Heat pump device

Abstract

To provide a heat pump system that can suppress refrigerant leakage into the installation space of the device. [Solution] The heat pump device 10 includes a heat pump module 19 as a refrigerant circuit that is filled with a flammable refrigerant and performs a refrigeration cycle, a machine room 11A that houses the heat pump module 19, a container 40 as a second room partitioned from the machine room 11A, a connecting passage 41 that connects the machine room 11A and the container 40, and an opening / closing mechanism 42 that opens and closes the connecting passage 41. The opening / closing mechanism 42 opens the connecting passage 41 when the flammable refrigerant leaks.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat pump device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a heat pump device including an adsorber that handles a combustible refrigerant, in which the adsorber is connected to the housing of the heat pump device and has a structure that allows it to be released to the external space through the adsorber in case of refrigerant leakage. Further, it is described that when the density of the refrigerant is greater than that of air, the adsorber is open to the housing in the downward direction under gravity, and when the density of the refrigerant is less than that of air, the adsorber is open to the housing in the upward direction under gravity.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the case of a refrigerant heavier than air, since the bottom of the housing is open, when refrigerant leaks from the housing into the space where the heat pump device is installed, the refrigerant tends to accumulate in the installation space. Particularly in the case of a combustible refrigerant, it becomes easier to form a flammable region in the installation space.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a heat pump device capable of suppressing leakage of refrigerant into the installation space of the device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A heat pump device (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a refrigerant circuit (19) filled with a flammable refrigerant to perform a refrigeration cycle, a first chamber (11A) housing the refrigerant circuit, a second chamber (40, 45) partitioned from the first chamber, a connecting passage (41) connecting the first chamber and the second chamber, and an opening / closing mechanism (42) for opening and closing the connecting passage, wherein the opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the connecting passage (41) when the flammable refrigerant leaks.

[0007] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a heat pump device that can suppress the leakage of refrigerant into the installation space of the device.

[0008] A heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure may have a configuration in which the second chamber (40, 45) does not contain the refrigerant circuit (19).

[0009] According to this embodiment, leakage of flammable refrigerant into the installation space of the heat pump device can be more reliably suppressed.

[0010] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of this disclosure, adsorbents (43, 43A, 43B, 43C) for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant may be arranged inside the second chambers (40, 45).

[0011] According to this embodiment, leaked refrigerant can be more reliably retained in the second chamber.

[0012] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of this disclosure, a desiccant (44) may be placed inside the second chambers (40, 45).

[0013] According to this embodiment, the adsorption of leaked refrigerant by the adsorbent can be promoted.

[0014] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of this disclosure, the communication passage (41) may be configured to open to the lower part of the first chamber (11A).

[0015] According to this embodiment, leaked refrigerant accumulating in the lower part of the first chamber can be quickly discharged from the connecting passage.

[0016] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of the present disclosure, the second chambers (40, 45) may be located below the first chamber (11A), and the communication passage (41) may be configured to connect the bottom surface of the first chamber (11A) with the top surface of the second chamber.

[0017] According to this embodiment, leaked refrigerant accumulating in the lower part of the first chamber can be discharged more quickly through the connecting passage.

[0018] A heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure may include a refrigerant leak detection unit (47) for detecting leakage of the flammable refrigerant in the first chamber (11A), and the opening / closing mechanism (42) may be configured to open the communication passage (41) when the refrigerant leak detection unit (47) detects the leak.

[0019] According to this embodiment, the discharge of leaked refrigerant from the first chamber can be carried out more reliably, and the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the installation space of the heat pump device can be suppressed more reliably.

[0020] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the heat pump device (10) may include a pressure sensor in the refrigerant leak detection unit (47), and the opening / closing mechanism (42) may open and close the communication passage (41) based on the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor.

[0021] According to this embodiment, the occurrence of a leak of flammable refrigerant into the first chamber can be detected with high accuracy based on pressure changes.

[0022] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the heat pump device (10) may be located within the refrigerant circuit (19), and the switching mechanism (42) may be configured to open the communication passage (41) when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined first threshold.

[0023] According to this embodiment, the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the first chamber can be accurately detected based on a drop in the pressure of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit.

[0024] In the heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the pressure sensor is disposed in the first chamber (11A), and the opening / closing mechanism (42) may be configured to open the communication passage (41) when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value.

[0025] According to this aspect, based on the pressure increase in the first chamber, it is possible to accurately detect the occurrence of leakage of the flammable refrigerant into the first chamber.

[0026] In the heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the refrigerant leakage detection unit (47) is disposed in the first chamber (11A), includes a concentration sensor that measures the concentration of the flammable refrigerant, and the opening / closing mechanism (42) may be configured to open the communication passage (41) when the concentration measured by the concentration sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined third threshold value.

[0027] According to this aspect, based on the increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the first chamber, it is possible to accurately detect the occurrence of leakage of the flammable refrigerant into the first chamber.

[0028] In the heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the opening / closing mechanism (42) includes a pressure valve that opens when the pressure in the first chamber (11A) becomes greater than the second chamber (40, 45) by a predetermined amount or more, and the pressure valve may be configured to open during leakage of the flammable refrigerant to communicate the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0029] According to this aspect, it is possible to simplify the structure of the opening / closing mechanism and the refrigerant leakage suppression function of the heat pump device.

[0030] In the heat pump device (10) according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber (40, 45) is a container (40) that stores the flammable refrigerant discharged from the first chamber (11A) via the communication passage (41), the flammable refrigerant is a refrigerant having a density greater than air, and a bottom adsorbent (43A) that adsorbs the flammable refrigerant may be disposed on the bottom wall of the container (40).

[0031] According to this embodiment, the flammable refrigerant discharged from the machine room 11A can be stored more safely, and the flammable refrigerant remaining in the container can be more easily adsorbed by the adsorbent.

[0032] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of the present disclosure, a side adsorbent (43B) for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant may be arranged on the side wall of the container (40).

[0033] According to this embodiment, flammable refrigerant remaining in the container can be more reliably adsorbed onto the adsorbent.

[0034] In other embodiments of the heat pump device (10) of this disclosure, the bottom adsorbent (43A) may be configured to be thicker than the side adsorbent (43B).

[0035] According to this embodiment, flammable refrigerants remaining in the container can be easily adsorbed by the adsorbent.

[0036] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the heat pump device (10) is installed indoors, and the second chamber (40, 45) may be configured to include a discharge channel (45) for discharging the flammable refrigerant discharged from the first chamber (11A) to the outdoors via the connecting passage (41).

[0037] According to this embodiment, flammable refrigerant can be reliably discharged outdoors through the discharge channel.

[0038] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the heat pump device (10) may be configured such that the second chamber is provided in the discharge channel (45) and includes an explosion-proof fan (46) that generates an airflow toward the outdoors within the discharge channel (45).

[0039] According to this embodiment, the degree of freedom in arranging the discharge channel can be improved, and versatility can be enhanced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1]This figure shows a schematic configuration example of a heat pump system to which the heat pump device according to this embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] Perspective view showing an example of the external appearance of a heat pump device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the heat pump unit with the door removed. [Figure 4] Perspective view showing an example of the external appearance of a heat pump module. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram showing the first example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing an example of the adsorption unit configuration. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram showing a second example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing a third example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram showing a fourth example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] Functional block diagram of the control system for the opening and closing mechanism. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. To facilitate understanding of the explanation, the same reference numerals are used for identical components in each drawing whenever possible, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0042] In the following explanation, the X, Y, and Z directions are perpendicular to each other. The X and Y directions are horizontal, and the Z direction is vertical. The X direction is the front-to-back direction of the heat pump device 10's housing 11, with the positive X direction being the front and the negative X direction being the rear. The Y direction is the width direction of the heat pump device 10's housing 11. Also, for convenience of explanation, the positive Z direction may be referred to as the upper side and the negative Z direction as the lower side.

[0043] <Basic configuration of a heat pump system> The basic configuration of the heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4.

[0044] First, with reference to Figure 1, we will describe the heat pump system 100 to which the heat pump device 10 is applied. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a schematic example of the configuration of the heat pump system 100 to which the heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment is applied.

[0045] The heat pump system 100 is a system that uses a common heat source 101 to provide hot water and heating to multiple indoor spaces such as houses. In the example in Figure 1, an example of application is illustrated in the introduction of the system to a multi-unit dwelling 200, such as an apartment building, consisting of multiple houses 201. Other indoor spaces include, for example, detached houses, shops, office buildings, commercial facilities, educational facilities, public facilities, or factories.

[0046] As shown in Figure 1, each house 201 is equipped with a heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment. In the example in Figure 1, a total of 10 heat pump devices 10 are shown individually for each of the 10 houses.

[0047] The heat source 101 includes, for example, one or more air-source heat pump chillers. Alternatively, other heat sources such as a ground source, surface water, district heating, or water heat recovery may be used.

[0048] A heat source circuit 102 connects the heat source 101 to each heat pump device 10. A heat source fluid circulates within the heat source circuit 102, allowing the heat source fluid heated by the heat source 101 to be supplied to each heat pump device 10 via the heat source circuit 102. Furthermore, the heat source fluid, after heat exchange with the refrigerant in the first heat exchanger 27 (see Figure 4, etc.) of the heat pump device 10, can be recovered from each heat pump device 10 via the heat source circuit 102.

[0049] In the case of multi-story indoor spaces such as apartment buildings 200 to which the heat pump system 100 is applied, it is preferable to configure the building to efficiently exchange heat by individually arranging heat source circuits 102 for each floor or a predetermined number of floor groups, and by exchanging heat source fluid between one heat source circuit 102 and multiple heat pump devices 10 within a predetermined height range.

[0050] Furthermore, within each house 201, the heat pump device 10 and the heating devices and other items used to heat the house 201 are connected by a utilization circuit 103. A utilization fluid circulates through the utilization circuit 103, and the utilization fluid heated by the second heat exchanger 28 (see Figure 4, etc.) of the heat pump device 10 can be supplied to the utilization circuit 103 via the utilization circuit 103. Additionally, the utilization fluid used for heating and other purposes can be recovered from each item via the utilization circuit 103.

[0051] Next, the basic configuration of the heat pump device 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 4. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the external appearance of the heat pump device 10 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the heat pump device 10 shown in Figure 2 with the door 12a removed.

[0052] In this example, the heat pump device 10 is a geothermal heat source unit. The heat pump device 10 comprises a housing 11 that is roughly rectangular in shape, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, and houses the elements related to each function of the heat pump device 10 inside the housing 11.

[0053] The housing 11 has a front wall 12 formed facing the positive X direction and a rear wall 13 formed facing the negative X direction on the opposite side. The front wall 12 and the rear wall 13 are arranged in a basically parallel relationship at the front and rear of the heat pump device 10. The front wall 12 has a door 12a that can be attached to and detached from the housing 11 in the portion from a predetermined height in the Z direction to its lower end. The door 12a may be configured to be detachable from the housing 11, or it may be configured to be connected to the main body of the housing 11 in an openable and closable manner, for example, via a hinge.

[0054] The housing 11 has a first side wall 14 formed facing the positive Y direction and a second side wall 15 formed facing the negative Y direction on the opposite side. The side walls 14 and 15 also face each other and are arranged in parallel to the left and right sides of the heat pump device 10, respectively.

[0055] The front wall 12, the rear wall 13, and the pair of side walls 14 and 15 are formed with approximately equal height dimensions in the Z direction, and their respective end faces in the width direction are connected to each other at approximately right angles. In other words, the front wall 12, the rear wall 13, and the pair of side walls 14 and 15 form a rectangular tube with a rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed in the Z direction.

[0056] The upper end of the housing 11, i.e., the end face on the positive Z-direction side of the rectangular tube, is closed by the upper wall 16. The bottom wall 17 is located on the lower end of the housing 11 opposite the upper wall 16, i.e., the end face on the negative Z-direction side of the rectangular tube, and closes the lower end.

[0057] The heat pump unit 10 is configured as an independent unit and is installed on a flat surface such as the floor of an indoor space in a house. For this purpose, multiple height-adjustable legs can be provided on the underside of the bottom wall 17. By adjusting the height of each leg, the housing 11 can be positioned horizontally.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the heat pump unit 10 has three spaces stacked in the height direction. Figure 3 shows the state with the door 12a of the front wall 12 removed. The space that can be exposed to the outside by opening the door 12a is divided into two spaces by a partition plate 18 (see Figure 5) located at a predetermined height in the Z direction. The space at the lowest end below the partition plate 18 is the machine room 11A (first room). The space above the partition plate is the tank storage room 11B. The space at the highest end above the top of the door 12a is the piping storage room 11C.

[0059] The tank housing chamber 11B houses a household hot water tank 20 for storing hot water to be supplied to homes and the like. Inside the household hot water tank 20, pipes are arranged through which a working fluid, heated by, for example, a second heat exchanger 28 (described later), flows. In this configuration, heat exchange occurs between the working fluid in the pipes and the tap water stored in the tank 20, thereby heating the tap water and storing it as hot water in the household hot water tank 20. Other elements besides the tank 20 may be placed in the tank housing chamber 11B, such as an electrical equipment box 25 (see Figure 5) which houses various electrical components related to the function of the heat pump device 10.

[0060] The piping storage chamber 11C houses various devices, such as piping connected to the heat source circuit 102 to exchange heat source fluid, and piping connected to the utilization circuit 103 to exchange utilization fluid with a heating circuit (for example, one incorporating radiators or underfloor heating) for heating a residential building. In the example shown in Figure 3, the piping 21 extending to the connection points of the heat source circuit 102 and the utilization circuit 103 is shown at the upper end of the housing 11.

[0061] The machine room 11A houses the heat pump module 19. The configuration of the heat pump module 19 will be described below.

[0062] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the external appearance of the heat pump module 19. The heat pump module 19 includes components of the refrigerant circuit of the heat pump.

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 4, the refrigerant circuit consists of a compressor 22, an expansion valve (not shown), a first heat exchanger 27, and a second heat exchanger 28, all connected by refrigerant pipes 24. The refrigerant circuit may also include an accumulator 23, a muffler, and other components such as sensors and valves. Furthermore, the heat pump module 19 is equipped with a control box 29. The control box 29 houses various devices, including an inverter (inverter PCB) for controlling the capacity of the compressor 22.

[0064] In the refrigerant circuit according to this embodiment, instead of specific fluorocarbons or their substitutes that affect the global environment, such as ozone depletion and greenhouse gas effects, natural refrigerants with a low global warming potential (GWP) are used as the refrigerant circulated within the circuit. Such natural refrigerants often contain flammable components, such as propane.

[0065] The first heat exchanger 27 includes a first heat source pipe 30 connected to the heat source fluid inlet of the first heat exchanger 27. Furthermore, a second heat source pipe 31 is provided and connected to the heat source fluid outlet of the first heat exchanger 27. For example, if the heat pump system 100 is a system that utilizes a geothermal heat source, saltwater can be used as the heat source fluid. In this case, the first heat source pipe 30 and the second heat source pipe 31 are saltwater pipes.

[0066] The first heat exchanger 27 is configured to perform heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger 27 portion of the refrigerant circuit and the heat source fluid flowing through the first heat exchanger 27 portion of the heat source circuit 102. A pump 32 (a saltwater pump in this example) is located in the first heat source pipe 30 to supply the heat source fluid (e.g., saltwater) to the first heat exchanger 27.

[0067] The second heat exchanger 28 includes a first fluid pipe 33 connected to the inlet of the second heat exchanger 28's used fluid. Furthermore, a second fluid pipe 34 is connected to the outlet of the second heat exchanger 28's used fluid. For example, tap water can be used as the used fluid. In this case, the first fluid pipe 33 and the second fluid pipe 34 are water pipes.

[0068] The second heat exchanger 28 is configured to perform heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger 28 portion of the refrigerant circuit and the utilization fluid flowing through the second heat exchanger 28 portion of the utilization circuit 103. A pump 35 (a water pump in this example) is located inside the first fluid pipe 33 to supply the utilization fluid (e.g., tap water) to the second heat exchanger 28.

[0069] Below the refrigerant pipes 24, heat source pipes 30, 31, fluid pipes 33, 34, etc., a drain pan 36 is positioned to collect condensation water that is generated on these components and drips or flows down.

[0070] All elements of the aforementioned heat pump module 19 are directly or indirectly attached to the drawer plate 37. The drawer plate 37 is, for example, a rectangular plate positioned along the XY plane. The drawer plate 37 is located inside the housing 11, and its rectangular cross-sectional shape is, for example, aligned with the XY plane of the housing 11, with each side of the rectangle being parallel to it. Each element of the heat pump module 19 is positioned on the upper side of the drawer plate 37. A handle 38 is also positioned on the front edge of the drawer plate 37 (i.e., one side of the rectangle facing the front wall 12 of the housing 11). In this example, the drawer plate 37 is a relatively rigid and thick rectangular plate made of metal, particularly a light metal. In one example, the material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0071] In this embodiment, the heat pump module 19 is installed in the machine room 11A in a state that it can slide in the X direction via the pull-out plate 37. For example, the configuration makes it easy for a worker to remove the heat pump module 19 from the machine room 11A of the heat pump device 10 or to install the heat pump module 19 inside the machine room 11A by gripping the handle 38 and applying external force.

[0072] With this configuration, where the heat pump module 19 can be easily attached to and detached from the housing 11 of the heat pump device 10, when installing the heat pump device 10 at a desired location, for example, the housing 11 and the heat pump module 19 can be separated and transported to the installation site separately. As a result, compared to a case where the entire heat pump device is configured as a single unit, the individual components of the heat pump device 10 in this embodiment are lighter to transport to the installation site, making transportation easier. Furthermore, the maintainability of the heat pump module 19 can be improved.

[0073] It should be noted that the machine room 11A does not necessarily need to house all the components of the heat pump module 19; it is sufficient if at least a portion of the heat pump module 19 is housed in the machine room 11A. However, as described later, the heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment has a function to suppress the leakage of flammable refrigerant that has leaked into the machine room 11A to the outside of the device housing 11, so it is necessary to house at least some of the elements that may leak refrigerant into the machine room 11A. Examples of such elements include the compressor 22, which is a component of the refrigerant circuit of the heat pump, as well as the expansion valve, the first heat exchanger 27, the second heat exchanger 28, and the refrigerant pipe 24.

[0074] The above describes the basic configuration of the heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment. The heat pump device 10 further includes functions to suppress refrigerant leakage into the installation space of the device. These functions will be explained with reference to Figure 5 and subsequent figures. These functions are particularly useful when the refrigerant is a flammable refrigerant. The following explanation assumes that the refrigerant is a flammable refrigerant.

[0075] <Refrigerant leakage suppression function for heat pump systems> Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. Figure 5 schematically illustrates the portion of the heat pump device 10 that includes the tank storage chamber 11B and the machine room 11A at the bottom of the housing 11. As shown in Figure 5, the machine room 11A and the tank storage chamber 11B are separated by a partition plate 18 that is horizontally arranged at a predetermined height in the Z direction, dividing the space within the housing 11. For example, the partition plate 18 is a rectangular plate material similar to the drawer plate 37 described above.

[0076] As shown in Figure 5, in this embodiment in particular, the heat pump device 10 includes a container 40, a communication passage 41, and an opening / closing mechanism 42 as elements for realizing the refrigerant leakage suppression function.

[0077] The container 40 is a box-shaped structure having a separate space (second chamber) from the machine room 11A (first chamber), and in the first example shown in Figure 5, it is located below the machine room 11A. The container 40 may be located at the bottom of the housing 11 as part of the housing 11 of the heat pump device 10, or it may be connected to the outside of the housing 11, i.e., to the lower surface of the bottom wall 17 of the housing 11.

[0078] The communication passage 41 is a flow path such as a pipe that connects the machine room 11A and the container 40. In this embodiment, the communication passage 41 is an element for discharging flammable refrigerant that has leaked into the machine room 11A to the container 40. In the first example shown in Figure 5, the communication passage 41 is connected between the bottom wall 17 of the machine room 11A and the top surface of the container 40, and connects the machine room 11A and the container 40 by opening to both the bottom wall 17 and the top surface.

[0079] The opening / closing mechanism 42 is provided in the communication passage 41 and is an element that switches between a state of communication and a state of blockage between the machine room 11A and the container 40 by opening and closing the communication passage 41. The opening / closing mechanism 42 is, for example, a single-opening valve body as shown in Figure 5, and can switch between an open state (i.e., a state in which the communication passage 41 is open) and a closed state (i.e., a state in which the communication passage 41 is blocked) by rotating around a pivot axis as shown by arrow A in Figure 5.

[0080] The opening / closing mechanism 42 may be configured to control its opening and closing operation using a drive source such as a motor based on sensor information, or it may be configured to transition from a closed state to an open state according to design conditions such as the pressure difference between the machine room 11A and the container 40. The operation of the opening / closing mechanism 42 will be described later with reference to Figure 10 and other figures.

[0081] The operation of the refrigerant leakage suppression function will now be explained. When the heat pump device 10 is operating normally, that is, when no flammable refrigerant is leaking from the heat pump module 19, the opening / closing mechanism 42 is always kept closed. In this case, as shown in the example in Figure 5, the valve body of the opening / closing mechanism 42 is positioned vertically, sealing the opening of the communication passage 41. As a result, the communication passage 41 is blocked, preventing the flow of gas or fluid between the machine room 11A and the container 40.

[0082] On the other hand, if a flammable refrigerant leak occurs from the heat pump module 19, the opening / closing mechanism 42 switches from the closed state to the open state. In this case, in the example shown in Figure 5, the valve body of the opening / closing mechanism 42 moves downward (towards the inside of the container 40) in the rotational direction indicated by arrow A, releasing the seal on the opening of the communication passage 41. As a result, the communication passage 41 is opened, and the system transitions to a state where gas or fluid can flow between the machine room 11A and the container 40.

[0083] In this embodiment, the flammable refrigerant used has a density greater than that of air, so the flammable refrigerant leaking from the heat pump module 19 moves downward into the machine room 11A and accumulates around the bottom surface of the machine room 11A. In this embodiment, the communication passage 41 opens into the bottom wall 17 of the housing 11, that is, the bottom surface of the machine room 11A. Therefore, the leaked flammable refrigerant is easily guided into the communication passage 41, which opens into the bottom surface of the machine room 11A and extends further downward. As a result, as shown by arrow B in Figure 5, the flammable refrigerant leaked from the heat pump module 19 into the machine room 11A is collected in the container 40 located below the machine room 11A via the communication passage 41. This suppresses the accumulation of flammable refrigerant in the machine room 11A, and thus effectively prevents the flammable refrigerant from leaking from the machine room 11A into the space where the heat pump device 10 is installed.

[0084] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is preferable to provide an adsorption section 43 for adsorbing flammable refrigerant inside the container 40. Various configurations can be adopted for the adsorption section 43. For example, there are four patterns shown in Figure 6.

[0085] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the adsorption section 43. First, as shown in Figure 6(A), one configuration is to arrange a sheet-like bottom adsorbent 43A over the entire bottom surface of the container 40. In this configuration, as described above, the flammable refrigerant used in this embodiment has a higher density than air, so when it flows into the container 40 from the opening of the communication passage 41 on the top surface of the container 40, as shown by arrow B in Figure 6(A), the flammable refrigerant continues to move downwards inside the container 40 and accumulates around the bottom surface of the container 40. In other words, the flammable refrigerant moves towards the bottom adsorbent 43A placed on the bottom surface of the container 40, so the flammable refrigerant can be efficiently adsorbed by the adsorbent.

[0086] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(B), in addition to the bottom adsorbent 43A in Figure 6(A), a sheet-like side adsorbent 43B may be placed on the side of the container 40. In this configuration, the flammable refrigerant floating in the internal space of the container 40 can be adsorbed by the side adsorbent 43B without descending to the bottom surface of the container 40, thus allowing the flammable refrigerant to be adsorbed by the adsorbent even more efficiently.

[0087] Here, as shown in Figure 6(B), in the case where both a bottom adsorbent 43A and a side adsorbent 43B are provided, it is preferable that the thickness T1 of the bottom adsorbent 43A is greater than the thickness T2 of the side adsorbent 43B. It is thought that flammable refrigerants, which have a density greater than air, will move more to the bottom adsorbent 43A than to the side adsorbent 43B. Therefore, by increasing the thickness T1 of the bottom adsorbent 43A, the amount of adsorption by the bottom adsorbent 43A can be increased, and the flammable refrigerant can be recovered more reliably.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(C), in the configuration in which the bottom adsorbent 43A and side adsorbent 43B of Figure 6(B) are provided, a desiccant 44 may also be placed inside the container 40. In this configuration, the desiccant 44 lowers the humidity inside the container 40, making it easier for the bottom adsorbent 43A and side adsorbent 43B to adsorb the flammable refrigerant, thereby improving the adsorption performance of the flammable refrigerant.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(D), instead of a sheet-like adsorbent, a granular adsorbent 43C may be placed inside the container 40. Alternatively, in the configuration shown in Figure 6(D), a desiccant 44 may be placed inside the container 40.

[0090] Alternatively, the entire internal space of the container 40 may be filled with granular or sheet-like adsorbent material.

[0091] Here, it can also be considered that granular adsorbents are aggregated to form a sheet-like adsorbent. In this case, the sheet-like adsorbent can be included as one form of the granular adsorbent. In this embodiment, the terms "adsorption part 43" and "adsorbent" are used as broader concepts that encompass both granular and sheet-like adsorbents.

[0092] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. The overview of Figure 7 is the same as that of Figure 5.

[0093] In the second example shown in Figure 7, a discharge channel 45 is provided further below the container 40. The discharge channel 45 can discharge the flammable refrigerant discharged from the machine room 11A to the outdoors via the connecting passage 41. An element similar to the opening / closing mechanism 42 described above may be provided at the connection point between the discharge channel 45 and the container 40. In this case, the configuration is such that the system transitions to a connected state as appropriate depending on the pressure difference between the container 40 and the discharge channel 45, so that the flammable refrigerant inside the container 40 can be discharged to the outdoors at any time when the pressure inside the container 40 exceeds a desired pressure.

[0094] In the second example shown in Figure 7, the container 40 and the discharge channel 45 function as a "second chamber separated from the machine room 11A (first chamber)". In the second example, the container 40 may be omitted, and the discharge channel 45 may be directly connected to the machine room 11A. In this case, only the discharge channel 45 functions as the second chamber described above.

[0095] In the second example as well, the adsorption unit 43 (such as an adsorbent 43C) and desiccant 44 may be arranged inside the container 40 as the second chamber and the discharge channel 45. However, it is preferable to arrange the adsorption unit 43 and desiccant 44 so that a channel is provided inside the second chamber through which the leaked refrigerant can flow, in order to facilitate the discharge of the leaked refrigerant to the outside from the communication passage 41.

[0096] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a third example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. The overview of Figure 8 is the same as that of Figure 5.

[0097] In the third example shown in Figure 8, an explosion-proof fan 46 is provided in the discharge channel 45. The explosion-proof fan 46 generates an airflow within the discharge channel 45 toward the outside. This configuration eliminates the constraint that the discharge channel 45 must be located below the container 40 so that the flammable refrigerant flows out to the outside by gravity, as in the second example in Figure 7. This improves the flexibility of the placement of the discharge channel 45, allowing it to be positioned adjacent to the heat pump device 10, as shown in Figure 8, thus increasing its versatility.

[0098] In the third example shown in Figure 8, the container 40, the discharge channel 45, and the explosion-proof fan 46 function as a "second chamber separated from the machine room 11A (first chamber)." Alternatively, in the third example, the container 40 may be omitted, and the discharge channel 45 may be directly connected to the machine room 11A. In this case, the discharge channel 45 and the explosion-proof fan 46 function as the aforementioned second chamber.

[0099] In addition, in the second and third examples, the adsorption unit 43 (adsorbent material 43C, etc.) and desiccant 44 may be arranged inside the container 40 as the second chamber and the discharge channel 45. However, it is preferable to arrange the adsorption unit 43 and desiccant 44 so that a channel is provided inside the second chamber through which the leaked refrigerant can flow, in order to facilitate the discharge of the leaked refrigerant to the outside from the communication passage 41.

[0100] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a fourth example of the refrigerant leakage suppression function according to this embodiment. The overview of Figure 9 is the same as that of Figure 5.

[0101] In the fourth example shown in Figure 9, the container 40 is housed inside the machine room 11A. In other words, in the fourth example, the bottom wall 17 of the housing 11 (and the machine room 11A) is positioned below the bottom surface of the container 40. In the configuration of the fourth example, since the container 40 related to the refrigerant leakage suppression function is located inside the housing 11, the refrigerant leakage suppression function can be added without increasing the overall size of the heat pump device 10.

[0102] Next, an example of the operation of the opening / closing mechanism 42 will be described with reference to Figure 10. Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of the control system of the opening / closing mechanism 42.

[0103] As shown in Figure 10, the heat pump device 10 includes a refrigerant leak detection unit 47 and a control unit 48 when controlling the operation of the switching mechanism 42.

[0104] The refrigerant leak detection unit 47 is an element that detects leaks of flammable refrigerant in the machine room 11A. Specifically, it includes a pressure sensor and a concentration sensor. The pressure sensor measures the pressure at its installation location and outputs it to the control unit. The pressure sensor is, for example, placed in the refrigerant circuit of the heat pump module 19 and measures the pressure of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit. Alternatively, the pressure sensor is installed at any location in the machine room 11A and measures the pressure inside the machine room 11A. The concentration sensor is placed in the machine room 11A and measures the concentration of the flammable refrigerant.

[0105] The control unit 48 controls the opening / closing mechanism 42 to maintain or transition between a closed state and an open state based on the detection result from the refrigerant leak detection unit 47. The control method of the opening / closing mechanism 42 by the control unit 48 differs depending on the type of refrigerant leak detection unit 47.

[0106] If the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 is a pressure sensor located in the refrigerant circuit of the heat pump module 19, the control unit 48 can determine that the pressure in the circuit is dropping because refrigerant is leaking from the refrigerant circuit when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined first threshold. In response to this determination, the control unit 48 controls the opening / closing mechanism 42 to open the communication passage 41.

[0107] If the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 is a pressure sensor located inside the machine room 11A, the control unit 48 can determine that the pressure inside the machine room 11A is rising because refrigerant is leaking from the refrigerant circuit when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor exceeds a predetermined second threshold. In response to this determination, the control unit 48 controls the opening / closing mechanism 42 to open the communication passage 41.

[0108] If the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 is a concentration sensor located inside the machine room 11A, the control unit 48 can determine that the concentration inside the machine room 11A is rising because refrigerant is leaking from the refrigerant circuit when the concentration of refrigerant inside the machine room measured by the concentration sensor exceeds a predetermined third threshold. In response to this determination, the control unit 48 controls the opening / closing mechanism 42 to open the communication passage 41.

[0109] Furthermore, the heat pump device 10 may be configured in a way that does not control the operation of the switching mechanism 42. In other words, the switching mechanism 42 may be configured to open and close physically according to environmental conditions. One such configuration is one in which the switching mechanism 42 has a pressure valve. The pressure valve can be structured to open when the pressure in the machine room 11A becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined amount relative to the container 40.

[0110] In this configuration, when flammable refrigerant leaks and the pressure inside the machine room 11A increases, the pressure valve can be mechanically opened to connect the machine room 11A and the container 40. In this configuration, the structure of the opening / closing mechanism 42 can be simplified. In this case, the heat pump device 10 does not need to be equipped with the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 and control unit 48 shown in Figure 10.

[0111] Next, the effects of the heat pump device 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0112] The heat pump device 10 of this embodiment includes a heat pump module 19 that includes a refrigerant circuit filled with a flammable refrigerant to perform a refrigeration cycle, a machine room 11A as a first chamber housing the refrigerant circuit, a container 40 or discharge channel 45 as a second chamber partitioned from the machine room 11A, a connecting passage 41 that connects the machine room 11A and the container 40 or discharge channel 45, and an opening / closing mechanism 42 that opens and closes the connecting passage 41, the opening / closing mechanism 42 opens the connecting passage 41 when flammable refrigerant leaks.

[0113] The machine room 11A of the heat pump device 10 is part of the housing 11, and a door 12a is installed in the portion of the front wall 12 of the housing 11 that includes the machine room 11A. For this reason, the airtightness of the machine room 11A is considered to be weak. In other words, if flammable refrigerant leaks into the machine room 11A and accumulates, there is a risk that the flammable refrigerant will leak from the machine room 11A into the space where the heat pump device 10 is installed, for example, a part of the indoor space of a house 201. In contrast, in this embodiment, with the above configuration, when flammable refrigerant leaks from the refrigerant circuit into the machine room 11A is generated in the machine room 11A, it can be moved from the machine room 11A, which is the first chamber, to the container 40, which is the second chamber, or to the discharge channel 45, via the communication passage 41. As a result, the accumulation of flammable refrigerant leaked into the machine room 11A can be suppressed, and thus the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the installation space of the heat pump device 10 can be suppressed. This makes it less likely for a flammable area to form within the installation space of the heat pump device 10 due to leaked flammable refrigerant.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the machine room 11A is not leaking flammable refrigerant, the opening / closing mechanism 42 maintains a closed state of the communication passage 41. Maintaining this closed state also has advantages. When the opening / closing mechanism 42 closes the communication passage 41, communication between the machine room 11A as the first chamber and the container 40 or discharge passage 45 as the second chamber is cut off. In other words, the machine room 11A can be made into a closed space, so that the pressure inside the machine room 11A as the first chamber can be kept lower than atmospheric pressure while the pressure inside the container 40 or discharge passage 45 as the second chamber remains at atmospheric pressure. If such a pressure relationship is prepared, when the opening / closing mechanism 42 is opened in the event of a refrigerant leak, the pressure in the first chamber is already lower than that in the second chamber, so the leaked refrigerant can be quickly discharged from the machine room 11A to the container 40 or discharge passage 45.

[0115] Furthermore, if the connecting passage 41 is open under normal conditions, it is conceivable that foreign matter such as iron powder generated in the machine room 11A during the operation of the heat pump may flow from the machine room 11A, which is the first chamber, into the container 40 or discharge passage 45, which is the second chamber. In this case, even if the flammable refrigerant is discharged from the machine room 11A, there is a possibility that the flammable refrigerant may ignite in the second chamber, where it is transported, due to sparks caused by friction of foreign matter, for example, due to vibration. In contrast, in this embodiment, by keeping the opening / closing mechanism 42 closed under normal conditions, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from entering the second chamber, thereby preventing ignition of the flammable refrigerant after it is discharged from the machine room 11A.

[0116] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the heat pump device 10 does not have a refrigerant circuit in the container 40 which serves as the second chamber and in the discharge channel 45.

[0117] This configuration ensures that the refrigerant circuit, which is the source of leaked refrigerant, and the second chamber, where the leaked refrigerant is stored, are reliably separated, thereby more effectively suppressing the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the installation space of the heat pump device 10.

[0118] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that an adsorption section 43 (adsorbent) for adsorbing flammable refrigerant is arranged inside the container 40 or the discharge channel 45, which serves as the second chamber. This configuration allows leaked refrigerant to be more reliably retained in the second chamber.

[0119] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that a desiccant 44 is placed inside the container 40 or the discharge channel 45, which serves as the second chamber. This configuration promotes the adsorption of leaked refrigerant by the adsorption unit 43.

[0120] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that the communication passage 41 opens to the lower part of the machine room 11A. With this configuration, especially when using a refrigerant with a density greater than air, leaked refrigerant accumulating in the lower part of the machine room 11A can be quickly discharged from the communication passage 41.

[0121] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the container 40 or discharge channel 45 as the second chamber is preferably located below the machine room 11A, and the communication passage 41 preferably connects the bottom surface (bottom wall 17) of the machine room 11A with the top surface of the second chamber. With this configuration, the communication passage 41 opens to the bottom wall 17 of the machine room 11A, that is, to the lowest part of the machine room 11A. This allows leaked refrigerant accumulating at the bottom of the machine room 11A to be discharged more quickly from the communication passage 41, especially when using a refrigerant with a density greater than air.

[0122] Furthermore, the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a refrigerant leak detection unit 47 that detects the leakage of flammable refrigerant in the machine room 11A, and it is preferable that the opening / closing mechanism 42 opens the communication passage 41 when a leak is detected by the refrigerant leak detection unit 47. With this configuration, the occurrence of flammable refrigerant leakage in the machine room 11A and the transition of the opening / closing mechanism 42 to the open state can be linked with high precision, so that the discharge of leaked refrigerant from the machine room 11A can be carried out more reliably, and the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the installation space of the heat pump device 10 can be suppressed more reliably.

[0123] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 includes a pressure sensor, and the opening / closing mechanism 42 opens and closes the communication passage 41 based on the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor. With this configuration, the occurrence of a leak of flammable refrigerant into the machine room 11A can be detected with high accuracy based on pressure changes.

[0124] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure sensor is located within the refrigerant circuit, and the opening / closing mechanism 42 preferably opens the communication passage when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined first threshold. With this configuration, the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the machine room 11A can be accurately detected based on a drop in the pressure of the refrigerant circulating within the refrigerant circuit.

[0125] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure sensor is located inside the machine room 11A, and the opening / closing mechanism 42 preferably opens the communication passage 41 when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor exceeds a predetermined second threshold. With this configuration, the leakage of flammable refrigerant into the machine room 11A can be detected with high accuracy based on the pressure rise inside the machine room 11A.

[0126] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the refrigerant leak detection unit 47 is located in the machine room 11A and includes a concentration sensor for measuring the concentration of flammable refrigerant. The opening / closing mechanism 42 preferably opens the communication passage when the concentration measured by the concentration sensor exceeds a predetermined third threshold. With this configuration, the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak into the machine room 11A can be accurately detected based on an increase in the refrigerant concentration in the machine room 11A.

[0127] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the switching mechanism 42 includes a pressure valve that opens when the pressure in the machine room 11A, which is the first chamber, becomes greater than a predetermined amount relative to the container 40 or discharge passage 45, which is the second chamber, and it is preferable that the pressure valve opens when a flammable refrigerant leaks, connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. With this configuration, there is no need to provide a control system for the switching operation of the switching mechanism 42, so the structure of the switching mechanism 42 and the refrigerant leakage suppression function of the heat pump device 10 can be simplified.

[0128] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the second chamber is a container 40 that contains the flammable refrigerant discharged from the machine room 11A, which is the first chamber, via the connecting passage 41. The flammable refrigerant is a refrigerant with a density greater than that of air, and it is preferable that a bottom adsorbent 43A for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant is placed on the bottom wall of the container 40.

[0129] This configuration allows the flammable refrigerant to be stored inside the enclosed container 40, thus enabling safer storage of the flammable refrigerant discharged from the machine room 11A. Furthermore, since the refrigerant, which has a density greater than that of air, tends to accumulate at the bottom of the container 40, providing a bottom adsorbent 43A makes it easier to adsorb the flammable refrigerant that accumulates inside the container 40 onto the adsorbent.

[0130] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that a side adsorbent 43B for adsorbing flammable refrigerant is arranged on the side wall of the container 40. With this configuration, flammable refrigerant can be adsorbed not only by the bottom adsorbent 43A but also by the side adsorbent 43B, so that the flammable refrigerant remaining in the container 40 can be more reliably adsorbed by the adsorbent.

[0131] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that the bottom adsorbent 43A is formed to be thicker than the side adsorbent 43B. Since refrigerants with a density greater than air tend to accumulate at the bottom of the container 40, increasing the volume by making the bottom adsorbent 43A thicker makes it easier for the adsorbent to adsorb the flammable refrigerant that accumulates in the container 40.

[0132] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, it is preferable that the heat pump device 10 is installed indoors, and the second chamber is equipped with a discharge channel 45 that discharges the flammable refrigerant discharged from the machine room 11A, which is the first chamber, to the outdoors via the connecting passage 41. With this configuration, the flammable refrigerant can be reliably discharged to the outdoors via the discharge channel 45.

[0133] Furthermore, in the heat pump device 10 of this embodiment, the second chamber is preferably provided in the discharge channel 45 and equipped with an explosion-proof fan 46 that generates an airflow toward the outdoors within the discharge channel 45. This configuration allows for reliable discharge of the flammable refrigerant to the outdoors regardless of the orientation of the discharge channel 45, thereby improving the flexibility of the arrangement of the discharge channel 45 and enhancing its versatility.

[0134] The embodiments have been described above with reference to specific examples. However, this disclosure is not limited to these specific examples. Modifications made to these specific examples by those skilled in the art are also included within the scope of this disclosure, as long as they retain the features of this disclosure. The elements, their arrangement, conditions, shapes, etc., of each of the aforementioned specific examples are not limited to those illustrated and can be modified as appropriate. The elements of each of the aforementioned specific examples can be combined in different ways as appropriate, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 10 Heat pump system 11A Machine room (1st room) 11B Tank storage room 11C Piping Room 19. Heat pump module (refrigerant circuit) 40 Container (2nd chamber) 41 Communication path 42 Opening and closing mechanism 43 Adsorption part 43A Bottom adsorbent 43B Side Adhesive 43C Adsorbent 44 Desiccant 45. Discharge channel (second chamber) 46. ​​Explosion-proof fan (Cabinet 2) 47 Refrigerant leak detection unit 48 Control Unit 100 Heat Pump Systems

Claims

1. A refrigerant circuit (19) filled with a flammable refrigerant to perform the refrigeration cycle, The first chamber (11A) housing the refrigerant circuit, The second room (40, 45) is separated from the first room, A connecting passage (41) between the first chamber and the second chamber, An opening and closing mechanism (42) for opening and closing the aforementioned passage, Equipped with, The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the communication passage (41) when the flammable refrigerant leaks. Heat pump device (10).

2. The second chamber (40, 45) does not have the refrigerant circuit (19). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

3. Adsorbent materials (43, 43A, 43B, 43C) for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant are arranged inside the second chambers (40, 45). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

4. A desiccant (44) is placed inside the second chamber (40, 45). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned connecting passage (41) is opened at the lower part of the first chamber (11A), The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

6. The second chamber (40, 45) is located below the first chamber (11A), The aforementioned connecting passage (41) connects the bottom surface of the first chamber (11A) and the top surface of the second chamber. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 5.

7. The system includes a refrigerant leak detection unit (47) for detecting leakage of the flammable refrigerant in the first chamber (11A), The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the communication passage (41) when the refrigerant leak detection unit (47) detects the leak. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

8. The refrigerant leak detection unit (47) includes a pressure sensor. The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens and closes the communication passage (41) based on the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 7.

9. The pressure sensor is located within the refrigerant circuit (19). The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the communication passage (41) when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined first threshold. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 8.

10. The pressure sensor is located in the first chamber (11A). The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the communication passage (41) when the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The refrigerant leak detection unit (47) is located in the first chamber (11A) and includes a concentration sensor for measuring the concentration of the flammable refrigerant. The opening / closing mechanism (42) opens the communication passage (41) when the concentration measured by the concentration sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined third threshold. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 7.

12. The opening / closing mechanism (42) includes a pressure valve that opens when the pressure in the first chamber (11A) becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined amount relative to the second chambers (40, 45), and when the flammable refrigerant leaks, the pressure valve opens to connect the first chamber and the second chamber. The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

13. The second chamber (40, 45) is a container (40) that contains the flammable refrigerant discharged from the first chamber (11A) via the connecting passage (41), The aforementioned flammable refrigerant is a refrigerant with a density greater than that of air. A bottom adsorbent (43A) for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant is placed on the bottom wall of the container (40). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

14. A side adsorbent (43B) for adsorbing the flammable refrigerant is placed on the side wall of the container (40). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 13.

15. The bottom adsorbent (43A) is formed to be thicker than the side adsorbent (43B). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 14.

16. The heat pump device (10) is installed indoors. The second chamber (40, 45) is provided with a discharge channel (45) for discharging the flammable refrigerant discharged from the first chamber (11A) to the outside via the connecting passage (41). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 1.

17. The second chamber is provided in the discharge channel (45) and includes an explosion-proof fan (46) that generates an airflow toward the outside within the discharge channel (45). The heat pump device (10) according to claim 16.

Images