the captured detection signal remains below the detection threshold and / or,

[0077] e) the operating unit 506, in particular defective, cannot send any response signal to the control unit 102.

[0078] Through a negative response signal, the control unit 102 of the heat pump system 100 determines that the detection system 500 is not functioning correctly. The check of the detection system 500, which yields a negative result, is thus terminated. The heat pump system 100 then continues to operate in backup mode.

[0079] At the end of a first predefined period which corresponds in particular to a period From one to six months, the heat pump system 100 enters control mode, and the steps of the process for controlling or verifying the operation of the detection system 500 are carried out. Determining the end of the first period is one step in the process. This step continues with the activation of the dosing device 604, specifically its opening to release control fluid and apply it to the detection system 500, particularly to the detector 502. The dosing device 604 is thus opened, for example, for a second predefined duration, such as a duration between one and 30 seconds; this results in the controlled release of control fluid. For example, after the second duration, the dosing device 604 is closed, thus completing the release of control fluid. The detection device 502 generates a detection signal corresponding to the detection of the released control fluid.This detection signal is transmitted via a first signal line 504 to the operating unit 506. The detection signal is captured by the operating unit 506 and / or processed and / or compared to a predefined detection signal threshold.

[0080] If the comparison shows that the input detection signal is equal to or greater than the detection signal threshold, the heat pump system 100 continues to operate in normal mode, and the clock used to determine the initial duration is reset and restarted. Conversely, if the comparison shows that the input detection signal is less than the detection signal threshold, the heat pump system 100 will continue to operate in backup mode.

[0081] Figure 2 schematically shows the following steps in a process for managing a heat pump system 100, in particular the process steps for verifying (or checking) the operation of the detection system 500 of the heat pump system 100. The presentation is chronological. Alternatively, the presentation may also differ from a chronological one. Thus, for example, step B2 may be carried out after one of the steps CG:

[0082] A) start the clock to determine the first predefined duration (the clock may in particular be part of the control unit 102 or the control installation 608,

[0083] B1) at the end of the first predefined duration: opening of a dosing device 604 (by an activation signal transmitted via a second signal line 508) in particular to control, release control fluid for a second predefined duration and supply the metered control fluid to the detection system 500,

[0084] B2) at the end or after the second duration: close the dosing device 604.

[0085] C) generate a detection signal corresponding to the detection of the control fluid by detector 502,

[0086] D) capture and / or utilize the detection signal using the detection system 500, in particular the operating unit 506,

[0087] E) compare the captured detection signal to a predefined detection signal threshold,

[0088] F) in the event of equality or exceedance of the detection signal threshold by the signal of Detection detected: operate the heat pump system 100 in normal mode and proceed to process step A.

[0089] G) in case of exceeding the detection signal threshold downwards by the detected signal: operate the heat pump system 100 in backup mode.

[0090] The backup mode G can in particular continue with a process step GA repairing the detection signal 500 and / or the verification signal 600, operating the heat pump system 100 in normal mode and continuing with process step (A),

[0091] The repairs were carried out, in particular, by technically competent service personnel. After the repairs were completed, the 500 detection system and the 600 verification system were again technically capable of functioning.

[0092] NOMENCLATURE OF MAIN ELEMENTS

[0093] 1 Outside air

[0094] 2 Air vein

[0095] 3 Refrigerant fluid vein

[0096] 4 Heat transfer fluid vein

[0097] 20 Air duct

[0098] 40 Fluid conduit

[0099] 100 Heat pump system

[0100] 102 Control Unit

[0101] 200 Heat source module

[0102] 202 Evaporator

[0103] 204 Fan

[0104] 206 Air duct

[0105] 302 Compressor

[0106] 304 Expansion member

[0107] 306 Refrigerant line

[0108] 308 Module housing

[0109] 312 Vacuum cleaner device

[0110] 400 Heat recovery module [YES] 402 Condenser

[0112] 404 Circulation Pump

[0113] 500 Detection System

[0114] 502 Detector / detection means

[0115] 504 First line of signal

[0116] 506 Operating Unit

[0117]

[0118]

[0119]

[0120]

[0121] 600 Verification system 602 Control fluid reservoir 604 Dosing device 606 Feeding device 608 Control unit

Claims

Demands

1. Heat pump system (100), in particular a compression heat pump system comprising a hermetically sealed heat pump module (300) for receiving a refrigerant circuit and a detection system (500) for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300), system characterized in that it comprises: - a verification system (600) for checking the operation of the detection system (500), the verification system (600) simulating the refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300).

2. Heat pump system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection system (500) comprises at least one detection means (502) for detecting refrigerant leakage from the heat pump module (300) and / or simulated refrigerant leakage, the detection means (502) comprising in particular at least one sensor, in particular a gas sensor for detecting refrigerant.

3. Heat pump system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the verification system (600) comprises at least one control fluid, in particular a control gas, and is designed to release the control fluid.

4. Heat pump system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the verification system (600) includes at least one control fluid reservoir (602) for storing the control fluid.

5. Heat pump system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the verification system (600) has a dosing device (604), in particular for releasing, in a controlled manner, control fluid.

6. Heat pump system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the verification system (600) has a power supply device (606), in particular to supply, in a controlled manner, the control fluid to the detection system (500).

7. Heat pump system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the verification system (600) includes a control installation (608), in particular autonomous for regulating and / or controlling the verification system (600).

8. Method of managing a heat pump system (100) comprising a hermetically sealed heat pump module (300) for a refrigerant circuit and a detection system (500) for detecting a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300), method characterized in that it comprises at least one step for verifying the operation of the detection system (500), and using a verification system (600), simulating a refrigerant leak from the heat pump module (300), and depending on the reaction of the detection system (500) to the simulated refrigerant leak, switching the heat pump system (100) to normal operating mode or to backup operating mode.

9. A method according to claim 8, characterized by the following steps for verifying the operation of the detection system (500): A) starting a clock to determine the elapsed time of a first predefined period; B) when the first predefined period is reached or after it has been reached: activating a dosing device (604) to release, in a controlled manner, control fluid and supply the dosed control fluid to the detection system (500); C) generating a detection signal corresponding to the detection of control fluid by the detection means (502); D) capturing and / or processing the detection signal using the detection system (500); E) comparing the captured detection signal to a predefined detection signal threshold; F) if the captured detection signal is equal to or exceeds the detection signal threshold: operating the pump system heat (100) in normal mode and continue with process step A, G) if the detection signal threshold is exceeded downwards by the detection signal entered: operate the heat pump system (100) in backup mode.

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein process step B comprises the following partial steps: B1) when the first predefined time is reached or has been reached: open a dosing device (604), in particular to control, release control fluid for a second predefined time and supply the dosed control fluid to the detection system (500), B2) when the second predefined time is reached or has been reached: close the dosing device (604).

11. Method according to claim 8, characterized by the steps of verifying the operation of the detection system (500) consisting of: H) Starting a clock to determine the progress of a first predefined duration, I) when the first predefined duration is reached or after it has been reached: emitting an activation signal, this activation signal serving to activate the verification system (600) to control the release of control fluid and supply the metered control fluid to the detection system (500);J) record a response signal from the detection system (500), in particular from the operating unit (506) in the control unit (102) of the heat pump system (100), interpret the response signal, in particular as the result of a detection of the control fluid and / or a comparison of an input detection signal to a predefined detection signal threshold, K) in the event of a positive response signal representing in particular a detected control signal and / or the equality or exceeding of the detection signal threshold by the input detection signal: - operate the heat pump system (100) in normal mode and proceed with process step H, L) In the event of a negative response signal representing in particular an undetected control fluid and / or an exceeding of the detection signal threshold by the input detection signal: operate; the heat pump system (100) in backup mode.

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