Indoor unit and heat pump

Abstract

This disclosure relates to an indoor unit and a heat pump. An indoor unit for a heat pump installed inside a building comprises: part of a heat transfer medium circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium; an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a refrigerant and a heat transfer medium; a gas-liquid separator provided in the heat transfer medium circuit, which includes a gas purge valve for releasing the refrigerant; a container housing the intermediate heat exchanger, the gas purge valve and the gas-liquid separator; and a first duct provided in the container, which connects the inside of the container to an outdoor space and exchanges air between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is outside the building.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an indoor unit and a heat pump.

Background Art

[0002] The development of heat pumps faces various requirements due to environmental problems and technical issues. On the one hand, heat pumps need to operate as efficiently as possible, and on the other hand, the refrigerants used therein need to avoid environmental risks such as the potential to have an adverse impact on ozone layer depletion and global warming.

[0003] When switching from a non-flammable refrigerant to a flammable refrigerant, sufficient care is required in handling the flammable refrigerant. In fact, if the flammable refrigerant leaks into the indoor space where the heat pump or at least a part of the heat pump is installed, it may cause an increase in the indoor refrigerant concentration and the formation of a flammable concentration region.

[0004] The concentration of such leaked flammable refrigerant is often dangerous because the density of the flammable refrigerant is greater than that of air under atmospheric pressure, and the leaked flammable refrigerant accumulates at the bottom of the indoor space, that is, in the floor area thereof. This may lead to combustion and pose a danger to users, buildings, etc.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to avoid the formation of such a flammable concentration region in the indoor space.

[0006] To address this, French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755 describes a method for housing at least a portion of a heat pump system in an indoor space, having a box with a sealed conduit opening to the outside of the building, allowing leaked refrigerant to be discharged to the outside of the building. However, the compressor in French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755, which could be an ignition source, is also located inside the box. This is particularly dangerous if refrigerant leaks inside the box and comes into contact with an ignition source such as the compressor. This could increase the risk of combustion. Furthermore, the degasser is located in the indoor space outside the box, and separate piping is provided for transferring leaked refrigerant into the box. In addition, because the degasser is located outside the box and in the indoor space in French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755, there is also a risk of refrigerant leaking into the indoor space from welds in the piping or from the connection between the degasser and the box. Another aspect is that the French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755 only features a single sealed conduit, which could prevent adequate ventilation of the inside of the box in the event of a refrigerant leak. If a refrigerant leak occurs, the box in French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755 would not allow the accumulated liquid to be transferred from the box to the outside of the building.

[0007] Furthermore, in heat pump systems, it is known that double-walled plate heat exchangers are used in the indoor unit to prevent refrigerant leakage into the water circuit. However, the cost of double-walled heat exchangers is higher than that of ordinary plate heat exchangers. When using ordinary heat exchangers, a gas-liquid separator is required as an additional component to prevent leaked refrigerant from moving within the heat transfer medium circuit. In addition, a gas removal valve (gas purge valve) is provided along with the gas-liquid separator. However, if the gas purge valve is located outside the box in the indoor space, as in French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755, there is a risk of refrigerant leaking into the indoor space from the welds of the piping or the connection from the degasser to the box.

[0008] To ensure the safe use of heat pumps and / or at least their indoor units in indoor spaces, international standards such as IEC60335-1 and IEC60335-2-40, and European standards such as DIN EN 378-2 have been established. These standards define international rules regarding the maximum charge limits for leaked refrigerant in indoor spaces. This is intended to prevent the concentration of flammable refrigerant, especially in confined indoor spaces. [Overview of the project]

[0009] Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a more cost-effective indoor unit and heat pump that can reduce or prevent refrigerant leakage in indoor spaces and have a simple configuration.

[0010] In other words, a key idea of ​​this disclosure is to provide an improved indoor unit or heat pump configuration that prevents refrigerant leakage in the indoor space.

[0011] This objective is achieved by the indoor unit described in claim 1 and the heat pump described in claim 2. Dependent claims describe optional features and preferred embodiments.

[0012] In the first aspect of this disclosure, an indoor unit for a heat pump is installed inside a building. The indoor unit comprises a portion of a heat transfer circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium, an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, a gas-liquid separator provided in the heat transfer circuit, the gas-liquid separator equipped with a gas purge valve for releasing the refrigerant, a container housing the intermediate heat exchanger, the gas purge valve and the gas-liquid separator, and a first duct provided in the container for communicating the inside of the container with an outdoor space and exchanging air between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is outside the building.

[0013] A pressure increase in the heat transfer medium circuit may occur due to refrigerant leaking from the refrigerant circuit into the heat transfer medium circuit of the intermediate heat exchanger. To counter this pressure increase in the heat transfer medium circuit, measures such as a gas-liquid separator with a gas purge valve are provided in the heat transfer medium circuit. Therefore, if there is refrigerant that may leak into the heat transfer medium circuit, it may leak from the gas purge valve and not be transferred to the heat transfer medium piping. In this container, if refrigerant may leak from the gas purge valve, the leaked refrigerant accumulates in the container and can be transferred to the outdoor space through the first duct. Furthermore, refrigerant may leak from pipe connections and welds in the refrigerant piping. Refrigerant pipes may also be covered with insulation and sealing materials. Since refrigerant pipes are sometimes bent at angles from 20° to 90°, leaks are more likely to occur. In this container, even if refrigerant leaks from the piping, the leaked refrigerant accumulates in the container and can be transferred to the outdoor space through the first duct.

[0014] Therefore, this indoor unit prevents the possibility of leaked refrigerant flowing into the indoor space. Furthermore, the connection between the refrigerant piping and the intermediate heat exchanger, or the connection between the heat transfer medium piping and the gas-liquid separator, can be configured more simply, requiring only good sealing. Thus, the indoor unit is provided with a simpler structure and lower costs.

[0015] The indoor unit relating to the second surface is the indoor unit relating to the first surface, and the indoor unit further comprises a refrigerant leak detector, and the container further houses the refrigerant leak detector. The refrigerant leak detector can also be connected to a control unit configured to display to the user if a refrigerant leak occurs in the container.

[0016] A refrigerant leak detector can detect refrigerant leaks within a container.

[0017] The indoor unit relating to the third surface is the indoor unit relating to the first surface to the second surface, and the indoor unit further comprises a pressure relief valve provided in the heat transfer medium circuit, and the container further houses the pressure relief valve.

[0018] The gas purge valve in the gas-liquid separator reduces the high pressure in the heat transfer medium. However, if the pressure remains high after the gas purge valve, further measures may be necessary to prevent the pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit from rising. Such further measures can be implemented as a pressure relief valve that releases the refrigerant and heat transfer medium. The pressure relief valve can be an automatic pressure relief valve. Therefore, the high pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit can be reduced by the gas purge valve and the pressure relief valve. At the same time, the pressure in the container may rise gradually or rapidly. When the heat transfer medium and / or leaked refrigerant are released from the pressure relief valve, the heat transfer medium and / or refrigerant accumulate in the container and are transferred to the outdoor space through the first duct. This prevents the pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit and container from rising due to the leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium, and prevents the leaked refrigerant from entering the indoor space.

[0019] The indoor unit relating to the fourth surface is an indoor unit relating to the first to third surfaces, and the container is equipped with an air intake configured to take in airflow from outside the container into the container. The air intake can be provided on the front wall of the container. The air intake can be provided on the first side of the container, and the first duct can be provided on the second side of the container. The second side is a different surface from the first side. The air intake enables the generation of airflow from the indoor space into the container. The air intake can also prevent airflow from the container into the indoor space. The air intake can be mechanically opened by a pressure drop generated by the operation of a fan. Examples of air intakes include shutters and shut-off valves.

[0020] The air intake allows air to potentially enter the container from the indoor space. Air flowing from the container to the outdoor space can create negative pressure inside the container. When such negative pressure is present inside the container, air can enter through the air intake.

[0021] The indoor unit relating to the fifth surface is the indoor unit relating to the first to fourth surfaces, and the gaseous refrigerant pipes and liquid refrigerant pipes are arranged in the first duct. The liquid refrigerant pipes can be covered with insulating material, and the gaseous refrigerant pipes can also be covered with insulating material. Both the liquid refrigerant pipes and the gaseous refrigerant pipes can also be covered with insulating material.

[0022] By arranging the gaseous and liquid refrigerant pipes within the first duct, the installation of the indoor unit can be limited to just one penetration or opening in the house wall. Furthermore, by arranging the gaseous and liquid refrigerant pipes within the first duct, which also allows for natural ventilation, any leaking refrigerant can be directed to the outdoor space. This prevents refrigerant leakage into the indoor space. Moreover, by arranging the liquid and gaseous refrigerant pipes within the first duct, additional sealing of the liquid and gaseous refrigerant pipes becomes unnecessary. This provides an indoor unit with a simpler and safer structure.

[0023] The indoor unit relating to the sixth surface is an indoor unit relating to the first to fourth surfaces, and the indoor unit further comprises a second duct that connects the inside of the container to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. A liquid refrigerant pipe can be placed in the first duct, and a gaseous refrigerant pipe can be placed in the second duct. Alternatively, both the liquid refrigerant pipe and the gaseous refrigerant pipe can be placed in the second duct. The second duct can be placed at a lower position in the container than the first duct. The second duct can be placed below the first duct. The second duct can be equipped with a drain pipe. The first and second ducts can be configured to discharge leaked refrigerant.

[0024] By installing a second duct, natural ventilation can be achieved within the container. Air enters the container through either the first or second duct and can flow out of the container through the other duct. This ensures ventilation of the container to the outdoors and prevents refrigerant from leaking into the indoor space. If refrigerant piping is not installed in the first duct, the refrigerant can be discharged to the outdoors more easily and quickly. The weight of the refrigerant can be heavier than the weight of the air. Leaked refrigerant liquid accumulated in the container can flow to the outdoors through the second duct.

[0025] The interior unit relating to the seventh surface is the interior unit relating to the first to sixth surfaces, and the ventilation duct is located in the first duct. The drain pipe can also be located in the first duct. The drain pipe can also be separated into the ventilation duct.

[0026] The ventilation duct can also be a separate duct located within the first duct, enabling the generation of airflow from the container to the outdoor space. Supply air flows from the first duct into the container. Exhaust air can flow from the container through the ventilation duct to the outdoor space. By providing a ventilation duct, the airflow within the container can be minimized, thereby allowing any leaking refrigerant to be transferred to the outdoor space.

[0027] An indoor unit relating to the eighth surface is an indoor unit relating to the sixth or seventh surface, further comprising a third duct that connects the inside of the container to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. A liquid refrigerant pipe can be arranged in the second duct, and a gaseous refrigerant pipe can be arranged in the third duct. Alternatively, a liquid refrigerant pipe can be arranged in the third duct, and a gaseous refrigerant pipe can be arranged in the second duct. The third duct may be equipped with a drain pipe.

[0028] By providing the third duct, each refrigerant pipe of the refrigerant circuit can be separately arranged, and it is possible to prevent the refrigerant that may leak from leaking into the indoor space. Since each refrigerant pipe is separately arranged, the refrigerant pipes can be arranged flexibly, and the required pipe length of each refrigerant pipe can be reduced.

[0029] The indoor unit related to the ninth surface is the indoor unit from the first surface to the eighth surface. A fan is provided at the end of the first duct that opens to the outdoor space. The fan is configured to generate an air flow from the inside of the container passing through the first duct to the outdoor space. The fan can be provided either inside the container or in the first duct. By the operation of the fan, a low pressure can be generated inside the container. The fan can be provided with a fan motor controlled by a control unit. The fan motor can also be controlled by a refrigerant leak detector. When the refrigerant is detected by the refrigerant leak detector, the controller can also operate the fan motor. The fan motor can also be arranged in the outdoor space so that the leaked refrigerant does not come into contact with the fan motor.

[0030] By providing a fan at the end of the first duct, an air flow can be ensured. Due to the air flow generated by the fan, the container is ventilated, the leaked refrigerant does not accumulate in the container, and a high pressure that may occur inside the container can be prevented. Furthermore, the leakage of the refrigerant into the indoor space can be prevented.

[0031] The indoor unit related to the tenth surface is the indoor unit related to the first surface to the ninth surface, and the inside of the container is hermetically sealed from the outside of the container.

[0032] In this context, hermetically sealed includes all seals used between different components of the container, meaning that no gas or liquid can enter or escape from the container into the indoor space. That is, the refrigerant inside the container must not leak from the container into the indoor space even if a high pressure occurs inside the container.

[0033] By providing an airtight container, the prevention of refrigerant leakage into the indoor space can be enhanced. Having an airtight container further enhances the safety of indoor units using flammable refrigerants. The airtight container can also function as a gas-liquid accumulator and separator. Leaked heat transfer fluid and refrigerant may accumulate in the airtight container and separate into gas at the top and liquid at the bottom. The accumulated leaked refrigerant can flow to the outdoor space through the first duct. The container can be airtight and can be ventilated by the first duct. In this context, airtight means that air or gas cannot escape or pass through.

[0034] The interior unit covering the 11th surface is an interior unit covering the first to the 10th surface, and the first and second ducts are arranged on one side of the container. Preferably, the first and second ducts can be arranged on the top wall of the container. Alternatively, the first and second ducts can be arranged on the front wall, first side wall, second side wall, rear wall, or bottom wall. By placing the first and second ducts on one side of the container, the indoor unit can be made more compact, reducing its overall size. The space required for the indoor unit within the interior space can be reduced. Placing the first and second ducts on the same side also makes maintenance of the indoor unit easier.

[0035] The interior unit relating to the twelfth surface is the interior unit described in the first to eleventh surfaces, wherein the container is box-shaped and has a first side wall, a second side wall opposite the first side wall, a rear wall extending between the first and second side walls, a top wall connected to the upper ends of the first, second, and rear walls, a front wall opposite the rear wall, and a bottom wall opposite the top wall. The first duct is provided in the top wall. Alternatively, the first duct may be provided in the first side wall, the second side wall, the front wall, or the rear wall.

[0036] By positioning the first duct on the ceiling wall, the indoor unit can be made more compact and smaller in size. Furthermore, maintenance personnel can perform maintenance on the indoor unit more easily.

[0037] The indoor unit relating to the 13th surface is the indoor unit relating to the 1st to the 12th surface, and the refrigerant leak detector is located below the gas purge valve. The refrigerant leak detector may also be located below the gas-liquid separator. The refrigerant leak detector may also be located above the bottom wall of the container.

[0038] Because the refrigerant leak detector is located below the gas purge valve, even small amounts of refrigerant leaks within the container can be detected. By positioning the refrigerant leak detector above the bottom wall of the container, it is ensured that the detector does not come into contact with any liquid that may accumulate on the bottom wall.

[0039] A fourteenth aspect of this disclosure provides a heat pump comprising a refrigerant circuit for circulating a refrigerant, which includes a liquid refrigerant pipe, a heat source heat exchanger, a compressor, an expansion valve, a gaseous refrigerant pipe, and an intermediate heat exchanger. Furthermore, the heat pump comprises a heat transfer medium circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium comprising a pump and an intermediate heat exchanger, an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, a gas-liquid separator provided in the heat transfer medium circuit and equipped with a gas purge valve for releasing the refrigerant, a container housing the intermediate heat exchanger, the gas purge valve, and the gas-liquid separator, and a first duct provided in the container for communicating the inside of the container with an outdoor space and exchanging air between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is the location where the heat source heat exchanger and the compressor are located.

[0040] In this heat pump, even if there is a possibility of refrigerant leakage, the leaked refrigerant accumulates in the container and is naturally transferred to the outdoor space through the first duct. Therefore, this heat pump can prevent refrigerant leakage from the container into the indoor space.

[0041] An indoor unit according to the 15th aspect of this disclosure is an indoor unit for a heat pump installed inside a building according to the first aspect. The indoor unit according to the 15th aspect may be different from the indoor unit according to the first aspect. The indoor unit according to the 15th aspect comprises a portion of a heat transfer medium circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium, an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a refrigerant and a heat transfer medium, a pressure relief valve provided in the heat transfer medium circuit for releasing the heat transfer medium, and a container housing the intermediate heat exchanger and the pressure relief valve. The container comprises a first duct and a second duct. The first duct is connected to the top of the container and communicates the inside of the container with the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is outside the building. The second duct is connected to the bottom of the container for discharging liquid from the container. The pressure relief valve may be an automatic pressure relief valve.

[0042] If refrigerant leaks from the refrigerant circuit into the heat transfer medium circuit of the intermediate heat exchanger, there is a risk of a pressure increase in the heat transfer medium circuit. To counter this pressure increase, measures such as pressure relief valves are provided in the heat transfer medium circuit. Therefore, if leaking refrigerant leaks into the heat transfer medium circuit and the pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit increases, there is a possibility that heat transfer medium or refrigerant may leak from the pressure relief valve, and that the leaked heat transfer medium and refrigerant may not be transported within the heat transfer medium piping. In this container, if there is a possibility of refrigerant and heat transfer medium leaking from the pressure relief valve, the leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium can accumulate in the container and be transported to the outdoor space through the first duct and / or second duct. Furthermore, refrigerant may leak into the container from pipe connections or welds in the refrigerant piping. In this container, even if refrigerant leaks from the piping, the leaked refrigerant can be collected in the container. By providing the first and second ducts, the accumulated leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium can be transported from the container to the outdoor space. The leaked heat transfer fluid is in a liquid state and can flow through the second duct into the outdoor space. The leaked refrigerant may be in a gaseous state and can be exhausted through the first duct into the outdoor space.

[0043] Therefore, the indoor unit covering the 15th surface prevents leaked refrigerant from flowing into the indoor space. Furthermore, the connection between the refrigerant piping and the intermediate heat exchanger, or the connection between the heat transfer fluid piping and the gas-liquid separator, can be configured more simply, requiring only good sealing. Thus, the indoor unit is provided with a simpler structure and lower costs. In addition, since the heat transfer fluid and refrigerant are discharged to the outdoor space through their respective ducts, the heat transfer fluid and refrigerant can be efficiently discharged from the container to the outdoor space.

[0044] The indoor unit relating to the 16th surface is the indoor unit relating to the 15th surface, and the second duct connects the inside of the container to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container and the outdoor space.

[0045] Furthermore, the second duct allows air to be supplied into the container through the second duct and exhausted into the outdoor space through the first duct. This ensures good ventilation of the container.

[0046] The interior unit relating to the 17th surface is the interior unit described in the 15th or 16th surface, wherein the container is box-shaped and has a first side wall, a second side wall opposite the first side wall, a rear wall extending between the first and second side walls, a top wall connected to the upper ends of the first, second, and rear walls, a front wall opposite the rear wall, and a bottom wall opposite the top wall. The first duct is located on the top wall of the container. The second duct is located on the rear or bottom wall of the container. Alternatively, the first duct may be located on the first side wall, the second side wall, the front wall, or the rear wall. Alternatively, the second duct may be located on the first side wall, the second side wall, the front wall, or the top wall.

[0047] By positioning the first duct on the top wall and the second duct on the rear or bottom wall, the indoor unit can be made more compact and smaller. In addition, ventilation of the container prevents refrigerant leakage into the indoor space and keeps the concentration of leaked refrigerant inside the container low.

[0048] The indoor unit relating to the 18th surface is the indoor unit relating to the 17th surface, and the bottom wall of the container is inclined toward the opening of the second duct. The bottom wall of the container can be inclined so that the liquid flows toward the opening of the second duct. By providing an inclination in the bottom wall, it is ensured that the liquid can be discharged from the container. This makes it possible to keep the concentration of leaked refrigerant or heat transfer medium in the container low and prevents the refrigerant from leaking into the indoor space.

[0049] The indoor unit relating to the 19th surface is the indoor unit relating to the 15th to the 18th surface, and the second duct is located at the lowest point of the container. The second duct can also be located at the lowest point of the container on the rear wall. The second duct can also be located at the lowest point of the container on the bottom wall. Because the second duct is located at the lowest point of the container, it is ensured that the accumulated liquid can be discharged from the container. Because the liquid is discharged from the container, the concentration of leaked refrigerant inside the container can be kept low, and leakage of refrigerant into the indoor space can be prevented.

[0050] The indoor unit relating to the 20th surface is an indoor unit relating to the 15th to the 19th surface, wherein the first duct is configured to discharge air from the inside of the container to the outdoor space, and the second duct is configured to allow air to flow in from the outdoor space to the inside of the container, or the first duct is configured to allow air to flow in from the outdoor space to the inside of the container, and the second duct is configured to discharge air from the inside of the container to the outdoor space. By providing the first and second ducts, natural ventilation of the container is ensured, the concentration of leaked refrigerant inside the container can be kept low, and leakage of refrigerant from the container into the indoor space can be prevented.

[0051] The further interior unit is an interior unit that covers the 15th to the 16th interior, and is provided with a gas-liquid separator in the heat transfer medium circuit, the gas-liquid separator is equipped with a gas purge valve for releasing a refrigerant, and the container further houses the gas-liquid separator and the gas purge valve.

[0052] A pressure relief valve can reduce the high pressure that can occur in the heat transfer medium. However, to prevent the pressure from rising even after the pressure relief valve, further measures may be needed to prevent the pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit from increasing. Such further measures can be implemented by using a gas-liquid separator equipped with a gas purge valve for releasing the refrigerant. Therefore, the high pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit can be reduced by the gas purge valve and the pressure relief valve. At the same time, the pressure in the container may rise gradually or rapidly. When the heat transfer medium and / or leaked refrigerant are released from the pressure relief valve and the gas purge valve, the heat transfer medium and / or refrigerant accumulate in the container. By providing a first duct and a second duct, the accumulated leaked gas and liquid can be transferred to the outdoor space. This prevents the pressure in the heat transfer medium circuit and container from rising due to the leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium, and prevents the leaked refrigerant from entering the indoor space.

[0053] Further interior units relating to the surfaces include interior units relating to the 15th to the 16th surfaces, and the container is equipped with an air intake configured to allow airflow from outside the container to be drawn into the container.

[0054] An air intake can be provided on the front wall of the container. Alternatively, the air intake can be provided on a first side of the container, and the first duct on a second side. The second side is a different surface from the first side. The air intake allows for the generation of airflow from the indoor space into the container. The air intake can also prevent airflow from the container into the indoor space. The air intake can be mechanically opened by a pressure drop caused by the operation of a fan. Examples of air intakes include shutters and shut-off valves.

[0055] The air intake allows air to potentially enter the container from the indoor space. Air flowing from the container to the outdoor space can create negative pressure inside the container. When such negative pressure is present inside the container, air can enter through the air intake.

[0056] The indoor unit may further include a fan. The fan is located at the outdoor end of the first duct. The fan is configured to generate airflow from the inside of the container through the first duct to the outdoor space.

[0057] A fan can be installed inside the container, in either the first or second duct. When the fan is operated, supply air flows into the container through the second duct, and exhaust air flows through the first duct to the outdoor space. The operation of the fan can create a low pressure inside the container. The fan may be equipped with a fan motor controlled by a control unit. The fan motor can also be controlled by a refrigerant leak detector. If refrigerant is detected by the refrigerant leak detector, the control unit can also operate the fan motor. The fan motor may also be placed in the outdoor space to prevent contact between leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium.

[0058] By installing a fan at the end of the first duct, airflow can be ensured. The airflow generated by the fan ventilates the container, preventing leaked refrigerant from accumulating inside and preventing high pressure from developing inside the container. Furthermore, it prevents refrigerant from leaking into the room.

[0059] In the indoor unit, the inside of the container can be airtightly sealed from the outside. Furthermore, by providing a fan at the end of the first duct and an exhaust device that passes through the second duct, the liquid is discharged through the second duct, preventing the fan from getting wet with the discharged liquid.

[0060] In this context, airtight sealing includes all sealing used between different components of the container, meaning that gases or liquids cannot enter the container or escape from the container into the surrounding space. In other words, the refrigerant inside the container must not leak out into the surrounding space, even if high pressure is generated within the container.

[0061] By providing an airtight container, the prevention of refrigerant leakage into the indoor space can be enhanced. Having an airtight container further enhances the safety of indoor units using flammable refrigerants. The airtight container can also function as a gas-liquid accumulator and separator. Within the airtight container, leaked heat transfer fluid and refrigerant can be separated and collected in the gas at the top and the liquid at the bottom of the container. The collected leaked refrigerant can be drained to the outdoor space through a first duct, and the collected heat transfer fluid can be drained to the outdoor space through a second duct. The container can be airtight and can be ventilated by the first and / or second ducts. In this context, airtight means that air and gas cannot escape or pass through.

[0062] In an indoor unit, gaseous refrigerant pipes and liquid refrigerant pipes can be arranged in the first or second duct. The liquid refrigerant pipes can be covered with insulation material, and the gaseous refrigerant pipes can also be covered with insulation material. Both the liquid refrigerant pipes and the gaseous refrigerant pipes can also be covered with insulation material.

[0063] Because the gaseous and liquid refrigerant pipes are located in either the first or second duct, there is a risk that leaking refrigerant may flow into the outdoor space. By placing both the liquid and gaseous refrigerant pipes in the second duct, ventilation of the air passing through the first duct can be improved. Therefore, leakage of refrigerant into the indoor space can be prevented. Furthermore, by placing the liquid and gaseous refrigerant pipes in either the first or second duct, additional sealing of the liquid and gaseous refrigerant pipes becomes unnecessary. This allows for the provision of an indoor unit with a simpler and safer structure.

[0064] An indoor unit covering a further surface, the container may further include a removable lid. The top wall of the container may be equipped with a removable lid. The removable lid may also be positioned on the first side wall, the second side wall, or the front wall. The removable lid allows maintenance personnel to open the container for inspection and servicing. The removable lid may be made of sheet metal or plastic. A seal may also be provided between the removable lid and the container.

[0065] The indoor unit may further include a refrigerant leak detector, and the container may further house a refrigerant leak detector. The refrigerant leak detector may also be connected to a control unit configured to display a notification to the user if a refrigerant leak occurs within the container. The fan may include a fan motor controlled by the control unit. The fan motor may also be controlled by the refrigerant leak detector. If refrigerant is detected by the refrigerant leak detector, the control unit may also activate the fan motor.

[0066] A refrigerant leak detector can detect refrigerant leaks within a container.

[0067] A refrigerant leak detector can be positioned below the gas purge valve and / or pressure relief valve. It can also be positioned below the gas-liquid separator. Furthermore, it can be positioned above the bottom wall of the container.

[0068] Because the refrigerant leak detector is located below the gas purge valve and / or pressure relief valve, it can detect small amounts of refrigerant leakage within the container. By positioning the refrigerant leak detector above the bottom wall of the container, it is ensured that the detector does not come into contact with any liquid that may accumulate on the bottom wall.

[0069] An indoor unit covering a further surface, wherein a first duct can be connected to a first side of the container and an air intake can be connected to a second side of the container. The first side is different from the second side.

[0070] By providing the air intake on a side different from the first duct, the airflow from the air intake flows through the container to the first duct, ensuring good ventilation of the container. This keeps the concentration of leaked refrigerant and heat transfer fluid in the container low and prevents refrigerant leakage into the indoor space.

[0071] Further aspects of this disclosure provide a heat pump comprising a refrigerant circuit for circulating a refrigerant, comprising a liquid refrigerant pipe, a heat source heat exchanger, a compressor, an expansion valve, a gaseous refrigerant pipe, and an intermediate heat exchanger. The heat pump further comprises a heat transfer medium circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium comprising a pump and an intermediate heat exchanger, an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, a pressure relief valve provided in the heat transfer medium circuit for releasing the heat transfer medium, a container housing the intermediate heat exchanger, and another pressure relief valve. The container comprises a first duct and a second duct. The first duct is connected to the top of the container and communicates the inside of the container with an outdoor space for exchanging air between the inside of the container and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is where the heat source heat exchanger and the compressor are located. The second duct is connected to the bottom of the container for discharging liquid from the container.

[0072] In this heat pump, if there is a possibility of refrigerant leakage, the leaked refrigerant accumulates in the container and is naturally transferred to the outdoor space through the first and / or second ducts. Therefore, the heat pump can prevent refrigerant leakage from the container into the indoor space.

[0073] The indoor unit of the 15th face can be installed on the heat pump of the previous face. The heat pump can be applied to the indoor unit of any face. The features described above for the indoor unit of the present disclosure also apply to the heat pump of the present disclosure. The heat pump of the present disclosure provides the technical effects and advantages already detailed above for the indoor unit of the present disclosure. In particular, the heat pump can prevent the possibility of leaked refrigerant flowing into the indoor space.

[0074] The heat pump can be an air heat pump that uses air as a heat source, or a geothermal heat pump that uses the earth as a heat source. The heat pump can be used for generating hot water for households, air conditioning (heating and / or cooling), etc. In an air heat pump, an outdoor unit equipped with a refrigerant circuit compressor, expansion valve and heat source heat exchanger can be provided. The outdoor unit can be placed in an outdoor space. The indoor unit equipped with the heat exchanger unit can also be configured to be placed in an indoor space.

[0075] Furthermore, the heat pump can also be used as an airtight refrigeration system. An "airtight refrigeration system" is a system designed and manufactured to ensure, at a high level, that the indoor unit does not experience large refrigerant leakage rates during normal and abnormal operation.

[0076] The indoor unit of the first surface can be installed on the heat pump of the 14th surface. The heat pump of the 14th surface can be applied to the indoor units of the first to 13th surfaces. The features described above for the indoor unit of the present disclosure also apply to the heat pump of the present disclosure. The heat pump of the present disclosure provides the technical effects and advantages already detailed above for the indoor unit of the present disclosure. In particular, the heat pump can prevent the possibility of leaked refrigerant flowing into the indoor space.

[0077] The heat pump can be an air heat pump that uses air as a heat source, or a geothermal heat pump that uses the earth as a heat source. The heat pump can be used for generating hot water for households, air conditioning (heating and / or cooling), etc. In an air heat pump, an outdoor unit equipped with a refrigerant circuit compressor, expansion valve and heat source heat exchanger can be provided. The outdoor unit can be placed in an outdoor space. The indoor unit equipped with the heat exchanger unit can also be configured to be placed in an indoor space.

[0078] Furthermore, the heat pump can also be used as an airtight refrigeration system. An "airtight refrigeration system" is a system designed and manufactured to ensure, at a high level, that the indoor unit does not experience large refrigerant leakage rates during normal and abnormal operation.

[0079] A "duct" is understood as a rigid or flexible tube. A duct can also be a tube. Alternatively, a duct can be formed of multiple connected parts that do not allow fluids, such as air, to escape. A duct can also have multiple parts that are in fluid communication with each other. At least a portion of the duct can be flexible. Using multiple parts improves structural flexibility as the container can be positioned at various locations in the indoor space. A duct can be made of plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, or metal. A duct can be provided with a cover at the end facing the outdoor space. The cover can protect the duct from all kinds of contamination. The first duct can be an air inlet and / or an air outlet. The second duct can be an air inlet and / or an air outlet. The second duct can be an air inlet and a liquid outlet. The third duct can be an air inlet and a liquid outlet.

[0080] In one embodiment, the duct can extend from a container in an indoor space through the wall of the housing to an outdoor space. The first duct and / or the second duct can be located within a penetration in the house wall or within an opening in the house wall.

[0081] A heat pump can heat a target space by heating water (an example of a fluid used) supplied to that space. A heat pump may have an outdoor unit located in an outdoor space, a heat exchanger unit, and an indoor unit installed in an indoor space. The outdoor unit and the heat exchanger unit can be connected to each other by refrigerant piping having liquid refrigerant pipes and gaseous refrigerant pipes. The heat exchanger unit and the indoor unit can be connected to each other by heat transfer fluid piping. The refrigerant circuit and the heat transfer fluid circuit can also be configured within the heat pump.

[0082] The heat transfer circuit may include at least an intermediate heat exchanger, a first heat transfer tube, a second heat transfer tube, a gas-liquid separator with a gas purge valve, a pressure relief valve, and a pump. The heat transfer circuit may be filled with a heat transfer medium (water, for example) to circulate in order to realize a heat transfer cycle. The heat transfer circuit may also be for circulating a heat transfer medium equipped with an intermediate heat exchanger.

[0083] A refrigerant circuit may include at least a compressor, a heat source heat exchanger (e.g., an outside air heat exchanger or a ground heat exchanger), an expansion valve (an example of an expansion mechanism), an intermediate heat exchanger, liquid refrigerant lines, and gaseous refrigerant lines. All elements can be connected by refrigerant piping so that the refrigerant flows from one component to another and exchanges heat with a heat transfer medium. The refrigerant circuit can be configured to circulate the refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit can be filled with circulating refrigerant to realize a refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant may be, for example, R290 or R744. The refrigerant may also be a flammable refrigerant. The refrigerant may also contain propane or carbon dioxide.

[0084] A "flammable refrigerant" is understood to be a refrigerant that has a higher density than air at atmospheric pressure. A "flammable refrigerant" can be a refrigerant classified as class A2L, A2, or A3 according to ISO 817.

[0085] The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit casing located in the outdoor space. The outdoor unit casing may house a compressor, a heat source heat exchanger, an expansion valve, a portion of the liquid refrigerant piping, and a portion of the gaseous refrigerant piping.

[0086] The indoor unit may include a heat exchanger unit. The heat exchanger unit may include a container. The indoor unit may include an indoor unit casing and a container. The container may be separate from the indoor unit casing.

[0087] A heat exchanger unit for a heat pump can be installed inside a building. The heat exchanger unit may include a container placed in the room. The heat exchanger unit may include a part of a heat transfer circuit for circulating a heat transfer medium, an intermediate heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a refrigerant and a heat transfer medium, a gas-liquid separator provided in the heat transfer circuit, and a container. The heat exchanger unit may further include a part of a refrigerant circuit for circulating a refrigerant. The intermediate heat exchanger exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium. The heat transfer circuit can be filled with a heat transfer medium (water, for example) that circulates to realize a heat transfer cycle. The heat transfer circuit may also be for circulating a heat transfer medium that includes an intermediate heat exchanger. The gas-liquid separator may include a gas purge valve for releasing the refrigerant. The gas-liquid separator can separate gas and liquid. The gas-liquid separator may be located downstream of the intermediate heat exchanger. The downstream side of the intermediate heat exchanger is the side of the intermediate heat exchanger from which the heat transfer medium flows out. A gas purge valve can be placed at the top of the gas-liquid separator to release the separated gas. The container can further accommodate a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve can be placed downstream of the gas-liquid separator. The downstream side of the gas-liquid separator is the side of the gas-liquid separator from which the heat transfer medium flows out. The gas purge valve and pressure relief valve can also be installed in the heat transfer medium circuit.

[0088] The container can further house parts of the liquid refrigerant pipe and gaseous refrigerant pipe, and parts of the heat transfer fluid piping. The container can house connections between the intermediate heat exchanger and the liquid refrigerant pipe, and connections between the intermediate heat exchanger and the gaseous refrigerant pipe. The container can house connections between the intermediate heat exchanger and the heat transfer fluid piping. The container can house connections between the gas-liquid separator and the heat transfer fluid piping. The container may not contain ignition sources such as heat-generating electronic components. The container can contain leaked refrigerant. The container can contain heat transfer fluid released by a pressure relief valve. The container can contain gas or liquid released from a gas purge valve and / or pressure relief valve. Liquid heat transfer fluid can be collected at the bottom of the container. In other words, the collected liquid can be used as leaked heat transfer fluid.

[0089] The top wall can be connected to the first side wall, the second side wall, the rear wall, and the front wall by connecting elements (for example, screws fixed by bolts), and the top wall may optionally be further provided with sealing elements (for example, rubber seals or seals formed of plastic).

[0090] Furthermore, the container may be equipped with a removable lid, which is preferably located on the top wall. The removable lid may also be located on the first side wall, the second side wall, or the front wall. The removable lid allows maintenance personnel to open the container for inspection and servicing.

[0091] The top wall of the container can be equipped with an external duct connection, a first internal duct connection, and a second internal duct connection. The external duct connection can be configured to receive the first duct. The first internal duct connection can be configured to receive the first duct. The second internal duct connection can be configured to receive the second duct. By providing the external duct connection, the first internal duct connection, and the second internal duct connection, the container can be made versatile and used for different applications, such as when only the first duct is provided or when both the first and second ducts are provided. This enables a simple and versatile configuration of the indoor unit.

[0092] The container can withstand an internal pressure 4.5 times the ambient pressure. Ambient pressure is the pressure in the room. The container can be made from plastic materials such as acrylonitrile styrene acrylate. A removable lid can be made from sheet metal or plastic. A seal can also be provided between the removable lid and the container. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0093] [Figure 1] This is a piping diagram showing the configuration of the refrigerant circuit and heat transfer fluid circuit in a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct and a second duct according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct in a first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct and a second duct in a first modified example of a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct, a second duct, and a third duct according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the container according to the first embodiment, seen from below. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the container according to the first embodiment, seen from above. [Figure 9] This is a side view of the container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a front view of the container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a side view of the container according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of the container according to the second embodiment, seen from above. [Figure 13] This is a rear view of the container according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram showing a container having a first duct and a second duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0094] Embodiments relating to the present disclosure are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, using exemplary examples to illustrate the disclosure. Further modifications of certain individual features described in this context may be combined with other features of the embodiments described to form further embodiments of the present disclosure. The same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings.

[0095] Here, we will describe a heat pump 1 as an example of a refrigeration device.

[0096] Figure 1 is a piping diagram showing the configuration of the refrigerant circuit 10 and the heat transfer medium circuit 30 in a heat pump 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pump 1 heats the target space (not shown) by heating water (an example of a fluid used) supplied to the target space. As shown in Figure 1, the heat pump 1 has an outdoor unit 100 located in an outdoor space, and a heat exchanger unit 200 and an indoor unit 300 (not shown) installed in an indoor space. The outdoor unit 100 and the heat exchanger unit 200 are connected by refrigerant piping 14. The heat exchanger unit 200 and the indoor unit 300 (not shown) are connected to each other by heat transfer medium piping 37. Thus, the refrigerant circuit 10 and the heat transfer medium circuit 30 are configured in the heat pump 1.

[0097] The heat transfer circuit 30 includes at least an intermediate heat exchanger 20, a first heat transfer pipe 37, a second heat transfer pipe 37, a gas-liquid separator 31 having a gas purge valve 313, a pressure relief valve 314 (not shown), and a pump 36 (not shown). The heat transfer circuit 30 is filled with a heat transfer medium (water, for example) that circulates to realize a heat transfer cycle. The heat transfer circuit 30 is for circulating the heat transfer medium equipped with the intermediate heat exchanger 20.

[0098] The refrigerant circuit 10 used in the heat pump of this disclosure corresponds to a commonly known refrigerant circuit and comprises at least a compressor 11, a heat source heat exchanger 12 (e.g., an outside air heat exchanger or a ground heat exchanger), an expansion valve 13 (an example of an expansion mechanism), an intermediate heat exchanger 20, a liquid refrigerant pipe 142, and a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143. All elements are connected by refrigerant piping so that the refrigerant can flow from one component to another and exchange heat with a heat transfer medium. The refrigerant circuit 10 is filled with a refrigerant that circulates to realize a refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant circuit 10 is configured to circulate the refrigerant. The refrigerant used in exemplary embodiments of this disclosure consists of R290 or R744. Typically, R290 and R744 have a higher density than air at atmospheric pressure. Therefore, R290 and R744 usually accumulate at the bottom of a space or volume. The refrigerant piping 14 may also be covered with insulation or sealing material. Because the refrigerant pipe 14 is sometimes bent at angles ranging from 20° to 90°, leaks are likely to occur.

[0099] As shown in Figure 1, the outdoor unit 100 includes an outdoor unit casing 101 that is placed in an outdoor space. The outdoor unit casing 101 houses a compressor 11, a heat source heat exchanger 12, an expansion valve 13, and parts of liquid refrigerant pipes 142 and gaseous refrigerant pipes 143.

[0100] The indoor unit 300 includes an indoor unit casing (not shown) located in the indoor space. The indoor unit casing houses a pump 36 and a portion of the heat transfer fluid piping 37. The indoor unit casing (not shown) further includes a machine room and a tank room. The tank room may further include a hot water tank and a coil.

[0101] The indoor unit 300 further comprises a heat exchanger unit 200. The heat exchanger unit 200 comprises a container 201, and in particular, the container 201 can be separate from the indoor unit casing. The indoor unit 300 comprises the indoor unit casing and the container 201.

[0102] As shown in Figure 1, the heat exchanger unit 200 for the heat pump 1 is installed inside the building. The heat exchanger unit 200 includes a container 201 located in the room. The heat exchanger unit 200 includes a portion of a heat transfer medium circuit 30 for circulating the heat transfer medium, an intermediate heat exchanger 20 for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, a gas-liquid separator 31 provided in the heat transfer medium circuit, and the container 201. The container 201 houses the intermediate heat exchanger 20, a gas purge valve 313, and the gas-liquid separator 31. The gas-liquid separator 31 includes a gas purge valve 313 for releasing the refrigerant. The container 201 also houses a pressure relief valve 314. The container 201 further houses a portion of the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143, and a portion of the heat transfer medium piping 37.

[0103] Figures 7 and 8 show the container 201 of the heat exchanger unit 200 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1. The container 201 is box-shaped and has a first side wall 202, a second side wall 203 facing the first side wall 202, a rear wall 204 extending between the first side wall 202 and the second side wall 203, a top wall 205 connected to the upper ends of the first side wall 202, the second side wall 203 and the rear wall 204, a front wall 206 facing the rear wall 204, and a bottom wall 207 facing the top wall 205. The container 201 may be equipped with a removable lid 215, which is preferably located on the top wall 205.

[0104] Figure 13 shows a rear perspective view of the container 201 of the third embodiment. The container 201 of the third embodiment can be the same as the containers of the first and second embodiments. The top wall 205 includes a removable lid 215, an external duct connection 216, a first internal duct connection 217A, and a second internal duct connection 217B. The external duct connection 216 is configured to receive the first duct 208 of the first embodiment. The first internal duct connection 217A is configured to receive the first duct 208 of the second embodiment, and the second internal duct connection 217B is configured to receive the second duct 209 of the second embodiment. The container 201 may further include a third duct connection 218 on the rear wall 204. The third duct connection 218 can be located at the lowest position of the container 201. The third duct connection 218 can be located on the bottom wall 207 of the container 201. The third duct connection 218 is configured to receive the third duct 213. The third duct 213 can be attached to the third duct connection 218.

[0105] The container 201 of the first to third embodiments may further include an air intake 210 configured to generate an airflow from the outside of the container 201 into the inside of the container 201 (Figure 10). The air intake 210 is preferably located on the front wall at the bottom of the container. The first duct 208 is connected to the first side of the container, and the air intake 210 is connected to the second side of the container, which are different from the first and second sides. The first duct 208 is connected to the top wall 205, and the air intake 210 is located at the bottom of the front wall, thereby achieving ventilation of the container 201. The inside of the container 201 is airtightly sealed from the outside of the container 201. Preferably, the top wall 205 is connected to the first side wall 202, the second side wall 203, the rear wall 204, and the front wall 206 by connecting elements 219 (for example, screws fixed by bolts).

[0106] The container 201 further comprises a refrigerant leak detector 212. The container 201 can further house the refrigerant leak detector 212. Preferably, the refrigerant leak detector 212 is located in the lower half of the container 201, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The refrigerant leak detector 212 can be located below the gas purge valve 313. The refrigerant leak detector 212 can be configured to control the motor of a fan 211 provided at the end of a first duct 208 that opens to the outdoor space. The fan 211 is configured to generate an airflow from inside the container 201 through the first duct 208 to the outdoor space.

[0107] The interior space is separated from the exterior space, and the interior space can be separated by a house wall 40. The house wall may have one, two, or three openings. The openings in the house wall 40 can be penetrations in the house wall and can receive ducts for the heat exchanger unit 200.

[0108] Further generally known elements of the indoor unit, such as the magnetic filter, control unit, three-way valve, flow sensor, expansion vessel, pressure sensor, backup heater, connection terminals, switch box, user interface, and circulation pump, are well known to those skilled in the art and are therefore not relevant to the description of the exemplary embodiments; further description is omitted. Accordingly, some elements are also not shown in the drawings for orientation (for clarity).

[0109] Next, several embodiments of the heat pump 1 of this disclosure will be described in detail.

[0110] <First Embodiment> The heat exchanger unit 200 of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10. In the first embodiment, as previously described, a heat pump 1 as shown in Figure 1 is used. Therefore, the description of elements similar to those described earlier will be omitted. In the first embodiment, a heat pump having a first duct is provided.

[0111] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. In the heat exchanger unit 200 of the heat pump 1 of the first embodiment, the container 201 includes a first duct 208. The first duct 208 is located in an opening in the house wall 40. The first duct 208 is provided in the container 201, particularly in the top wall 205 of the container 201. Alternatively, the first duct 208 may be provided in the rear wall 204 of the container 201. The first duct 208 has a first end located in the container 201 and a second end located in the house wall 40 and extending toward the outdoor space where the outdoor unit 100 is located. The first duct 208 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is the area outside the building where the outdoor unit 100 is installed.

[0112] The first duct 208 contains a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 and a liquid refrigerant pipe 142. A ventilation duct 214 is further located within the first duct 208. The ventilation duct 214 is a tube. A fan 211 is provided at the end of the first duct 208 that opens to the outdoor space. The fan 211 is configured to create an airflow from inside the container 201 through the first duct 208 to the outdoor space. As shown in Figure 2, the fan 211 can preferably also be provided at the end of the ventilation duct 214 that opens to the outdoor space. Therefore, any leakable refrigerant from the container is transferred to the outdoor space by the airflow through the first duct.

[0113] The container 201 houses the intermediate heat exchanger 20, a gas purge valve 313, a gas-liquid separator 31, a pressure relief valve 314, a portion of the heat transfer medium piping 37, and a portion of the refrigerant piping 14. The refrigerant piping 14 comprises a liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143. Furthermore, the connection of the refrigerant piping 14 to the intermediate heat exchanger 20 is housed within the container 201. The gas purge valve 313 and the pressure relief valve 314, which are prone to refrigerant leaks, are housed within the container 201. Therefore, any refrigerant that may leak from the refrigerant piping 14, or from the components of the heat transfer medium circuit 30 and the refrigerant circuit 10, can be stored in the container 201, preventing refrigerant leakage into the indoor space.

[0114] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the first embodiment, viewed from below, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the first embodiment, viewed from above. The heat exchanger unit 200 comprises the container 201 and a first duct 208. The first duct 208 is provided in the container 201. The container 201 further comprises a rear wall 204, a first side wall 202, a second side wall 203, a top wall 205, and a bottom wall 207. The bottom wall 207 is provided with a heat transfer medium pipe connection point 371 for connecting the heat transfer medium pipe 37. The heat transfer medium pipe 37 has a first heat transfer medium pipe 37 and a second heat transfer medium pipe 37. As shown in Figure 8, the first duct 208 is provided in the top wall 205. The first duct 208 has a refrigerant pipe connection point 141 for connecting the refrigerant pipe 14. When the refrigerant piping 14 is connected to the intermediate heat exchanger at the refrigerant pipe connection point 141, the refrigerant piping 14 is located inside the first duct 208.

[0115] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the first embodiment, viewed from the side, and Figure 10 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the first embodiment, viewed from the front. The bottom wall 207 of the container 201 is further provided with a heat transfer medium pipe connection point 371 for connecting a heat transfer medium pipe 37 that extends to the indoor unit casing. The front wall 206 is further provided with an air intake 210. Specifically, the air intake 210 is provided at the lower part of the front wall 206 of the container 201. As shown in Figures 9 and 10 of the first embodiment, the lower part of the front wall 206 of the container 201 can be recessed so that the air intake 210 is partially covered by the front wall 206. Alternatively, in the first embodiment, the air intake 210 can be omitted.

[0116] <First modified example of the first embodiment> A first modified example of the first embodiment is shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 4. In this first modified example of the first embodiment, the configuration of the first duct differs from that of the embodiment described above. Note that explanations of elements similar to those in the previously described embodiment are omitted.

[0117] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208 in a first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The first duct 208 in the first modification of the first embodiment does not have a ventilation duct 214. Therefore, only the refrigerant piping 14 is arranged in the first duct 208 in the first modification of the first embodiment. The first duct 208 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. This allows the air inside the container 201 to flow to the outdoor space. The outdoor space is where the outdoor unit 100 is installed. A fan 211 is provided at the end of the first duct 208 that opens to the outdoor space. The fan 211 is configured to generate an airflow from the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space through the first duct 208. This airflow in the first duct 208 is a forced airflow by the fan 211. Therefore, any leaking refrigerant is transported to the outdoor space by the airflow. Preferably, the container 201 further comprises an air intake 210. As air is transferred to the outdoor space through the first duct 208, negative pressure can be created inside the container 201. By providing the air intake 210, air can be further drawn into the container from the indoor space. The container 201 further houses a refrigerant leak detector 212 located below the gas purge valve 313. Preferably, the refrigerant leak detector 212 is located below the intermediate heat exchanger 20 and near the air intake 210. The refrigerant leak detector 212 detects any refrigerant that may leak from the container 210. When a refrigerant leak in the container 210 is detected by the refrigerant leak detector 212, the refrigerant leak detector 212 is configured to control the motor of the fan 211, so that the motor operates the fan 211 and transfers the leaked refrigerant to the outdoor space. The container 201 prevents the leaked refrigerant from entering the indoor space, as it accumulates in the container 2010 and is then transferred to the outdoor space.

[0118] Furthermore, the container 201 of the first modified embodiment may also be equipped with a third duct connection 218 (not shown in Figure 4). The third duct connection 218 allows the liquid accumulated in the container 201 to be discharged into the outdoor space.

[0119] <Second Embodiment> A second embodiment is shown in Figures 3, 11, and 12. The second embodiment differs from the other embodiments described above in that a second duct is provided and in the configuration of the first duct. Descriptions of elements similar to those in the previously described embodiments are omitted.

[0120] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208 and a second duct 209 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] The heat pump 1 of the second embodiment comprises an outdoor unit 100 and a container 201 of an indoor unit 300. The outdoor unit is separated from the indoor unit 300 by a house wall 40. A first duct 208 extends to the outdoor space through a first opening in the house wall 40, and a second duct 209 extends to the outdoor space through a second opening in the house wall 40. The first duct 208 is separate from the second duct 209. The first duct 208 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The second duct 209 also connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. In this way, by providing the first duct 208 and the second duct 209, supply air can enter the container 201 through the first duct 208, and exhaust air can flow out of the container 201 through the second duct 209. It is also possible to supply air to the container 201 through the second duct 209 and exhaust air from the container 201 through the first duct 208. The second duct 209 is located at the bottom of the container and can be inclined towards the outdoor space so that the liquid flows towards the outdoor space. Alternatively, the second duct 209 can be placed on the bottom wall 207 of the container 201 and inclined towards the outdoor space. The accumulated liquid can flow along the inclined bottom wall 207 towards the second duct 209 and out into the outdoor space.

[0122] As shown in Figure 3, the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 are located in the second duct 209. Alternatively, the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 can be located in the first duct 208 and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 can be located in the second duct 209.

[0123] In the second embodiment, an air intake 210 can be optionally provided in the container 201. The container 201 in the second embodiment, like the first embodiment, houses an intermediate heat exchanger 20, a gas purge valve 313, a gas-liquid separator 31, a pressure relief valve 314, and a refrigerant leak detector 212. The gas-liquid separator 31 and the pressure relief valve 314 are provided in the heat transfer piping 37 of the heat transfer circuit 30. If refrigerant leaks from the gas purge valve 313 or the pressure relief valve 314, the liquid accumulated in the container can be discharged from the second duct 209.

[0124] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the second embodiment, viewed from the side, and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the second embodiment, viewed from above. Furthermore, a container like the one shown in Figure 12 can also be applied to the first and third embodiments. The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 are located on one side of the container 201, particularly on the top wall 205 of the container 201. The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 are attached to the top wall 205 of the container 201. The top wall 205 includes a first internal duct connection 217A and a second internal duct connection 217B. The first duct 208 is attached to the first internal duct connection 217A, and the second duct 209 is attached to the second internal duct connection 217B. The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 can be attached to the top wall 205 of the container 201 by a connecting element having a seal. The connections between the first duct 208 and the second duct 209 and the top wall 205 are airtight. The top wall 205 is also provided with a removable cover 215. The removable cover 215 is preferably attached to the top wall 205 by connecting elements 219. The top wall 205 is attached to the front wall 206, rear wall 204, first side wall 202, and second side wall 203 by connecting elements 219. An air intake 210 may also be provided in the front wall 206 of the container 206. The bottom wall 207 of the container 201 is provided with a heat transfer medium pipe 37 that extends to the indoor unit casing.

[0125] <First modified example of the second embodiment> A schematic diagram of the first modified example of the second embodiment is shown in Figure 5. In this first modified example of the second embodiment, the configuration of the first and second ducts differs from that of the embodiment described above. Note that explanations of elements similar to those in the previously described embodiment are omitted.

[0126] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208 and a second duct 209 in a first modification of a second embodiment of the present disclosure. In the first modification of the second embodiment, the refrigerant piping is located in the first duct 208, and the second duct 209 is used only for ventilation. In addition, the second duct 209 in the first modification of the second embodiment can be located at the lowest position of the container so that the liquid flows outwards into the outdoor space. The second duct 209 can also be located at the lowest position of the container 201 and tilted outwards into the outdoor space so that the accumulated liquid flows outwards into the outdoor space. As shown in Figure 5, the container 201 can be wall-mounted.

[0127] <Third Embodiment> A third embodiment is shown in Figures 6 and 13. The third embodiment differs from the other embodiments described above in that it includes a first duct, a second duct, and a third duct, and in the configuration of the first duct. Descriptions of elements similar to those in the previously described embodiments are omitted.

[0128] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208, a second duct 209, and a third duct 213 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] The heat pump 1 of the third embodiment comprises an outdoor unit 100 and a container 201 for an indoor unit 300. The outdoor unit 100 is separated from the indoor unit by a house wall 40. The container 201 comprises at least an intermediate heat exchanger 20, a portion of refrigerant piping 14, a portion of heat transfer fluid piping 37, a gas-liquid separator 31 having a gas purge valve 313 (not shown in Figure 6), and a pressure relief valve 314 (not shown in Figure 6). The first duct 208 extends to the outdoor space through a first opening in the house wall 40. The second duct 209 extends to the outdoor space through a second opening in the house wall 40. The third duct 213 extends to the outdoor space through a third opening in the house wall 40. The first duct 208, the second duct 209, and the third duct 213 are separate from each other. The first duct 208 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The second duct 209 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The third duct 213 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. In this way, by providing the first duct 208, the second duct 209 and the third duct 213, supply air can enter the container 201 through the second duct 209 and the third duct 213, and exhaust air can flow out of the container 201 through the first duct 208. Alternatively, air can enter the container 201 only through the second duct 209, air can flow out of the container 201 through the first duct 208, and accumulated liquid can flow out of the container 201 through the third duct 213.

[0130] The liquid refrigerant pipe 142 is located in the second duct 209, and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 is located in the third duct 213. Alternatively, the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 is located in the third duct 213, and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 is located in the second duct 209. A fan 211 is provided at the outdoor end of the first duct 208. It is also possible to arrange the refrigerant piping 14, which has both the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143, only in the second duct 209. Furthermore, the third duct 213 can be located at the lowest position of the container so that the accumulated liquid can flow out of the container. This ensures that the refrigerant does not leak into the indoor space in the heat pump 1 of the third embodiment.

[0131] Figure 13 is a rear perspective view of the container 201 according to the third embodiment. The container 201 of the third embodiment can also be the container 201 of the first or second embodiment. The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 are located on one side of the container 201, in particular on the top wall 205 of the container 201 (not shown). The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 are attached to the top wall 205 of the container 201. The top wall 205 includes a first internal duct connection 217A and a second internal duct connection 217B. The first duct 208 is attached to the first internal duct connection 217A, and the second duct 209 is attached to the second internal duct connection 217B. The first duct 208 and the second duct 209 can be attached to the top wall 205 of the container 201 by a connecting element having a seal. The connection between the first duct 208 and the second duct 209 and the top wall 205 is airtight. The top wall 205 is also provided with a removable cover 215. The removable cover 215 is preferably attached to the top wall 205 by connecting elements 219. The top wall 205 is attached to the front wall 206, the rear wall 204, the first side wall 202, and the second side wall 203 by connecting elements 219.

[0132] A third duct connection 218 is provided on the rear wall 204 of the container 206. The third duct 213 is located on one side of the container 201, specifically on the rear wall 204 of the container (not shown). The third duct 213 is attached to the third duct connection 218. The connection between the third duct 213 and the third duct connection 218 is airtight. The third duct connection 218 is located at the lowest position of the container 201. By placing the third duct connection 218 at the lowest position, the accumulated liquid can be drained from the container 201 into the outdoor space.

[0133] The first duct 208 contains refrigerant piping 14. The second duct 209 allows for air exchange between the outdoor space and the container. The third duct 213 also allows for air exchange between the outdoor space and the container, and allows the accumulated liquid to flow from the container to the outdoor space.

[0134] The bottom wall 207 (not shown) of the container 201 is further configured to be inclined so that the accumulated liquid flows toward the third duct connection 218. The third duct 213 is further configured to be inclined so that the accumulated liquid flows further toward the outdoor space. Alternatively, a separate drain pipe can be provided in the third duct 213. The accumulated liquid can be discharged to the outdoor space through the drain pipe. Thus, the heat pump 1 of the third embodiment prevents refrigerant leakage into the indoor space. By providing the third duct from the first duct, it is possible to ventilate and / or transfer leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium to the outdoor space, and the concentration of refrigerant in the container 201 can be kept low in the event of a refrigerant leak.

[0135] <Fourth Embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, as previously described, a heat pump 1 as shown in Figure 1 is used. Therefore, explanations of elements similar to those described earlier will be omitted. The fourth embodiment includes a heat pump having a first duct.

[0136] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing a container 201 having a first duct 208 and a second duct 209 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. In the heat exchanger unit 200 of the heat pump 1, the container 201 comprises a first duct 208 and a second duct 209. The first duct 208 is located in an opening in the house wall 40. The first duct 208 is separate from the second duct 209. The second duct 209 is located in a different opening in the house wall 40 from the first duct 208. The first duct 208 is provided in the container 201, in particular on the top wall 205 of the container 201. Alternatively, the first duct 208 may be provided on the rear wall 204 of the container 201. The second duct 209 is provided in the container 201, in particular on the rear wall 204 or the bottom wall 207 of the container 201. The first duct 208 has a first end that is positioned in the container 201 and a second end that is positioned in the house wall 40 and extends toward the outdoor space where the outdoor unit 100 is located. The first duct 208 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is the area outside the building where the outdoor unit 100 is installed. The second duct 209 has a first end that is positioned in the container 201 and a second end that is positioned in the house wall 40 and extends toward the outdoor space where the outdoor unit 100 is located. The second duct 209 also connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. In this way, by providing the first duct 208 and the second duct 209, supply air can enter the container 201 through the first duct 208, and exhaust air can flow out of the container 201 through the second duct 209. It is also possible to supply air to the container 201 through the second duct 209 and exhaust air from the container 201 through the first duct 208. The second duct 209 is connected to the bottom of the container 201 to discharge liquid from the container 201. The second duct 209 is located at the bottom of the container and can be inclined towards the outdoor space so that the liquid flows towards the outdoor space. Alternatively, the second duct 209 can be placed on the bottom wall 207 of the container 201 and inclined towards the outdoor space.The accumulated liquid can flow along the inclined bottom wall 207 towards the second duct 209 and into the outdoor space.

[0137] The first duct 208 contains a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 and a liquid refrigerant pipe 142. Alternatively, the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 can be placed in the first duct 208, and the gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 can be placed in the second duct 209.

[0138] A ventilation duct (not shown) may be further arranged in the first duct 208. A fan (not shown) is provided at the end of the first duct 208 that opens to the outdoor space. The fan is configured to create an airflow from the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space through the first duct 208. The fan may also preferably be provided at the end of the ventilation duct that opens to the outdoor space. Thus, any leaky refrigerant from the container is transferred to the outdoor space by the airflow through the first duct. The second duct 209 is provided with a discharger for accumulated liquid so that the liquid accumulated in the container 201 flows toward the outdoor space. The second duct 209 is located at the lowest point of the container 201 and is inclined toward the outdoor space so that the accumulated liquid flows toward the outdoor space.

[0139] The container 201 houses the intermediate heat exchanger 20, a gas purge valve 313, a gas-liquid separator 31, a pressure relief valve 314, a portion of the heat transfer medium piping 37, and a portion of the refrigerant piping 14. The refrigerant piping 14 comprises a liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143. Furthermore, the connection of the refrigerant piping 14 to the intermediate heat exchanger 20 is housed within the container 201. The gas purge valve 313 and the pressure relief valve 314, which are prone to leaks of refrigerant and heat transfer medium, are housed within the container 201. Therefore, any leaking refrigerant from the refrigerant piping 14, or from the components of the heat transfer medium circuit 30 and the refrigerant circuit 10, can be stored in the container 201, preventing refrigerant leakage into the indoor space.

[0140] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the fourth embodiment, viewed from below, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the fourth embodiment, viewed from above. The heat exchanger unit 200 comprises a container 201, a first duct 208, and a second duct 209. The first duct 208 is provided in the container 201. The second duct 209 is provided in a third duct connection 218 (not shown) located at the lower part of the rear wall 204. The container 201 further comprises a rear wall 204, a first side wall 202, a second side wall 203, a top wall 205, and a bottom wall 207. The bottom wall 207 is provided with a heat transfer medium pipe connection point 371 for connecting a heat transfer medium pipe 37. The heat transfer medium pipe 37 has a first heat transfer medium pipe 37 and a second heat transfer medium pipe 37. As shown in Figure 8, the first duct 208 is provided in the top wall 205. The first duct 208 is provided with a refrigerant pipe connection point 141 for connecting the refrigerant pipe 14. When the refrigerant pipe 14 is connected to the intermediate heat exchanger at the refrigerant pipe connection point 141, the refrigerant pipe 14 is located within the first duct 208.

[0141] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the fourth embodiment, viewed from the side, and Figure 10 is a perspective view of the container 201 according to the fourth embodiment, viewed from the front. The bottom wall 207 of the container 201 is further provided with a heat transfer medium pipe connection point 371 for connecting a heat transfer medium pipe 37 that extends to the indoor unit casing. The front wall 206 is further provided with an air intake 210. Specifically, the air intake 210 is provided at the lower part of the front wall 206 of the container 201. As shown in Figures 9 and 10 of the fourth embodiment, the lower part of the front wall 206 of the container 201 can be recessed so that the air intake 210 is partially covered by the front wall 206. Alternatively, in the first embodiment, the air intake 210 can be omitted.

[0142] Figure 13 is a rear perspective view of the container 201 according to the fourth embodiment. The first duct 208 is located on one side of the container 201, particularly on the top wall 205 of the container 201 (not shown). The first duct 208 is attached to the top wall 205 of the container 201. A third duct connection 218 is provided on the rear wall 204 of the container 206. The second duct 209 is located on one side of the container 201, particularly on the rear wall 204 of the container (not shown). The second duct 209 is attached to the third duct connection 218. The connection between the second duct 209 and the third duct connection 218 is airtight. The third duct connection 218 is located at the lowest position of the container 201. By placing the third duct connection 218 at the lowest position, the liquid accumulated in the container 201 can be drained through the second duct 209 to the outdoor space.

[0143] The first duct 208 contains refrigerant piping 14. The second duct 209 allows for air exchange between the outdoor space and the container, and the accumulated liquid can flow from the container to the outdoor space.

[0144] The bottom wall 207 (not shown) of the container 201 is further configured to be inclined so that the accumulated liquid flows toward the third duct connection 218. The second duct 209 is further configured to be inclined so that the accumulated liquid flows further toward the outdoor space. Another drain pipe may also be provided in the second duct 209. The accumulated liquid can be discharged to the outdoor space through the drain pipe. Thus, the heat pump 1 of the first embodiment prevents refrigerant leakage into the indoor space. By providing the first and second ducts, it is possible to ventilate and / or transfer leaked refrigerant and heat transfer medium to the outdoor space, and the concentration of refrigerant in the container 201 can be kept low in the event of a refrigerant leak.

[0145] <First modified example of the fourth embodiment> A schematic diagram of the first modified example of the fourth embodiment is shown in Figure 3. In this first modified example of the fourth embodiment, the configuration of the first duct 208 and the second duct 209 differs from that of the embodiments described above. Note that explanations of elements similar to those in the previously described embodiments are omitted.

[0146] In the first modified example of the fourth embodiment, the second duct 209 contains a liquid refrigerant pipe 142 and a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143. The first duct 208 of the first modified example of the fourth embodiment does not house the refrigerant piping 14.

[0147] Thus, in the heat pump 1 according to the first modification of the fourth embodiment, the refrigerant piping 14 is located in the second duct 209. The second duct 209 is also capable of discharging liquid. The first duct 208 is only used for air ventilation. Therefore, the second duct 209 can provide an air inlet for supplying air into the container 201 and a discharger for accumulated liquid. The first duct 208 can provide an air outlet for exhausting air from the container 201 to the outdoor space. The first modification of the fourth embodiment makes it easy to place a fan at the end of the first duct 208 that opens to the outdoor space. The first modification of the fourth embodiment achieves the same technical effects as those described in the fourth embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0148] 1. Heat pump 10 Refrigerant Circuit 11 Compressor 12 Heat source heat exchanger 13 Expansion valve 14 Refrigerant piping 141 Refrigerant pipe connection point 142 Liquid refrigerant pipes 143 Gas refrigerant pipe 20 Intermediate heat exchanger 30 Heat carrier circuit 31 Gas-liquid separator 313 Gas purge valve 314 Pressure relief valve 36 pumps 37 Heat medium piping 371 Heat transfer tube connection point 40 House wall 100 Outdoor Units 101 Outdoor unit casing 200 Heat Exchanger Unit 201 Container 202 First side wall 203 Second side wall 204 Back wall 205 Ceiling Wall 206 Front wall 207 Bottom wall 208 Duct 1 209 Second Duct 210 Air intake 211 Fans 212 Refrigerant leak detector 213 Third Duct 214 Ventilation duct 215 Removable lid 216 External duct connection 217A First internal duct connection 217B Second internal duct connection 218 Third duct connection 219 Connection elements 300 Indoor Unit [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0149] [Patent Document 1] French Patent Application Publication No. 3070755 Specification

[0150] The paragraphs listed for each of the following items also constitute part of this disclosure. (Item 1) An indoor unit for a heat pump 1, installed inside a building, A part of the heat transfer medium circuit 30 for circulating the heat transfer medium, An intermediate heat exchanger 20 that performs heat exchange between a refrigerant and a heat transfer medium, A pressure relief valve 314 is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit 30 to release the heat transfer medium, A container 201 housing an intermediate heat exchanger 20 and a pressure relief valve 314, Equipped with, The container 201 comprises a first duct 208 and a second duct 209. The first duct 208 is connected to the top of the container 201 and communicates the interior of the container 201 with the outdoor space, thereby exchanging air between the interior of the container 201 and the outdoor space, which is the exterior of the building. The second duct 209 is connected to the bottom of the container 201 to drain liquid from the container. Indoor unit. (Item 2) A refrigerant circuit 10 for circulating refrigerant is provided, comprising a liquid refrigerant pipe 142, a heat source heat exchanger 12, a compressor 11, an expansion valve 13, a gaseous refrigerant pipe 143, and an intermediate heat exchanger 20. A heat transfer medium circuit 30 is provided, which includes a pump and an intermediate heat exchanger 20, and circulates the heat transfer medium. An intermediate heat exchanger 20 that exchanges heat between a refrigerant and a heat transfer medium, A pressure relief valve 314 is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit 30 to release the heat transfer medium, A container 201 housing an intermediate heat exchanger 20 and a pressure relief valve 314, Equipped with, The container 201 comprises a first duct 208 and a second duct 209. The first duct 208 is connected to the top of the container 201 and communicates the inside of the container 201 with the outdoor space, allowing for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The outdoor space is where the heat source heat exchanger 12 and the compressor 11 are located. The second duct 209 is connected to the bottom of the container 201 to drain liquid from the container 201. Heat pump 1. (Item 3) The second duct 209 connects the inside of the container 201 to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container 201 and the outdoor space. The indoor unit described in item 1 or the heat pump described in item 2. (Item 4) The gas-liquid separator 31 is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit 30, and the gas-liquid separator 31 is equipped with a gas purge valve 313 for releasing the refrigerant. The container 201 further houses a gas-liquid separator 31 and a gas purge valve 313. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 5) The container 201 is equipped with an air intake port 210 configured to generate an airflow from the outside of the container 201 to the inside of the container 201. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 6) A fan is located at the outdoor end of the first duct 208 and is configured to generate an airflow from the inside of the container 201 through the first duct 208 into the outdoor space. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 7) The inside of container 201 is airtightly sealed from the outside of container 201. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 8) The container 201 is box-shaped and has a first side wall 202, a second side wall 203 facing the first side wall 202, a rear wall 204 extending between the first side wall 202 and the second side wall 203, a top wall 205 connected to the upper ends of the first side wall 202, the second side wall 203 and the rear wall 204, a front wall 206 facing the rear wall 204, and a bottom wall 207 facing the top wall 205. The first duct 208 is positioned on the top wall 205 of the container 201. The second duct 209 is located in the rear wall 204 or bottom wall 207 of the container 201. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 9) The bottom wall 207 of the container 201 is inclined toward the opening of the second duct 209. The indoor unit or heat pump described in item 8. (Item 10) The second duct 209 is located at the lowest position of the container 201. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 11) The gaseous refrigerant pipe 143 and the liquid refrigerant pipe 142 are arranged in the first duct 208 or the second duct 209. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 12) The container further includes a removable lid 215. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 13) The first duct 208 is configured to discharge air from inside the container 201 to the outdoor space, and the second duct 209 is configured to allow air to flow from the outdoor space into the inside of the container 201, or The first duct 208 is configured to allow air to flow from the outdoor space into the interior of the container 201, and the second duct 209 is configured to discharge air from the interior of the container 201 into the outdoor space. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 14) The container 201 further includes a refrigerant leak detector 212, and the container 201 further houses the refrigerant leak detector 212. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 15) The first duct 208 is connected to the first side of the container 201, and the air intake 210 is connected to the second side of the container 201, and the first side is different from the second side. The indoor unit or heat pump described in any one of the preceding items.

Claims

1. An indoor unit (300) for a heat pump (1) to be installed inside a building, A part of the heat transfer medium circuit (30) for circulating the heat transfer medium, An intermediate heat exchanger (20) that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, A gas-liquid separator (31) is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit and includes a gas purge valve (313) for releasing a refrigerant, A container (201) housing the intermediate heat exchanger (20), the gas purge valve (313), and the gas-liquid separator (31), A first duct (208) is provided in the container (201) and connects the inside of the container (201) to an outdoor space, thereby exchanging air between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space, wherein the outdoor space is outside the building, and the first duct (208) and Equipped with, Indoor unit (300).

2. A refrigerant circuit (10) for circulating refrigerant is provided, comprising a liquid refrigerant pipe (142), a heat source heat exchanger (12), a compressor (11), an expansion valve (13), a gaseous refrigerant pipe (143), and an intermediate heat exchanger (20). A heat transfer medium circuit (30) for circulating a heat transfer medium is provided, comprising a pump (36) and the intermediate heat exchanger (20), The intermediate heat exchanger (20) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, A gas-liquid separator (31) is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit and includes a gas purge valve (313) for releasing a refrigerant, A container (201) housing the intermediate heat exchanger (20), the gas purge valve (313), and the gas-liquid separator (31), A first duct (208) is provided in the container (201) and connects the inside of the container (201) to the outdoor space, thereby exchanging air between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space, wherein the outdoor space is the location where the heat source heat exchanger (12) and the compressor (11) are located. Equipped with, Heat pump (1).

3. The container (201) further comprises a refrigerant leak detector (212), and the container (201) further houses the refrigerant leak detector (212). The indoor unit according to claim 1 or the heat pump according to claim 2.

4. The heat transfer medium circuit (30) is further provided with a pressure relief valve (314), and the container (201) further houses the pressure relief valve (314). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

5. The container (201) is provided with an air intake (210) configured to generate an airflow from the outside of the container (201) into the inside of the container (201). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

6. The gaseous refrigerant pipe (143) and the liquid refrigerant pipe (142) are arranged in the first duct (208). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. A second duct (209) connects the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space. Furthermore, The liquid refrigerant pipe (142) is located in the first duct (208), and the gaseous refrigerant pipe (143) is located in the second duct (209), or The gaseous refrigerant pipe (142) and the liquid refrigerant pipe (143) are arranged in the second duct (209). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A ventilation duct (214) is located in the first duct (208). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. A third duct (213) connects the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space. Furthermore, The liquid refrigerant pipe (142) is located in the second duct (209), and the gaseous refrigerant pipe (143) is located in the third duct (213), or The liquid refrigerant pipe (142) is located in the third duct (213), and the gaseous refrigerant pipe (143) is located in the second duct (209). The indoor unit or heat pump according to claim 7 or 8.

10. A fan (211) is provided at the end of the first duct (208) that opens to the outdoor space, and the fan (211) is configured to generate an airflow from the inside of the container (201) through the first duct (208) to the outdoor space. An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. The inside of the container (201) is airtightly sealed from the outside of the container (201). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. The first duct (208) and the second duct (209) are located on one side of the container (201). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of claims 7 to 11.

13. The container (201) is box-shaped and has a first side wall (202), a second side wall (203) facing the first side wall (202), a rear wall (204) extending between the first side wall (202) and the second side wall (203), a top wall (205) connected to the upper ends of the first side wall (202), the second side wall (203), and the rear wall (204), a front wall (206) facing the rear wall (204), and a bottom wall (207) facing the top wall (205). The first duct (208) is provided on the ceiling wall (205). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. The refrigerant leak detector (212) is located below the gas purge valve (313). An indoor unit or heat pump according to any one of claims 3 to 13.

15. A portion of the heat transfer medium circuit (30) for circulating the heat transfer medium, The intermediate heat exchanger (20) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, A pressure relief valve (314) is provided in the heat transfer medium circuit (30) for releasing the heat transfer medium, The container (201) houses the intermediate heat exchanger (20) and the pressure relief valve (314), Equipped with, The container (201) comprises a first duct (208) and a second duct (209), the first duct (208) being connected to the upper part of the container (201) and communicating the inside of the container (201) with the outdoor space, thereby exchanging air between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space, the outdoor space being the outside of the building. The second duct (209) is connected to the bottom of the container (201) to discharge liquid from the container. The indoor unit according to claim 1.

16. The second duct (209) connects the inside of the container (201) to the outdoor space for air exchange between the inside of the container (201) and the outdoor space. The indoor unit according to claim 15.

17. The container (201) is box-shaped and has a first side wall (202), a second side wall (203) facing the first side wall (202), a rear wall (204) extending between the first side wall (202) and the second side wall (203), a top wall (205) connected to the upper ends of the first side wall (202), the second side wall (203), and the rear wall (204), a front wall (206) facing the rear wall (204), and a bottom wall (207) facing the top wall (205). The first duct (208) is positioned on the top wall (205) of the container (201). The second duct (209) is located on the rear wall (204) or the bottom wall (207) of the container (201). The indoor unit according to claim 15 or 16.

18. The bottom wall (207) of the container (201) is inclined toward the opening of the second duct (209). The indoor unit according to claim 17.

19. The second duct (209) is located at the lowest position of the container (201). The indoor unit according to any one of claims 15 to 18.

20. The first duct (208) is configured to discharge air from inside the container (201) to the outdoor space, and the second duct (209) is configured to allow air to flow from the outdoor space into inside the container (201), or, The first duct (208) is configured to allow air to flow from the outdoor space into the interior of the container (201), and the second duct (209) is configured to discharge air from the interior of the container (201) into the outdoor space. An indoor unit according to any one of claims 15 to 19.

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