Refrigeration Cycle Equipment

Abstract

Provided is a refrigeration cycle device that can minimize deterioration of comfort in an air-conditioned space even when a refrigerant leak is detected in a utilization unit and the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked. [Solution] A refrigeration cycle device 100 includes a first heat source unit 2, a plurality of utilization units 1, a flow path switching unit 3, and a controller 8. The controller 8 controls the first heat source unit 2, the utilization units 1, and the flow path switching unit 3. When a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the plurality of utilization units 1 during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected is equal to or greater than a predetermined ratio R of the capacity of the first heat source unit 2, the controller 8 performs a first control in which the flow path switching unit 3 blocks the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected and the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected continue to operate.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This relates to a refrigeration cycle device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 (WO 2016 / 129027) discloses an air conditioning apparatus having a number of shutoff devices that are installed between a number of heat source units and indoor units and shut off the flow of refrigerant circulating through the refrigerant piping, a number of leakage detection units that detect refrigerant leakage from each of the heat source units, and a control device that controls the operation of the multiple heat source units, the indoor units, and the shutoff devices.

[0003] When a refrigerant leak is detected by the leak detection unit, the control device of the air conditioner activates a shutoff device connected to the heat source unit from which the refrigerant is leaking. When multiple shutoff devices include shutoff devices in an activated state and shutoff devices in an inactivated state, the control device calculates the limited heat exchange capacity of the indoor unit when operating with the heat source unit connected to the shutoff device in an inactivated state, and controls the operation of the heat source unit or the indoor unit with the limited heat exchange capacity as the upper limit. In this way, the air conditioner of Patent Document 1 can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space even when a refrigerant leak is shut off. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There was room for consideration as to how to determine whether to continue operating other utilization units when a refrigerant leak is detected in a utilization unit (indoor unit) and the flow of refrigerant to the leaking utilization unit is cut off.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide a refrigeration cycle device that can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space even when a refrigerant leak is detected in a utilization unit and the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A refrigeration cycle device according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises: The refrigeration cycle device performs an air conditioning operation and includes a first heat source unit, a plurality of utilization units, a flow path switching unit, and a control unit.

[0007] The flow path switching unit is provided between the first heat source unit and the utilization unit and switches the flow of the refrigerant flowing between the first heat source unit and the utilization unit. The control unit controls the first heat source unit, the utilization unit, and the flow path switching unit.

[0008] The control unit performs a first control in which, when a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak was detected is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage of the capacity of the first heat source unit, the flow path switching unit blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak was detected and continues operation of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak was detected.

[0009] According to the present refrigeration cycle device, even if the inflow of refrigerant to a utilization unit where a refrigerant leak has occurred is blocked, the remaining utilization units can continue to operate. Therefore, the present refrigeration cycle device can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space even if a refrigerant leak in a utilization unit is detected and the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked.

[0010] A second aspect of the refrigeration cycle apparatus is the refrigeration cycle apparatus of the first aspect, wherein the control unit performs a second control in which, when a refrigerant leak is detected in any of a plurality of utilization units during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak is detected is less than the above-mentioned predetermined percentage of the capacity of the first heat source unit, the flow path switching unit blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak is detected and the operation of all utilization units including the utilization unit in which the refrigerant leak is detected is stopped.

[0011] As a result, the present refrigeration cycle apparatus suppresses a decrease in comfort that would otherwise be caused by an inability to maintain operation at a desired capacity.

[0012] A refrigeration cycle apparatus according to a third aspect is the refrigeration cycle apparatus according to the first or second aspect, in which the air conditioning operation includes a defrost operation, and the predetermined ratio is a ratio of the capacity of the utilization unit to the capacity of the first heat source unit at which the first heat source unit can secure the amount of heat required for the refrigeration cycle apparatus to perform the defrost operation.

[0013] The present refrigeration cycle apparatus can perform a defrost operation while suppressing deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space when the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked.

[0014] A fourth aspect of the refrigeration cycle apparatus is the refrigeration cycle apparatus of the third aspect, wherein when the control unit determines that there are no plans to perform defrost operation, the first control is performed even if a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which a refrigerant leak is detected is less than the above-mentioned specified percentage of the capacity of the first heat source unit.

[0015] The refrigeration cycle device continues to operate the remaining utilization units. As a result, even if a refrigerant leak is detected in a utilization unit and the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked, the refrigeration cycle device can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0016] A refrigeration cycle apparatus according to a fifth aspect is the refrigeration cycle apparatus according to any one of the first aspect to the fourth aspect, in which the utilization unit has a utilization heat exchanger. In the first control, the control unit adjusts a target evaporation temperature Te or a target condensation temperature Tc in the utilization heat exchanger of the utilization unit that continues to operate, based on the capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of the refrigerant is blocked.

[0017] In this refrigeration cycle device, the user units that continue to operate have their inflow of refrigerant blocked, compensating for the reduced output of the user units that have stopped operating, thereby minimizing the decrease in comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0018] A refrigeration cycle apparatus of a sixth aspect is the refrigeration cycle apparatus of any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein the control unit performs protection control based on the capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of refrigerant is blocked in the first control.

[0019] The present refrigeration cycle apparatus can suppress damage to the equipment caused by the execution of the first control.

[0020] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a refrigeration cycle apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a second heat source unit. The flow path switching unit is provided between the second heat source unit and the plurality of utilization units, and further switches the flow of the refrigerant flowing between the second heat source unit and the plurality of utilization units.

[0021] When performing the first control, the control unit causes the second heat source unit to perform an operation to compensate for the capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of refrigerant has been blocked.

[0022] In the first control, the refrigeration cycle device compensates for the reduction in output of the utilization unit that has stopped operating when the inflow of refrigerant is blocked by the second heat source unit, thereby minimizing the deterioration in comfort of the air-conditioned space. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle device 100. FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a control unit 8. [Diagram 3] 5 is a flowchart showing a control flow of control when a refrigerant leaks. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow of a refrigerant leakage control performed by a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to Modification A. [Diagram 5]10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to a modified example D. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] <Embodiment> (1) Overall structure The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 performs air conditioning operations (specifically, full cooling operation, full heating operation, defrost operation, and simultaneous heating and cooling operation) in a space to be air-conditioned by performing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The space to be air-conditioned is, for example, a space inside a building such as an office building, a commercial facility, or a residence. Note that the refrigeration cycle apparatus is merely one example of a refrigerant cycle apparatus, and the heat exchanger of the present disclosure may be used in other refrigerant cycle apparatus, for example, a refrigerator, a freezer, a water heater, a floor heating apparatus, or the like.

[0025] 1, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 mainly has three utilization units 1, one heat source unit 2, three flow path switching units 3, one liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5, one low pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, one high pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 7, and one control unit 8. Note that the number of utilization units 1 and flow path switching units 3 is not limited to three, and may be two, or four or more.

[0026] The liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5, the low-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, and the high-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 7 are refrigerant connection pipes that connect the utilization units 1 and the heat source units 2. In the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100, the utilization units 1 and the heat source units 2 are connected via the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5, the low-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, and the high-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 7 to form a refrigerant circuit 9.

[0027] In addition to air conditioning operation, the refrigeration cycle device 100 also performs refrigerant leakage control when a refrigerant leakage is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1, with the aim of suppressing further refrigerant leakage while minimizing any deterioration in comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0028] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Usage Unit 1 Each utilization unit 1 mainly includes a utilization heat exchanger 11, a utilization fan 12, a utilization expansion mechanism 13, a liquid refrigerant pipe 14, a gas refrigerant pipe 15, and a refrigerant sensor 16.

[0029] In the following, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three utilization units 1 and the equipment possessed by each utilization unit 1, one of the suffixes a, b, or c will be added to the end of the reference numbers of the utilization unit 1 and the equipment possessed by each utilization unit 1, as shown in Figure 1.

[0030] (2-1-1) Utilized heat exchanger 11 The utilization heat exchanger 11 exchanges heat between the refrigerant and air carried by the airflow generated by the utilization fan 12. The utilization heat exchanger 11 has a liquid side connected to the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5 via a liquid refrigerant pipe 14, and a gas side connected to the flow path switching unit 3 via a gas refrigerant pipe 15.

[0031] (2-1-2) 12 fans in use The utilization fan 12 supplies air to the utilization heat exchanger 11 .

[0032] (2-1-3) Expansion mechanism used 13 The utilization expansion mechanism 13 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the liquid refrigerant pipe 14. The utilization expansion mechanism 13 is provided in the liquid refrigerant pipe 14.

[0033] (2-1-4) Refrigerant sensor 16 The refrigerant sensor 16 is provided at the installation location of the utilization unit 1 and detects the refrigerant. In other words, the refrigerant sensor 16 detects leakage of the refrigerant in the space to be air conditioned.

[0034] (2-2) Heat source unit 2 The heat source unit 2 mainly includes a compressor 21, a first three-way valve 22, a second three-way valve 23, a heat source heat exchanger 24, a heat source expansion mechanism 25, and a heat source fan 26.

[0035] (2-2-1) Compressor 21 The compressor 21 draws in low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle from the refrigerant circuit 9 via the suction port 21a, compresses the refrigerant using a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the refrigerant to the refrigerant circuit 9 via the discharge port 21b.

[0036] The suction section 21a of the compressor 21 is connected to the low-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 6, and the discharge section 21b is connected to a first port 22a of the first three-way valve 22 and a first port 23a of the second three-way valve 23 (both described later).

[0037] (2-2-2) First three-way valve 22 and second three-way valve 23 The first three-way valve 22 has three ports: a first port 22a, a second port 22b, and a third port 22c. The first port 22a of the first three-way valve 22 is connected to the discharge portion 21b of the compressor 21, the second port 22b is connected to the gas side of the heat source heat exchanger 24, and the third port 22c is connected to the suction portion 21a of the compressor 21.

[0038] The second three-way valve 23 has three ports: a first port 23a, a second port 23b, and a third port 23c. The first port 23a of the second three-way valve 23 is connected to the discharge portion 21b of the compressor 21, the second port 23b is connected to the high-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 7, and the third port 23c is connected to the low-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 6 and the suction portion 21a of the compressor 21.

[0039] The first three-way valve 22 and the second three-way valve 23 are changeable between a state in which the first ports 22a, 23a are connected to the second ports 22b, 23b while the third ports 22c, 23c are closed, and a state in which the second ports 22b, 23b are connected to the third ports 22c, 23c while the first ports 22a, 23a are closed.

[0040] (2-2-3) Heat source heat exchanger 24 The heat source heat exchanger 24 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside and a heat source (for example, the air in the location where the heat source unit 2 is installed).

[0041] The heat source heat exchanger 24 has a gas side connected to the second port 22 b of the first three-way valve 22 , and a liquid side connected to the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 5 via a heat source expansion mechanism 25 .

[0042] (2-2-4) Heat source expansion mechanism 25 The heat source expansion mechanism 25 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing inside. The heat source expansion mechanism 25 is provided in the piping that connects the liquid side of the heat source heat exchanger 24 and the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5.

[0043] (2-2-5) Heat source fan 26 The heat source fan 26 supplies outside air, which is a heat source, to the heat source heat exchanger 24 .

[0044] (2-3) Flow path switching unit 3 The flow path switching unit 3 is provided between the heat source unit 2 and each utilization unit 1, and switches the flow of the refrigerant flowing between the first heat source unit and the utilization unit 1. The flow path switching unit 3 has a first branch pipe 31, a second branch pipe 32, a first shutoff valve 33, and a second shutoff valve .

[0045] In the following, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three flow path switching units 3, one of the suffixes a, b, or c given to the corresponding utilization unit 1 will be written at the end of the flow path switching unit 3 and the equipment that the flow path switching unit 3 has, as shown in Figure 1.

[0046] (2-3-1) First branch pipe 31 and second branch pipe 32 The first branch pipe 31 is a pipe that connects the gas refrigerant pipe 15 of the utilization unit 1 and the low-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 6. The second branch pipe 32 is a pipe that connects the gas refrigerant pipe 15 of the utilization unit 1 and the high-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 7.

[0047] (2-3-2) First shutoff valve 33 and second shutoff valve 34 The first cutoff valve 33 is a solenoid valve provided in the first branch pipe 31 that can be opened and closed freely. The second cutoff valve 34 is a solenoid valve provided in the second branch pipe 32 that can be opened and closed freely.

[0048] Closing the first shutoff valve 33 blocks the flow of refrigerant through the first branch pipe 31. Closing the second shutoff valve 34 blocks the flow of refrigerant through the second branch pipe 32.

[0049] (2-4) Control Unit 8 The control unit 8 controls the operations of various devices that constitute the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100.

[0050] 2, the control unit 8 is electrically connected to the utilization fan 12, the utilization expansion mechanism 13, the refrigerant sensor 16, the compressor 21, the first three-way valve 22, the second three-way valve 23, the heat source expansion mechanism 25, the heat source fan 26, the first shutoff valve 33, and the second shutoff valve 34 so as to be able to transmit and receive signals. The control unit 8 may be electrically connected to various sensors (not shown) provided in the utilization unit 1 and the heat source unit 2. The control unit 8 may be able to communicate with a remote control (not shown) operated by a user of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100.

[0051] The control unit 8 is realized by a computer. The control unit 8 includes a control arithmetic device and a storage device (both not shown). The control arithmetic device is a processor such as a CPU or GPU. The control arithmetic device reads a program stored in the storage device and performs predetermined image processing and arithmetic processing according to the program. Furthermore, the control arithmetic device writes the results of the calculations to the storage device and reads information stored in the storage device according to the program.

[0052] The storage device records the rated capacity of each utilization unit 1, the rated capacity of the first heat source unit 2, and a predetermined ratio R (described later).

[0053] (3) Operation of the refrigeration cycle device 100 (3-1) Air conditioning operation In the air-conditioning operation, the control unit 8 of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 controls various devices constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 as described below. Although detailed description is omitted, the control unit 8 appropriately controls the rotation speeds of the utilization fan 12 and the heat source fan 26 during any operation.

[0054] (3-1-1) Full cooling operation The full cooling operation is an operation in which all of the utilization units 1 perform the cooling operation.

[0055] In the full cooling operation, the first port 22a and the second port 22b of the first three-way valve 22 communicate with each other. In each flow path switching unit 3, the first shutoff valve 33 is opened and the second shutoff valve 34 is closed.

[0056] When all the second shutoff valves 34 are in the closed state, almost no refrigerant passes through the second three-way valve 23. Therefore, the state of the second three-way valve 23 is not limited.

[0057] When the compressor 21 starts up, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 passes through the first three-way valve 22, and then flows through the heat-source heat exchanger 24. In the heat-source heat exchanger 24, the refrigerant dissipates heat to the outdoor air and condenses. The refrigerant condensed in the heat-source heat exchanger 24 passes through the heat-source expansion mechanism 25, which is set to a fully open state, flows through the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 5, and is divided into each utilization unit 1.

[0058] In all the utilization units 1, when the refrigerant passes through the utilization expansion mechanism 13, it is decompressed to a low pressure and flows through the utilization heat exchanger 11. In the utilization heat exchanger 11, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in the space to be air-conditioned and evaporates. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization unit 1 is cooled. The opening degree of the utilization expansion mechanism 13 is adjusted according to the degree of superheat of the refrigerant obtained by a temperature sensor (not shown) or the like.

[0059] The refrigerant that flows out of each utilization unit 1 flows through the first branch pipes 31 of each flow path switching unit 3, and joins at the low-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 6. The refrigerant that joins at the low-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 6 is sucked into the compressor 21 and compressed again.

[0060] (3-1-2) Full heating operation The full heating operation is an operation in which all of the utilization units 1 perform the heating operation.

[0061] In the full heating operation, the second port 22b and the third port 22c of the first three-way valve 22 communicate with each other, and the first port 23a and the second port 23b of the second three-way valve 23 communicate with each other. In each flow path switching unit 3, the first shutoff valve 33 is closed, and the second shutoff valve 34 is open.

[0062] When the compressor 21 starts, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 passes through the second three-way valve 23, flows through the high-pressure gas refrigerant communication pipe 7, and is branched into the second branch pipes 32 of each flow path switching unit 3. The refrigerant that has passed through each flow path switching unit 3 flows into each corresponding utilization unit 1.

[0063] In all of the utilization units 1, the refrigerant radiates heat to the air in the space to be air-conditioned and condenses in the utilization heat exchanger 11. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization unit 1 is heated. The refrigerant condensed in the utilization heat exchanger 11 passes through the utilization expansion mechanism 13. The opening degree of the utilization expansion mechanism 13 is adjusted according to the degree of subcooling of the refrigerant obtained by a temperature sensor (not shown) or the like.

[0064] The refrigerant flowing out of each utilization unit 1 joins in the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 5. The refrigerant joined in the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 5 is reduced in pressure to a low level when passing through the heat source expansion mechanism 25, and flows through the heat source heat exchanger 24. In the heat source heat exchanger 24, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air and evaporates. The refrigerant evaporated in the heat source heat exchanger 24 passes through the first three-way valve 22, and is then sucked into the compressor 21 and compressed again.

[0065] (3-1-3) Defrost operation The defrost operation is intended to remove frost that has formed on the outer surface of the heat-source heat exchanger 24 when full heating operation is performed in an environment where the outside air temperature is low, such as in winter. In the defrost operation, the control unit 8 performs a refrigeration cycle similar to the full cooling operation while stopping the heat-source fan 26. As a result, the frost that has formed on the outer surface of the heat-source heat exchanger 24 is removed by heat radiation from the refrigerant condensed in the heat-source heat exchanger 24. The operation of the various devices that constitute the refrigeration cycle device 100 in the defrost operation is the same as the full cooling operation, except for the operation of the heat-source fan 26, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0066] (3-2) Simultaneous cooling and heating operation The simultaneous cooling and heating operation is an operation in which some of the utilization units 1 perform heating operation of the air-conditioned space, while the remaining utilization units 1 perform cooling operation of the air-conditioned space. The simultaneous cooling and heating operation includes a first simultaneous cooling and heating operation and a second simultaneous cooling and heating operation.

[0067] (3-2-1) First simultaneous cooling and heating operation The first simultaneous heating and cooling operation is a heating-dominated operation in which the number of utilization units 1 performing heating operation is greater than the number of utilization units 1 performing cooling operation. In the following, an example will be described in which the utilization units 1a and 1b perform heating operation and the utilization unit 1c performs cooling operation.

[0068] In the first simultaneous cooling and heating operation, the first three-way valve 22 has the first port 22a and the second port 22b communicated with each other, and the second three-way valve 23 has the first port 23a and the second port 23b communicated with each other. In the flow path switching units 3a and 3b corresponding to the utilization units 1a and 1b, the first shutoff valve 33 is closed and the second shutoff valve 34 is open. In the flow path switching unit 3c corresponding to the utilization unit 1c, the first shutoff valve 33 is open and the second shutoff valve 34 is closed.

[0069] When the compressor 21 starts, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 is divided into the first three-way valve 22 and the second three-way valve 23. The refrigerant that passes through the first three-way valve 22 is condensed in the heat source heat exchanger 24, and then passes through the heat source expansion mechanism 25, which is adjusted to a predetermined opening degree, and flows through the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5. On the other hand, the refrigerant that passes through the second three-way valve 23 flows through the high-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 7 and into the second branch pipes 32 of the flow path switching units 3a, 3b corresponding to the utilization units 1a, 1b. The refrigerant that flows out of the second branch pipe 32 flows into the corresponding utilization unit 1.

[0070] In the utilization units 1a and 1b, the refrigerant radiates heat to the air in the space to be air-conditioned and condenses in the utilization heat exchanger 11. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization units 1a and 1b is heated. The refrigerant condensed in the utilization heat exchanger 11 passes through the utilization expansion mechanism 13. Here, the opening degree of the utilization expansion mechanism 13 is adjusted according to the degree of subcooling of the refrigerant obtained by a temperature sensor (not shown) or the like. The refrigerant that flows out of the utilization units 1a and 1b joins in the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5.

[0071] The refrigerant that joins in the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5 flows into the utilization unit 1c. The refrigerant that flows into the utilization unit 1c is decompressed to a low pressure when passing through the utilization expansion mechanism 13, and then flows into the utilization heat exchanger 11. In the utilization heat exchanger 11, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in the space to be air-conditioned and evaporates. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization unit 1c is cooled. The refrigerant used to cool the space to be air-conditioned in the utilization unit 1c passes through the first branch pipe 31 of the flow path switching unit 3c corresponding to the utilization unit 1c, then flows through the low-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, is sucked into the compressor 21, and is compressed again.

[0072] (3-2-1) Second cooling and heating simultaneous operation The second simultaneous heating and cooling operation is a cooling-dominated operation in which the number of utilization units 1 performing heating operation is smaller than the number of utilization units 1 performing cooling operation. In the following, an example will be described in which the utilization unit 1a performs heating operation and the utilization units 1b and 1c perform cooling operation.

[0073] In the second simultaneous cooling and heating operation, the first three-way valve 22 has the first port 22a and the second port 22b communicated with each other, and the second three-way valve 23 has the first port 23a and the second port 23b communicated with each other. In the flow path switching unit 3a corresponding to the utilization unit 1a performing the heating operation, the first shutoff valve 33 is in a closed state, and the second shutoff valve 34 is in an open state. In the flow path switching units 3b and 3c corresponding to the utilization units 1b and 1c, the first shutoff valve 33 is in an open state, and the second shutoff valve 34 is in a closed state.

[0074] When the compressor 21 starts, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 is divided into the first three-way valve 22 and the second three-way valve 23. The refrigerant that passes through the first three-way valve 22 is condensed in the heat source heat exchanger 24, and then passes through the heat source expansion mechanism 25, which is adjusted to a predetermined opening degree, and flows through the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5. On the other hand, the refrigerant that passes through the second three-way valve 23 flows through the high-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 7 and into the second branch pipe 32 of the flow path switching unit 3a corresponding to the utilization unit 1a. The refrigerant that flows out of the second branch pipe 32 flows into the corresponding utilization unit 1.

[0075] In the utilization unit 1a, the refrigerant radiates heat to the air in the space to be air-conditioned and condenses in the utilization heat exchanger 11. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization unit 1a is heated. The refrigerant condensed in the utilization heat exchanger 11 passes through the utilization expansion mechanism 13. Here, the opening degree of the utilization expansion mechanism 13 is adjusted according to the degree of subcooling of the refrigerant obtained by a temperature sensor (not shown) or the like. The refrigerant that flows out of the utilization unit 1a flows into the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5.

[0076] The refrigerant that has flowed into the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5 is diverted to the utilization units 1b and 1c. This refrigerant is reduced in pressure when passing through the utilization expansion mechanism 13, and then flows into the utilization heat exchanger 11. In the utilization heat exchanger 11, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in the space to be air-conditioned and evaporates. As a result, the space to be air-conditioned corresponding to the utilization units 1b and 1c is cooled. The refrigerant used to cool the space to be air-conditioned in the utilization units 1b and 1c passes through the first branch pipes 31 of the flow path switching units 3b and 3c, and then merges into the low-pressure gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, is sucked into the compressor 21, and is compressed again.

[0077] (3-3) Refrigerant leak control In the control during refrigerant leakage, the control unit 8 controls various devices constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 as described below.

[0078] The control unit 8 performs a first control when, during air conditioning operation, a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1 (in other words, the refrigerant sensor 16 detects a refrigerant) and the total capacity (rated capacity) of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage R of the capacity (rated capacity) of the first heat source unit 2.

[0079] In the first control, the control unit 8 blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected using the flow path switching unit 3, and continues operation of the utilization units 1 other than the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected.

[0080] In addition, the control unit 8 performs a second control when, during air conditioning operation, a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1 (in other words, the refrigerant sensor 16 detects a refrigerant) and the total capacity of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected is less than a predetermined percentage R of the capacity of the first heat source unit 2.

[0081] In the second control, the control unit 8 blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected using the flow path switching unit 3, and stops operation of all utilization units 1, including the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected.

[0082] The predetermined ratio R is the ratio of the capacity of the utilization unit 1 (the total capacity if there are multiple utilization units 1) to the capacity of the first heat source unit 2, at which the first heat source unit 2 can secure the amount of heat required for the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 to perform the defrost operation. The amount of heat required for the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 to perform the defrost operation is the amount of heat required for the heat source heat exchanger 24 to remove frost formed on the outer surface. In this embodiment, the predetermined ratio R is 50%.

[0083] The refrigerant leakage control will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 3. The refrigerant leakage control starts when the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is started.

[0084] In step S10, the control unit 8 determines whether or not a refrigerant leak has been detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1, specifically, whether or not a refrigerant has been detected by the refrigerant sensor 16. If the control unit 8 determines that a refrigerant has been detected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S11. If the control unit 8 does not determine that a refrigerant has been detected (No), the process proceeds to step S10.

[0085] In step S11, the control unit 8 calculates the total capacity Pa of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant was detected, and proceeds to step S12. Here, the total capacity Pa is a value calculated by adding up the rated capacities (units: horsepower, etc.) of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant was detected.

[0086] The control unit 8 calculates the total value Pa by adding up the rated capacities of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant was detected.

[0087] In step S12, the control unit 8 determines whether the total value Pa is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage R (50%) of the rated capacity Ps (units: horsepower, etc.) of the first heat source unit 2. If the total value Pa is equal to or greater than the predetermined percentage R of the rated capacity Ps of the first heat source unit 2 (Yes), the control unit 8 advances the process to step S13. If the total value Pa is not equal to or greater than the predetermined percentage R (50%) of the rated capacity Ps of the first heat source unit 2 (less than the predetermined percentage R) (No), the control unit 8 advances the process to step S14.

[0088] In step S13, the control unit 8 performs a first control to control when a refrigerant leaks. In the first control, the control unit 8 shuts off the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected, using the flow path switching unit 3. Specifically, the control unit 8 closes the first shutoff valve 33 and the second shutoff valve 34 of the flow path switching unit 3 corresponding to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected. At the same time, the control unit 8 continues the operation of the utilization units 1 other than the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected.

[0089] For example, when the first control is performed in response to refrigerant detection by the refrigerant sensor 16 of the utilization unit 1a, the control unit 8 closes the first shutoff valve 33a and the second shutoff valve 34a of the flow path switching unit 3a. At this time, the control unit 8 stops the operation of the utilization unit 1a. At the same time, the control unit 8 continues the operation of the utilization units 1b and 1c.

[0090] In step S14, the control unit 8 performs the second control and ends the refrigerant leakage control. In the second control, the control unit 8 blocks the flow path switching unit 3 from flowing into the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leakage was detected. At the same time, the control unit 8 stops the operation of all utilization units 1, including the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leakage was detected.

[0091] For example, when the second control is performed in response to refrigerant detection by the refrigerant sensor 16 of the utilization unit 1a, the control unit 8 closes the first shutoff valve 33a and the second shutoff valve 34a of the flow path switching unit 3a. At the same time, the control unit 8 stops the operation of the utilization units 1a to 1c.

[0092] (4) Features (4-1) The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 includes a first heat source unit 2, a plurality of utilization units 1, a flow path switching unit 3, and a control unit 8.

[0093] The flow path switching unit 3 is provided between the first heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 1, and switches the flow of the refrigerant flowing between the first heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 1. The control unit 8 controls the first heat source unit 2, the utilization unit 1, and the flow path switching unit 3.

[0094] When a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1 during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage R of the capacity of the first heat source unit 2, the control unit 8 performs a first control in which the flow path switching unit 3 blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected and continues operation of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected.

[0095] According to the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100, even if the inflow of refrigerant to a utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has occurred is blocked, it is possible to continue operation of the remaining utilization units 1. Therefore, even if a refrigerant leak is detected in a utilization unit 1 and the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0096] (4-2) When a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1 during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected is less than a predetermined ratio R, the control unit 8 performs a second control in which the flow path switching unit 3 blocks the flow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected and stops the operation of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit 1 in which the refrigerant leak was detected.

[0097] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 suppresses a decrease in comfort caused by an inability to maintain operation at a desired capacity.

[0098] (4-3) The air conditioning operation includes a defrost operation. The predetermined ratio R is a ratio of the capacity of the utilization unit 1 to the capacity of the first heat source unit 2 at which the first heat source unit 2 can secure the amount of heat required for the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 to perform the defrost operation.

[0099] By blocking the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected, the total amount of heat absorbed in the utilization unit 1 (specifically, the utilization heat exchanger 11) is reduced compared to the case in which refrigerant flows into all of the utilization units 1. As a result, in the defrost operation, the amount of heat dissipated in the heat source heat exchanger 24 may be insufficient to sufficiently remove frost (in other words, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 may not be able to perform the defrost operation).

[0100] In this embodiment, when the control unit 8 blocks the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected, the control unit 8 determines whether or not to continue the operation of the utilization units 1 other than the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected, based on a predetermined ratio R. Therefore, even when the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization units 1 is blocked, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 executes the defrost operation as long as the first heat source unit 2 can secure the required amount of heat.

[0101] Therefore, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 can perform the defrost operation while suppressing deterioration of the comfort of the air-conditioned space when the inflow of the refrigerant to the utilization unit 1 is blocked.

[0102] (5) Variations (5-1) Variation A When the air conditioning operation includes a defrost operation, the control unit 8 may control various devices constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 in the cooling leakage control as described below.

[0103] When the control unit 8 determines that there are no plans to perform defrost operation, it performs the first control even if a refrigerant leak is detected in any of the multiple utilization units 1 during air conditioning operation and the total capacity of the utilization units 1 excluding the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak is detected is less than a predetermined percentage R of the capacity of the heat source unit 2.

[0104] The refrigerant leakage control performed by the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to the modification A will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 4, focusing on the difference from the flowchart shown in Fig. 3. In the following, the description of the steps that have already been described will be omitted.

[0105] The main difference between the flowchart shown in FIG. 3 and the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is that the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 includes step S15.

[0106] In step S12, the control unit 8 determines whether the total value Pa is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage R (50%) of the rated capacity Ps of the first heat source unit 2. If the total value Pa is equal to or greater than the predetermined percentage R of the rated capacity Ps of the first heat source unit 2 (Yes), the control unit 8 advances the process to step S13. If the total value Pa is not equal to or greater than the predetermined percentage R (50%) of the rated capacity Ps of the first heat source unit 2 (less than the predetermined percentage R) (No), the control unit 8 advances the process to step S15.

[0107] In step S15, the control unit 8 judges whether or not a defrost operation is scheduled to be performed in the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. If the control unit 8 judges that a defrost operation is scheduled to be performed in the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 (Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 8 does not judge that a defrost operation is scheduled to be performed in the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 (No), the process proceeds to step S13.

[0108] The determination as to whether or not the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is scheduled to perform a defrost operation is made, for example, based on a setting as to whether or not the defrost operation is to be performed. The setting as to whether or not the defrost operation is to be performed is set, for example, by a user. In relatively high temperature periods such as summer, the possibility of frost formation is almost zero, so the user may set the defrost operation as unnecessary. In such cases, the control unit 8 determines that the defrost operation is not scheduled to be performed. The setting as to whether or not the defrost operation is to be performed may be made by the control unit 8 based on the detection results of a temperature sensor and / or a humidity sensor (not shown).

[0109] When a defrost operation is not scheduled, even if the inflow of refrigerant to a utilization unit 1 where a refrigerant leak has occurred is blocked, there is no need to consider securing the amount of heat required to perform a defrost operation. Therefore, when a defrost operation is not scheduled, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to modification A continues the operation of the remaining utilization units 1. The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to modification A can minimize the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space even if a refrigerant leak in a utilization unit 1 is detected and the inflow of refrigerant to the utilization unit is blocked.

[0110] (5-2) Variation B In the first control, the control unit 8 may adjust the target evaporation temperature Te or the target condensation temperature Tc in the utilization heat exchanger 11 of the utilization unit 1 that continues to operate, based on the capacity of the utilization unit 1 to which the inflow of refrigerant has been blocked.

[0111] For example, the control unit 8 can reduce the target evaporation temperature Te in the utilization heat exchanger 11 of the utilization unit 1 that continues to operate based on the rated capacity of the utilization unit 1 that is stopped in the first control. Also, the control unit 8 can increase the target condensation temperature Tc in the utilization heat exchanger 11 of the utilization unit 1 that continues to operate based on the rated capacity of the utilization unit 1 that is stopped in the first control.

[0112] In the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 of variant B, the utilization unit 1 that continues to operate compensates for the reduction in output of the utilization unit 1 that has stopped operating when the inflow of refrigerant is blocked, thereby minimizing the deterioration in comfort of the air-conditioned space.

[0113] (5-3) Variation C The control unit 8 may perform protection control based on the capacity of the utilization unit 1 to which the inflow of the refrigerant is blocked in the first control. The protection control is control to protect the devices constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 from a temporary rise in refrigerant pressure in the refrigerant circuit 9 caused by blocking the inflow of the refrigerant to some of the utilization units 1.

[0114] For example, during the first control, the control unit 8 can reduce the maximum rotation speed of the compressor 21 below the normal speed as protective control.

[0115] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to the modification C can suppress damage to the equipment caused by the execution of the first control.

[0116] (5-4) Variation D The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 may further include a second heat source unit 2a, and when the first control is performed, the second heat source unit 2a may perform an operation to supplement the capacity of the utilization unit 1 in which a refrigerant leak has been detected.

[0117] 5, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to the modification D further includes a second heat source unit 2a. The flow path switching unit 3 is provided between the second heat source unit 2a and the multiple utilization units 1, and further switches the flow of the refrigerant flowing between the second heat source unit 2a and the multiple utilization units 1. When performing the first control, the control unit 8 causes the second heat source unit 2a to perform an operation to compensate for the capacity of the utilization unit 1 to which the inflow of the refrigerant has been blocked.

[0118] Specifically, during the first control, the control unit 8 refers to the rated capacity of each utilization unit 1 recorded in the storage device, and causes the second heat source unit 2a to operate to compensate for the rated capacity of the utilization unit 1 to which the inflow of refrigerant has been blocked.

[0119] In the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 of variant example D, in the first control, the second heat source unit 2a compensates for the reduction in output of the utilization unit that has stopped operating when the inflow of refrigerant is blocked, thereby minimizing the deterioration in comfort of the air-conditioned space.

[0120] (5-5) Variation E The form of the flow path switching unit 3 is not limited to an individual type in which the flow path switching unit 3 is installed at a separate position for each corresponding utilization unit 1. The flow path switching unit 3 may be an aggregate type in which the first branch pipe 31, the second branch pipe 32, the first shutoff valve 33, and the second shutoff valve 34 of a plurality of flow path switching units 3 are housed in one casing.

[0121] (5-6) Variation F The predetermined ratio R may be other than 50%. In addition, the predetermined ratio R may be calculated based on a ratio other than the total value of the capacity of the utilization units 1 required for the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 to perform the defrost operation relative to the capacity of the first heat source unit 2.

[0122] <Conclusion> Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c: Units in use 2: First heat source unit 2a: Second heat source unit 3, 3a, 3b, 3c: Flow path switching unit 8: Control section 11, 11a, 11b, 11c: Heat exchanger used 100: Refrigeration cycle device Tc: Target condensation temperature Te: Target evaporation temperature R: Predetermined ratio [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0124] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2016 / 129027

Claims

1. A refrigeration cycle device (100) for performing air conditioning operation, A first heat source unit (2), A plurality of utilization units (1, 1a, 1b, 1c); a flow path switching unit (3) provided between the first heat source unit and the utilization unit and switching a flow of a refrigerant flowing between the first heat source unit and the utilization unit; a control unit (8) that controls the first heat source unit, the utilization unit, and the flow path switching unit; Equipped with The control unit is During the air conditioning operation, when leakage of the refrigerant is detected in any one of the plurality of utilization units, and the total capacity of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which leakage of the refrigerant is detected is equal to or greater than a predetermined ratio (R) of the capacity of the first heat source unit, performing a first control in which the flow path switching unit blocks the inflow of the refrigerant into the utilization unit in which the leakage of the refrigerant is detected, and the utilization units other than the utilization unit in which the leakage of the refrigerant is detected are continued; The air conditioning operation is A defrost operation is included to remove frost generated on an outer surface of a heat source heat exchanger of the first heat source unit, The predetermined ratio is The ratio of the capacity of the utilization unit to the capacity of the first heat source unit at which the first heat source unit can secure the amount of heat required to perform the defrost operation. Refrigeration cycle equipment.

2. The control unit is During the air conditioning operation, when leakage of the refrigerant is detected in any one of the plurality of utilization units, and the total capacity of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which the leakage of the refrigerant is detected is less than a predetermined ratio of the capacity of the first heat source unit, a second control is performed in which the flow path switching unit blocks the inflow of the refrigerant into the utilization unit in which the leakage of the refrigerant is detected, and the operation of the utilization units other than the utilization unit in which the leakage of the refrigerant is detected is stopped; The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit is If it is determined that there is no plan to perform the defrost operation, During the air conditioning operation, even if leakage of the refrigerant is detected in any one of the plurality of utilization units, and the total capacity of the utilization units excluding the utilization unit in which leakage of the refrigerant is detected is less than a predetermined ratio of the capacity of the first heat source unit, The first control is performed. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1.

4. The utilization unit includes: A utilization heat exchanger (11, 11a, 11b, 11c), The control unit is In the first control, a target evaporation temperature (Te) or a target condensation temperature (Tc) in the utilization heat exchanger of the utilization unit that continues to operate is adjusted based on a capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of the refrigerant is blocked. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1.

5. The control unit is In the first control, protection control is performed based on a capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of the refrigerant is blocked. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1.

6. Further comprising a second heat source unit (2a), The flow path switching unit includes: a cooling system for cooling the second heat source unit and the plurality of utilization units, the cooling system being provided between the second heat source unit and the plurality of utilization units, and further switching a flow of the refrigerant flowing between the second heat source unit and the plurality of utilization units; The control unit is When performing the first control, the second heat source unit is caused to perform an operation to compensate for the capacity of the utilization unit to which the inflow of the refrigerant is blocked. The refrigeration cycle device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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