A cooling and / or heating system for a vehicle, and a method for operating said system.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cooling and / or heating system for vehicles. [Solution] The system (1) includes a cooling circulation path (K-KL) and a radiator circulation path (R-KL) through which a coolant can flow. The cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluid-connected via a distribution valve (7). The system (1) further includes a cooling pump (10) which is fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL). The cooling pump (10) is the only pump in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling and / or heating system for a vehicle, and a method of operating the system, as described in the generic concept of claim 1.

[0002] In a vehicle, a cooling and / or heating system, or so-called thermal management system, is used to cool and / or heat a plurality of components of the vehicle. Its structure is usually extremely complex in order to cover all air conditioning tasks required for each function of the system, for example, cooling and / or heating and / or its mixed mode. To distribute the material flow and / or heat flow, this system requires a plurality of open-loop control components and / or pumping components and / or closed-loop control components. As a result, this system is extremely complex and expensive.

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved or at least alternative embodiment for a system of the type described at the beginning, in which the above-mentioned disadvantages are overcome. A further object of the present invention is to provide a method of operating this system.

[0004] According to the present invention, this object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0005] The system or thermal management system according to the present invention is provided or designed for cooling and / or heating a vehicle. The system in this case includes a cooler and a condenser, which are fluidly connected in a refrigerant circulation path through which a refrigerant can flow. The system further includes a distribution valve, a cabin cooler through which air flowing to the vehicle's passenger compartment can flow, and a cooling pump, which are fluidly connected in a cooling circulation path through which a coolant can flow. The distribution valve may be a single unit having multiple valves in particular. The system further includes a cryogenic cooler through which ambient air can flow, and the cryogenic cooler and the distribution valve are fluidly connected in a radiator circulation path through which a coolant can flow. The distribution valve in this case is configured to be switchable so that the cooling circulation path can be fluidly connected to the radiator circulation path, or so that it can be connected so that it can flow through with a coolant. The cooling pump connected in the cooling circulation path is, in this case, a single pump in the cooling circulation path and in the radiator circulation path.

[0006] In the system according to the present invention, the coolant can be pumped in the cooling circulation path and the radiator circulation path solely by a cooling pump. This simplifies the system structure and achieves cost and weight reductions.

[0007] The cooling circulation path may have a first cooling partial circulation path to which the cooler and the passenger compartment cooler are fluidly connected, and a second cooling partial circulation path to which the distribution valve and the cooler are fluidly connected. In this case, the first cooling partial circulation path and the second cooling partial circulation path can be fluidly separated and guided from each other at the cooling division point of the cooling circulation path, and can be fluidly guided together at the cooling connection point. In this case, the cooling division point may be fluidly connected downstream of the cooler and fluidly connected upstream of the passenger compartment cooler and the distribution valve. The cooling connection point may be fluidly connected upstream of the cooler and fluidly connected downstream of the passenger compartment cooler and the distribution valve. In this case, the cooling pump fluidly connected in the cooling circulation path may be fluidly connected between the cooler and the cooling connection point, for example, to a pipeline leading from the cooling connection point to the cooler inlet or directly to the cooler inlet, or between the cooler and the cooling division point, for example, to a pipeline leading from the cooler outlet to the cooling division point or directly to the cooler outlet. In this configuration of the cooling pump, the cooling pump can pump the coolant through both cooling section circulation paths.

[0008] The system may further include a three-way valve, which is fluidly connected to a cooling connection point or a cooling division point in the cooling circulation path. In this case, the three-way valve fluidly connected in the cooling circulation path may be configured to be switchable so that the coolant can flow through the first partial cooling circulation path and the second partial cooling circulation path simultaneously, together, in common, alternately, or individually. In this case, it is obvious that when flowing through both partial cooling circulation paths, the amount of coolant in the cooling circulation path is divided between the two partial cooling circulation paths. Furthermore, the three-way valve can adjust the amount of coolant flowing through the first partial cooling circulation path and the second partial cooling circulation path. In other words, output division in the cooling circulation path can be performed by the three-way valve and the cooling pump.

[0009] The system may include a cabin heater through which air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment can pass, an electronics cooler that can be heat-transferably connected to the vehicle's electronics, and a heating pump. The cabin heater, distribution valve, electronics cooler, condenser, and heating pump may, in this case, be fluidly connected in a heating circulation path through which a coolant can pass. The distribution valve may, in this case, be configured to be switchable so that the heating circulation path can be fluidly connected to a radiator circulation path, or so that it can be connected in a way that allows coolant to pass through. The heating pump connected in the heating circulation path may, in this case, be just one pump in the heating circulation path and in the radiator circulation path. The electronics cooler may have at least one cooling unit through which a coolant can pass, designed to cool at least one electrical and / or electronic component of the vehicle. The electronics cooler may include, for example, at least one cooling unit for cooling the vehicle's power electronics—for example, an inverter and / or an onboard charger and / or a DC voltage converter. Alternatively or additionally, the electronics cooler may include, for example, at least one cooling unit for cooling at least one electric motor of the vehicle.

[0010] This system may have just two pumps designed to pump the coolant, one of which corresponds to a cooling pump fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path, and the other to a heating pump fluid-connected in the heating circulation path. In other words, the entire system can have only two pumps to pump the coolant, namely a cooling pump and a heating pump, and these pumps distribute all the material flow and / or heat flow, enabling all the modes required by the system. This simplifies the structure of the system and reduces the number of components within the system. As a result, the cost and weight of the system can also be reduced.

[0011] The system may have a bypass that can divide the heating circulation path into a first heating partial circulation path and a second heating partial circulation path. In the first heating partial circulation path, a condenser, a cabin heater, and a heating pump may be fluid-connected. In this case, in the second heating partial circulation path, a distribution valve and an electronic cooler may be fluid-connected. The bypass may be fluid-connected to the heating circulation path at the heating connection point and the heating division point of the heating circulation path. In this case, the heating connection point may be fluid-connected upstream of the cabin heater, and the heating division point may be fluid-connected downstream of the cabin cooler. The system may further have a three-way valve. In this case, the three-way valve may be fluid-connected to the heating connection point in the heating circulation path and can close or open the bypass. In this case, when the bypass is closed, the coolant may be able to flow through both heating section circulation paths as a single common circulation path, and when the bypass is open, the coolant can flow partially around the second heating section circulation path via the bypass, or can bypass the second heating section circulation path.

[0012] This system may have an air flap. In this case, the air flap may be positioned such that the air flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle cannot pass through the passenger compartment heater when the air flap is closed, but can pass through when the air flap is open. In other words, the air flap can prevent the air flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle from passing through the passenger compartment heater and being heated. In particular, the air flap can be closed when cooling the air flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0013] The system may have a battery cooler that can be connected to the vehicle's battery via heat transfer. In this case, the battery cooler and the distribution valve may be fluidly connected in the system in a battery circulation path through which coolant can flow. The distribution valve may be switchable in this case so that the cooling circulation path can be fluidly connected to the battery circulation path, or so that it can be connected in a way that allows coolant to flow through it. The cooling pump connected in the cooling circulation path may, in this case in particular, be just one pump in the cooling circulation path and in the battery circulation path. In other words, the cooling pump can pump coolant in the cooling circulation path, and additionally in the radiator circulation path and / or battery circulation path depending on the location of the distribution valve.

[0014] As an alternative to the aforementioned battery cooler that can be connected to the vehicle's battery via heat transfer, this system may have a battery cooler through which air flowing to the vehicle's battery can pass. This battery cooler may be fluidly connected in parallel or in series to the passenger compartment cooler in a cooling circulation path through which coolant can pass. To control the flow of coolant to the passenger compartment cooler and to the battery cooler in open-loop / close-loop mode, the system may have a three-way valve. If the battery cooler is connected in parallel to the passenger compartment cooler in the cooling circulation path, the three-way valve may be fluidly connected in the cooling circulation path so that the passenger compartment cooler and the battery cooler can pass through together or alternately with the coolant, and may be configured to be switchable. If the battery cooler is connected in series to the passenger compartment cooler in the cooling circulation path, the three-way valve may be fluidly connected in the cooling circulation path so that the battery cooler can pass through together with the passenger compartment cooler with the coolant, or may not be able to pass through, and may be configured to be switchable.

[0015] The present invention further relates to a method for operating the above-described system. In this case, the system can be operated in cabin cooling mode and / or battery cooling mode and / or battery-cabin cooling mode and / or cabin heating mode and / or dehumidification mode and / or circulation mode. The above modes can be adjusted by corresponding switching of the distribution valve and / or three-way valves fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path and / or three-way valves fluid-connected in the heating circulation path, and corresponding operation of the cooling pump and / or heating pump, and closing / opening of the air flaps in the cabin heater. It should be understood that the system can be appropriately configured or designed to implement the above modes.

[0016] The system can be operated in a cabin cooling mode to cool the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment. In cabin cooling mode, the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment does not pass through the passenger compartment heater. For this purpose, the air flaps located on the passenger compartment heater can be closed. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched to allow the coolant to flow through the first cooling partial circulation path and not through the second cooling partial circulation path. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the heating circulation path closes a bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to flow through the first and second heating partial circulation paths as a single common circulation path. The distribution valve is switched so that the second heating partial circulation path of the heating circulation path and the radiator circulation path are fluid-connected. The system can be operated in cabin cooling mode when the ambient temperature is between 10°C and 50°C. To avoid freezing of the passenger compartment cooler, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the first cooling partial circulation path, can have a minimum possible temperature so that the surface or air temperature in the passenger compartment cooler does not fall below 0°C. To prevent the cabin air conditioner from freezing, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the first partial cooling circulation path, can have a minimum temperature of, for example, -2°C.

[0017] The system can be operated in battery cooling mode to cool the vehicle's battery. In battery cooling mode, a fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched so that the coolant does not flow through the first cooling partial circulation path but instead flows through the second cooling partial circulation path. The distribution valve is switched so that the second cooling partial circulation path of the cooling circulation path and the battery circulation path are fluid-connected. In the heating circulation path, a fluid-connected three-way valve closes the bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to flow through the first heating partial circulation path and the second heating partial circulation path as a single common circulation path. The distribution valve is further switched so that the second heating partial circulation path of the heating circulation path and the radiator circulation path are fluid-connected. The system can be operated in battery cooling mode when battery cooling is required, especially when the temperature of the coolant flowing into the battery exceeds 25°C. Because the first cooling partial circulation path, and as a result the cabin air conditioner, does not flow through it, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the second cooling partial circulation path, can have a minimum temperature of 20°C to -30°C.

[0018] The system can be operated in a battery-cabin cooling mode to cool the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment and to cool the vehicle's battery. In battery-cabin cooling mode, the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment does not pass through the passenger compartment heater. For this purpose, the air flaps located on the passenger compartment heater can be closed. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched so that the coolant flows through the first and second cooling partial circulation paths. Furthermore, the distribution valve is switched so that the battery circulation path and the second cooling partial circulation path of the cooling circulation path are fluid-connected. In the heating circulation path, a fluid-connected three-way valve closes the bypass, so that the coolant flows through the first and second heating partial circulation paths as a single common circulation path. The distribution valve is further switched so that the second heating partial circulation path of the heating circulation path and the radiator circulation path are fluid-connected. The system can be operated in battery-cabin cooling mode when the ambient temperature is between 10°C and 50°C. To avoid excessively low coolant temperatures, the three-way valve allows the coolant to be introduced into the second cooling subcircuit only intermittently. This allows the desired temperature of the coolant in the second cooling subcircuit connected to the battery to be controlled. The desired temperature of the coolant in the second cooling subcircuit is 15-25°C when it flows into the battery.

[0019] The system can be operated in a cabin heating mode to heat the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment. In cabin heating mode, the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment passes through the cabin heater. For this purpose, the air flaps located on the cabin heater can be opened. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched so that the coolant does not pass through the first cooling partial circulation path but instead passes through the second cooling partial circulation path. The distribution valve is switched so that the second cooling partial circulation path of the cooling circulation path and the radiator circulation path are fluid-connected. This allows the low-temperature cooler in the radiator circulation path to be used as a heat pump for the refrigerant circulation path. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the heating circulation path opens a bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to partially flow around the second heating partial circulation path or to bypass the second heating partial circulation path. The distribution valve is further switched so that the second heating partial circulation path of the heating circulation path and the battery circulation path are fluid-connected. The system can be operated in cabin heating mode when the ambient temperature is between -40°C and 25°C. Because the first cooling partial circulation path, and as a result the cabin cooler, does not flow through it, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the second cooling partial circulation path, can have a temperature below the ambient temperature. This allows the coolant to absorb heat from the surroundings via the low-temperature cooler and utilize it for the heat pump in the cooler.

[0020] The system can be operated in a dehumidification mode to dehumidify the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment. In dehumidification mode, the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment passes through the passenger compartment heater. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched to allow the coolant to flow through the first cooling partial circulation path and not through the second cooling partial circulation path. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the heating circulation path opens a bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to flow partially around the second heating partial circulation path or to bypass the second heating partial circulation path. The distribution valve is switched so that the second heating partial circulation path and the radiator circulation path of the heating circulation path are fluid-connected. In dehumidification mode, the air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment can be cooled by the passenger compartment cooler, thereby dehumidifying it. The air flowing into the vehicle's passenger compartment can then be heated to the required temperature by the passenger compartment heater. The prerequisites for implementing the dehumidification mode are that the ambient air temperature is higher than the cabin cooler temperature, and the temperature of the coolant entering the cabin cooler may be higher than -2°C. Furthermore, the sum of the heat output of the compressor and cabin cooler in the refrigerant circulation path must be lower than the heat output of the cabin heater. In this case, the heat output is determined in particular by dehumidification. The use of waste heat from the compressor and cabin cooler as a heat source for the cooler in heat pump mode is possible in the first heating portion circulation path only if the sum of their heat outputs is less than or equal to the required heat output. Otherwise, the excess heat output must be discharged through the second heating portion circulation path. The system can be operated in dehumidification mode when the ambient temperature is between 0°C and 25°C. To avoid freezing of the cabin cooler, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the first cooling portion circulation path, may have a minimum temperature of -2°C.

[0021] The system can operate in a circulating mode to exchange coolant in multiple circulation paths through which the coolant can flow. In circulating mode, a fluid-connected three-way valve in the cooling circulation path is switched to allow the coolant to flow through the first and second cooling partial circulation paths. A fluid-connected three-way valve in the heating circulation path opens a bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to partially bypass the second heating partial circulation path. The distribution valve is further switched so that the cooling circulation path is fluid-connected to the battery circulation path, the battery circulation path is fluid-connected to the heating circulation path, and the heating circulation path is fluid-connected to the radiator circulation path. In circulating mode, the coolant can be pumped in series across all circulation paths and all components in the system, thereby allowing exchange in multiple circulation paths. The system can operate in circulating mode when the ambient temperature is between -40°C and 5°C. In this case, the coolant in the cooling circulation path, or in the first cooling partial circulation path, can have a minimum temperature of -2°C.

[0022] In the context of this invention, the concept of “series flowable” is used synonymously with the concepts of “sequential flowable” or “sequential flowable.” The term “cooler” is used here synonymously with the term “evaporator.” The concept of “fluid-connected in a circulation path” is used synonymously with the concepts of “fluid-coupled in a circulation path” or “arranged in a circulation path to allow the flow of coolant or refrigerant.” The terms “heating-” and / or “cooling-” and / or “radiator-” and / or “battery-” and / or “low-temperature-” and / or “passenger compartment-” and / or “electronic equipment-” are used in the context of this invention simply to distinguish similar elements from one another. A low-temperature cooler may, in particular, be an air-liquid heat exchanger through which ambient air and coolant can flow in a heat-transfer manner without mixing. A passenger compartment cooler may, in particular, be an air-liquid heat exchanger through which air flowing into the passenger compartment of a vehicle can flow in a heat-transfer manner without mixing. A passenger compartment heater may be an air-liquid heat exchanger that allows air flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle to flow through the coolant in a heat transfer manner without mixing. A cooler may be a liquid-refrigerant heat exchanger that allows coolant and refrigerant to flow through the coolant in a heat transfer manner without mixing. A battery cooler that can be connected to the vehicle's battery in a heat transfer manner may be a unit through which coolant can flow, having multiple passable passages. A battery cooler through which air flowing to the vehicle's battery can flow may be an air-liquid heat exchanger that allows air flowing to the vehicle's battery to flow through the coolant in a heat transfer manner without mixing.

[0023] Further important features and advantages of the present invention are described in the dependent claims, drawings, and corresponding descriptions of the drawings.

[0024] It should be understood that the features described above and those further described below can be used not only in each of the combinations described, but also in other combinations or individually without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail in the following description. In this case, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar or functionally identical components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a system according to the present invention in a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a passenger compartment cooling mode. [Figure 3] FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a battery cooling mode. [Figure 4] FIG. 17 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a battery - passenger compartment cooling mode. [Figure 5] FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a passenger compartment heating mode. [Figure 6] FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a dehumidifying mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 26 is a diagram schematically showing the system according to the present invention in a first embodiment in a circulation mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 29 is a diagram schematically showing a system according to the present invention in a first aspect of a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 32 is a diagram schematically showing a system according to the present invention in a second aspect of a second embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 1 shows a diagram of a system 1 according to the present invention for cooling and / or heating a vehicle in a first embodiment. This system 1 includes, in this case, a cooler 2, a compressor 3, a condenser 4, a collection / drying unit 5 and an expansion valve 6. The cooler 2, the compressor 3, the condenser 4, the collection / drying unit 5 and the expansion valve 6 are fluid - connected in a refrigerant circulation path KM - K through which refrigerant can flow, or are arranged so that refrigerant can flow through them.

[0028] System 1 further includes a distribution valve 7, a passenger compartment cooler 8 through which air KL flowing to the passenger compartment of the vehicle can pass, a three-way valve 9, and a cooling pump 10. The distribution valve 7, cooler 2, passenger compartment cooler 8, three-way valve 9, and cooling pump 10 are fluidly connected in a cooling circulation path K-KL through which coolant can pass, or are arranged to allow coolant to pass. In this case, the cooling circulation path K-KL includes a first cooling partial circulation path K-KL1 and a second cooling partial circulation path K-KL2. The distribution valve 7 may be a single unit having multiple valves.

[0029] In this case, the cooling section circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2 are guided together fluidically at the cooling connection point 11a and guided separately fluidically at the cooling division point 11b. In this case, the cooling connection point 11a is fluidly connected upstream of the cooler 2 and downstream of the passenger cabin cooler 8 and the distribution valve 7. The cooling division point 11b is fluidly connected downstream of the cooler 2 and upstream of the passenger cabin cooler 8 and the distribution valve 7.

[0030] In this case, in the first cooling section circulation path K-KL1, the passenger cabin cooler 8 and the cooler 2 are fluid-connected, and in the second cooling section circulation path K-KL2, the cooler 2 and the distribution valve 7 are fluid-connected. In this case, the cooling pump 10 is fluid-connected upstream of the cooler 2 and fluid-connected downstream of the cooling connection point 11a. Therefore, the cooling pump 10 is positioned within the cooling circulation path K-KL so as to be able to pump the coolant into both cooling section circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2.

[0031] The three-way valve 9 is fluidly connected to the cooling circulation path K-KL at the cooling connection point 11a. In this case, the three-way valve 9 is configured to be switchable so that the coolant can flow through the first partial cooling circulation path K-KL1 and the second partial cooling circulation path K-KL2 together, simultaneously, both, alternately, or individually. In this case, it is obvious that the coolant in the cooling circulation path K-KL is divided when flow occurs through both partial cooling circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2. In other words, flow through both partial cooling circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2 does not occur simultaneously with 100% coolant in each. Furthermore, system 1 includes a check valve 12.

[0032] System 1 further includes a low-temperature cooler 13 through which ambient air UL can flow. In this case, the low-temperature cooler 13 and the distribution valve 7 are either fluid-connected in the radiator circulation path R-KL through which the coolant can flow, or are arranged to allow the coolant to flow. In this case, the distribution valve 7 is configured to be switchable so that the radiator circulation path R-KL and the second cooling portion circulation path K-KL2 can be fluid-connected to each other or fluid-separated from each other.

[0033] Furthermore, System 1 includes a battery cooler 14a that can be connected to the vehicle's battery in a heat transfer manner. In this case, the battery cooler 14a and the distribution valve 7 are fluidly connected in a battery circulation path B-KL through which a coolant can flow, or are arranged so that a coolant can flow through them. In this case, the distribution valve 7 is switchable so that the battery circulation path B-KL can be fluidly connected to a second cooling partial circulation path K-KL2 and / or to a radiator circulation path R-KL and / or to a heating circulation path H-KL, which will be described in more detail later, or so that the fluid can be separated from the second cooling partial circulation path K-KL2 and / or from the radiator circulation path R-KL and / or from the heating circulation path H-KL, which will be described in more detail later.

[0034] System 1 further includes a cabin heater 15 through which cabin air KL flowing to the vehicle's passenger compartment can pass, an electronics cooler 16 heat-transferable to the vehicle's electronics, a heating pump 17, an HV heater 18 (HV: high voltage), and a three-way valve 19. The electronics cooler 16 may include, for example, at least one cooling unit for cooling the vehicle's power electronics—for example, the vehicle's control devices and / or inverters and / or onboard chargers and / or DC voltage converters. Alternatively or additionally, the electronics cooler 16 may include, for example, at least one cooling unit for cooling at least one of the vehicle's electric motors. In this case, the cabin heater 15, electronics cooler 16, heating pump 17, HV heater 18, three-way valve 19, condenser 4, and distribution valve 7 are fluidly connected in a heating circulation path H-KL through which coolant can pass, or are arranged to allow coolant to pass. In this case, the heating circulation path H-KL includes a first heating partial circulation path H-KL1 and a second heating partial circulation path H-KL2.

[0035] In this case, the heating section circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 are separated from each other by a bypass 27. The bypass 27 guides the heating section circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 together fluidly at the heating connection point 20a, and guides them separately fluidly at the heating division point 20b. In other words, the bypass 27 fluidly connects the heating connection point 20a and the heating division point 20b to each other. In this case, the heating connection point 20a is fluidly connected upstream of the condenser 4 and fluidly connected downstream of the electronic cooler 16. The heating division point 20b is fluidly connected downstream of the cabin heater 15 and fluidly connected upstream of the distribution valve 7. In this case, in the first heating section circulation path H-KL1, the condenser 4, cabin heater 15, heating pump 17 and HV heater 18 are fluidly connected, and in the second heating section circulation path H-KL2, the electronic cooler 16 and distribution valve 7 are fluidly connected. Through the distribution valve 7, the heating circulation path H-KL or the second heating portion circulation path H-KL2 can be fluidly connected to the battery circulation path B-KL and / or the radiator circulation path R-KL, or fluid can be separated from the battery circulation path B-KL and / or the radiator circulation path R-KL.

[0036] The three-way valve 19 is fluidly connected to the heating connection point 20a in the heating circulation path H-KL, and can close or open the bypass 27. This allows the coolant to flow through both heating circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 as a single common circulation path, or allows the coolant to flow partially through the second partial heating circulation path H-KL2. The distribution valve 7 is switchable so that the second partial heating circulation path H-KL2 can be fluidly connected to the radiator circulation path R-KL and / or the battery circulation path B-KL, or so that it can be fluidly separated from the radiator circulation path R-KL and / or the battery circulation path B-KL.

[0037] In System 1, the passenger compartment heater 15 is located downstream of the passenger compartment cooler 8 with respect to the flow direction of the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Furthermore, this system includes an air flap 21 that can prevent the air flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle from passing through the passenger compartment heater 15. When the air flap 21 is closed, the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle can pass through the passenger compartment cooler 8 but not through the passenger compartment heater 15. When the air flap 21 is open, the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle can pass through both the passenger compartment cooler 8 and the passenger compartment heater 15.

[0038] Furthermore, system 1 includes a fan 22 positioned downstream of the chill cooler 13 with respect to the flow direction of the ambient air UL. In addition, a closure unit 23 is provided that can adjust the flow of ambient air UL through the chill cooler 13. In this case, the closure unit 23 is positioned upstream of the chill cooler 13 with respect to the flow direction of the ambient air UL.

[0039] Figures 2 to 7 show diagrams of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when implementing Method 24 according to the present invention. In Method 24, different operations of System 1 can be realized depending on the position of the distribution valve 7, the three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL, the three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL, the position of the air flap 21 in the passenger compartment heater 15, and the output of the cooling pump 10 and the heating pump 17. These will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2 to 7.

[0040] Figure 2 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 2, System 1 is operated in cabin cooling mode. The cabin cooling mode is set to cool the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle and can be carried out at ambient temperatures of 10°C to 50°C.

[0041] In cabin cooling mode, the air flap 21 is closed and the cabin heater 15 is not circulated. The three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL switches the flow of coolant through the first partial cooling circulation path K-KL1 and prevents coolant from circulating through the second partial cooling circulation path K-KL2. Furthermore, coolant is not circulated through the battery circulation path B-KL either. In this case, the minimum temperature of the coolant in the first partial cooling circulation path K-KL2 is -2°C to prevent the cabin cooler 8 from freezing. The three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL closes the bypass 27 so that coolant circulates through the heating partial circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 as one common circulation path. The second partial heating circulation path H-KL2 and the radiator circulation path R-KL are further fluid-connected via the distribution valve 7.

[0042] Figure 3 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 3, System 1 is operated in battery cooling mode. Battery cooling mode is set to cool the vehicle's battery and can be implemented when the temperature of the coolant flowing into the battery is higher than 25°C.

[0043] In battery cooling mode, the three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL is switched so that the coolant does not flow through the first partial cooling circulation path K-KL1, but flows through the second partial cooling circulation path K-KL2. In this case, the second partial cooling circulation path K-KL2 and the battery circulation path B-KL are fluidly connected via the distribution valve 7. This allows the coolant to flow through the battery cooler 14a and cool the vehicle's battery. The minimum temperature of the coolant may be 20°C to -30°C in the second partial cooling circulation path K-KL2. The three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL closes the bypass 27, so that the coolant flows through the heating partial circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 as a single common circulation path. The distribution valve 7 is switched so that the second partial heating circulation path H-KL2 and the radiator circulation path R-KL are fluidly connected.

[0044] Figure 4 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 4, System 1 is operated in battery-cabin cooling mode. Battery-cabin cooling mode is set to cool the vehicle's battery and the air KL flowing into the vehicle's cabin, and can be implemented at ambient temperatures of 10°C to 50°C.

[0045] In battery / cabin cooling mode, unlike battery cooling mode, the three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL is switched to allow coolant to flow through both cooling partial circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2. As a result, in addition to the battery cooler 14a, the cabin cooler 8 is also circulated with coolant. In this case, the minimum temperature of the coolant in both cooling partial circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2 cannot fall below -2°C to avoid freezing of the cabin cooler 8. Furthermore, the three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL closes the bypass 27, allowing coolant to flow through the heating partial circulation paths H-KL1 and H-KL2 as a single common circulation path. The distribution valve 7 remains switched as in battery cooling mode, fluidly connecting the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2 to the radiator circulation path R-KL, and the second cooling partial circulation path K-KL2 to the battery circulation path B-KL.

[0046] Figure 5 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 5, System 1 is operated in cabin heating mode. The cabin heating mode is provided for heating the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle and can be implemented at ambient temperatures of -40°C to 25°C.

[0047] In cabin heating mode, the three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL is switched so that the second cooling circulation path K-KL2 flows, while the first cooling partial circulation path K-KL1, and therefore the cabin cooler 8, does not. The distribution valve 7 fluidly connects the second cooling partial circulation path K-KL2 to the radiator circulation path R-KL, and the low-temperature cooler 13 is used as a heat pump. The three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL opens the bypass 27, so that the coolant flows partially around the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2 via the bypass 27, or bypasses the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2. The distribution valve 7 can fluidly connect the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2 to the battery circulation path B-KL.

[0048] Figure 6 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 6, System 1 is operated in dehumidification mode. Dehumidification mode is set to dehumidify the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of a vehicle and can be carried out at ambient temperatures of 0°C to 25°C.

[0049] In dehumidification mode, the three-way valve 19 and air flap 21, which are fluid-connected in the heating circulation path H-KL, are switched to operate differently compared to the passenger compartment cooling mode shown in Figure 2. In this case, the three-way valve 19 opens the bypass 27 in the heating circulation path H-KL, so that the coolant flows partially around the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2 via the bypass 27, or bypasses the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2. Furthermore, the air flap 21 is opened, allowing the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle to pass through the passenger compartment heater 15. In other respects, the three-way valve 19 and distribution valve 7, which are fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path K-KL, are switched in the same way as in the passenger compartment cooling mode shown in Figure 2. In dehumidification mode, the air KL flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle is first cooled by the passenger compartment cooler 8, thereby dehumidifying it. Then, when it passes through the passenger compartment heater 15, the air KL can be heated to the desired temperature. Dehumidifying the air with KL (Kelvin Lime) prevents condensation on the windows inside the vehicle, thereby improving vehicle safety.

[0050] Figure 7 shows a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a first embodiment when carrying out Method 24 according to the present invention. According to Figure 7, System 1 is operated in circulation mode. The system can be operated in circulation mode when the ambient temperature is between -40°C and 5°C. The circulation mode is set in particular for de-icing the frozen low-temperature cooler 13 in the cabin heating mode of Figure 5.

[0051] In circulation mode, the three-way valve 9 in the cooling circulation path K-KL is switched to allow coolant to flow through both cooling partial circulation paths K-KL1 and K-KL2. The three-way valve 19 in the heating circulation path H-KL opens the bypass 27, so that the coolant flows partially around the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2 via the bypass 27, or bypasses the second heating partial circulation path H-KL2. The distribution valve 7 further fluid-connects the cooling circulation path K-KL, the heating circulation path H-KL, the radiator circulation path R-KL, and the battery circulation path B-KL to each other.

[0052] Figures 8 and 9 show a diagram of System 1 according to the present invention in a second embodiment. In the second embodiment, System 1 includes a battery cooler 14b through which air BL flowing to the vehicle battery can pass, instead of a battery cooler 14a which can be connected to the vehicle battery in a heat transfer manner. In this case, the vehicle battery can be cooled by air BL cooled in the battery cooler 14b. Unlike the battery cooler 14a, the battery cooler 14b is fluidly connected in the first cooling portion circulation path K-KL1 of the cooling circulation path K-KL. To regulate the coolant flow through the battery cooler 14b and the passenger compartment cooler 8, System 1 includes a three-way valve 25.

[0053] Figure 8 shows a first aspect of a second embodiment of System 1. In this case, the battery cooler 14b is connected in series with the cabin cooler 8 and can be bypassed via the battery cooling bypass 26. Since the three-way valve 25 is connected to the battery cooling bypass 26, the battery cooler 8 is connected in series with the cabin cooler 8, allowing or not allowing the coolant to pass through.

[0054] Figure 9 shows a second aspect of a second embodiment of System 1. In this case, the battery cooler 14b is connected in parallel to the passenger cabin cooler 8. The three-way valve 24 is connected in the first cooling portion circulation path K-KL1 to allow or prevent the coolant from flowing through the battery cooling cooler 14b or the passenger cabin cooler 8. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0055] 1 System 2 cooler 3. Compressor 4. Condenser 5. Collection and drying unit 6. Expansion valve 7 Distribution valve 8 guest room air conditioners 9. Three-way valve 10 Cooling pump 11a Cooling connection point 11a Cooling split point 12 Check valve 13 Low-temperature cooler 14a / 14b Battery Cooler 15 guest room heaters 16 Electronic equipment coolers 17 Heating pump 18 HV heater 19 Three-way valve 20a Heating connection point 20b Heating split point 21 Air flaps 22 Fans 23 Closed Unit 24 methods 25 Three-way valve 26 Battery Cooler Bypass 27 Bypass Air flowing to the BL battery KL Air flowing into the guest rooms UL ambient air B-KL Battery Circulation Circuit H-KL heating circuit H-KL1 First heating section circulation path H-KL2 Second heating section circulation path K-KL cooling circuit H-KL1 First Cooling Part Circulation Path H-KL2 Second Cooling Part Circulation Path KM-K Refrigerant circulation path R-KL Radiator Circulation Line

Claims

1. A cooling and / or heating system for a vehicle (1), The system (1) comprises a cooler (2) and a condenser (4), and the cooler (2) and the condenser (4) are fluidly connected in a refrigerant circulation path (KM-KL) through which the refrigerant can flow in the system (1). The system (1) comprises a distribution valve (7), a passenger compartment cooler (8) through which air (KL) flowing to the passenger compartment of the vehicle can pass, and a cooling pump (10). The distribution valve (7), the passenger compartment cooler (8), the cooler (2), and the cooling pump (10) are fluidly connected in a cooling circulation path (K-KL) through which coolant can pass in the system (1). The system (1) has a low-temperature cooler (13) through which ambient air (UL) can flow, and the low-temperature cooler (13) and the distribution valve (7) are fluidly connected in a radiator circulation path (R-KL) of the system (1) through which the coolant can flow. The distribution valve (7) is configured to be switchable so that the cooling circulation path (K-KL) can be fluidly connected to the radiator circulation path (R-KL), and The cooling pump (10) connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is the only pump in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL). System (1).

2. The cooling circulation path (K-KL) comprises a first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) through which the cooler (2) and the passenger compartment cooler (8) are fluidly connected, and a second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2) through which the distribution valve (7) and the cooler (2) are fluidly connected. The first cooling section circulation path (K-KL1) and the second cooling section circulation path (K-KL2) are fluidically separated and guided from each other at the cooling division point (11b) of the cooling circulation path (K-KL), and are fluidically guided together at the cooling connection point (11a) of the cooling circulation path (K-KL). The cooling division point (11b) is fluid-connected downstream of the cooler (2) and fluid-connected upstream of the cabin cooler (8) and the distribution valve (7), and the cooling connection point (11a) is fluid-connected upstream of the cooler (2) and fluid-connected downstream of the cabin cooler (8) and the distribution valve (7), and The cooling pump (10), which is fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL), is fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) between the cooler (2) and the cooling connection point (11a), or between the cooler (2) and the cooling division point (11b). The system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that

3. The system (1) has a three-way valve (9), which is fluidly connected to the cooling connection point (11a) or the cooling division point (11b) in the cooling circulation path (K-KL). The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is configured to be switchable so that the coolant can flow through the first partial cooling circulation path (K-KL1) and the second partial cooling circulation path (K-KL2) simultaneously or alternately. The system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that

4. The system (1) includes a passenger compartment heater (15) through which air (KL) flowing to the passenger compartment of the vehicle can pass, an electronic equipment cooler (16) that can be connected to the electronic equipment of the vehicle in a heat transfer manner, and a heating pump (17). The cabin heater (15), the distribution valve (7), the electronic equipment cooler (16), the condenser (4), and the heating pump (17) are fluidly connected in a heating circulation path (H-KL) through which the coolant can flow. The distribution valve (7) is configured to be switchable so that the heating circulation path (H-KL) can be fluidly connected to the radiator circulation path (R-KL), and The heating pump (17) connected in the heating circulation path (H-KL) is the only pump in the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL). A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that

5. The system (1) according to claim 6, wherein the system (1) has exactly two pumps designed to pump the coolant, one of which corresponds to the cooling pump (10) fluidly connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL), and the other pump corresponds to the heating pump (17) fluidly connected in the heating circulation path (H-KL).

6. The system (1) has a bypass (27), which divides the heating circulation path (H-KL) into a first heating partial circulation path (H-KL1) and a second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2). In the first heating section circulation path (H-KL1), the condenser (4), the cabin heater (15), and the heating pump (17) are fluid-connected, and in the second heating section circulation path (H-KL2), the distribution valve (7) and the electronic equipment cooler (16) are fluid-connected. The bypass (27) is fluidly connected to the heating circulation path (H-KL) at the heating connection point (20a) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the heating division point (20b) of the heating circulation path (H-KL). The heating connection point (20a) is fluidly connected upstream of the cabin cooler (15), and the heating splitting point (20b) is fluidly connected downstream of the cabin cooler (15). The system (1) has a three-way valve (19) which is fluidly connected to the heating connection point (20a) in the heating circulation path (H-KL) and can close or open the bypass (27). The system (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that

7. The system (1) is characterized in that it has an air flap (21), and the air flap (21) is arranged in such a way that the air (KL) flowing from the vehicle into the passenger compartment (15) cannot pass through the passenger compartment heater (15) when the air flap (21) is closed, but can pass through when the air flap (21) is open, as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The system (1) has a battery cooler (14a) that can be connected to the vehicle's battery in a heat transfer manner, and the battery cooler (14a) and the distribution valve (7) are fluidly connected in a battery circulation path (B-KL) of the system (1) through which the coolant can flow. The distribution valve (7) is configured to be switchable so that the cooling circulation path (K-KL) can be fluidly connected to the battery circulation path (B-KL), and The cooling pump (10) connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is the only pump in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the battery circulation path (B-KL). A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that

9. A method (24) for operating a system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the system (1) is operated in a cabin cooling mode and / or a battery cooling mode and / or a battery-cabin cooling mode and / or a cabin heating mode and / or a dehumidification mode and / or a circulation mode.

10. The system (1) is operated in the cabin cooling mode for cooling the air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle does not pass through the passenger compartment heater (15). A three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant flows through the first partial cooling circulation path (K-KL1) and not through the second partial cooling circulation path (K-KL2). In the heating circulation path (H-KL), a three-way valve (19) connected to the fluid closes the bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to flow through the first heating partial circulation path (H-KL1) and the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2) as a single common circulation path, and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second heating portion circulation path (H-KL2) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluidly connected. The method according to claim 9 (24), characterized by the above.

11. The system (1) is operated in the battery cooling mode for cooling the vehicle's battery, The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant does not flow through the first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) but instead flows through the second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2). The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second cooling portion circulation path (K-KL2) and the battery circulation path (B-KL) of the cooling circulation path (K-KL) are fluidly connected. The three-way valve (19) fluid-connected in the heating circulation path (H-KL) closes the bypass, thereby allowing the coolant to flow through the first heating partial circulation path (H-KL1) and the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2) as a single common circulation path, and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second heating portion circulation path (H-KL2) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluidly connected. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by (24).

12. The system (1) is operated in the battery / cabin cooling mode for cooling the air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle and for cooling the vehicle's battery. The air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle does not pass through the passenger compartment heater (15). The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant flows through the first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) and the second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2). The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second cooling portion circulation path (K-KL2) of the cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the battery circulation path (B-KL) are fluidly connected. The three-way valve (19) fluid-connected in the heating circulation path (H-KL) closes the bypass (27), thereby allowing the coolant to flow through the first heating partial circulation path (H-KL1) and the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2) as a single common circulation path, and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second heating portion circulation path (H-KL2) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluidly connected. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that (24).

13. The system (1) is operated in the cabin heating mode for heating the air (KL) flowing into the cabin of the vehicle, The air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle passes through the passenger compartment heater (15), The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant does not flow through the first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) but instead flows through the second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2). The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second cooling portion circulation path (K-KL2) of the cooling circulation path (K-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluidly connected. In the heating circulation path (H-KL), the three-way valve (19) connected to the fluid opens the bypass (27), thereby partially diverting the coolant from the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2), and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second heating portion circulation path (H-KL2) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the battery circulation path (B-KL) are fluidly connected. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that (24).

14. The system (1) is operated in the dehumidification mode for dehumidifying the air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The air (KL) flowing into the passenger compartment of the vehicle passes through the passenger compartment heater (15), The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant flows through the first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) and the coolant does not flow through the second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2). In the heating circulation path (H-KL), the three-way valve (19) connected to the fluid opens the bypass (27), thereby partially diverting the coolant from the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2), and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the second heating portion circulation path (H-KL2) of the heating circulation path (H-KL) and the radiator circulation path (R-KL) are fluidly connected. A method (24) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that

15. The system (1) is operated in the circulation mode, The three-way valve (9) fluid-connected in the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is switched so that the coolant flows through the first cooling partial circulation path (K-KL1) and the second cooling partial circulation path (K-KL2). The three-way valve (19) fluid-connected in the heating circulation path (H-KL) opens the bypass, thereby partially diverting the coolant through the second heating partial circulation path (H-KL2), and The distribution valve (7) is switched so that the cooling circulation path (K-KL) is fluidly connected to the battery circulation path (B-KL), the battery circulation path (B-KL) is fluidly connected to the heating circulation path (H-KL), and the heating circulation path (H-KL) is fluidly connected to the radiator circulation path (R-KL). A method (24) according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that

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