Heat pump system

Abstract

We provide a heat pump system that effectively utilizes the heat from the exhaust of a combustion device. [Solution] The heat pump system 1 includes a first heat pump section 311. The heat pump system 1 comprises a combustion device 211 and a first cascade equipment 481. The combustion device 211 is a device that burns objects. The first cascade equipment 481 utilizes the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, in stages. Therefore, the heat from the exhaust of the combustion device 211 can be utilized more effectively than when the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is simply discharged to the outside.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat pump system that utilizes the heat of the exhaust gas of a combustion device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a system using a combustion device for burning an object is known. For example, in the system described in Patent Document 1, fuel is burned in a combustion chamber (i.e., a combustion device) of a power generation boiler to generate electricity. An exhaust pipe is connected to the combustion chamber. The exhaust pipe is connected to a dust collection device, and after the combustion ash is collected by the dust collection device, the exhaust gas is discharged into the atmosphere.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional system, the heat of the exhaust gas of the combustion device is not utilized by other devices, and the exhaust gas is discharged to the outside. Therefore, there is an aspect that the heat of the exhaust gas of the combustion device cannot be effectively utilized.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a heat pump system that effectively utilizes the heat of the exhaust gas of a combustion device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The heat pump system according to the present invention is a heat pump system including a first heat pump section, comprising a combustion device for burning an object, and a first cascade facility including the first heat pump section, which utilizes the heat originating from a first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, in stages. In this case, the heat originating from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in stages by the first cascade facility. Therefore, the heat from the exhaust of the combustion device can be utilized more effectively than when the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is simply discharged to the outside.

[0007] In the heat pump system described above, the first cascade equipment comprises a first heat exchanger, a first device, the first heat pump unit, and a second device. The first heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the first heat medium and the second heat medium, heating the second heat medium. The first device is located downstream of the first heat exchanger and utilizes the heat of the second heat medium heated in the first heat exchanger. The first heat pump unit utilizes the heat derived from the second heat medium to heat the fourth heat medium in a heat pump manner. The second device may utilize the heat of the fourth heat medium heated in the first heat pump unit. In this case, the heat of the second heat medium is utilized in the first device. Then, the heat derived from the heat of the second heat medium after its utilization is utilized in the second device via the first heat pump unit. That is, the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in two stages by the first and second devices. Therefore, the heat of the first heat medium can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in only one stage by the first device.

[0008] In the heat pump system described above, the first cascade equipment may include a third device that utilizes the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium after its temperature has decreased due to the utilization of heat in the first heat pump unit. In this case, the first heat pump unit heats the fourth heat transfer medium using a heat pump method by utilizing the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium. The heat of the fourth heat transfer medium heated in the first heat pump unit is utilized by the second device. Then, the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium after its temperature has decreased due to the utilization of heat in the first heat pump unit is utilized by the third device. In other words, the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in three stages: the first device, the second device, and the third device. Therefore, the heat of the first heat transfer medium can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in only two stages: the first device and the second device.

[0009] The heat pump system includes a ground heat exchanger that heats or cools a sixth heat transfer medium by heat exchange with the ground, and a second heat pump unit, and may also include a second cascade unit that utilizes the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium heated by the ground heat exchanger in stages. In this case, the second cascade unit can utilize the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium heated in the ground heat exchanger in stages. Therefore, heat can be utilized more effectively than when only the first cascade unit is provided.

[0010] In the heat pump system described above, the second cascade equipment includes the first and third devices, and the second heat pump section heats the seventh heat medium by heat pump method using the heat of the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger, the first device uses the heat of the seventh heat medium heated in the second heat pump section, and the third device may use the heat derived from the seventh heat medium after the heat has been used in the first device. In this case, the heat of the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger is collected in the second heat pump section and the seventh heat medium is heated. The heat of the heated seventh heat medium is used in the first device. Furthermore, the heat derived from the seventh heat medium after it has been used in the first device is used in the third device. That is, the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated by the ground heat exchanger is used in two stages by the first and third devices. Therefore, the heat of the sixth heat medium can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated by the ground heat exchanger is used in only one stage by the first device.

[0011] In the heat pump system described above, the second device may utilize the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium heated in the second heat pump section. In this case, the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium is utilized in the second device. That is, the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium heated by the geothermal heat exchanger is utilized not only in the first and third devices but also in the second device. Therefore, the heat of the sixth heat transfer medium can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium heated by the geothermal heat exchanger is utilized only in the first and third devices.

[0012] In the heat pump system described above, the second heat pump section cools the eighth heat transfer medium by a heat pump method using the heat of the sixth heat transfer medium cooled in the ground heat exchanger, and the heat pump system may also include a fourth device that utilizes the heat of the eighth heat transfer medium cooled in the second heat pump section. In this case, the fourth device can effectively utilize the heat (cold) of the eighth heat transfer medium cooled in the second heat pump section.

[0013] In the heat pump system described above, the first cascade equipment is provided downstream of the first device and includes a second heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium and the third heat transfer medium and heats the third heat transfer medium. The first heat pump unit uses the heat of the third heat transfer medium heated in the second heat exchanger to heat the fourth heat transfer medium in a heat pump manner, and the second device may use the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium heated in the first heat pump unit. In this case, the heat of the second heat transfer medium is used in the first device. Then, the heat of the second heat transfer medium after its heat has been used is used in the second device via the second heat exchanger and the first heat pump unit. That is, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is used in two stages, in the first device and the second device. Therefore, the heat of the first heat transfer medium can be used more effectively than when the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is used in one stage, in the first device only. Furthermore, by providing a second heat exchanger, it is possible to use different types of heat transfer mediums for the second heat transfer medium and the third heat transfer medium, for example.

[0014] In the heat pump system described above, the first cascade equipment is provided downstream of the second heat exchanger and includes a third heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the second heat medium and the fifth heat medium and heats the fifth heat medium, and the third equipment may utilize the heat of the fifth heat medium heated in the third heat exchanger. In this case, heat exchange is performed in the second heat exchanger in order to utilize the heat in the second equipment. Then, the heat of the second heat medium after it has been used for heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is utilized in the third equipment via the third heat exchanger. That is, the heat originating from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in three stages: the first equipment, the second equipment, and the third equipment. Therefore, the heat of the first heat medium can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat originating from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in only two stages: the first equipment and the second equipment. Furthermore, by providing a third heat exchanger, it is possible to use different types of heat mediums for the second heat medium and the fifth heat medium, for example.

[0015] The heat pump system includes a first-mode operation control means for operating the heat pump system in a first mode, wherein the first mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in stages in the first, second, and third devices, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium, which is heated in the ground heat exchanger, is utilized in the second device. In this case, in the first mode, the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized in three stages in the first, second, and third devices. Furthermore, in the second device, in addition to the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, the heat derived from the sixth heat medium, which is heated by the ground heat exchanger, is also utilized. Therefore, the second device can utilize heat more effectively than when only the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is utilized.

[0016] The heat pump system includes a second-mode operation control means for operating the heat pump system in a second mode, wherein the second mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger is utilized in stages in the first and third devices, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium is utilized in the second device. In this case, the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger can be utilized in stages in the first and third devices, and also in the second device. For this reason, for example, even when the combustion device is stopped and the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is not generated, the sixth heat medium can be heated in the ground heat exchanger, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium can be utilized in the first, third, and second devices. Thus, even when the combustion device is stopped, the utilization of heat in the first, third, and second devices can continue.

[0017] The heat pump system includes a third-mode operation control means for operating the heat pump system in a third mode, wherein the third mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust gas of the combustion device, is utilized in the first device, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium, which is cooled in the ground heat exchanger, is utilized in the fourth device. In this case, for example, during periods of high ambient temperature such as summer, the heat (cold) of the sixth heat medium cooled in the ground heat exchanger can be utilized in the fourth device. Furthermore, the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust gas of the combustion device, can also be utilized in the first device.

[0018] The heat pump system includes a fourth-mode operation control means for operating the heat pump system in a fourth mode, the fourth mode being an operating mode in which heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, is supplied to the ground heat exchanger to heat the ground in the ground heat exchanger. In this case, the ground can be heated using the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device. For example, when the combustion device is in operation and there is no demand for using the heat derived from the first heat medium in the first, second, third, and fourth devices, the ground can be heated. As a result, the amount of thermal energy stored in the ground increases compared to when the fourth mode is not performed. Therefore, compared to when the ground cannot be heated, when using geothermal energy in the first or second mode after the fourth mode has finished, geothermal energy can be used for a longer period of time.

[0019] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the first device may be a device installed in the first facility that heats the first crop cultivated in the first facility. In this case, the first crop can be cultivated by heating the first crop using the first device. Therefore, for example, the first crop can be cultivated even during periods when crops are difficult to grow, such as in winter.

[0020] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the second device may be a device installed in the second facility that heats the second crop cultivated in the second facility. In this case, the second crop can be heated and cultivated using the second device. Therefore, for example, the second crop can be cultivated even during periods when crops are difficult to grow, such as in winter.

[0021] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the third device may be a snow melting device. In this case, snow can be melted by the snow melting device. For this reason, for example, snow in a parking lot can be melted to improve the safety of people and vehicles.

[0022] In the heat pump system, the temperature at which the first crop is heated by the first device may be higher than the temperature at which the second crop is heated by the second device. Since the combustion device is a device that burns an object, it can raise the temperature of the first heat transfer medium compared to a device that does not burn. Therefore, even without a heat pump section, the first crop can be heated by the first device at a higher temperature than by the second device. As a result, the first crop 981, which grows at higher temperatures, can be cultivated, and profits can be earned by selling the first crop 981.

[0023] In the heat pump system described above, the second device may be a pinpoint heating device that provides pinpoint heating to a portion of the second crop. In this case, since the second device heats only a portion of the second crop by pinpoint heating, the consumption of thermal energy in the second device can be reduced compared to heating the entire second facility. Therefore, compared to the case without pinpoint heating, the thermal energy consumed by the first device can be increased, or the thermal energy consumed by the third device can be increased. Thus, the first crop can be cultivated at a higher temperature in the first device, or snow can be melted at a higher temperature in the third device.

[0024] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, a temperature adjustment control means may be provided to control the second device and change the temperature at which the second crop is heated for a predetermined time that can promote the growth of the second crop. Some crops can have their growth promoted by changing the temperature at which they are heated, such as raising the temperature at a predetermined time during the day. In the present invention, since the temperature at which the second crop is heated can be changed for a predetermined time that can promote the growth of the second crop, the growth of the second crop can be promoted compared to when the temperature is constant.

[0025] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the third mode by the third mode operation control means, the first facility may be a house, and the first device may be a device for drying the third crop arranged in the first facility. In this case, since the third mode is performed at a time when the sixth heat medium can be cooled in the ground heat exchanger, for example, it is an operation mode executed in summer. In summer, it is often possible to cultivate crops without using the house. Therefore, there may be cases where the house as the first facility does not need to be used for cultivating crops. In this summer, the third crop can be dried using the first device. Thus, compared to the case where the house as the first facility is not used at all in summer, the house can be effectively utilized.

[0026] In the heat pump system, when the heat pump system is operated in the third mode by the third mode operation control means, the fourth device may be a cooling device provided in the front chamber arranged in front of the second facility for cooling the front chamber. In this case, for example, in summer, the front chamber can be cooled by using the heat (cooling heat) derived from the sixth heat medium cooled by the ground heat exchanger.

[0027] In the heat pump system, the first crop may be fungi, and the second crop may be a crop cultivated at a temperature lower than that of fungi. If the first facility and the second facility are houses, in cold regions, in winter, the houses are often covered with snow. Since the cultivation of fungi (for example, mushrooms, etc.) does not require sunlight, even if the house as the first facility is covered with snow and the inside of the house becomes dark, cultivation is possible. Therefore, in winter, by effectively using the heat generated by the combustion device to grow and sell fungi, profits can be obtained.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the heat pump system 1 executing the first mode. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of heat pump system 1. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of heat pump system 1 operating in second mode. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of heat pump system 1 operating in third mode. [Figure 5] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of heat pump system 1 operating in the fourth mode. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart of the main process. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart that continues from Figure 6. [Figure 8] This is another flowchart, a continuation of Figure 7. [Figure 9] This figure shows a schematic configuration of the heat pump system 1A of the second embodiment, which is operating in the first mode. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of heat pump system 1A operating in the fourth mode. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] The following describes a heat pump system 1 embodying the present invention. The heat pump system 1 is equipment installed in a location where a combustion device 211 for burning objects is provided. The combustion device 211 is, for example, a combustion furnace, a boiler for biomass power generation, and a boiler for thermal power generation. In the present invention, as an example, the combustion device 211 is assumed to be a combustion furnace that burns oyster shells to produce oyster shell powder.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the heat pump system 1 in the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a combustion device 211, a first heat exchanger 212, a second heat exchanger 313, a third heat exchanger 213, a first heat pump unit 311, a second heat pump unit 312, a ground heat exchanger 41, an operating terminal 98, a first device 321, a second device 331, a third device 341, and a fourth device 351.

[0031] In the following description, the heat transfer fluids are described separately as the second heat transfer fluid 62, third heat transfer fluid 63, fourth heat transfer fluid 64, fifth heat transfer fluid 65, sixth heat transfer fluid 66, seventh heat transfer fluid 67, and eighth heat transfer fluid 68, depending on the difference in the flow path. However, as an example, the types of heat transfer fluids are assumed to be the same. The types of heat transfer fluids may be different. In this embodiment, the second heat transfer fluid 62, third heat transfer fluid 63, fourth heat transfer fluid 64, fifth heat transfer fluid 65, sixth heat transfer fluid 66, seventh heat transfer fluid 67, and eighth heat transfer fluid 68 are assumed to be water or antifreeze, as an example.

[0032] The first heat exchanger 212 is a device that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer medium 61 and the second heat transfer medium 62, and heats the second heat transfer medium 62 (see Figures 1, 4, and 5). The first device 321 is located downstream of the first heat exchanger 212 and is a device that utilizes the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 heated in the first heat exchanger 212 (see Figures 1 and 4). When the second mode, which will be described later, is performed, the first device 321 utilizes the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 heated in the second heat pump section 312.

[0033] The second heat exchanger 313 is located downstream of the first device 321 and is a device that performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63, thereby heating the third heat transfer medium 63 (see Figures 1 and 5). In the case of the fourth mode, which will be described later, the second heat exchanger 313 performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63, thereby heating the third heat transfer medium 63.

[0034] The first heat pump unit 311 heats the fourth heat transfer medium 64 using a heat pump method, utilizing the heat originating from the second heat transfer medium 62. In this embodiment, the first heat pump unit 311 heats the fourth heat transfer medium 64 using a heat pump method, utilizing the heat of the third heat transfer medium 63 heated in the second heat exchanger 313 (see Figure 1). The second device 331 utilizes the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 heated in the first heat pump unit 311. When the first mode, which will be described later, is performed, the second device 331 utilizes the heat of the heat transfer medium formed by the combination of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 (see Figure 1). When the second mode, which will be described later, is performed, the second device 331 utilizes the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 heated in the second heat pump unit 312 (see Figure 3).

[0035] The third heat exchanger 213 is located downstream of the second heat exchanger 313 and is a device that performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium 62 and the fifth heat transfer medium 65, heating the fifth heat transfer medium 65 (see Figure 1). In the case of the second mode, which will be described later, the third heat exchanger 213 uses the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67, which has been used in the first device 321, to heat the fifth heat transfer medium 65 (see Figure 3). The third device 341 is a device that uses the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62, which has cooled down after heat has been used in the first heat pump unit 311. As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, in order to use the heat in the first heat pump unit 311, heat exchange occurs between the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63 in the second heat exchanger 313, and the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases. The heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 after its temperature has decreased heats the fifth heat transfer medium 65 in the third heat exchanger 213. The third device 341 utilizes the heat of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 heated in the third heat exchanger 213.

[0036] The ground heat exchanger 41 is a device that heats or cools the sixth heat transfer medium by heat exchange with the ground. The second heat pump unit 312 uses the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 to heat the seventh heat transfer medium 67 using a heat pump system. In the case of the third mode described later, the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 cooled in the ground heat exchanger 41 is used to cool the eighth heat transfer medium using a heat pump system (see Figure 4). The fourth device 351 is a device that uses the heat from the eighth heat transfer medium 68 cooled in the second heat pump unit 312 (see Figure 4).

[0037] Furthermore, the heat pump system 1 includes a first cascade unit 481 and a second cascade unit 482. In this embodiment, "cascade" refers to the use of heat in stages. The first cascade unit 481 includes a first heat pump unit 311 and is a unit that uses heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, in stages. The second cascade unit 482 includes a ground heat exchanger 41 and a second heat pump unit 312 and is a unit that uses heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which is heated by the ground heat exchanger 41, in stages.

[0038] The first cascade system 481 includes a first heat exchanger 212, a first device 321, a second heat exchanger 313, a first heat pump unit 311, a second device 331, a third heat exchanger 213, and a third device 341. The second cascade system 482 includes a ground heat exchanger 41, a second heat pump unit 312, a first device 321, a third heat exchanger 213, and a third device 341.

[0039] The combustion device 211 is installed in the factory 21. The first device 321 is installed in the first greenhouse 32. During the winter, when the first mode (see Figure 1) and second mode (see Figure 3), which will be described later, are performed, the first crop 981 is cultivated in the first greenhouse 32. The first device 321 is a device that heats the first crop 981 cultivated in the first greenhouse 32. In this embodiment, as an example, the first device 321 is an air conditioning device that adjusts the temperature inside the first greenhouse 32.

[0040] During the summer, when the third mode (see Figure 4), described later, is performed, the third crop 983 is dried in the first greenhouse 32. The first device 321 is a device for drying the third crop 983 placed in the first greenhouse 32. The third crop 983 is, for example, garlic.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first device 321 that heats the first crop 981 in winter when the first mode (see Figure 1) and second mode (see Figure 3) are performed, and the first device 321 that dries the third crop 983 in summer when the third mode (see Figure 4) is performed are the same device, differing only in the set temperature. However, the first device 321 that heats the first crop 981 in winter when the first mode (see Figure 1) and second mode (see Figure 3) are performed, and the first device 321 that dries the third crop 983 in summer when the third mode (see Figure 4) is performed, may be different devices.

[0042] The second device 331 is installed in each of the three second greenhouses 33. During the winter, when the first mode (see Figure 1) and second mode (see Figure 3) described later are implemented, the second crop 982 is cultivated in the second greenhouses 33. The second device 331 is a device for heating the second crop 982 cultivated in the second greenhouses 33.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first crop 981 is a crop cultivated at a higher temperature than the second crop 982. Therefore, when the first mode (see Figure 1) and the second mode (see Figure 3), which will be described later, are executed, the temperature at which the first device 321 heats the first crop 981 is higher than the temperature at which the second device 331 heats the second crop 982. In this embodiment, as an example, the first crop 981 is a fungus (for example, a mushroom). The second crop 982 is a crop cultivated at a lower temperature than the fungus. As an example, the second crop 982 is a fruit vegetable (for example, a tomato).

[0044] In this embodiment, as an example, the second device 331 is a pinpoint heating device that provides pinpoint heating to a portion of the second crop 982. For example, the second device 331 heats the roots of the second crop 982 to promote its growth.

[0045] The third device 341 is, for example, installed on the ground of the parking lot 34. In this embodiment, the third device 341 is, for example, a snow melting device. The location where the third device 341 is installed is not limited to the parking lot 34, but may be, for example, the entrance of a building, a road, etc.

[0046] The fourth device 351 is installed in the anteroom 35, which is located in front of the second house 33. During the summer, when the third mode, which will be described later, is performed, the anteroom 35 is cooled. The fourth device 351 is a cooling device that cools the anteroom.

[0047] Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the heat pump system 1 will be described in more detail. The combustion device 211, the first heat exchanger 212, the tank 219, and the third heat exchanger 213 are located in the factory 21. The first heat pump unit 311, the second heat pump unit 312, and the second heat exchanger 313 are located in the equipment storage area 31. The fourth device 351 is located in the anteroom 35. The anteroom 35 is a room located in front of the second house 33.

[0048] One end of flow path 801 is connected to the combustion device 211, and the other end is connected to the branching section 901. One end of flow path 802 is connected to the branching section 901, and the other end is connected to the first heat exchanger 212. Flow path 802 is connected to one end of flow path 803 via a flow path within the first heat exchanger 212. The other end of flow path 803 is connected to a three-way valve 994. One end of flow path 804 is connected to the branching section 901, and the other end is connected to a three-way valve 994. One end of flow path 805 is connected to a three-way valve 994. Flow path 805 extends outside the factory 21. The other end of flow path 805 is open and is a flow path through which the first heat transfer medium 61 is exhausted.

[0049] One end of the flow path 806 is connected to the first heat exchanger 212, and the other end is connected to the tank 219. A pump 951 is provided in the flow path 806. One end of the flow path 806 is connected to one end of the flow path 807 via a flow path in the first heat exchanger 212. The other end of the flow path 807 is connected to the tank 219.

[0050] One end of the flow path 871 is connected to the tank 219, and the other end is connected to the branch 903. A shut-off valve 972 is provided in the flow path 871. One end of the flow path 872 is connected to the branch 903. The flow path 872 extends to the equipment storage area 31 located outside the factory 21. The other end of the flow path 872 is connected to a three-way valve 991. A pump 950, a flow sensor 740, and a temperature sensor 799 are provided in the part of the flow path 872 on the factory 21 side.

[0051] One end of the flow path 812 is connected to the three-way valve 991, and the other end is connected to the branch section 911. One end of the flow path 813 is connected to the branch section 911, and the other end is connected to the three-way valve 992.

[0052] One end of the flow path 814 is connected to the three-way valve 992, and the other end is connected to the branch section 912. One end of the flow path 815 is connected to the branch section 912, and the other end is connected to the second heat exchanger 313. A temperature sensor 782 and a pump 952 are provided in the flow path 815.

[0053] Flow path 815 is connected to one end of flow path 816 via a flow path in the second heat exchanger 313. The other end of flow path 816 is connected to the three-way valve 993. One end of flow path 817 is connected to the branch section 912, and the other end is connected to the three-way valve 993. One end of flow path 818 is connected to the three-way valve 993, and the other end is connected to the branch section 913.

[0054] One end of the flow path 819 is connected to branch section 913, and the other end is connected to branch section 914. A shut-off valve 964 is provided in the flow path 819. One end of the flow path 820 is connected to branch section 914, and the other end is connected to branch section 916. One end of the flow path 828 is connected to branch section 916, and the other end is connected to a three-way valve 990. One end of the flow path 821 is connected to a three-way valve 990, and the other end is connected to branch section 917.

[0055] One end of the flow path 823 is connected to the branching section 917, and the other end is connected to the third heat exchanger 213 of the factory 21. The flow path 823 is connected to one end of the flow path 808 via a flow path within the third heat exchanger 213. The other end of the flow path 808 is connected to the branching section 904.

[0056] One end of the flow path 873 is connected to the branch section 904, and the other end is connected to the tank 219. A temperature sensor 798 is provided in the flow path 873. One end of the flow path 874 is connected to the branch section 904, and the other end is connected to the branch section 903. An on / off valve 973 is provided in the flow path 874.

[0057] One end of flow path 824 is connected to a three-way valve 991, and the other end is connected to a branch section 917. One end of flow path 825 is connected to a three-way valve 990, and the other end is connected to the first device 321 of the first house 32. Flow path 825 is connected to one end of flow path 870 via a flow path within the first device 321. The other end of flow path 870 is connected to a branch section 916. A temperature sensor 796 is provided in flow path 870.

[0058] One end of the flow path 826 is connected to the branch section 911, and the other end is connected to the first device 321. A temperature sensor 795 is provided in the flow path 826. The flow path 826 is connected to one end of the flow path 827 via a flow path in the first device 321. The other end of the flow path 827 is connected to the three-way valve 992.

[0059] One end of the flow path 809 is connected to the third heat exchanger 213, and the other end is connected to the third device 341. A pump 957 is provided in the flow path 809. One end of the flow path 810 is connected to the third heat exchanger 213, and the other end is connected to the third device 341. The flow path 809 is connected to the flow path 810 via a flow path within the third heat exchanger 213. The flow path 809 is connected to the flow path 810 via a flow path within the third device 341.

[0060] One end of the flow path 841 is connected to the second heat exchanger 313, and the other end is connected to the branch section 921. A pump 953 and a temperature sensor 783 are provided in the flow path 841. One end of the flow path 842 is connected to the branch section 921, and the other end is connected to the first heat pump section 311. An on-off valve 967 is provided in the flow path 842. The flow path 842 is connected to one end of the flow path 849 via a flow path within the first heat pump section 311. The other end of the flow path 849 is connected to the branch section 923. An on-off valve 966 is provided in the flow path 849.

[0061] One end of the flow path 845 is connected to the second heat exchanger 313, and the other end is connected to the branch section 923. A temperature sensor 784 is provided in the flow path 845. One end of the flow path 846 is connected to the branch section 923, and the other end is connected to the branch section 922. An on-off valve 968 is provided in the flow path 846. The flow path 847 is connected to the branch section 922, and the other end is connected to the second heat pump section 312. An on-off valve 971 is provided in the flow path 847.

[0062] Flow path 847 is connected to one end of flow path 850 via a flow path within the second heat pump section 312. The other end of flow path 850 is connected to branch section 933. One end of flow path 843 is connected to branch section 921, and the other end is connected to branch section 933. A shut-off valve 969 is provided in flow path 843.

[0063] One end of the flow path 851 is connected to the branch section 933, and the other end is connected to the ground heat exchanger 41. The flow path 851 is equipped with an on / off valve 970 and a temperature sensor 789. The ground heat exchanger 41 is composed of two ground heat exchangers 411 and 412 that extend into the ground and are connected in parallel.

[0064] The flow path 851 is connected to one end of the flow path 852 via the ground heat exchanger 41. The other end of the flow path 852 is connected to the branch section 922. The flow path 852 is equipped with a temperature sensor 788 and a pump 954.

[0065] One end of the flow path 861 is connected to the first heat pump unit 311, and the other end is connected to the second header 892 at the branching section 925. The second header 892 is a flow path connected to multiple flow paths. The flow path 861 is equipped with a temperature sensor 786, a flow sensor 741, and a pump 955. The flow path 861 is connected to one end of the flow path 863 via a flow path within the first heat pump unit 311. The other end of the flow path 863 is connected to the branching section 924. The flow path 863 is equipped with a temperature sensor 787.

[0066] One end of the flow path 862 is connected to the second heat pump unit 312, and the other end is connected to the second header 892 at the branching section 926. The flow path 862 is equipped with a temperature sensor 790, a flow sensor 742, and a pump 956. The flow path 862 is connected to one end of the flow path 865 via a flow path within the second heat pump unit 312. The other end of the flow path 865 is connected to the branching section 924. One end of the flow path 864 is connected to the branching section 924, and the other end is connected to the first header 891 at the branching section 929. The first header 891 is a flow path connected to multiple flow paths.

[0067] One end of the flow path 866 is connected to the branch section 913, and the other end is connected to the second header 892 at the branch section 927. The flow path 866 is equipped with an on-off valve 965 and a temperature sensor 791. One end of the flow path 867 is connected to the branch section 914, and the other end is connected to the first header 891 at the branch section 930. The flow path 867 is equipped with a temperature sensor 793 and an on-off valve 974.

[0068] One end of the flow path 868 is connected to the second header 892 at the branching section 928. The other end of the flow path 868 is connected to the first branched flow path 941 at the branching section 932. The first branched flow path 941 is a flow path that connects to three second devices 331 and a fourth device 351. A temperature sensor 797 is provided in the flow path 868.

[0069] One end of the flow path 869 is connected to the first header 891 at the branching section 931. The other end of the flow path 869 is connected to the second branch flow path 942 at the branching section 933. The second branch flow path 942 is a flow path that connects to three second devices 331 and a fourth device 351. A temperature sensor 792 is provided in the flow path 869. In the three second devices 331, the first branch flow path 941 and the second branch flow path 942 are connected via a flow path within the second device 331. In the fourth device 351, the first branch flow path 941 and the second branch flow path 942 are connected via a flow path within the fourth device 351.

[0070] A control panel 70 is provided in the equipment storage area 31. The control panel 70 is equipped with a CPU 701 (see Figure 2), which will be described later.

[0071] The heat pump system 1 is equipped with an operating terminal 98. The user can operate the operating terminal 98 to give instructions to the CPU 701 regarding the operation of the heat pump system 1. The operating terminal 98 is, for example, a portable tablet information terminal for the user.

[0072] Referring to Figure 2, the electrical configuration of the heat pump system 1 will be described. The control panel 70 is equipped with a CPU 701, a ROM 702, and a RAM 703. The CPU 701 controls the heat pump system 1. The CPU 701 is electrically connected to the ROM 702 and the RAM 703. The ROM 702 stores various program data, such as the program for the main processing (see Figure 6), which will be described later. The RAM 703 stores various temporary data.

[0073] The CPU 701 is electrically connected to the first heat pump unit 311 and the second heat pump unit 312. The CPU 701 controls the first heat pump unit 311 and the second heat pump unit 312 to heat or cool the heat transfer medium using a heat pump system.

[0074] CPU 701 is connected to pumps 950-957. Pumps 950-957 are, for example, pumps with adjustable flow rates for the heat transfer medium (e.g., inverter pumps). CPU 701 controls pumps 950-957 to adjust the flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the flow path.

[0075] The CPU 701 is electrically connected to the flow sensors 740-742. The flow sensors 740-742 output signals to the CPU 701 that correspond to the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing through the channel. The CPU 701 detects the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing through the channel based on the outputs of the flow sensors 740-742.

[0076] The CPU 701 is electrically connected to temperature sensors 781-799. Temperature sensors 781-799 output signals to the CPU 701 that correspond to the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing through the channel. The CPU 701 detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing through the channel based on the outputs of temperature sensors 781-799.

[0077] CPU 701 is electrically connected to the on-off valves 964-974. CPU 701 controls the on-off valves 964-974 and controls the flow rate through the flow path. CPU 701 is electrically connected to the three-way valves 990-994. CPU 701 controls the three-way valves 990-994 and controls the direction in which the heat transfer medium flows.

[0078] The CPU 701 is electrically connected to the first device 321, the second device 331, the third device 341, and the fourth device 351. The CPU 701 controls the first device 321, the second device 331, the third device 341, and the fourth device 351.

[0079] The operating terminal 98 is a device that can communicate wirelessly with the CPU 701. The CPU 701 is electrically connected to the communication circuit 704. User instructions are input to the operating terminal 98. The CPU 701 receives the user instructions input via the operating terminal 98 through the communication circuit 704.

[0080] In this embodiment, as an example, the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, and the third heat exchanger 213 perform heat exchange without using an electrical drive source. In this case, the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, and the third heat exchanger 213 do not need to be electrically connected to the CPU 701. Alternatively, the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, and the third heat exchanger 213 may be devices that forcibly perform heat exchange using, for example, an electrically driven drive source. In this case, the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, and the third heat exchanger 213 are electrically connected to the CPU 701 and controlled by the CPU 701.

[0081] Furthermore, although not specifically mentioned below, when the first, second, third, and fourth modes are performed, the CPU 701 adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on the temperature of the heat transfer medium based on the output of the temperature sensors 781-799 and the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on the output of the flow rate sensors 740-742.

[0082] The operating modes of the heat pump system 1 will now be described. In the main processing described later (see Figure 6), the heat pump system 1 operates by switching between the first mode, second mode, third mode, and fourth mode.

[0083] Referring to Figure 1, the first mode will be described. The first mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in stages in the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341, and the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which is heated in the ground heat exchanger 41, is utilized in the second device 331. In this embodiment, when the first mode is executed, the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, the first heat pump unit 311, the second heat pump unit 312, and the third heat exchanger 213 are turned ON.

[0084] When operating in first mode, the CPU 701 opens on-off valves 964, 966, 967, 970, 971, and 972, and closes on-off valves 965, 968, 969, 973, and 974. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 828 to flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 872 to flow path 812. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow in from flow paths 813 and 827 and into flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow in from flow paths 817 and 816 and into flow path 818. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 994 to set the flow of the first heat transfer medium 61 from the flow path 803 to the flow path 805. The CPU 701 also drives the pumps 950-957.

[0085] The first heat transfer medium 61 flows from the combustion device 211 to the first heat exchanger 212 via flow paths 801 and 802. The temperature of the first heat transfer medium 61 is, for example, 150 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 circulates through the first heat exchanger 212, flow path 806, tank 219, flow path 807, and back to the first heat exchanger 212, driven by the pump 951. In the first heat exchanger 212, heat exchange occurs between the first heat transfer medium 61 and the second heat transfer medium 62, heating the second heat transfer medium 62. The first heat transfer medium 61 is discharged outside the factory 21 via flow paths 803 and 805.

[0086] The second heat transfer medium 62, heated in the first heat exchanger 212, flows to the tank 219 via the flow path 806. This raises the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219. The temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 becomes, for example, 50 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 flows to the branching section 911 via the flow paths 871, 872, and 812. At the branching section 911, the second heat transfer medium 62 is divided into flow path 813 and flow path 826.

[0087] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the first device 321 via the flow path 826. In the first device 321, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62 is used to warm the first greenhouse 32. As a result, the first crop 981 in the first greenhouse 32 is warmed, and the growth of the first crop 981 is promoted.

[0088] When heat is utilized in the first device 321, the temperature of the second heat medium 62 decreases. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second heat medium 62 is assumed to decrease to 40 degrees Celsius, for example. The second heat medium 62 flows from the first device 321 to the three-way valve 992 via the flow path 827. At the three-way valve 992, the second heat medium 62 flowing through the flow path 813 and the second heat medium 62 flowing through the flow path 827 merge. The temperature of the merged second heat medium 62 becomes, for example, 42 degrees Celsius. The second heat medium 62 flows to the branching section 912 via the flow path 814. At the branching section 912, the second heat medium 62 is divided into flow path 815 and flow path 817.

[0089] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the second heat exchanger 313 via the flow path 815. In the second heat exchanger 313, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62 is utilized to heat the third heat transfer medium 63. In the second heat exchanger 313, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 is assumed to decrease to 30 degrees Celsius as an example. Also, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 is assumed to increase to 25 degrees Celsius as an example.

[0090] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows from the second heat exchanger 313 through the flow path 816 to the three-way valve 993. At the three-way valve 993, the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through the flow path 816 and the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through the flow path 817 merge. The temperature of the merged second heat transfer medium 62 becomes, for example, 32 degrees.

[0091] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the third heat exchanger 213 via channels 818, 819, 820, 828, 821, and 823. In the third heat exchanger 213, the second heat transfer medium 62 and the fifth heat transfer medium 65 exchange heat, and the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is heated. The temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 is assumed to decrease to 25 degrees Celsius as an example. Also, the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is assumed to increase to 20 degrees Celsius as an example.

[0092] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the tank 219 via the flow paths 808 and 873. The fifth heat transfer medium 65, heated in the third heat exchanger 213, flows to the third device 341 in the parking lot 34 via the flow path 810. In the third device 341, the heat from the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is used to melt the snow in the parking lot. This lowers the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65. For example, the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is lowered to 15 degrees. The fifth heat transfer medium 65 flows to the third heat exchanger 213 via the flow path 809.

[0093] The third heat transfer medium 63, heated in the second heat exchanger 313, flows to the first heat pump unit 311 via flow paths 841 and 842. In the first heat pump unit 311, heat is extracted from the third heat transfer medium 63 by the heat pump system, and the fourth heat transfer medium 64 is heated. In the first heat pump unit 311, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 decreases. For example, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 decreases to 20 degrees. Also, for example, the temperature of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 increases to 45 degrees. The third heat transfer medium 63 flows from the first heat pump unit 311 to the second heat exchanger 313 via flow paths 849 and 845.

[0094] The fourth heat transfer medium 64 flows to the branch section 924 via the flow path 863. At the branch section 924, the fourth heat transfer medium 64 flowing through the flow path 863 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through the flow path 865 merge. In the following description, the heat transfer medium formed by the merging of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 will be referred to as heat transfer mediums 64 and 67. The temperature of the merged heat transfer mediums 64 and 67 is, for example, 45 degrees. The heat transfer mediums 64 and 67 flow to the first header 891 via the flow path 864. The heat transfer mediums 64 and 67 flow to the three second devices 331 via the flow path 869 and the second branch flow path 942. In the first mode, the power supply to the fourth device 351 is set to OFF, or the on / off valve in the fourth device 351 is closed by the CPU 701, and the heat transfer mediums 64 and 67 do not flow to the fourth device 351.

[0095] In the second device 331, the heat from the heat transfer fluids 64 and 67 is used to warm the second crop 982 in the second greenhouse 33. In this embodiment, as an example, the second device 331 heats a part of the second crop 982 (for example, the roots) by pinpoint heating. This promotes the growth of the second crop 982. As a result, the temperature of the heat transfer fluids 64 and 67 drops to, for example, 40 degrees.

[0096] In the second device 331, the heat transfer fluids 64 and 67 from which heat has been utilized flow to the second header 892 via the first branch channel 941 and channel 868. Of the heat transfer fluids 64 and 67 flowing through the second header 892, the heat transfer fluid that flows toward the first heat pump section 311 is called the fourth heat transfer fluid 64, and the heat transfer fluid that flows toward the second heat pump section 312 is called the seventh heat transfer fluid 67. The fourth heat transfer fluid 64 flows from the second header 892 to the first heat pump section 311 via channel 861. The seventh heat transfer fluid 67 flows from the second header 892 to the second heat pump section 312 via channel 862.

[0097] The sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows from the second heat pump unit 312 to the ground heat exchanger 41 via the flow paths 850 and 851. In the ground heat exchanger 41, heat exchange occurs between the ground heat and the sixth heat transfer medium 66, and the sixth heat transfer medium 66 is heated. For example, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 rises to 7 degrees. The heated sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via the flow paths 852 and 847.

[0098] In the second heat pump section 312, heat is extracted from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 by the heat pump system, and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is heated. In the first heat pump section 311, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 decreases. For example, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 decreases to 2 degrees. Also, for example, the temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 increases to 45 degrees. The heated seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the branch section 924 via the flow path 865.

[0099] The second mode will now be described. The second mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated in the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized in stages in the first device 321 and the third device 341, and the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 is utilized in the second device 331. In this embodiment, when the second mode is executed, the second heat pump unit 312 and the third heat exchanger 213 are turned ON.

[0100] When operating in second mode, the CPU 701 opens on-off valves 965, 970, 971, 973, and 974, and closes on-off valves 964, 966, 967, 968, 969, and 972. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the seventh heat transfer medium 67 to flow in from flow paths 828 and 825 and into flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the seventh heat transfer medium 67 to flow in from flow paths 872 and 824 and into flow path 813. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the seventh heat transfer medium 67 to flow from flow path 813 towards flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the seventh heat transfer medium 67 to flow from flow path 817 towards flow path 818. The CPU 701 also controls the three-way valve 994 to prevent the first heat transfer medium 61 from flowing. In the second mode, the combustion device 211 is not operating, so the three-way valve 994 does not need to be controlled. The CPU 701 drives pumps 950, 953, 954, 956, and 957.

[0101] The sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows from the second heat pump unit 312 to the ground heat exchanger 41 via the flow paths 850 and 851. In the ground heat exchanger 41, heat exchange occurs between the ground heat and the sixth heat transfer medium 66, and the sixth heat transfer medium 66 is heated. For example, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 rises to 7 degrees. The heated sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via the flow paths 852 and 847.

[0102] In the second heat pump unit 312, heat is extracted from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 by the heat pump system, and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is heated. In the first heat pump unit 311, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 decreases. For example, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 decreases to 2 degrees. Also, for example, the temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 increases to 45 degrees.

[0103] The heated seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the first header 891 via flow paths 865 and 864. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the three second devices 331 via flow path 869 and the second branch flow path 942. In the second mode, the power to the fourth device 351 is set to OFF, or the on / off valve in the fourth device 351 is closed by the CPU 701, and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 does not flow to the fourth device 351.

[0104] In the second device 331, the heat from the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is used to warm the second crop 982 in the second greenhouse 33. In this embodiment, as an example, the second device 331 heats a part of the second crop 982 (for example, the roots) by pinpoint heating. This promotes the growth of the second crop 982. As a result, the temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 drops to, for example, 40 degrees.

[0105] The seventh heat transfer medium 67, whose heat has been utilized in the second device 331, flows to the second header 892 via the first branch channel 941 and channel 868. From the second header 892, the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via channel 862.

[0106] The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows from the first header 891 through the flow paths 867 and 820 to the branching section 916. At the branching section 916, the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is divided into the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through the flow path 828 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through the flow path 870. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows through the flow path 828 to the three-way valve 990. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows through the flow path 870 to the first device 321. In the first device 321, the heat from the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is used to warm the first greenhouse 32. As a result, the growth of the first crop 981 is promoted. This causes the temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 to drop to, for example, 40 degrees.

[0107] The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows from the first device 321 through the flow path 825 to the three-way valve 990. At the three-way valve 990, the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through flow path 828 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through flow path 825 merge. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows through flow path 821 to the branching section 917. At the branching section 917, the seventh heat transfer medium 67 is divided into flow path 823 and flow path 824. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through flow path 824 flows to the three-way valve 991. At the three-way valve 991, the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through flow path 872 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flowing through flow path 824 merge. The temperature of the merged seventh heat transfer medium 67 is, for example, 32 degrees.

[0108] The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows through the flow path 823 to the third heat exchanger 213. In the third heat exchanger 213, heat exchange occurs between the seventh heat transfer medium 67 and the fifth heat transfer medium 65, and the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is heated. The temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 decreases. For example, the temperature of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 may decrease to 30 degrees. Also, for example, the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 may increase to 20 degrees.

[0109] The fifth heat transfer medium 65, heated in the third heat exchanger 213, flows through the flow path 810 to the third device 341 in the parking lot 34. In the third device 341, the heat from the fifth heat transfer medium 65 is used to melt the snow in the parking lot 34. This lowers the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65. For example, let's assume the temperature of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 drops to 15 degrees. The fifth heat transfer medium 65 then flows through the flow path 809 back to the third heat exchanger 213.

[0110] The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the second header 892 via flow paths 808, 874, 872, 812, 813, 814, 817, 818, and 866. The seventh heat transfer medium 67 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via flow path 862.

[0111] Referring to Figure 4, the third mode will be described. The third mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in the first device 321, and the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which has been cooled in the ground heat exchanger 41, is utilized in the fourth device 351. In this embodiment, when the third mode is executed, the first heat exchanger 212 and the second heat pump unit 312 are turned ON.

[0112] When the third mode is executed, the CPU 701 opens the on-off valves 964, 970, 971, and 972, and closes the on-off valves 965, 966, 967, 968, 969, 973, and 974. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 828 to the flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 872 to the flow path 812. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow paths 813 and 827 into the flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 817 to the flow path 818. The CPU 701 also controls the three-way valve 994 to set the first heat transfer medium 61 to flow from the flow path 803 to the flow path 805. CPU701 drives pumps 950, 951, 954, and 956.

[0113] The first heat transfer medium 61 flows from the combustion device 211 to the first heat exchanger 212 via flow paths 801 and 802. The temperature of the first heat transfer medium 61 is, for example, 150 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 is circulated by the pump 951 through the first heat exchanger 212, flow path 806, tank 219, flow path 807, and back to the first heat exchanger 212. In the first heat exchanger 212, heat exchange occurs between the first heat transfer medium 61 and the second heat transfer medium 62, heating the second heat transfer medium 62. The first heat transfer medium 61 is discharged to the outside of the factory 21 via flow paths 803 and 805.

[0114] The second heat transfer medium 62, heated in the first heat exchanger 212, flows to the tank 219 via the flow path 806. This raises the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219. The temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 becomes, for example, 70 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 flows to the branching section 911 via the flow paths 871, 872, and 812. At the branching section 911, the second heat transfer medium 62 is divided into flow path 813 and flow path 826.

[0115] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the first device 321 via the flow path 826. In the first device 321, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62 is used to warm the first greenhouse 32. As a result, the third crop 983 in the first greenhouse 32 is warmed and dried.

[0116] When heat is utilized in the first device 321, the temperature of the second heat medium 62 decreases. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second heat medium 62 is assumed to decrease to 60 degrees Celsius, for example. The second heat medium 62 flows from the first device 321 to the three-way valve 992 via the flow path 827. In the three-way valve 992, the second heat medium 62 flowing through the flow path 813 and the second heat medium 62 flowing through the flow path 827 merge. The temperature of the merged second heat medium 62 becomes, for example, 62 degrees Celsius. The second heat medium 62 flows to the third heat exchanger 213 via the flow paths 814, 817, 818, 819, 828, 821, and 823. Since the pump 957 is not operating, no heat exchange takes place in the third heat exchanger 213. The second heat medium 62 flows to the tank 219 via the flow paths 808 and 873.

[0117] The sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows from the second heat pump unit 312 to the ground heat exchanger 41 via the flow paths 850 and 851. In the ground heat exchanger 41, heat is exchanged between the ground heat and the sixth heat transfer medium 66, and the sixth heat transfer medium 66 is cooled. The cooled sixth heat transfer medium 66 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via the flow paths 852 and 847.

[0118] In the second heat pump unit 312, heat is extracted from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 by the heat pump system, and the eighth heat transfer medium 68 is cooled. In the second heat pump unit 312, the temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 rises. The temperature of the eighth heat transfer medium 68 is, for example, lowered to 7 degrees. The temperature of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 is, for example, raised to 30 degrees.

[0119] The cooled eighth heat transfer medium 68 flows to the first header 891 via the flow paths 865 and 864. The eighth heat transfer medium 68 flows to the fourth device 351 via the flow path 869 and the second branch flow path 942.

[0120] In the third mode, the power to the three second devices 331 is set to OFF, or the on / off valves in the second devices 331 are closed by the CPU 701, and the heat transfer fluids 64 and 67 do not flow to the second devices 331. In addition, in the second greenhouse 33, the second crop 982 is cultivated without cooling or heating by the second devices 331. The second crop 982 in the third mode may be a different crop from the second crop 982 in the first mode (see Figure 1) and the second mode (see Figure 2).

[0121] In the fourth device 351, the heat (cold) of the eighth heat transfer medium 68 is used, and cooling is performed in the anteroom 35.

[0122] The eighth heat transfer medium 68, from which heat (cold) has been utilized in the fourth device 351, flows to the second header 892 via the first branch channel 941 and channel 868. From the second header 892, the eighth heat transfer medium 68 flows to the second heat pump unit 312 via channel 862.

[0123] Referring to Figure 5, the fourth mode will be described. The fourth mode is an operating mode in which heat originating from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is supplied to the underground heat exchanger 41 via the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat exchanger 313, and the flow paths 841, 843, and 851, thereby heating the ground in the underground heat exchanger 41. In this embodiment, when the fourth mode is executed, the first heat exchanger 212 and the second heat exchanger 313 are turned ON. In the fourth mode, for example, when there is no demand for heat utilization in the first device 321, the second device 331, the third device 341, and the fourth device 351, the heat originating from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is used to heat the ground in the underground heat exchanger 41.

[0124] When the fourth mode is executed, the CPU 701 opens valves 964, 968, 969, 970, and 972, and closes valves 965, 966, 967, 971, 973, and 974. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 828 to flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 872 to flow path 812. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 813 to flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 816 to flow path 818. The CPU 701 also controls the three-way valve 994 to set the first heat transfer medium 61 to flow from flow path 803 to flow path 805. CPU701 drives pumps 950, 951, 952, 953, and 954.

[0125] The first heat transfer medium 61 flows from the combustion device 211 to the first heat exchanger 212 via flow paths 801 and 802. The temperature of the first heat transfer medium 61 is, for example, 150 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 circulates through the first heat exchanger 212, flow path 806, tank 219, flow path 807, and back to the first heat exchanger 212, driven by the pump 951. In the first heat exchanger 212, heat exchange occurs between the first heat transfer medium 61 and the second heat transfer medium 62, heating the second heat transfer medium 62. The first heat transfer medium 61 is discharged outside the factory 21 via flow paths 803 and 805.

[0126] The second heat transfer medium 62, heated in the first heat exchanger 212, flows to the tank 219 via the flow path 806. This raises the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219. For example, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 becomes 50 degrees. The second heat transfer medium 62 stored in the tank 219 flows to the second heat exchanger 313 via the flow paths 871, 872, 812, 813, 814, and 815. In the second heat exchanger 313, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62 is used to heat the third heat transfer medium 63. In the second heat exchanger 313, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases. For example, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 rises to 35 degrees. For example, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 falls to 40 degrees.

[0127] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows from the second heat exchanger 313 to the third heat exchanger 213 via flow paths 816, 818, 819, 820, 828, 821, and 823. Since the pump 957 is not operating, no heat exchange takes place in the third heat exchanger 213. The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the tank 219 via flow paths 808 and 873.

[0128] The third heat transfer medium 63, heated in the second heat exchanger 313, flows to the ground heat exchanger 41 via channels 841, 843, and 851. In the ground heat exchanger 41, the ground is heated by the heat of the third heat transfer medium 63. In the ground heat exchanger 41, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 decreases. For example, the temperature of the third heat transfer medium 63 decreases to 30 degrees. The third heat transfer medium 63 flows from the ground heat exchanger 41 to the second heat exchanger 313 via channels 852, 846, and 845.

[0129] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the main processing performed by the CPU 701 will be described. When the power to the control panel 70 of the heat pump system 1 is turned ON, the CPU 701 reads the main processing program stored in the ROM 702 and loads it into the RAM 703. The CPU 701 then executes the main processing based on the main processing program.

[0130] As shown in Figure 6, the main process first determines whether or not to operate in the first mode (S101). If it is determined not to operate in the first mode (S101: NO), then, as shown in Figure 7, it is determined whether or not to operate in the second mode (S201). If it is not to operate in the second mode (S201: NO), then, as shown in Figure 8, it is determined whether or not to operate in the third mode (S301). If it is not to operate in the third mode (S301: NO), then it is determined whether or not to operate in the fourth mode (S401). If it is not to operate in the fourth mode (S401: NO), then, as shown in Figure 6, the process returns to S101.

[0131] For example, in winter, when the combustion unit 211 of factory 21 is in operation, the user operates the control terminal 98 to input an instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in first mode. The input instruction is transmitted from the control terminal 98 to the CPU 701 of the control panel 70. When the CPU 701 receives the instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in first mode, the CPU 701 determines to operate in first mode (S101: YES).

[0132] The CPU 701 operates the heat pump system 1 in first mode (S102). As described above, the CPU 701 controls the on-off valves 964-974, the three-way valves 990-994, and the pumps 950-957. As a result, the heat pump system 1 operates in first mode, as shown in Figure 1. As a result, in the first greenhouse 32, the first device 321 heats the first crop 981, which is fungi (e.g., mushrooms). In the second greenhouse 33, the second device 331 heats the second crop 982, which is fruits and vegetables. The third device 341 melts the snow in the parking lot 34.

[0133] Next, it is determined whether or not to terminate the first mode (S103). If the first mode is not terminated (S103: NO), it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 18:00) has arrived in which it is possible to promote the growth of the second crop 982 (S104). The predetermined time in which it is possible to promote the growth of the second crop 982 is set in advance and stored in the ROM 702. If it is not the predetermined time in which it is possible to promote the growth of the second crop 982 (S104: NO), the process returns to S103.

[0134] When a predetermined time has passed that allows for the promotion of the growth of the second crop 982 (S104: YES), the CPU 701 controls the second device 331 to change the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated (S105). By changing the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated, its growth is promoted. For example, the CPU 701 controls the second device 331 to raise the set temperature of the second device 331, thereby raising the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated. The amount by which the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated is predetermined and stored in the ROM 702. For example, the amount by which the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated is 5 degrees.

[0135] Next, similar to S103, it is determined whether or not to terminate the first mode (S106). If the first mode is not terminated (S106: NO), it is determined whether or not to return the temperature that was changed in S105 (S107). If it is determined that the temperature that was changed in S105 should not be returned (S107: NO), the process returns to S106.

[0136] In S107, for example, when a predetermined time (for example, 6 o'clock) arrives, it is determined to return the temperature to its original state (S107: YES), and the temperature that was changed in S105 is returned to its original state (S108). That is, the set temperature of the second device 331 is changed back to the set temperature before it was changed in S105. The process then returns to S103.

[0137] For example, if an instruction to terminate the first mode is input via the operation terminal 98, it is determined that the first mode will be terminated (S103:YES, or S106:YES), and the process returns to S101.

[0138] For example, if the factory 21 is shut down for inspection or other reasons during winter and the combustion device 211 is not operating, the user operates the control terminal 98 to input a command to operate the heat pump system 1 in second mode. The input command is transmitted from the control terminal 98 to the CPU 701 of the control panel 70. When the CPU 701 receives the command to operate the heat pump system 1 in second mode, it determines to operate in second mode (S201:YES), as shown in Figure 7.

[0139] CPU 701 operates the heat pump system 1 in second mode (S202). As described above, CPU 701 controls the on-off valves 964-974, the three-way valves 990-994, and the pumps 950-957. As a result, the heat pump system 1 operates in second mode, as shown in Figure 3. As a result, in the first greenhouse 32, the first device 321 heats the first crop 981, which is fungi (e.g., mushrooms). In the second greenhouse 33, the second device 331 heats the second crop 982, which is fruits and vegetables. The third device 341 melts the snow in the parking lot 34.

[0140] Next, it is determined whether or not to terminate the second mode (S203). If the second mode is not terminated (S203: NO), it is determined, as in S104, whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 18:00) has arrived in which the growth of the second crop 982 can be promoted (S204). The predetermined time in which the growth of the second crop 982 can be promoted is set in advance and stored in ROM 702. If it is not the predetermined time in which the growth of the second crop 982 can be promoted (S204: NO), the process returns to S203.

[0141] When a predetermined time has passed that allows for the promotion of the growth of the second crop 982 (S204: YES), the CPU 701 controls the second device 331 to change the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated (S205). By changing the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated, its growth is promoted. For example, the CPU 701 controls the second device 331 to raise the set temperature of the second device 331, thereby raising the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated. The amount by which the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated is predetermined and stored in the ROM 702. For example, the amount by which the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated is 5 degrees.

[0142] Next, as in S203, it is determined whether or not to terminate the second mode (S206). If the second mode is not terminated (S206: NO), it is determined whether or not to return the temperature that was changed in S205 (S207). If it is determined that the temperature that was changed in S205 should not be returned (S207: NO), the process returns to S206.

[0143] In S207, for example, when a predetermined time (for example, 6 o'clock) arrives, it is determined to return the temperature to its original state (S207: YES), and the temperature that was changed in S205 is returned to its original state (S208). That is, the set temperature of the second device 331 is changed back to the set temperature before it was changed in S205. The process then returns to S203.

[0144] For example, if an instruction to terminate the second mode is input via the operation terminal 98, it is determined that the second mode will be terminated (S203:YES, or S206:YES), and the process returns to S101 (see Figure 6).

[0145] For example, if the combustion unit 211 of factory 21 is operating during the summer, the user operates the control terminal 98 to input an instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in third mode. The input instruction is transmitted from the control terminal 98 to the CPU 701 of the control panel 70. When the CPU 701 receives the instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in third mode, it determines to operate in third mode (S301: YES), as shown in Figure 8.

[0146] The CPU 701 operates the heat pump system 1 in third mode (S302). As described above, the CPU 701 controls the on-off valves 964-974, the three-way valves 990-994, and the pumps 950-957. As a result, the heat pump system 1 operates in third mode, as shown in Figure 4. As a result, the first device 321 dries the third crop 983, which is garlic, in the first greenhouse 32. Cooling is performed in the anteroom 35 by the fourth device 351.

[0147] Next, it is determined whether or not to terminate the third mode (S303). If the third mode is not terminated (S303: NO), the process in S303 is repeated. That is, the heat pump system 1 continues to operate in the third mode.

[0148] For example, if an instruction to terminate the third mode is entered via the operation terminal 98, it is determined that the third mode will be terminated (S303: YES), and the process returns to S101 (see Figure 6).

[0149] For example, if the combustion device 211 of factory 21 is in operation and there is no demand for heat utilization in the first device 321, second device 331, third device 341, and fourth device 351, the user operates the operation terminal 98 to input an instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in fourth mode. The input instruction is transmitted from the operation terminal 98 to the CPU 701 of the control panel 70. When the CPU 701 receives the instruction to operate the heat pump system 1 in fourth mode, the CPU 701 determines to operate in fourth mode (S401: YES).

[0150] The CPU 701 operates the heat pump system 1 in fourth mode (S402). As described above, the CPU 701 controls the on-off valves 964-974, the three-way valves 990-994, and the pumps 950-957. As a result, the heat pump system 1 operates in fourth mode, as shown in Figure 5. This allows the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61 to be utilized, and the ground is heated in the ground heat exchanger 41.

[0151] Next, it is determined whether or not to terminate the fourth mode (S403). If the fourth mode is not terminated (S403: NO), the process in S403 is repeated. In other words, the heat pump system 1 continues to operate in the fourth mode.

[0152] For example, if an instruction to terminate the fourth mode is input via the operation terminal 98, it is determined that the fourth mode should be terminated (S403: YES), and the process returns to S101 (see Figure 6).

[0153] As described above, the processing of this embodiment is performed. The heat pump system 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a combustion device 211 for burning an object. The heat pump system 1 is also equipped with a first cascade system 481 that utilizes the heat derived from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, in stages. Therefore, the heat derived from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in stages by the first cascade system 481. As a result, the heat from the exhaust of the combustion device 211 can be utilized more effectively than when the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is simply discharged to the outside.

[0154] Furthermore, the first cascade system 481 includes a first heat exchanger 212, a first device 321, a first heat pump unit 311, and a second device 331. The first heat pump unit 311 uses heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62 to heat the fourth heat transfer medium 64 using a heat pump system. The second device 331 uses the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 heated in the first heat pump unit 311. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 is used in the first device 321. Then, the heat derived from the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 after its use is utilized in the second device 331 via the first heat pump unit 311. In other words, the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in two stages: the first device 321 and the second device 331. Therefore, the heat of the first heat transfer medium 61 can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in only one stage by the first device 321.

[0155] Furthermore, the first cascade system 481 includes a first heat exchanger 212, a first device 321, a first heat pump unit 311, a second device 331, and a second heat exchanger 313. The second heat exchanger 313 is located downstream of the first device 321 and performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63, heating the third heat transfer medium 63. The first heat pump unit 311 uses the heat from the third heat transfer medium 63 heated in the second heat exchanger 313 to heat the fourth heat transfer medium 64 using a heat pump system. The second device 331 uses the heat from the fourth heat transfer medium 64 heated in the first heat pump unit 311. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62 is used in the first device 321. Then, the heat from the second heat transfer medium 62, after its use, is used in the second device 331 via the second heat exchanger 313 and the first heat pump unit 311. In other words, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in two stages: the first device 321 and the second device 331. Therefore, the heat from the first heat transfer medium 61 can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in only one stage by the first device 321. Furthermore, by providing the second heat exchanger 313, it is possible to use different types of heat transfer mediums for the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63, for example. For example, the third heat transfer medium 63 can be antifreeze and the second heat transfer medium 62 can be water. This reduces the amount of antifreeze used and thus the cost compared to using antifreeze for both the second heat transfer medium 62 and the third heat transfer medium 63.

[0156] Furthermore, the first cascade system 481 is equipped with a third device 341. The third device 341 utilizes the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62 after its temperature has decreased due to the utilization of heat in the first heat pump unit 311. In this case, as shown in Figure 1, the first heat pump unit 311 uses the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62 to heat the fourth heat transfer medium 64 using a heat pump system. The heat from the fourth heat transfer medium 64 heated in the first heat pump unit 311 is utilized by the second device 331. Then, the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62 after its temperature has decreased due to the utilization of heat in the first heat pump unit 311 is utilized in the third device 341. In other words, the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in three stages: the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341. Therefore, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where it is used only in two stages, the first device 321 and the second device 331.

[0157] Furthermore, the first cascade equipment 481 is equipped with a third heat exchanger 213. The third device 341 utilizes the heat of the fifth heat transfer medium 65 heated in the third heat exchanger 213. In this case, heat exchange takes place in the second heat exchanger 313 in order to utilize the heat in the second device 331. Then, the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62, which has been used for heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 313, is utilized in the third device 341 via the third heat exchanger 213. In other words, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in three stages: the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341. Therefore, the heat of the first heat transfer medium 61 can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in only two stages: the first device 321 and the second device 331. Furthermore, by providing the third heat exchanger 213, it is possible to use different types of heat transfer fluids for, for example, the second heat transfer fluid 62 and the fifth heat transfer fluid 65. For example, the fifth heat transfer fluid 65 can be antifreeze and the second heat transfer fluid 62 can be water. This reduces the amount of antifreeze used compared to using antifreeze for both the second heat transfer fluid 62 and the fifth heat transfer fluid 65, thereby reducing costs.

[0158] Furthermore, the heat pump system 1 includes a ground source heat exchanger 41 and a second cascade system 482 that utilizes the heat of the sixth heat medium 66 heated by the ground source heat exchanger in stages. In the second cascade system 482, the heat derived from the sixth heat medium 66 heated in the ground source heat exchanger 41 can be utilized in stages. Therefore, heat can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where only the first cascade system 481 is provided.

[0159] The second cascade system 482 includes a ground heat exchanger 41 and a second heat pump unit 312, as well as a first device 321 and a third device 341. As shown in Figure 3, the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated in the ground heat exchanger 41 is extracted in the second heat pump unit 312, heating the seventh heat transfer medium 67. The heat from the heated seventh heat transfer medium 67 is utilized in the first device 321. Furthermore, the heat from the seventh heat transfer medium 67 after its use in the first device 321 is utilized in the third device 341. In other words, the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized in two stages: the first device 321 and the third device 341. Therefore, the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized in only one stage by the first device 321.

[0160] Furthermore, the second device 331 utilizes the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 heated in the second heat pump section 312 (see Figure 3). Therefore, the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized not only in the first device 321 and the third device 341, but also in the second device 331. Thus, the heat of the sixth heat transfer medium 66 can be utilized more effectively compared to the case where the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized only in the first device 321 and the third device 341.

[0161] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the second heat pump unit 312 uses the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 cooled in the ground heat exchanger 41 to cool the eighth heat transfer medium 68 using a heat pump system. The heat pump system 1 is equipped with a fourth device 351 that utilizes the heat from the eighth heat transfer medium 68 cooled in the second heat pump unit 312. Therefore, the fourth device 351 can effectively utilize the heat (cold) from the eighth heat transfer medium 68 cooled in the second heat pump unit 312.

[0162] The first mode (see Figure 1) executed in S102 (see Figure 6) is an operating mode in which the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in stages in the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341, and the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which is heated in the ground heat exchanger 41, is utilized in the second device 331. Therefore, in the first mode, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in three stages in the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341. Furthermore, in the second device 331, in addition to the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211 (i.e., the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium 64), the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which is heated by the ground heat exchanger 41 (i.e., the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67) is also utilized. Therefore, the second device 331 can utilize heat more effectively than when only the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust gas from the combustion device 211, is utilized.

[0163] Furthermore, the second mode (see Figure 3) executed in S202 (see Figure 7) is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the sixth heat medium 66 heated in the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized in stages in the first device 321 and the third device 341, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium 66 is also utilized in the second device 331. In this case, the heat derived from the sixth heat medium 66 heated in the ground heat exchanger 41 (i.e., the heat of the seventh heat medium 67) can be utilized in stages in the first device 321 and the third device 341, and also in the second device 331. For this reason, for example, even when the combustion device 211 is stopped and the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is not generated, the sixth heat medium 66 can be heated in the ground heat exchanger 41, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium 66 can be utilized in the first device 321, the third device 341, and the second device 331. Therefore, even when the combustion device 211 is stopped, the heat can be utilized in the first device 321, the third device 341, and the second device 331.

[0164] Furthermore, the third mode (see Figure 4) executed in S302 (see Figure 8) is an operating mode in which the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211 (i.e., the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62), is utilized in the first device 321, and the heat originating from the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which has been cooled in the ground heat exchanger 41 (i.e., the heat of the eighth heat transfer medium 68), is utilized in the fourth device 351. For this reason, for example, during periods of high ambient temperature such as summer, the heat (cold energy) of the sixth heat transfer medium 66, which has been cooled in the ground heat exchanger 41, can be utilized in the fourth device 351. In addition, the heat originating from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, can also be utilized in the first device 321.

[0165] Furthermore, the fourth mode (see Figure 5), which is performed in S402 (see Figure 8), is an operating mode in which heat derived from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211 (i.e., the heat from the third heat medium 63), is supplied to the ground heat exchanger 41, and the ground is heated in the ground heat exchanger 41. Therefore, the ground can be heated by utilizing the heat derived from the first heat medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211. For example, when the combustion device 211 is in operation, if there is no demand to utilize the heat derived from the first heat medium 61 in the first device 321, the second device 331, the third device 341, and the fourth device 351, the ground can be heated. Therefore, the amount of thermal energy stored in the ground increases compared to when the fourth mode is not performed. Thus, compared to when the ground cannot be heated, when using geothermal energy in the first or second mode after the fourth mode has finished, geothermal energy can be utilized for a longer period of time.

[0166] In S102 (see Figure 6), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the first mode (see Figure 1), and in S202 (see Figure 7), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the second mode (see Figure 3), the first device 321 is installed in the first greenhouse 32 and is a device for heating the first crop 981 cultivated in the first greenhouse 32. Therefore, the first device 321 can be used to heat the fungi (e.g., mushrooms) which are the first crop 981, and cultivate the fungi which are the first crop 981. Thus, the first crop 981 can be cultivated even during periods when crops are difficult to grow, such as in winter.

[0167] Furthermore, when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the first mode in S102 (see Figure 6) (see Figure 1), and when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the second mode in S202 (see Figure 7) (see Figure 3), the second device 331 is installed in the second greenhouse 33 and is a device for heating the second crop 982 cultivated in the second greenhouse 33. Therefore, the second crop 982 can be heated and cultivated using the second device 331. Thus, for example, the second crop 982 can be cultivated even during periods when crops are difficult to grow, such as in winter.

[0168] Furthermore, when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the first mode in S102 (see Figure 6) (see Figure 1), and when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the second mode in S202 (see Figure 7) (see Figure 3), the third device 341 is a snow melting device. Therefore, snow can be melted by the third device 341, which is a snow melting device. For example, snow in a parking lot 34 can be melted to improve the safety of people and vehicles.

[0169] Furthermore, the temperature at which the first crop 981 is heated by the first device 321 is higher than the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated by the second device 331. Since the combustion device 211 is a device that burns objects, it can raise the temperature of the first heat transfer medium 61 compared to a device that does not burn. Therefore, even without a heat pump unit, the first crop 981 can be heated at a higher temperature in the first device 321 than in the second device 331. As a result, the first crop 981, which grows at a higher temperature, can be cultivated, and profits can be earned by selling the first crop 981.

[0170] Furthermore, the second device 331 is a pinpoint heating device that provides pinpoint heating to a portion of the second crop 982. In this case, since the second device 331 heats only a portion of the second crop 982 through pinpoint heating, the consumption of thermal energy in the second device 331 can be reduced compared to heating the entire second greenhouse 33. Therefore, compared to the case without pinpoint heating, the thermal energy consumed by the first device 321 can be increased, and the thermal energy consumed by the third device 341 can be increased. Thus, the first crop 981 can be cultivated at a higher temperature in the first device 321, and the snow can be melted at a higher temperature in the third device 341.

[0171] In S102 (see Figure 6), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the first mode (see Figure 1), and in S202 (see Figure 7), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the second mode (see Figure 3), the CPU 701 controls the second device 331 and changes the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated for a predetermined period of time that can promote the growth of the second crop 982 (S105 in Figure 6 and S205 in Figure 7). Some crops can have their growth promoted by changing the temperature at which they are heated, such as raising the temperature at a predetermined time of day. In this embodiment, the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated can be changed for a predetermined period of time that can promote the growth of the second crop 982, so the growth of the second crop 982 can be promoted compared to when the temperature is constant.

[0172] Furthermore, in S302 (see Figure 8), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the third mode (see Figure 4), the first device 321 is a device for drying the third crop 983 located in the first greenhouse 32. The third mode is performed when the sixth heat transfer medium 66 can be cooled in the geothermal heat exchanger 41, and is therefore an operating mode that is performed, for example, in the summer. In the summer, it is often possible to cultivate crops without using greenhouses. For this reason, there are cases where it is not necessary to use the first greenhouse 32 for cultivating crops. In this summer, the first device 321 can be used to dry the third crop 983. This allows for more effective use of the first greenhouse 32 compared to not using the first greenhouse 32 at all in the summer.

[0173] In S302 (see Figure 8), when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the third mode (see Figure 4), the fourth device 351 is a cooling device installed in the anteroom 35 located in front of the second house 33, and is used to cool the anteroom 35. In this case, for example, in the summer, the anteroom 35 can be cooled using the heat (cooling) derived from the sixth heat medium cooled by the ground heat exchanger 41.

[0174] Furthermore, the first crop 981 is fungi (for example, mushrooms), and the second crop 982 is a crop that is cultivated at a lower temperature than fungi (for example, fruits and vegetables). In cold regions, the first greenhouse 32 and the second greenhouse 33 are often covered with snow during the winter. Since fungi do not require sunlight to be cultivated, cultivation is possible even if the first greenhouse 32 is covered with snow and becomes dark inside. Therefore, in winter, profits can be made by effectively utilizing the heat generated by the combustion device 211 to grow and sell fungi.

[0175] In the above embodiment, the first house 32 is an example of the "first facility" of the present invention. The second house 33 is an example of the "second facility" of the present invention. The CPU 701 that performs the processing in S102 (see Figure 6) is an example of the "first mode operation control means" of the present invention. The CPU 701 that performs the processing in S202 (see Figure 7) is an example of the "second mode operation control means" of the present invention. The CPU 701 that performs the processing in S302 (see Figure 8) is an example of the "third mode operation control means" of the present invention. The CPU 701 that performs the processing in S402 (see Figure 6) is an example of the "fourth mode operation control means" of the present invention. The CPU 701 that performs the processing in S105 (see Figure 6) and S205 (see Figure 6) is an example of the "temperature control means" of the present invention.

[0176] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified in various ways. For example, the first crop 981 was a fungus (e.g., a mushroom), but is not limited thereto. The first crop 981 may be a crop other than a fungus. Also, the second crop 982 was a crop cultivated at a lower temperature than the first crop 981 (a fungus), but is not limited thereto. The second crop 982 may be a crop cultivated at a temperature higher than the temperature at which the first crop 981 is cultivated.

[0177] Furthermore, while the fourth device 351 was an air conditioning unit installed in the anteroom 35, it is not limited to this. The fourth device 351 may be an air conditioning unit that cools other buildings. Also, the fourth device may not be provided at all.

[0178] Furthermore, in S302, when the heat pump system 1 is operated in the third mode, the first device 321 was a device for drying the third crop 983 placed in the first greenhouse 32, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first device 321 may be a device other than a drying device.

[0179] In the third mode, the eighth heat transfer medium 68 may also be supplied to the second device 331, and the second device 331 may cool the inside of the second house 33. In this case, for example, the second house 33 can be cooled during the summer.

[0180] Furthermore, although the first greenhouse 32 and the second greenhouse 33 were used as examples in this explanation, they do not have to be greenhouses. For example, instead of greenhouses, they could be open-air cultivation areas or agricultural production factories. In this case, the first device 321 and the second device 331 just need to be devices that can adjust the temperature supplied to the first crop 981 and the second crop 982. For example, the first device 321 and the second device 331 could be devices that can heat or cool the soil in an open-air cultivation area. Also, the first device 321 and the second device 331 could be devices that can heat or cool the water supplied to the first crop 981 and the second crop 982.

[0181] Although the first to fourth modes were explained using examples of seasons in which they are performed (e.g., winter and summer), the seasons in which the first to fourth modes are performed are not limited.

[0182] Furthermore, when the third mode (see Figure 4) is executed, the eighth heat transfer medium 68 may be supplied to the second device 331. In this case, for example, the heat (or cold) of the eighth heat transfer medium 68 may be used by the second device 331 to cool the second crop 982.

[0183] Furthermore, when a predetermined time (for example, 18:00) arrived that could promote the growth of the second crop 982 (S104:YES, and S204:YES), the temperature used to heat the second crop 982 was changed (S105, and S205). However, the timing of the temperature change and the manner in which the temperature is changed are not limited to this embodiment. For example, a temperature sensor for measuring the outside temperature may be provided. Also, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the second greenhouse 33 may be provided. When a change in the outside temperature due to the time of day occurs (for example, the temperature changes by 2 degrees in one hour) (S104:YES, and S204:YES), the second crop 982 may be heated or cooled to maintain an appropriate temperature for its growth (S105, and S205). For example, if the cultivation area is an open space rather than a second greenhouse, the second crop 982 may be heated or cooled by a second device 331 that can heat or cool the soil. The method for adjusting the temperature using the second device 331 may be by increasing or decreasing the flow rates of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 supplied to the second device 331, or by increasing or decreasing the supply temperature of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 supplied to the second device 331. Alternatively, the method may be by increasing or decreasing the supply time of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 supplied to the second device 331.

[0184] Furthermore, although the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated was varied in S105 and S205, the method is not limited to this. For example, the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated may be constant. Also, although the second device 331 was a pinpoint heating device that heated only a portion of the second crop 982, the method is not limited to this. For example, the second device 331 may be a device other than a pinpoint heating device. The second device 331 may also be a heating device that heats the entire second greenhouse 33.

[0185] Furthermore, the temperature at which the first crop 981 is heated by the first device 321 is higher than the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated by the second device 331, but this is not limited to this. The temperature at which the first crop 981 is heated by the first device 321 may be lower than or equal to the temperature at which the second crop 982 is heated by the second device 331.

[0186] Furthermore, while the third device 341 was a snow-melting device, it is not limited to this. For example, the third device 341 may be a device other than a snow-melting device. Also, while the second device 331 was a device for heating the second crop cultivated in the second greenhouse 33, it is not limited to this. The second device 331 may be a heating device for heating rooms in a building. The first device 321 was a device for heating the first crop cultivated in the first greenhouse 32, but it is not limited to this. The first device 321 may be a heating device for heating rooms in a building.

[0187] Furthermore, although the heat pump system 1 was operating in the fourth mode in S402, it is not limited to this. For example, the fourth mode does not have to be executed. Also, although the heat pump system 1 was operating in the third mode in S302, it is not limited to this. For example, the third mode does not have to be executed. Also, although the heat pump system 1 was operating in the second mode in S202, it is not limited to this. For example, the second mode does not have to be executed. Also, although the heat pump system 1 was operating in the first mode in S102, it is not limited to this. For example, the first mode does not have to be executed.

[0188] Furthermore, although a fourth device 351 was provided, it is not required. Also, the second device 331 utilized the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium 67 heated in the second heat pump unit 312 (see Figures 1 and 3), but is not limited to this. For example, the second device 331 may utilize only the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 heated in the first heat pump unit 311.

[0189] Furthermore, although a third device 341 was provided, it is not required. Also, although a second device 331 was provided, it is not required. Although a second heat pump unit 312 was provided, it is not required. Although a ground source heat exchanger 41 was provided, it is not required.

[0190] Furthermore, while the first, second, third, and fourth modes were activated by the user operating the control terminal 98, the system is not limited to this. For example, a temperature sensor for detecting the ambient temperature may be provided, and the system may automatically switch between the first, second, third, and fourth modes depending on the ambient temperature. Also, while the control terminal 98 was a portable device, the system is not limited to this. The control terminal 98 may be a fixed, non-portable device. Also, while a tank 219 was provided, the system is not limited to this. A tank 219 may not be provided.

[0191] Furthermore, during the execution of the first mode (see Figure 1), at least one of the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341 may be stopped. During the execution of the second mode (see Figure 3), at least one of the second device 331 and the third device 341 may be stopped. During the execution of the third mode (see Figure 4), at least one of the first device 321 and the fourth device 351 may be stopped.

[0192] Furthermore, a flow path extending from the geothermal heat exchanger 41 to the second device 331 may be provided. Then, the second device 331 may heat or cool the second crop 982 using the heat of the heat transfer medium heated or cooled by the geothermal heat exchanger 41.

[0193] Furthermore, although a second heat exchanger 313 was provided, the system is not limited to this. For example, the second heat exchanger 313 may not be provided. Similarly, although a third heat exchanger 213 was provided, the system is not limited to this. For example, the third heat exchanger 213 may not be provided. The following describes a second embodiment, which is a modified version in which the second heat exchanger 313 and the third heat exchanger 213 are not provided, with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0194] As shown in Figure 9, the modified heat pump system 1A does not have a second heat exchanger 313 and a third heat exchanger 213 (see Figure 1). The first cascade equipment 481 includes a first heat exchanger 212, a first device 321, a first heat pump unit 311, a second device 331, and a third device 341. The second cascade equipment 482 includes a ground heat exchanger 41, a second heat pump unit 312, a first device 321, and a third device 341.

[0195] Furthermore, pump 953, temperature sensor 783, and pump 957 (see Figure 1) are not provided. One end of the flow path 815 is connected to branch section 912, and the other end is connected to branch section 921. In the flow path 815, an on-off valve 895 is provided between pump 952 and branch section 921. One end of the flow path 845 is connected to a three-way valve 993, and the other end is connected to branch section 923.

[0196] One end of flow path 823 is connected to a three-way valve 995, and the other end is connected to a branch section 917. One end of flow path 810 is connected to a three-way valve 995, and the other end is connected to a third device 341. One end of flow path 809 is connected to a third device 341, and the other end is connected to a branch section 878. One end of flow path 879 is connected to a three-way valve 995, and the other end is connected to a branch section 878. One end of flow path 808 is connected to a branch section 878, and the other end is connected to a branch section 904.

[0197] Referring to Figure 9, the first mode in this modified example will be described. In this modified example, the first mode is an operating mode in which the first heat exchanger 212, the first heat pump unit 311, and the second heat pump unit 312 are turned ON, and the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium 61, which is the exhaust from the combustion device 211, is utilized in stages in the first device 321, the second device 331, and the third device 341, and the heat derived from the sixth heat transfer medium 66 heated in the ground heat exchanger 41 is utilized in the second device 331.

[0198] When operating in first mode, the CPU 701 opens on-off valves 964, 966, 967, 970, 971, 972, and 895, and closes on-off valves 965, 968, 969, 973, and 974. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 828 to flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from flow path 872 to flow path 812. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow in from flow paths 813 and 827 and into flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow in from flow paths 817 and 845 and into flow path 818. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 994 to set the first heat transfer medium 61 to flow from the flow path 803 to the flow path 805. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 995 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing in from the flow path 823 to be divided into the flow path 810 and the flow path 879. Alternatively, the CPU 701 may control the three-way valve 995 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 823 to the flow path 810. The CPU 701 drives the pumps 950, 951, 952, 954, 955, and 956.

[0199] Similar to the first embodiment, heat is exchanged between the first heat transfer medium 61 and the second heat transfer medium 62 in the first heat exchanger 212, the second heat transfer medium 62 is heated and stored in the tank 219.

[0200] The second heat transfer medium 62 stored in tank 219 flows to the first device 321, as in the first embodiment (see Figure 1), and then flows to the branching section 912. At the branching section 912, the second heat transfer medium 62 is divided into flow path 815 and flow path 817.

[0201] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the first heat pump unit 311 via the flow paths 815 and 842. The first heat pump unit 311 uses the heat originating from the second heat transfer medium 62 to heat the fourth heat transfer medium 64 in a heat pump manner. In this embodiment, the first heat pump unit 311 uses the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 itself to heat the fourth heat transfer medium 64 in a heat pump manner. In the first heat pump unit 311, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases, and the temperature of the fourth heat transfer medium 64 increases. The second heat transfer medium 62 flows from the first heat pump unit 311 to the three-way valve 993 via the flow paths 849 and 845. In the three-way valve 993, the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through flow path 845 and the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through flow path 817 merge.

[0202] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the three-way valve 995 via channels 818, 819, 820, 828, 821, and 823. At the three-way valve 995, the second heat transfer medium 62 is divided into channels 810 and 879. The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the third device 341 via channel 810. The third device 341 utilizes the heat derived from the second heat transfer medium 62 after its temperature has been lowered by the heat utilized in the first heat pump unit 311. In this embodiment, the third device utilizes the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 itself. At the third device 341, the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62 is utilized to melt the snow in the parking lot. This lowers the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62.

[0203] The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the branching section 878 via the flow path 809. At the branching section 878, the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through the flow path 879 and the second heat transfer medium 62 flowing through the flow path 809 merge. The second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the tank 219 via the flow paths 808 and 873.

[0204] The sixth heat transfer medium 66, the fourth heat transfer medium 64, and the seventh heat transfer medium 67 flow in the same manner as in the first embodiment (see Figure 1), and the heat from each is utilized.

[0205] Although not shown in the diagram, in the second mode, the second heat transfer medium 62 flows through channels 814, 817, and 818, similar to the first embodiment (see Figure 3). Also, similar to the first mode of this embodiment (see Figure 9), the second heat transfer medium 62 flows to the third device 341 via channels 823 and 810. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the second mode is executed, the first heat exchanger 212 and the second heat pump unit 312 are turned ON.

[0206] In the third mode, similar to the first embodiment (see Figure 4), the second heat transfer medium 62 flows through channels 814, 817, and 818. The second heat transfer medium 62 also flows through channels 823, 879, and 808. The second heat transfer medium 62 does not flow through the third device 341. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 212 and the second heat pump unit 312 are turned ON.

[0207] Referring to Figure 10, the fourth mode in the second embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, when the fourth mode is executed, the first heat exchanger 212 is turned ON. When the fourth mode is executed, the CPU 701 opens the on-off valves 895, 964, 968, 969, 970, and 972, and closes the on-off valves 965, 966, 967, 971, 973, and 974. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 990 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 828 to the flow path 821. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 991 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 872 to the flow path 812. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 992 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 813 to the flow path 814. The CPU 701 controls the three-way valve 993 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 845 to the flow path 818. The CPU 701 also controls the three-way valve 994 to set the first heat transfer medium 61 to flow from the flow path 803 to the flow path 805. The CPU 701 also controls the three-way valve 995 to set the second heat transfer medium 62 to flow from the flow path 823 to the flow path 879. The CPU 701 drives the pumps 950, 951, 952, 953, and 954.

[0208] The first heat transfer medium 61 flows in the same manner as in the first embodiment (see Figure 5). The second heat transfer medium 62 circulates through the first heat exchanger 212, the flow path 806, the tank 219, the flow path 807, and the first heat exchanger 212, driven by the pump 951, in the same manner as in the first embodiment (see Figure 5).

[0209] The second heat transfer medium 62 stored in tank 219 flows to the ground heat exchanger 41 via channels 871, 872, 812, 813, 814, 815, 843, and 851. In the ground heat exchanger 41, the ground is heated by the heat of the second heat transfer medium 62. In the ground heat exchanger 41, the temperature of the second heat transfer medium 62 decreases. The second heat transfer medium 62 flows from the ground heat exchanger 41 to tank 219 via channels 852, 846, 845, 818, 819, 820, 828, 821, 823, 879, 808, and 873.

[0210] As described above, the first to fourth modes are executed in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0211] In the second embodiment, both the second heat exchanger 313 and the third heat exchanger 213 shown in Figure 1 were removed, but this is not the only option. Only one of the second heat exchanger 313 or the third heat exchanger 213 may be removed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0212] 1.1A Heat Pump System 32 First House 33 Second House 34 Parking 35 Vestibule 61 First heat medium 62 Second heat medium 63 Third heat medium 64 Fourth heat medium 65 Fifth heat medium 66 Sixth heat medium 211 Combustion device 212 First heat exchanger 213 Third heat exchanger 311 First Heat Pump Section 312 Second Heat Pump Section 313 Second heat exchanger 321 First device 331 Second device 341 Third device 351 Fourth device 481 First Cascade Facility 482 Second Cascade Facility 701 CPU 981 First Crops 982 Secondary crops 983 Third Crops

Claims

1. A heat pump system including a first heat pump section, A combustion device that burns objects, The first cascade equipment includes the first heat pump section and utilizes the heat derived from the first heat transfer medium, which is the exhaust from the combustion device, in a stepwise manner. A heat pump system characterized by having the following features.

2. The first cascade system comprises a first heat exchanger, a first device, a first heat pump unit, and a second device. The first heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium, heating the second heat transfer medium. The first device is provided downstream of the first heat exchanger and utilizes the heat of the second heat transfer medium heated in the first heat exchanger. The first heat pump unit uses the heat originating from the second heat transfer medium to heat the fourth heat transfer medium in a heat pump manner. The heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that the second device utilizes the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium heated in the first heat pump section.

3. The heat pump system according to claim 2, characterized in that the first cascade equipment includes a third device that utilizes heat derived from the second heat transfer medium after the temperature has decreased due to the utilization of heat in the first heat pump section.

4. The heat pump system according to claim 3, comprising a ground heat exchanger that heats or cools a sixth heat medium by heat exchange with the ground, and a second heat pump unit, and further comprising a second cascade unit that utilizes the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated by the ground heat exchanger in stages.

5. The second cascade system includes the first device and the third device, The second heat pump unit uses the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium heated in the ground heat exchanger to heat the seventh heat transfer medium in a heat pump manner. The first device utilizes the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium heated in the second heat pump section, The heat pump system according to claim 4, characterized in that the third device utilizes the heat derived from the seventh heat medium after the heat has been utilized in the first device.

6. The heat pump system according to claim 5, characterized in that the second device utilizes the heat of the seventh heat transfer medium heated in the second heat pump section.

7. The second heat pump unit uses the heat from the sixth heat transfer medium cooled in the ground heat exchanger to cool the eighth heat transfer medium in a heat pump manner. The aforementioned heat pump system is The heat pump system according to claim 6, further comprising a fourth device that utilizes the heat of the eighth heat transfer medium cooled in the second heat pump section.

8. The first cascade equipment is provided downstream of the first device and includes a second heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium and the third heat transfer medium and heats the third heat transfer medium. The first heat pump unit uses the heat of the third heat transfer medium heated in the second heat exchanger to heat the fourth heat transfer medium in a heat pump manner. The heat pump system according to claim 7, characterized in that the second device utilizes the heat of the fourth heat transfer medium heated in the first heat pump section.

9. The aforementioned first cascade equipment is, A third heat exchanger is provided downstream of the second heat exchanger, which performs heat exchange between the second heat transfer medium and the fifth heat transfer medium to heat the fifth heat transfer medium. The heat pump system according to claim 8, characterized in that the third device is equipped with the ability to utilize the heat of the fifth heat medium heated in the third heat exchanger.

10. The heat pump system is equipped with a first mode operation control means for operating it in a first mode, The heat pump system according to any one of 7 to 9, characterized in that the first mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust of the combustion device, is utilized in stages in the first device, the second device, and the third device, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger is utilized in the second device.

11. The heat pump system is equipped with a second mode operation control means for operating it in a second mode, The heat pump system according to claim 10, characterized in that the second mode is an operating mode in which the heat derived from the sixth heat medium heated in the ground heat exchanger is utilized in stages in the first and third devices, and the heat derived from the sixth heat medium is utilized in the second device.

12. The heat pump system is equipped with a third-mode operation control means for operating it in a third mode, The heat pump system according to claim 11, characterized in that the third mode is an operating mode in which the heat originating from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust of the combustion device, is utilized in the first device, and the heat originating from the sixth heat medium, which has been cooled in the ground heat exchanger, is utilized in the fourth device.

13. The heat pump system is equipped with a fourth-mode operation control means for operating it in a fourth mode, The heat pump system according to claim 12, characterized in that the fourth mode is an operating mode in which heat originating from the first heat medium, which is the exhaust of the combustion device, is supplied to the ground heat exchanger to heat the ground in the ground heat exchanger.

14. The heat pump system according to claim 13, characterized in that when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the first device is a device installed in the first facility and for heating the first crop cultivated in the first facility.

15. The heat pump system according to claim 14, characterized in that when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the second device is a device installed in a second facility and for heating a second crop cultivated in the second facility.

16. The heat pump system according to claim 15, characterized in that when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, the third device is a snow melting device for melting snow.

17. The heat pump system according to claim 16, characterized in that the temperature at which the first crop is heated by the first device is higher than the temperature at which the second crop is heated by the second device.

18. The heat pump system according to claim 17, characterized in that the second device is a pinpoint heating device that performs pinpoint heating to heat a portion of the second crop.

19. The heat pump system according to claim 18, characterized in that when the heat pump system is operated in the first mode by the first mode operation control means, and when the heat pump system is operated in the second mode by the second mode operation control means, it is equipped with a temperature adjustment control means that controls the second device and changes the temperature at which the second crop is heated for a predetermined time that is capable of promoting the growth of the second crop.

20. When the heat pump system is operated in the third mode by the third mode operation control means, The aforementioned first facility is a house, The heat pump system according to claim 19, characterized in that the first device is a device for drying a third crop located in the first facility.

21. The heat pump system according to claim 20, characterized in that when the heat pump system is operated in the third mode by the third mode operation control means, the fourth device is a cooling device provided in a anteroom located in front of the second facility and cooling the anteroom.

22. The heat pump system according to claim 21, characterized in that the first crop is a fungus, and the second crop is a crop cultivated at a lower temperature than the fungus.

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