System for heating and cooling at least one space and providing household hot water and method for operating system

Abstract

To provide an energy efficient system that allows providing household hot water, heating and cooling at least one space.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a system that performs heating and cooling and provides household hot water, and to a method for operation. The system includes: a first thermal energy storage device for providing household hot water; at least one emitter for performing heating and cooling; a reconfigurable fluid network for transferring a first heat transfer fluid; a heat exchanger for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid; and a controller. The reconfigurable fluid network includes a heat pump unit, at least one valve, and pipes, and the heat pump unit includes a compressor and at least one expansion valve. The reconfigurable fluid network is configurable by the controller in a plurality of specific configurations, and the controller is configured such that it can operate the system in a plurality of specific modes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for heating and cooling at least one space and for providing domestic hot water. Additionally, the invention relates to a method for operating the system. [Background technology]

[0002] Water-to-water heat pumps are increasingly being installed in apartment buildings. They are installed in individual rooms to deliver hot water and space heating and can be connected to heat networks, such as fifth-generation ambient temperature district heating networks, that are deployed throughout the building. While typical air-to-water heat pumps have a heat pump refrigerant circuit in the outdoor unit and a domestic hot water (DHW) thermal energy storage (TES) in the indoor unit, these water-to-water heat pump systems combine the heat pump refrigerant circuit and TES in the indoor unit. In water-to-water heat pump systems, the heat pump is often located at the bottom of the indoor unit, and the cylinder at the top is used to provide domestic hot water (DHW).

[0003] Current water-to-water heat pump systems have many advantages over more established air-to-water systems, such as a compact design for apartment buildings, a smaller refrigerant charge, and integration with district heating networks. However, these water-to-water heat pump systems are not suitable for locations where a water heat source, such as a district heating network, is not available, especially for single-family homes where district heating is not available. Furthermore, these water-to-water heat pump systems cannot be installed with additional heat sources that are free, such as solar energy or air sources.

[0004] Both water-to-water and air-to-water heat pumps have space cooling capabilities, but they are very basic and do not exceed conventional air-to-air air conditioning (AC). As global temperatures rise and conventional heating markets, not only in Central and Northern Europe but also in Asia and the Americas, require cooling, AC will become increasingly important in the future. Here, heat pumps have an advantage over gas boiler-AC systems combined due to their potentially higher degree of energy integration. Current heat pump systems have not yet fully utilized their potential. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an energy efficient system for providing domestic hot water, heating at least one space, and cooling said at least one space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This object is achieved with respect to a system for heating and cooling at least one space and for providing domestic hot water by the features of claim 1 and with respect to a method for operating such a system by the features of claim 15. The dependent claims represent advantageous further developments.

[0007] According to the present invention, there is provided a system for heating and cooling at least one space and providing domestic hot water, comprising: a first thermal energy storage device for providing domestic hot water; at least one emitter (heat radiator) provided in at least one space for heating or cooling the at least one space; a reconfigurable fluid network for transporting a first heat transfer fluid (e.g., a water-based heat transfer fluid or water), the reconfigurable fluid network including a heat pump unit, at least one valve, and piping, the heat pump unit including a compressor and at least one expansion valve, the reconfigurable fluid network being configurable by a controller into a plurality of configurations, the configurations including at least one first configuration in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit to a first thermal energy storage device but not to at least one emitter (heat radiator), at least one second configuration in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit to the at least one emitter (heat radiator) but not to the first thermal energy storage device, and a third configuration in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit to the at least one emitter (heat radiator) and from the heat pump unit to the first thermal energy storage device; a heat exchanger for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid (e.g., air) external to the reconfigurable fluid network, the heat exchanger being external to the heat pump unit; the controller configured to operate the system in a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including at least one (first) mode for charging a first thermal energy storage device in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in (a respective one of) a (at least one) first configuration (and at least one space is not cooled by the system), at least one (second) mode for heating at least one space in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in (a respective one of) a (at least one) second configuration, and a (third) mode for cooling at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device (heat removed from the at least one space is used to charge the first thermal energy storage device) in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in a third configuration; A system is provided that includes:

[0008] The system according to the present invention includes a reconfigurable fluid network including a heat pump unit, a first thermal energy storage device, at least one emitter for heating or cooling at least one space, and a heat exchanger for transferring heat between a first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid, all connected to the reconfigurable fluid network. The reconfigurable fluid network is configurable by a controller into a plurality of configurations capable of transporting the first heat transfer fluid between different components of the system through the piping of the reconfigurable fluid network. To change the configuration of the reconfigurable fluid network, for example, the controller can switch at least one valve (e.g., at least one three-way valve).

[0009] The plurality of configurations includes at least three configurations: In (at least one) first configuration, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport (to and from) the first heat transfer fluid from (the high-pressure side of) the heat pump unit to the first thermal energy storage device but not to the at least one emitter; In (at least one) second configuration, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport (to and from) the first heat transfer fluid from (the high-pressure side of) the heat pump unit to the at least one emitter but not to the first thermal energy storage device; and In a third configuration, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport (to and from) the first heat transfer fluid from (the low-pressure side of) the heat pump unit to the at least one emitter and also to transport (to and from) the first heat transfer fluid from (the high-pressure side of) the heat pump unit to the first thermal energy storage device. To achieve the third configuration, the piping of the reconfigurable fluid network external to the heat pump unit can be connected (or be connected) to both sides of the heat pump unit (i.e., the high-pressure side and low-pressure side of the heat pump unit), for example to heat pump heat exchangers used as evaporators and condensers, or to the internal piping of the heat pump unit on both sides of the heat pump unit.

[0010] A particular reconfigurable fluid network includes a heat pump unit and is connected to a first thermal energy storage device, at least one emitter, and a heat exchanger external to the heat pump unit, resulting in a simplified and flexible system that can operate in multiple specific modes, including at least one mode for charging the first thermal energy storage device (a mode in which the system does not cool at least one space), at least one mode for heating at least one space, and a mode for both cooling at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device (i.e., a mode in which at least one space is cooled and the first thermal energy storage device is charged). In a mode for cooling at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to a third configuration in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transfer the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit to the at least one emitter and from the heat pump unit to the first thermal energy storage device, so that energy obtained by cooling the at least one space can be used to charge the first thermal energy storage device rather than rejecting heat to the ambient air through the air heat exchanger, thereby energy-efficiently charging the first thermal energy storage device without wasting heat obtained by space cooling. Thus, the system according to the present invention is an energy-efficient system for providing domestic hot water, heating at least one space, and cooling the at least one space.

[0011] The multiple modes include at least one (first) mode for charging the first thermal energy storage device (a mode in which the system does not cool at least one space), at least one (second) mode for heating the at least one space, and a (third) mode for both cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device (i.e., a mode in which at least one space is cooled and the first thermal energy storage device is charged). In the at least one (first) mode for charging the first thermal energy storage device, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in (at least one respective) first configuration. In the at least one (second) mode for heating the at least one space, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in (at least one respective) second configuration. In the (third) mode for cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device, the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the third configuration.

[0012] Due to the presence in the system according to the invention of a specific reconfigurable fluid network and a first heat exchanger external to the heat pump unit, a flexible system is obtained that can use a packaged heat pump (i.e. a heat pump with an integrated structure) or a split heat pump and can be used in several modes.

[0013] The system according to the present invention has increased capacity compared to current water-to-water heat pump systems. Additional heat source components (PVT hybrid solar collectors and / or solar thermal collectors, low-temperature phase change material thermal energy storage devices, high-temperature phase change material thermal energy storage devices, air-to-water heat exchangers) can be installed to improve system efficiency and / or reduce operating costs. Furthermore, a second thermal energy storage device can be used, which improves system efficiency and / or reduces operating costs. The second thermal energy storage device can be a heat source for charging the first thermal energy storage device and / or can be used to preheat mains water and / or can be used for space cooling / heating.

[0014] In particular, the piping of the reconfigurable fluid network external to the heat pump unit can be connected to both sides of the heat pump unit (i.e., the high-pressure side and the low-pressure side of the heat pump unit), thereby simplifying the system according to the present invention, thereby reducing the complexity of the system, e.g., requiring fewer valves and pumps to be used in the reconfigurable fluid network.

[0015] The present invention can extend the capabilities and applicability of water-to-water heat pumps from multi-family buildings to single-family homes where rooftop and / or outdoor space PVT hybrid solar collectors are available. Alternatively, the rooftop space of a multi-family building occupied by a second heat pump can be used for PVT hybrid solar collectors and / or solar thermal collectors and air-to-water fan-assisted heat exchangers.

[0016] The heat exchanger for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid may also be referred to as an external heat exchanger.

[0017] A heat pump unit can include a complete heat pump, including a compressor, a first heat pump heat exchanger, at least one expansion valve, and a second heat pump heat exchanger (and optionally a four-way check valve), or the heat pump unit can be a heat pump subunit that includes only a portion of a heat pump (e.g., a compressor, at least one expansion valve (and optionally a four-way check valve), but no heat exchanger). When the heat pump unit is a heat pump subunit that does not include any heat exchangers, a system heat exchanger located external to the heat pump unit can act as the evaporator and condenser of the heat pump, achieving a system similar to a split air conditioning system (i.e., a conventional air-to-air air conditioning system), where an outdoor unit (of a conventional air-to-air air conditioning system) supplies refrigerant to a (e.g., wall-mounted) heating and air conditioning unit, which can act as an evaporator during cooling mode and a condenser during heating mode. Such a heat exchanger of the system located external to the heat pump unit may be, for example, a heat exchanger for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid, at least one emitter, and / or a heat exchanger of the first thermal energy storage device.

[0018] The piping of the reconfigurable fluid network can include piping external to the heat pump unit and piping internal to the heat pump unit. The piping internal to the heat pump unit can also be referred to as the (internal) piping of the heat pump unit. The piping external to the heat pump unit can also be referred to as the distribution circuit.

[0019] A preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the heat pump unit is a water source heat pump unit.

[0020] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the first heat transfer fluid comprises water or comprises a refrigerant different from water, or consists of water or consists of a refrigerant different from water.

[0021] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the heat pump unit is a reversible heat pump unit, which can be achieved for example in that the heat pump unit comprises a four-way (non-return) valve arranged to allow the heat pump cycle to be reversed.

[0022] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises a solar heat transfer device connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, preferably the solar heat transfer device comprising at least one solar thermal collector and / or at least one PVT hybrid solar collector.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, solar thermal energy can also be directly used to provide space heating or domestic hot water without switching on the compressor of the heat pump unit, thereby reducing power consumption. This can be achieved, for example, when the plurality of configurations includes at least one further configuration in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the solar heat transfer device to the first thermal energy storage device or to at least one emitter, rather than to the heat pump unit, and the plurality of modes includes at least one further mode for charging the first thermal energy storage device or for heating at least one space, in which mode the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in (one of) the at least one further configuration.

[0024] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the first thermal energy storage device comprises a phase change material, preferably having a melting temperature in the range of 40-100°C, more preferably 45-65°C. By using a phase change material, the system has a higher energy storage density, which reduces the system dimensions. Alternatively, the first thermal energy storage device can be a hot water tank.

[0025] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises a state of fill analyzer for determining a state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device, and preferably the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device determined by the state of fill analyzer for determining a state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device.

[0026] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the present invention is characterized in that the system further comprises a second thermal energy storage device, the second thermal energy storage device being connected to the reconfigurable fluid network and preferably comprising a phase change material, more preferably the melting temperature of the phase change material of the second thermal energy storage device is a temperature in the range of 0 to 50°C, more preferably 15 to 45°C, and / or Lower than the melting temperature of the phase change material of the first thermal energy storage device It is characterized by the following.

[0027] By using a phase change material in the second thermal energy storage device, the system has a higher energy storage density, which reduces the system size. Alternatively, the second thermal energy storage device can be a buffer tank.

[0028] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises a state of fill analyzer for determining a state of fill of the second thermal energy storage device, and preferably the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state of fill of the second thermal energy storage device determined by the state of fill analyzer for determining a state of fill of the second thermal energy storage device.

[0029] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the second thermal energy storage device is connected to the first thermal energy storage device via at least one pipe, and water preheated by the second thermal energy storage device is transferred to the first thermal energy storage device, where it is further heated to obtain domestic hot water.

[0030] The second thermal energy storage device can be a heat source for charging the first thermal energy storage device, and / or can be used to preheat mains water, and / or can be used for space cooling / heating. When used for space cooling / heating, the second thermal energy storage device can be used, for example, as a heat sink for space cooling, as a heat source to provide space heating, or as a combination of both a heat sink and a heat source in climates with large day-night temperature differences, i.e., hot days and cold nights. This can be particularly beneficial when the second thermal energy storage device uses a phase change material for energy storage, and the phase change material has a melting temperature that is below the maximum air temperature.

[0031] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that at least one valve is at least one three-way valve and / or is switchable by a controller (to change the configuration of the reconfigurable fluid network).

[0032] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the reconfigurable fluid network comprises at least one pump, preferably at least two pumps, and / or the at least one valve comprises at least two valves, preferably at least four valves, more preferably at least eight valves. Preferably, these valves are three-way valves and / or can be switched by a controller (to change the configuration of the reconfigurable fluid network).

[0033] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the second heat transfer fluid is air, preferably ambient air, or water.

[0034] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the heat pump unit an internal refrigerant circuit for circulating a third heat transfer fluid, the internal refrigerant circuit including a compressor, a first heat pump heat exchanger, at least one expansion valve, and a second heat pump heat exchanger, the first heat pump heat exchanger and the second heat pump heat exchanger being each connected to piping of a reconfigurable fluid network external to the heat pump unit; or a heat pump subunit including internal piping for transporting a first heat transfer fluid to and from the compressor and for transporting the first heat transfer fluid to and from the at least one expansion valve; It is characterized by the following.

[0035] When the heat pump is a heat pump subunit, the heat pump subunit includes only a portion of the heat pump (e.g., a compressor and at least one expansion valve, but no heat exchanger). When the heat pump unit is a heat pump subunit that does not include any heat exchangers, a heat exchanger in a system located external to the heat pump unit can act as the evaporator and condenser of the heat pump, achieving a system similar to a split air conditioning system (i.e., a conventional air-to-air air conditioning system) in which a refrigerant is supplied from an outdoor unit (of the conventional air-to-air air conditioning system) to a wall-mounted heating and air conditioning unit that can act as an evaporator during a cooling mode and as a condenser during a heating mode. Such a heat exchanger in a system located external to the heat pump unit can be, for example, a heat exchanger for transferring heat between a first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid, at least one emitter, and / or a heat exchanger in a first thermal energy storage device.

[0036] If the heat pump unit is a heat pump sub-unit and / or includes internal piping for transporting a first heat transfer fluid to and from the compressor and for transporting the first heat transfer fluid to and from at least one expansion valve, it is preferred that the first heat transfer fluid is a refrigerant other than water.

[0037] If the heat pump unit includes an internal refrigerant circuit for circulating a third heat transfer fluid, it is preferred that the first heat transfer fluid is water and / or that the third heat transfer fluid is a refrigerant different from water.

[0038] Preferably, the third heat transfer fluid is a refrigerant different from water.

[0039] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises a further heat exchanger connected to the reconfigurable fluid network and is connected via this further heat exchanger to a district heat network, preferably a fifth generation district heat network. Preferably, the system according to the invention can be integrated into fifth generation district heat networks in the future when they become available within the city / district.

[0040] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that at least one emitter for heating or cooling at least one space comprises: - Fan coil units (FCUs), and / or - Wall-mounted HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) units and / or ceiling cassettes, and / or - Underfloor heating The present invention is characterized in that it includes:

[0041] In systems featuring at least two heated spaces and / or dedicated heating applications, underfloor heating may also be advantageous. While underfloor heating is one of the most efficient radiator systems, using underfloor heating for space cooling can result in uncomfortably cold feet. Thus, if there are at least two heated spaces, at least one space can be equipped with an FCU for heating and cooling, while at least one other space can be equipped with underfloor heating for space heating, which offers high efficiency and low fan noise.

[0042] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system is connected to a power grid which preferably employs a time-of-use (ToU) variable electricity tariff.

[0043] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the controller has the following objectives: Cost savings through optimal use of solar energy and / or heat pump operation avoiding periods of peak ToU tariffs and / or heat integration between components, Maximizing self-sufficiency by minimizing electricity withdrawal from the power grid; Minimization of CO2 emissions, which can be achieved through optimal use of solar energy, and / or maximization of the heat pump COP during operation, and / or heat integration between components; The present invention is characterized in that the system operates in any one of the above or a combination thereof.

[0044] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises at least one renewable electric energy source, preferably a PVT hybrid solar collector acting as a heat source, but also including a PV solar collector and / or a wind energy collector.

[0045] A further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention is characterized in that the system further comprises at least one electric energy storage system (EES). For example, the EES can consist of a home battery and / or an electric vehicle. The EES of an electric vehicle preferably features vehicle-grid charging and discharging capabilities. The at least one EES can be charged from the grid and / or from the panels of a PVT hybrid solar collector. The EES can be coupled to a state-of-charge analyzer and / or to the controller.

[0046] The present invention also relates to a method for operating a system according to the present invention, wherein a controller operates the system in at least one mode for charging a first thermal energy storage device, at least one mode for heating at least one space, and / or a mode for cooling at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device.

[0047] The preferred embodiments of the system described above apply correspondingly to the method according to the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment (Example 1) of a system according to the invention. [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic diagram of mode M1 of the system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M2 ​​of the system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M3 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 5] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M4 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 6] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M5 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 7] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M6 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 8] 1 shows a schematic diagram of modes M7a and M7b of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 9] 1 shows a schematic diagram of modes M8a and M8b of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 10] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M9 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 11] 1 shows a schematic diagram of mode M10 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 12] 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M11 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 13] 1 shows a schematic diagram of mode M12 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 14] 1 shows a schematic diagram of mode M13 of the system according to Example 1. [Figure 15] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a simple exemplary control strategy for applying control modes M1-M13. [Figure 16] 2 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment (Example 2) of a system according to the invention. [Figure 17] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a third embodiment (Example 3) of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 18] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment (Example 4) of the system according to the present invention. [Figure 19] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment (Example 5) of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 20] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment (Example 6) of the system according to the present invention. [Figure 21] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a seventh embodiment (Example 7) of the system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the following figures and examples, without being limited to the specific embodiments and parameters shown therein. [Example]

[0050] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment (Example 1) of a system according to the present invention. The system includes a first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) for providing domestic hot water, a fan coil unit 14 (FCU) as an emitter (radiator) for heating or cooling at least one space, a reconfigurable fluid network for transporting a first heat transfer fluid, a heat exchanger 10, a solar heat transfer device 11, a second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES), and a controller (not shown in Figure 1). In this example, the first heat transfer fluid is water.

[0051] The reconfigurable fluid network includes a heat pump unit 1, two pumps 8 and 9, ten three-way valves, and piping. The heat pump unit 1 is a water-to-water heat pump unit including a (complete) water-to-water heat pump. The heat pump unit 1 includes an internal refrigerant circuit that circulates a third heat transfer fluid. The internal refrigerant circuit includes a first heat pump heat exchanger 2, two expansion valves 3a and 3b, a refrigerant receiver 4, a second heat pump heat exchanger 5, a four-way valve 6, and a compressor 7. The first heat pump heat exchanger 2 and the second heat pump heat exchanger 5 are each connected to piping of a reconfigurable fluid network external to the heat pump unit 1. The third heat transfer fluid is a refrigerant other than water.

[0052] The expansion valve is, for example, a linear expansion valve. The compressor is preferably of the hermetic scroll or reciprocating type. The first heat pump heat exchanger 2 and the second heat pump heat exchanger 5 are preferably plate heat exchangers for reasons of high efficiency and compactness.

[0053] The heat exchanger 10 is a heat exchanger for transferring heat between a first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid external to the reconfigurable fluid network, and the heat exchanger 10 is external to the heat pump unit 1. In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 10 is an assisted air-to-water heat exchanger (ATW-HEX) and the second heat transfer fluid is air.

[0054] In this embodiment, the solar heat transfer device 11 includes a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT).

[0055] The first thermal energy storage device 13 preferably comprises a phase change material (PCM) as energy storage means. If a PCM is used, the melting temperature should be between 40 and 100°C, preferably between 45 and 65°C, in order to provide domestic hot water at at least 40°C according to EN 16147. The first thermal energy storage device 13 is coupled to a state of charge (SOC) analyser (not shown in Figure 1) configured to determine the state of charge (SOC DHW-TES) of the first thermal energy storage device.

[0056] The second thermal energy storage device 12 is preferably a low temperature thermal energy storage device comprising a phase change material (PCM) as the energy storage means. If a PCM is used, the melting temperature should be between 0 and 50°C, preferably between 15 and 45°C, and preferably below the melting temperature of the PCM of the first thermal energy storage device 13. The second thermal energy storage device 12 is coupled to the first thermal energy storage device or to a second state of charge (SOC) analyzer (not shown in FIG. 1 ) configured to determine the state of charge (SOC LT-TES) of the second thermal energy storage device.

[0057] The system uses a high flow rate in the water-based distribution circuit.

[0058]

number

[0059] In the heat exchangers 2 and 5, evaporation and condensation of the refrigerant occurs. The phase change of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger results in a high heat flow. In the distribution circuit, the latent heat of the refrigerant ΔHr is transferred by the sensible heat cp of the heat transfer fluid (HTF), i.e., water.

[0060]

number

[0061] is absorbed according to

[0062] A high flow rate reduces the temperature difference ΔT = (THEX,out - THEX,in) between the inlet and outlet of components 10, 11, 12, 13 and / or 14, but to keep this ΔT below 5 K, a 5 kW heat pump system, for example, requires a flow rate of at least 15 L / min. Pumps, piping and / or heat exchangers must be dimensioned accordingly.

[0063] The controller is configured to operate the system in multiple modes (operating modes), and the reconfigurable fluid network is configurable by the controller into multiple configurations. The ten three-way valves are switchable by the controller to change the configuration of the reconfigurable fluid network.

[0064] In these operating modes, the first thermal energy storage device 13 can be charged, and the second thermal energy storage device 12 can be charged and discharged, in the following manner.

[0065] The first thermal energy storage device 13 is ·○ Solar heat transfer device 11, ○Heat exchanger 10, ○ Fan coil unit 14 in space cooling mode Any of these or a combination thereof can be used as the heat source to be charged by the heat pump unit 1. · Can be directly charged by solar heat transfer device / PVT hybrid solar collector.

[0066] The second thermal energy storage device 12 is · Mains water can be discharged to preheat it. It can be released as a heat source for the heat pump unit 1 to charge the first thermal energy storage device 13. It can be emitted as a heat source for a heat pump unit 1 to provide space heating. The heat can be released to the surrounding environment by the heat exchanger 10. This can be beneficial at night after the second thermal energy storage device 12 has been used as a space cooling heat sink during the day.

[0067] The second thermal energy storage device 12 is ·It can be filled by the heat pump unit 1. · Can be filled by solar heat transfer device 11. · It can be charged as a heat sink while the heat pump unit 1 provides space cooling.

[0068] The specific operating modes of the system according to Example 1 are summarized in the table below.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] 2 shows a schematic diagram of mode M1 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M1, the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) is charged using a fan-assisted air-to-water heat exchanger 10 (ATW-HEX) and / or a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), as heat input to the evaporator of the water-to-water heat pump. This mode may be useful as an initial setting for charging the first thermal energy storage device 13.

[0071] 3 shows a schematic diagram of mode M2 ​​of the system according to Example 1. In mode M2, the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) is charged using the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES) and / or a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT) combination, or either of these, as a heat source. The LT-TES 12 and the solar heat transfer device 11 can be either in series or in parallel. This mode can be beneficial when there is enough solar radiation to top up the temperature provided by the LT-TES 12.

[0072] 4 shows a schematic diagram of mode M3 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M3, the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) is charged using a solar heat transfer device 11, e.g., a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), as the sole heat source to the evaporator, i.e., the second heat pump heat exchanger 5. This mode may be beneficial when it is more efficient to operate the solar heat transfer device 11 at a lower temperature, and / or when excess PV power is available, and / or when ToU tariffs are favorable at a given time.

[0073] 5 shows a schematic diagram of mode M4 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M4, the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) is charged directly from the solar heat transfer device 11, e.g., a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), without using a heat pump. This mode may be useful on days with high solar radiation and / or high power demands of devices other than the heat pump and / or for simultaneous charging of the EES using a photovoltaic device.

[0074] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of mode M5 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M5, the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES) is charged using a water-to-water heat pump and either or a combination of the heat exchanger 10 (ATW-HEX) and / or solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), as the heat source. This mode may be useful when the state of charge of the LT-TES 12 drops below a threshold and / or in winter, when the LT-TES 12 can act as a heat source for space heating. Here, the LT-TES 12 can be charged during the day when the ambient temperature is high and discharged for space heating at night.

[0075] 7 shows a schematic diagram of mode M6 of the system according to embodiment 1. In mode M6, the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES) is charged directly from the solar heat transfer device 11, e.g., a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), without using the heat pump unit 1. This mode may be beneficial on days with high solar radiation and / or high power demands of devices other than the heat pump unit and / or when photovoltaic devices are used to simultaneously charge the EES, and / or on sunny days in intermediate seasons when solar radiation is high during the day but space heating is required at night.

[0076] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of modes M7a and M7b of the system according to Example 1. In mode M7a, space heating of at least one space is provided via a fan coil unit 14 (FCU) using the heat pump unit 1 and either or a combination of a heat exchanger 10 (ATW-HEX) and / or a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), as heat sources. In mode M7b, space cooling of at least one space can be provided via the FCU 14 by reversing the entire cycle. Here, it may be beneficial to use only the ATW-HEX 10 as a heat sink because the solar heat collector of the solar heat transfer device 11 may increase the condenser temperature in the second heat pump heat exchanger 5, which would reduce the heat pump COP. This mode may be useful as a default mode for space heating.

[0077] FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of modes M8a and M8b of the system according to Example 1. In mode M8a, space heating of at least one space is provided via the fan coil unit 14 (FCU) by discharging the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES). In mode M8b, space cooling of at least one space is provided via the FCU 14 by charging the LT-TES 12. The heat pump unit 1 is used in both cases. Mode M9 is preferable to mode M8a for space heating if the PCM melting temperature of the LT-TES 12 is sufficiently high. This mode may be useful in intermediate seasons or in climates with hot days and cold nights, for example, when space cooling and charging the LT-TES 12 during the day and space heating and discharging the LT-TES 12 at night.

[0078] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of mode M9 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M9, space heating for at least one space is provided directly from the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES) via the fan coil unit 14 (FCU), bypassing the heat pump unit 1. This mode may be useful when the SOC of the LT-TES 12 exceeds a threshold and / or when the LT-TES 12 is pre-charged from a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), to avoid heat pump power consumption. Here, a sufficiently high PCM melting temperature of the LT-TES 12 is advantageous for efficient FCU operation. Here, in systems that do not require space cooling or that feature two heating zones, underfloor heating may also be beneficial. For space cooling applications, the PCM melting temperature of the LT-TES 12 is selected below ambient temperature, preferably in the range between 0 and 20°C.

[0079] 11 shows a schematic diagram of mode M10 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M10, space heating for at least one space is provided via a fan coil unit 14 (FCU) directly from a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), bypassing the heat pump unit 1. This mode can be useful for providing space heating and saving electricity on sunny, cold days.

[0080] FIG. 12 shows a schematic diagram of mode M11 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M11, space heating for at least one space is provided directly from a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT) and a second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES), via a fan coil unit 14 (FCU), bypassing the heat pump unit 1. A parallel configuration of the solar heat transfer device 11 and the LT-TES 12, as shown in mode M2, is also possible. While this mode can be beneficial for providing space heating and saving electricity on sunny, cold days, the parallel configuration can be beneficial for reducing pressure drop in the system. Insufficient solar radiation intensity to meet the space heating demand can be compensated for using the LT-TES 12. This could be the case in the early morning after sunrise and / or in the evening before sunset, and / or during the day in winter.

[0081] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of mode M12 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M12, space cooling of at least one space is provided by charging a first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) using heat pump unit 1 via a fan coil unit 14 (FCU). This mode can be beneficial because it approximately doubles the heat pump efficiency by rejecting heat from space cooling into the DHW-TES rather than to the ambient. The heat pump performs two useful tasks simultaneously. This reduces energy consumption, cost, and time.

[0082] FIG. 14 shows a schematic diagram of mode M13 of the system according to Example 1. In mode M13, the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES) is dumped to the ambient environment by the heat exchanger 10 (ATW-HEX) without using the heat pump unit 1. This mode may be useful when space cooling is required during the day in climates with hot days and mild nights. When the ambient temperature is higher than the PCM melting temperature of the LT-TES 12, the heat pump unit 1 provides space cooling and uses the LT-TES 12 as a heat sink (see M8), thereby charging the LT-TES 12. If heat from the LT-TES 12 is not needed elsewhere in the system, for example to charge the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES), then in M13 the LT-TES 12 can be dumped at night. In mode M8, this allows space cooling during the day.

[0083] FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of a simple exemplary control strategy for applying control modes M1-M13. In the diagram shown in FIG. 15, "Y" means "Yes" and "N" means "No." In the simplest embodiment, the control strategy includes a single SOC threshold applied to both the first thermal energy storage device 13 (DHW-TES) and the second thermal energy storage device 12 (LT-TES). This SOC threshold could be in the range of 20-80%, but preferably 40-60%. An alternative strategy may include different SOC thresholds for different events in the diagram. The thresholds can be constant or variable. The control strategy shown here assumes a certain PCM melting temperature of the LT-TES 12, e.g., 40±5°C, that is suitable for direct space heating from the LT-TES 12 (mode M9), and therefore does not use mode M8a (space heating from the LT-TES 12 using the heat pump unit 1).

[0084] The control strategy shown in the branching diagram of Figure 15 aims to use the solar heat transfer device 11, e.g., a PVT hybrid solar collector (PVT), as the sole heat source whenever possible to charge the thermal energy storage device and / or provide space heating. Whenever necessary, a heat pump supplements the solar heat transfer device 11. The branching diagram only outlines the thermal management to satisfy thermal comfort. However, an EES may be connected to the system. If the aim is to reduce costs, maximize self-sufficiency, and / or minimize CO2 emissions, the control strategy of at least one EES connected to the system could be as follows and could proceed simultaneously with the branching diagram shown here: · Filling the EES with all available excess power from any available renewable energy source e.g. solar PVT, solar PV, wind. · For use with any appliance, including heat pumps, at SOC-threshold, which can be constant and / or variable, release whenever EES-SOC > EES-SOC-threshold.

[0085] Table 2 below lists the attributes, thresholds, and setpoints used in the exemplary control strategy shown in Figure 15. In Table 2, some thresholds are described as multiples of the heat pump's thermal output. Attributes in the range "n / a" are measurements used as inputs and criteria for control decisions.

[0086] [Table 2] [Example]

[0087] Figure 16 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment (Example 2) of the system according to the invention. Part of the system is in the form of a compact indoor unit. The components can form the entire system in many different arrangements. In this advantageous embodiment, the system comprises a first thermal energy storage device (DHW-TES) and a second thermal energy storage device (LT-TES) for providing domestic hot water, located next to each other. The DHW-TES, the LT-TES and the reconfigurable fluid network (and therefore also the heat pump unit) are contained within the compact indoor unit. [Example]

[0088] Figure 17 shows a schematic diagram of a third embodiment (Example 3) of the system according to the invention. Part of the system is in the form of a tall indoor unit with a larger thermal energy storage capacity. In this advantageous embodiment, the system includes a first thermal energy storage device (DHW-TES) for providing domestic hot water and a second thermal energy storage device (LT-TES), with these components arranged so that the heat pump unit is positioned at the bottom of the indoor unit together with the distribution circuit, and the DHW-TES and LT-TES are stacked on top of the indoor unit. This configuration may improve the system footprint, specifically in terms of the floor space occupied by the system. [Example]

[0089] 18 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment (embodiment 4) of a system according to the invention, which is very similar to the system according to embodiment 1. In contrast to the system according to embodiment 1, the system according to embodiment 4 comprises, instead of the second thermal energy storage device, an additional heat exchanger 15 connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, and the system is connected via this additional heat exchanger 15 to a fifth-generation district heat network 16. The fifth-generation district heat network 16 can be used as a heat source in winter and as a heat sink in summer. In this case, for example in an apartment building, the heat exchanger 10 and the solar heat transfer device 11, for example a PVT hybrid solar collector, are optional. [Example]

[0090] 19 shows a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment of a system according to the invention (Example 5), which is also similar to the system according to Example 1. In contrast to the system according to Example 1, the second thermal energy storage device 12 of the system according to Example 5 can also be used to preheat the mains water from the chilled water inlet to an intermediate temperature before it is further heated in the first thermal energy storage device 13. This configuration can be advantageous as it improves the heat pump efficiency and increases the DHW discharge. The dimensions of the first thermal energy storage device 13 can be reduced, allowing the same domestic hot water discharge as would be achieved without preheating. [Example]

[0091] FIG. 20 shows a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment of the system according to the present invention (embodiment 6), which is very similar to the system of embodiment 5. In contrast to the system according to embodiment 5, an additional three-way valve 17 is connected to the supply branch of the distribution circuit, which in turn connects to a further heat exchanger 15, preferably a plate heat exchanger. This further heat exchanger 15 can be used to connect the system to an additional heat source, such as a fifth-generation district heat network 16. This embodiment can be adapted for use in apartment buildings. In this embodiment, the integration of a heat exchanger 10 and / or a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector, is optional but advantageous for energy savings. If the installation of a heat exchanger 10 and / or a solar heat transfer device 11, such as a PVT hybrid solar collector, is omitted, this further heat exchanger 15 can be installed in either of these positions, and a simpler system with an additional three-way valve 17 can be selected for installation. [Example]

[0092] FIG. 21 shows a schematic diagram of a seventh embodiment (Example 7) of a system according to the present invention, which is very similar to the system according to Example 1. In contrast to the system according to Example 1, the heat pump unit 1 of the system according to Example 7 does not include a complete heat pump, but is a heat pump subunit that includes only part of a heat pump. In particular, the heat pump unit 1 in the system of Example 7 does not include the first heat pump heat exchanger 2 and the second heat pump heat exchanger 5 that separate the refrigerant circuit and the water circuit in the system of Example 1. Instead, the entire system uses a refrigerant as the (first) heat transfer fluid. The heat pump unit 1 of Example 7 includes internal piping for transporting the first heat transfer fluid to and from the compressor 7, and for transporting the first heat transfer fluid to and from the expansion valves 3a and 3b. Because the system of Example 7 does not feature a heat pump heat exchanger, a heat exchanger (component) of the system located external to the heat pump unit can act as the evaporator and condenser of the heat pump, achieving a system similar to a split air conditioning system (i.e., a conventional air-to-air air conditioning system) in which refrigerant is supplied from an outdoor unit (of a conventional air-to-air air conditioning system) to a wall-mounted heating and air conditioning unit that can act as the evaporator during cooling mode and the condenser during heating mode. Such a heat exchanger of a system located external to the heat pump unit can be, for example, components 10, 11, 12, 13, and / or 14, or a heat exchanger contained within these components.

[0093] This particular arrangement is beneficial for the following reasons. First, by eliminating two heat pump heat exchangers, heat transfer is improved that would otherwise be reduced by the availability of the heat exchangers. Secondly, the latent heat of vaporization of the refrigerant serves the evaporation and condensation steps in components 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. In the case of the water circuit, sensible heat transfer occurs in components 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, while the phase change of evaporation and / or condensation takes place in the heat pump heat exchangers 2 and 5. Third, the system may not require the pumps 8, 9 of the system according to Example 1. The system can therefore operate more efficiently even with lower flow rates in the components. For efficient heating and cooling, a wall-mounted HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) unit and / or ceiling cassette 18 can be used. Compared to an FCU, a wall-mounted HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) unit and / or ceiling cassette 18 transfers heat directly from or to the refrigerant, eliminating the need for a refrigerant-to-water heat transfer first, thereby requiring one less heat transfer step.

[0094] A system according to Example 7 would require a larger volume of refrigerant, which would be required to supply the heat transfer fluid to the additional piping and components, where selecting a non-flammable and / or non-toxic refrigerant with a low global warming potential may be particularly beneficial.

[0095] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices.

[0096] (Appendix 1) 1. A system for heating and cooling at least one space and providing domestic hot water, comprising: a first thermal energy storage device (13) for providing domestic hot water; at least one emitter (14, 18) provided within said at least one space for heating or cooling said at least one space; A reconfigurable fluid network for transporting a first heat transfer fluid, the reconfigurable fluid network including a heat pump unit (1), at least one valve, and piping, the heat pump unit (1) including a compressor (7) and at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b), the reconfigurable fluid network being configurable by a controller into a plurality of configurations, the configurations being configured such that the reconfigurable fluid network transports the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the first thermal energy storage device (13) rather than to the at least one emitter (14, 18). a reconfigurable fluid network including another first configuration, at least one second configuration, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the at least one emitter (14, 18) but not to the first thermal energy storage device (13), and a third configuration, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the at least one emitter (14, 18) and from the heat pump unit (1) to the first thermal energy storage device (13); a heat exchanger (10) for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid external to the reconfigurable fluid network, the heat exchanger being external to the heat pump unit (1); the controller configured to operate the system in a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including at least one mode (M1, M2, M3) for charging the first thermal energy storage device, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the first configuration, at least one mode (M7a, M8a) for heating the at least one space, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the second configuration, and a mode (M12) for cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the third configuration; A system including: (Appendix 2) 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the heat pump unit (1) is a water source heat pump unit. (Appendix 3) 3. The system of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first heat transfer fluid comprises water, or comprises a refrigerant other than water, or consists of water, or consists of a refrigerant other than water. (Appendix 4) 4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heat pump unit (1) is a reversible heat pump unit. (Appendix 5) 5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a solar heat transfer device connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, preferably wherein the solar heat transfer device comprises at least one solar thermal collector and / or at least one PVT hybrid solar collector (11). (Appendix 6) 6. The system according to any one of appendices 1 to 5, wherein the first thermal energy storage device (13) comprises a phase change material, preferably wherein the melting temperature of the phase change material of the first thermal energy storage device (13) is in the range of 40 to 100°C, more preferably 45 to 65°C. (Appendix 7) 7. The system according to any one of appendices 1 to 6, further comprising a state-of-fill analyzer for determining a state-of-fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13), preferably characterized in that the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state-of-fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13) determined by the state-of-fill analyzer for determining the state-of-fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13). (Appendix 8) 8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a second thermal energy storage device (12), said second thermal energy storage device (12) being connected to said reconfigurable fluid network and preferably comprising a phase change material, more preferably wherein the melting temperature of said phase change material of said second thermal energy storage device (12) is: a temperature in the range of 0 to 50°C, even more preferably 15 to 45°C, and / or - lower than the melting temperature of the phase change material of said first thermal energy storage device (13); A system characterized by: (Appendix 9) 9. The system of claim 8, further comprising a state-of-fill analyzer for determining a state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12), preferably wherein the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12) determined by the state-of-fill analyzer for determining the state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12). (Appendix 10) 10. The system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the second thermal energy storage device (12) is connected to the first thermal energy storage device (13) via at least one pipe, and water preheated by the second thermal energy storage device (12) is transferred to the first thermal energy storage device (13), where the water is further heated to provide domestic hot water. (Appendix 11) 11. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the reconfigurable fluid network comprises at least one pump (8, 9), preferably at least two pumps (8, 9), and / or the at least one valve comprises at least two valves, preferably at least four valves, more preferably at least eight valves. (Appendix 12) 12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the second heat transfer fluid is air, preferably ambient air, or water. (Appendix 13) The system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 12, wherein the heat pump unit (1) an internal refrigerant circuit for circulating a third heat transfer fluid, the internal refrigerant circuit comprising the compressor (7), a first heat pump heat exchanger (2), the at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b) and a second heat pump heat exchanger (5), the first heat pump heat exchanger (2) and the second heat pump heat exchanger (5) each being connected to a pipe of the reconfigurable fluid network external to the heat pump unit (1), or - internal piping for transporting said first heat transfer fluid to and from said compressor (7) and for transporting said first heat transfer fluid to and from said at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b); A system characterized by: (Appendix 14) 14. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a further heat exchanger (15) connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, and connected via the further heat exchanger (15) to a district heat network, preferably a fifth generation district heat network (16). (Appendix 15) 15. A method for operating a system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the controller operates the system in at least one mode (M1, M2, M3) for charging the first thermal energy storage device (13), at least one mode (M7a, M8a) for heating the at least one space, and / or a mode (M12) for cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device (13). [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 1 heat pump unit 2. First heat pump heat exchanger 3a, 3b Expansion valve 4 Refrigerant receiver 5. Second heat pump heat exchanger 6 Four-way valve 7 Compressor 8, 9 Pump 10 Heat exchanger 11 Solar heat transfer devices, e.g. PVT hybrid solar collectors 12 Second thermal energy storage device 13 First thermal energy storage device 14 Fan coil unit 15 Further heat exchangers 16 5th Generation District Heat Network 17 Additional three-way valve 18 Wall-mounted HVAC units and / or ceiling cassettes

Claims

1. 1. A system for heating and cooling at least one space and providing domestic hot water, comprising: a first thermal energy storage device (13) for providing domestic hot water; at least one emitter (14, 18) provided within said at least one space for heating or cooling said at least one space; A reconfigurable fluid network for transporting a first heat transfer fluid, the reconfigurable fluid network including a heat pump unit (1), at least one valve, and piping, the heat pump unit (1) including a compressor (7) and at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b), the reconfigurable fluid network being configurable by a controller into a plurality of configurations, the configurations being configured such that the reconfigurable fluid network transports the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the first thermal energy storage device (13) rather than to the at least one emitter (14, 18). a reconfigurable fluid network including another first configuration, at least one second configuration, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the at least one emitter (14, 18) but not to the first thermal energy storage device (13), and a third configuration, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to transport the first heat transfer fluid from the heat pump unit (1) to the at least one emitter (14, 18) and from the heat pump unit (1) to the first thermal energy storage device (13); a heat exchanger (10) for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and a second heat transfer fluid external to the reconfigurable fluid network, the heat exchanger being external to the heat pump unit (1); the controller configured to operate the system in a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including at least one mode (M1, M2, M3) for charging the first thermal energy storage device, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the first configuration, at least one mode (M7a, M8a) for heating the at least one space, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the second configuration, and a mode (M12) for cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device, in which the reconfigurable fluid network is configured to be in the third configuration; A system including:

2. 2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the heat pump unit (1) is a water source heat pump unit.

3. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first heat transfer fluid comprises water or comprises a refrigerant different from water, or consists of water or consists of a refrigerant different from water.

4. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the heat pump unit (1) is a reversible heat pump unit.

5. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a solar heat transfer device connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, preferably characterized in that the solar heat transfer device comprises at least one solar thermal collector and / or at least one PVT hybrid solar collector (11).

6. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first thermal energy storage device (13) comprises a phase change material, preferably characterized in that the melting temperature of the phase change material of the first thermal energy storage device (13) is in the range of 40 to 100°C, more preferably 45 to 65°C.

7. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a state-of-fill analyzer for determining a state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13), preferably characterized in that the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13) determined by the state-of-fill analyzer for determining the state of fill of the first thermal energy storage device (13).

8. 3. The system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second thermal energy storage device (12), said second thermal energy storage device (12) connected to said reconfigurable fluid network and preferably comprising a phase change material, more preferably a melting temperature of said phase change material of said second thermal energy storage device (12) being: at a temperature in the range of 0 to 50°C, even more preferably 15 to 45°C, and / or - lower than the melting temperature of the phase change material of said first thermal energy storage device (13); A system characterized by:

9. 9. The system according to claim 8, further comprising a state-of-fill analyzer for determining a state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12), preferably characterized in that the controller is configured to operate the system taking into account the state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12) determined by the state-of-fill analyzer for determining the state-of-fill of the second thermal energy storage device (12).

10. 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the second thermal energy storage device (12) is connected to the first thermal energy storage device (13) via at least one pipe, and water preheated by the second thermal energy storage device (12) is transported to the first thermal energy storage device (13), where the water is further heated to obtain domestic hot water.

11. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the reconfigurable fluid network comprises at least one pump (8, 9), preferably at least two pumps (8, 9), and / or the at least one valve comprises at least two valves, preferably at least four valves, more preferably at least eight valves.

12. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second heat transfer fluid is air, preferably ambient air, or water.

13. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat pump unit (1) an internal refrigerant circuit for circulating a third heat transfer fluid, said internal refrigerant circuit comprising said compressor (7), a first heat pump heat exchanger (2), said at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b) and a second heat pump heat exchanger (5), said first heat pump heat exchanger (2) and said second heat pump heat exchanger (5) each being connected to a pipe of said reconfigurable fluid network external to said heat pump unit (1), or - internal piping for transporting said first heat transfer fluid to and from said compressor (7) and for transporting said first heat transfer fluid to and from said at least one expansion valve (3a, 3b); A system characterized by:

14. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a further heat exchanger (15) connected to the reconfigurable fluid network, and connected via the further heat exchanger (15) to a district heat network, preferably a fifth generation district heat network (16).

15. 3. A method for operating a system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller operates the system in at least one mode (M1, M2, M3) for charging the first thermal energy storage device (13), at least one mode (M7a, M8a) for heating the at least one space, and / or a mode (M12) for cooling the at least one space and charging the first thermal energy storage device (13).

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