Cooling device

Abstract

The cooling device is configured to be used in a heating mode and a cooling mode, and includes a compressor (1), a plurality of user-side heat exchangers, an expansion mechanism (4), and a heat source-side heat exchanger (5) that are fluidly connected in series to form a cooling circuit. The cooling device also includes a first refrigerant pipe (6) extending from the compressor (1) to a first user-side heat exchanger (2) of the plurality of user-side heat exchangers, the first refrigerant pipe having a first valve (7) configured to at least fully open / close the first refrigerant pipe (6), and a second refrigerant pipe (8) extending from the compressor (1) to a second user-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) of the plurality of user-side heat exchangers, the second refrigerant pipe having a second valve (9) configured to at least fully open / close the second refrigerant pipe (8). The cooling device further includes a controller configured to control the operation of the first valve (7) and the second valve (9). When the cooling device is used in a heating mode, and both the first user-side heat exchanger (2) and the second user-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) are operated, the controller is configured to compare a predetermined capacity of the heat source-side heat exchanger (5) and / or the compressor (1) with a required capacity of the first user-side heat exchanger (2) and the second user-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3). The controller is configured to close the first valve (7) or the second valve (9) when the required capacity exceeds the predetermined capacity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling device, and more particularly to a heat pump type air conditioner / water heater configured to be used in a heating mode and a cooling mode and capable of simultaneously supplying an air conditioning load and a hot water supply load.

Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, a cooling device including a compressor, a plurality of user-side heat exchangers, an expansion mechanism, and a heat source-side heat exchanger that are fluidly connected in series to form a refrigerant circuit is generally known. Such a refrigerant circuit can perform cooling or heating according to the direction in which the refrigerant flows through such a refrigerant circuit.

[0003] Currently, a cooling device configured to perform air conditioning and hot water supply simultaneously has been developed. That is, such a cooling device includes a plurality of user-side heat exchangers, and at least one of the user-side heat exchangers is configured to generate hot water, for example, when the refrigerant circuit is used in the heating mode. Further, at least one of the plurality of user-side heat exchangers is configured to perform air conditioning.

[0004] When the refrigerant circuit is used in the heating mode, such a cooling device that can supply domestic hot water and / or domestic heating is also called a heat pump type air conditioner / water heater and is often abbreviated as a DHW-DX composite system.

[0005] In other words, such a composite system can be understood as an air conditioner / hot water supply composite system that can simultaneously supply an air conditioning load and a hot water supply load.

[0006] An example of such a conventionally known cooling device is European Patent Application Publication No. 2653805, which describes a known DHW-DX combined system capable of simultaneously providing household hot water and hot air air conditioning. However, for example, when the cooling device is used in heating mode, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit can only be used for air conditioning or hot water generation.

[0007] On the other hand, in such a DHW-DX combined system, for example, multiple user-side heat exchangers can be provided in the form of multiple air conditioning indoor units in several rooms.

[0008] However, in known DHW-DX combined systems that operate multiple user-side heat exchangers simultaneously in heating mode, situations can occur where the performance of either or both of the hot water supply, indoor air conditioning, or other heating / cooling functions is degraded.

[0009] This is primarily due to the attempt to maintain the overall capacity limit of the system. In such a situation, the required capacity of the user-side heat exchanger exceeds the available distributable capacity of the compressor and heat source-side heat exchanger. In other words, the required capacity of the user-side heat exchanger exceeds the available capacity of the compressor and / or heat source-side heat exchanger.

[0010] In other words, if multiple user-side heat exchangers are operated in heating mode and the combined system cannot supply sufficient heating capacity to all of them, existing combined systems will result in cold drafts, undesirable cooling of the hot water tank, and / or insufficient heating of the indoor space.

[0011] This is particularly problematic because it can lead users to believe the system has malfunctioned due to a performance degradation in the DHW-DX combined system. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 2653805 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013] From the above perspective, an object of the present invention is to prevent such undesirable situations for the user. Another object of the present invention is to provide a cooling device that can provide desired performance even when the limit of the available capacity is reached or exceeded. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] This objective is achieved by the apparatus described in claim 1. Unique embodiments can be obtained from the dependent claims.

[0015] In the first aspect, the cooling system comprises a compressor, a plurality of user-side heat exchangers, an expansion mechanism, and a heat source-side heat exchanger, all connected in series in a fluid-communicating manner to form a cooling circuit.

[0016] Furthermore, the cooling system includes a first refrigerant pipe extending from the compressor to the first of a plurality of utilization-side heat exchangers, the first refrigerant pipe having a first valve configured to at least fully open / fully close the first refrigerant pipe.

[0017] The cooling system further includes a second refrigerant pipe extending from the compressor to a second utilization-side heat exchanger among a plurality of utilization-side heat exchangers, the second refrigerant pipe having a second valve configured to at least fully open / close the second refrigerant pipe.

[0018] When the cooling system is used in heating mode, a high-pressure refrigerant, preferably in a completely gaseous state, may flow through the first and second refrigerant pipes, at least partially in a gaseous state.

[0019] In this context, the first and second refrigerant pipes are understood as piping that forms part of the cooling circuit.

[0020] Furthermore, the "first valve" and the "second valve" may be understood as valves that can close / open the first refrigerant pipe and the second refrigerant pipe.

[0021] That is, when the first valve and / or the second valve is closed, the first refrigerant pipe and / or the second refrigerant pipe is closed, and as a result, the refrigerant cannot flow through the pipe.

[0022] The cooling device also includes a controller configured to control the operations of the first valve and the second valve.

[0023] The controller is configured to compare a predetermined capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger and / or the compressor with a required capacity of the first utilization side heat exchanger and the second utilization side heat exchanger. The controller is configured to perform the comparison when both the first utilization side heat exchanger and the second utilization side heat exchanger are operating while the cooling device is being used in the heating mode.

[0024] In this case, the controller is configured to close the first valve or the second valve when the required capacity exceeds the predetermined capacity.

[0025] In other words, the present invention introduces software logic to address the problem that when the capacity reaches its limit, the performance of both the DX part and the DHW part deteriorates in a DHW-DX composite system configured to be used in heating and cooling modes.

[0026] That is, even when both the first utilization side heat exchanger and the second utilization side heat exchanger are operating, when the cooling device is being used in the heating mode and the required capacity exceeds the predetermined capacity, performance degradation can be avoided and satisfactory performance of the cooling device can be ensured.

[0027] It should be well understood that the main idea of the present invention is to introduce an automatic prioritization that operates the desired part of the DHW-DX composite system with sufficient capacity and temporarily stops the less relevant part of the composite system. Therefore, it becomes possible to monitor the operating state during hot water generation / supply and heating operation. The cooling device described in the claims can determine whether simultaneous operation of the domestic hot water (DHW) operation and the heating operation (DX) is possible.

[0028] When parallel operation is maintained, software control is not necessary, and correspondingly, there is no need to close the first valve or the second valve.

[0029] However, due to extreme operating conditions, if the controller described in the claims determines that there are limitations for performing dual operation (DHW operation and DX operation), the controller can perform additional prioritization to continue or enhance either domestic heating or domestic hot water generation. Thereby, the problem of performance constraints due to parallel operation can be eliminated, and either domestic hot water supply or heating operation can be emphasized.

[0030] As a result, with the configuration described in the claims, the user can benefit from improved performance of single operation (space heating or hot water generation / supply).

[0031] In other words, such extreme operating conditions can be understood as a situation where the "generation side" of the cooling circuit (i.e., the compressor and / or the heat source side heat exchanger) cannot meet the capacity needs of the "utilization side" of the cooling circuit (i.e., the first and second utilization side heat exchangers).

[0032] Here, the "predetermined capacity" is related to the control mode when the first utilization side heat exchanger and the second utilization side heat exchanger are operated.

[0033] Preferably, the predetermined capacity is the maximum capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger and / or the compressor.

[0034] This allows the maximum available capacity to be used at any time, regardless of the amount of heat exchangers on the user side that are available or in operation.

[0035] Preferably, the controller is configured to close the first valve or the second valve based on a predetermined user priority.

[0036] This allows the system to determine which operation (heating or household hot water generation) should be prioritized and which operation is more important to the user. Therefore, even in situations where the required capacity exceeds the available capacity of the cooling system, the system can be adapted to the user's needs.

[0037] This situation can occur, for example, when a large number of heat exchangers on the user side are operating, and there is a clearly large temperature difference between the desired temperature of the hot water tank or the space to be heated and the current temperature.

[0038] Preferably, the controller is configured to change predetermined user priorities based on the time of day.

[0039] This allows the system to adapt to the user's various daily activities. For example, it can prepare enough hot water for a shower in the morning, and then allow the user to spend a relaxing evening in a warm living room—a heated space—in the afternoon.

[0040] Preferably, the first and second refrigerant pipes extend in parallel from the compressor. More preferably, the first and second refrigerant pipes extend in parallel via branch pipes located downstream of the compressor.

[0041] This allows for the installation of a single pipe coming out of the compressor, to which the first and second refrigerant pipes can be connected.

[0042] The first-side heat exchanger is a coil in a hot water supply unit, preferably a water tank, for generating household hot water when the cooling device is used in heating mode.

[0043] Preferably, the second utilization-side heat exchanger is an air conditioning indoor unit or radiator for heating the space in which the second utilization-side heat exchanger is located when the cooling device is used in heating mode, and / or for cooling the space in which the second utilization-side heat exchanger is located when the cooling device is used in cooling mode.

[0044] This makes it possible to provide a system that combines household hot water and household heating (and cooling), also known as the DHW-DX combined system.

[0045] Preferably, multiple second-side heat exchangers are arranged in parallel downstream of the second valve in the second refrigerant pipe. This makes it possible to provide a cooling system that can include, for example, several indoor units for heating different rooms in a single cooling system.

[0046] Preferably, the cooling system further comprises a switching device. The switching device can also switch the refrigerant circuit from a heating mode to a cooling mode. More preferably, the switching device is a four-way switching valve.

[0047] This allows the DHW-DX system to be switched from a cooling mode to a heating mode in which, for example, both the hot water supply unit and the indoor air conditioning unit can heat the indoor space and the water in the water tank for generating household hot water.

[0048] Preferably, the controller is configured to determine a predetermined capacity based on the amount of the second utilization-side heat exchanger that is in operation.

[0049] This configuration makes it possible to determine whether the capacity of the compressor and / or heat source-side heat exchanger is sufficient to adequately supply all of the installed second-side heat exchangers, even under extreme operating conditions. Therefore, when operating both the first-side and second-side heat exchangers, a decrease in the performance of the cooling system can be avoided, and priority heating operation (heating of the space or hot water generation) can be performed.

[0050] In other words, for example, if the system detects that the compressor capacity is sufficient to supply compressed refrigerant to the second heat exchanger equipped with the detected amount, there is no need to prioritize, and neither the first nor the second valve needs to be closed. However, if the controller determines that the predetermined capacity obtained based on the second heat exchanger equipped with the detected amount exceeds the maximum capacity, then prioritization will be performed.

[0051] More preferably, the controller is configured to determine and / or adjust a predetermined capacity based on the amount of the second utilization-side heat exchanger being operated.

[0052] This allows for more agile and flexible control of the cooling system. Furthermore, it enables continuous evaluation of whether prioritization of the first or second heat exchanger should still be performed. In other words, for example, if the power to the indoor air conditioning unit in an indoor space is turned off, and the amount of heat being used by the operating second heat exchanger changes, the system can respond accordingly immediately.

[0053] Preferably, the controller is configured to determine a predetermined capacity based on the volume of a first-use heat exchanger such as a hot water supply unit, more preferably based on the volume of its tank, and / or based on the volume of a compressor.

[0054] Therefore, the controller can adjust the available performance of the system based on the elements that make up the refrigerant circuit.

[0055] Furthermore, the cooling system described in the claims, including the controller, can flexibly accommodate the rearrangement or adaptation of the cooling system in different installation situations, and / or changes to the components of the refrigerant circuit.

[0056] Preferably, the controller is configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold value between the refrigerant temperature in the heat source side heat exchanger and the refrigerant temperature in the second utilization side heat exchanger.

[0057] Therefore, it is easy to determine whether the capacity of the DHW-DX combined system is sufficient to simultaneously heat a space and generate hot water.

[0058] Optionally, the controller can also be configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual temperature in the space where the second utilization heat exchanger is located and a desired temperature in the space, when the cooling device is used in heating mode.

[0059] This allows for the acquisition of a temperature delta to determine whether the capacity of the DHW-DX combined system is sufficient to improve the temperature difference between the desired temperature and the actual temperature of the space to be heated, while simultaneously generating hot water.

[0060] As a further optional configuration, the controller can also be configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual temperature of the first-use heat exchanger, such as a hot water supply unit, and a desired temperature of the first-use heat exchanger.

[0061] As mentioned above, the temperature delta of the hot water tank of the hot water supply unit can be decisive in determining whether it is possible to simultaneously heat the space and generate hot water with the available capacity of the cooling device.

[0062] Preferably, the second utilization-side heat exchanger is an air conditioning indoor unit, and the controller is configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual discharge air temperature coming out of the air conditioning indoor unit and a desired discharge air temperature.

[0063] Furthermore, in such a configuration, it is possible to determine the temperature delta between the desired discharge temperature and the actual discharge temperature. This is extremely important in determining whether simultaneous operation is feasible in a DHW-DX combined system, or whether prioritization must be made between heating the space where the second utilization-side heat exchanger is installed and hot water generation (by the first utilization-side heat exchanger) by closing the second or first valve.

[0064] Preferably, the second utilization-side heat exchanger has a fan. The controller can also be configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual fan speed and the maximum fan speed.

[0065] From this point of view, it is possible to determine whether the capacity of the second heat exchanger with a fan is sufficient to achieve the desired air temperature while simultaneously generating hot water.

[0066] Preferably, the controller is configured to close the second valve and open the first valve when the actual temperature in the space where the second utilization-side heat exchanger is located reaches or exceeds a desired temperature in the space.

[0067] This configuration allows for control to switch between a situation where the operation of the first or second heat exchanger is prioritized and a situation where the desired temperature target is achieved.

[0068] In other words, the controller described in the claims can reactivate both the heating and hot water generation operations of a space in which a second utilization-side heat exchanger can be installed.

[0069] In addition to the above-mentioned operation of the controller when the actual temperature in the space reaches or exceeds the desired temperature, the controller can also be configured to close the first valve and open the second valve when the actual temperature in the first heat exchanger on the user side, such as a hot water supply unit, reaches or exceeds the desired temperature.

[0070] As described above, the controller described in the claims thereby allows simultaneous operation of hot water supply and heating of the space to be resumed as soon as the desired temperature in the hot water supply unit is met or exceeded.

[0071] In a further embodiment, if, in addition to the first utilization-side heat exchanger, a second utilization-side heat exchanger, preferably a plurality of second utilization-side heat exchangers, is in operation, the controller can be configured to close the second valve and keep the first valve open.

[0072] Such open valve and second valve control conditions can occur when priority is given to generating household hot water (DHW) using the first utilization-side heat exchanger located in the first refrigerant pipe.

[0073] In other words, even if one or more secondary heat exchangers require cooling capacity, the controller is configured to maintain priority in supplying refrigerant to the primary heat exchanger (for generating household hot water) in such situations.

[0074] In other words, for example, if the controller has prioritized DHW generation when the first and second heat exchangers start operating in parallel, the controller can be configured to maintain the prioritization even if the second heat exchanger also requires cooling capacity.

[0075] Similar control behavior can occur when the temperature in the space where the second-side heat exchanger is located is lower than the desired temperature for that space.

[0076] In this case, the controller can be configured to prioritize household hot water generation via the first utilization-side heat exchanger by closing the second valve and leaving the first valve open, even if the desired temperature in the space has not yet been reached. That is, even though one or more second utilization-side heat exchangers should be operated in parallel for heating, the controller prioritizes hot water generation via the first utilization-side heat exchanger.

[0077] Conversely, the controller can also be configured to close the first valve and open the second valve during parallel heating operation of the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers if the temperature of the hot water supply unit's tank, i.e., the first utilization-side heat exchanger, is considerably lower than the desired water temperature. In other words, even if capacity in the first utilization-side heat exchanger is also required, in such extreme operating conditions, the controller maintains priority for the operation of one or more second utilization-side heat exchangers during its control operation.

[0078] Similarly, the controller can be configured to close the second valve and open the first valve (as an exemplary embodiment of the second utilization-side heat exchanger) when the actual discharge air temperature coming out of the air conditioning indoor unit is considerably lower than the desired discharge air temperature.

[0079] Similarly, in control modes under extreme operating conditions where the actual fan speed exceeds a predetermined fan speed, the controller configuration described in the claims may also close the second valve and open the first valve in order to prioritize the generation of household hot water.

[0080] In a further embodiment, the controller may be configured to close the first or second valve even if both the desired room temperature and the desired hot water temperature have not yet been reached. This prevents the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers from operating satisfactorily simultaneously if the required capacity exceeds a predetermined available capacity on the "generating side" of the cooling circuit.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the controller may be configured to determine a threshold between a required capacity and a predetermined capacity based on the amount of the second utilization-side heat exchanger that is in operation. The controller may also be configured to adapt the temperature threshold based on the amount of the second utilization-side heat exchanger that is currently in operation.

[0082] In a further embodiment, the second utilization-side heat exchanger may be an air conditioning room unit configured to operate based on the expected condensation temperature during the heating operation of the cooling system. The controller may also be configured to close the second valve and open the first valve if the current condensation temperature is lower than the expected condensation temperature. As in the example provided above, this control is performed during parallel heating operation of the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers when priority is given to household hot water generation.

[0083] In all of the embodiments described above, the predetermined capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger can also be determined by operating conditions such as size, efficiency, refrigerant used, and / or ambient temperature. Similarly, the predetermined capacity of the compressor can also be determined by output, size, etc.

[0084] Furthermore, the required capacity of the first utilization-side heat exchanger can also be determined, for example, by a temperature threshold between the desired temperature of the hot water in the hot water tank and the actual temperature of the hot water. In accordance with the above, the required capacity of one or more second utilization-side heat exchangers can also be determined, for example, by a temperature threshold between the actual room temperature to be heated and the desired temperature in the room.

[0085] Hereafter, exemplary embodiments of the cooling device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0086] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the control operation of a cooling device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0087] Figure 1 shows a cooling device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Here, the refrigerant circuit consists of a compressor 1, a plurality of utilization-side heat exchangers which will be described in detail below, an expansion mechanism 4, and a heat source-side heat exchanger 5. The compressor 1, utilization-side heat exchangers, expansion mechanism 4, and heat source-side heat exchanger 5 are connected in series so as to be able to communicate fluids, thereby forming the refrigerant circuit.

[0089] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figure 1, a switching device 16 is provided that is configured to switch the refrigerant circuit from heating mode to cooling mode.

[0090] The switching device 16 shown in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 is a four-way switching valve.

[0091] Furthermore, in the configuration shown in Figure 1, the switching device 16 is switched so that the cooling device is used in heating mode. That is, at the switching position of the switching device 16, the pressurized refrigerant coming out of the compressor 1 can then flow to multiple user-side heat exchangers for heat exchange before continuing to flow to the expansion mechanism 4 of the refrigerant circuit. When the cooling device is used in heating mode, heat is released from the refrigerant to the surrounding environment such as air or (described later) water in the user-side heat exchangers.

[0092] After the refrigerant flows through the user-side heat exchanger, when the cooling system is in heating mode, the refrigerant then flows to the expansion mechanism 4. The expansion mechanism 4 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant, allowing it to flow further to the heat source-side heat exchanger 5. Here, heat exchange takes place again. When the cooling system is operating in heating mode, the heat source-side heat exchanger 5 can be located, for example, in an outdoor unit. Conversely, the user-side heat exchanger can be considered as an indoor unit.

[0093] When the cooling system is operating in heating mode, the refrigerant flows back from the heat source side heat exchanger 5 to the compressor 1.

[0094] In Figure 1, an accumulator 15 is optionally provided as an indirect placement between the heat source side heat exchanger 5 and the compressor 1 in the cooling circuit. That is, the accumulator 15 is located upstream of the compressor 1 in the refrigerant circuit. This accumulator 15 allows the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit to be stored before it flows into the cooling circuit.

[0095] When the cooling system is used in heating mode, the refrigerant coming out of compressor 1 becomes gaseous due to the compression of the refrigerant in compressor 1.

[0096] When switching the cooling system according to the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1 from the (illustrated) heating mode to the cooling mode, the switching device 16 changes the direction of the refrigerant flow through the refrigerant circuit. Specifically, the direction of the refrigerant flow through the refrigerant circuit is reversed, so that the refrigerant coming out of the compressor 1 first flows through the heat source side heat exchanger 5, then through the expansion mechanism 4, and then through the utilization side heat exchanger before returning to the compressor 1.

[0097] While the modes can be switched in this way, the following explanation will focus on the operation of the cooling device in heating mode.

[0098] As mentioned above, multiple user-side heat exchangers are provided. Here, the refrigerant circuit is provided with a first user-side heat exchanger 2. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first user-side heat exchanger 2 is a hot water supply unit in an exemplary form of a coil 13 in a water tank 14. Therefore, the hot water supply unit corresponds to an exemplary embodiment of the first user-side heat exchanger 2 configured to generate household hot water when the cooling device is used in heating mode (shown in Figure 1).

[0099] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figure 1, the refrigerant circuit is equipped not only with the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2, but also with multiple second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. Here, three second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are provided as an example. These three second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are arranged in parallel (see Figure 1).

[0100] In an exemplary embodiment, the three second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are shown as an air conditioning room unit for heating the space in which the second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are located when the cooling system is used in heating mode.

[0101] As mentioned above, when the air conditioning indoor units 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are used in cooling mode, they can also cool the spaces in which the second utilization-side heat exchangers are located.

[0102] Instead of configuring them as indoor air conditioning units, one, several, or all of the second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 provided in the refrigerant circuit can be configured as radiators for heating and / or cooling the space in which each of the second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 is located.

[0103] In this case, it is not necessary to place the second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 in the same space being heated and / or cooled. It is well known that they can be placed, for example, in different rooms of a building to heat or cool different rooms, or to maintain different temperatures in those rooms.

[0104] Thus, by configuring the first-side heat exchanger 2 and installing at least one, in this case three, second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, a so-called "combined system," commonly known as a household hot water supply and air conditioning combined system (or simply a DHW-DX combined system), can be realized.

[0105] As will be explained in detail below, the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2 and the multiple second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are arranged in parallel.

[0106] In order to simultaneously generate hot water using the first heat exchanger 2 and heat the space using multiple air conditioning indoor units 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, the first refrigerant pipe 6 is extended from the compressor 1 to the first heat exchanger 2, which is provided in the form of a hot water supply unit.

[0107] The first refrigerant pipe 6 has a first valve 7. The first valve 7 divides the first refrigerant pipe 6 into an upstream portion 6.1 of the first valve 7 when the cooling device is used in heating mode, and a downstream portion 6.2 of the first valve 7 when the cooling device is used in heating mode.

[0108] The first valve 7 is configured to open and close the first refrigerant pipe 6 at least completely.

[0109] Furthermore, a second refrigerant pipe 8 is provided, extending from the compressor 1 to the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. The second refrigerant pipe 8 has a second valve 9.

[0110] Similar to the first refrigerant pipe 6, the second refrigerant pipe 8 is divided into an upstream side 8.1 of the second valve 9 and a downstream side 8.2 of the second valve 9. Also, similar to the first valve 7, the second valve 9 is configured to open and close the second refrigerant pipe 8 at least completely.

[0111] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first valve 7 and the second valve 9 are configured as solenoid valves and are configured to open and close at least the first refrigerant pipe 6 and the second refrigerant pipe 8. Alternatively, the first valve 7 and the second valve 9 can be configured as motor-operated valves. In this case, the valves are configured to adjust the amount of refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant pipe 6 and the second refrigerant pipe 8.

[0112] As mentioned above, the cooling device shown in Figure 1 can generate both household hot water and warm air for heating the space in parallel.

[0113] To achieve this, the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are arranged in parallel.

[0114] Specifically, the first refrigerant pipe 6 and the second refrigerant pipe 8 are extended in parallel from the compressor 1 via a branch pipe 17 located downstream of the compressor 1. That is, the branch pipe 17 allows the refrigerant coming out of the compressor 1 to flow through both the first refrigerant pipe 6 and the second refrigerant pipe 8 in order to supply refrigerant to the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2 and the three second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 of an exemplary embodiment of the air conditioning indoor unit.

[0115] At this time, Figure 1 shows that three air conditioning indoor units, as exemplary embodiments of the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, are located downstream of the second valve 9 in the second refrigerant pipe 8, at 8.2. Therefore, when the cooling system is used in heating mode, the first refrigerant pipe 6 and the second refrigerant pipe 8 become gas pipes that contain refrigerant in a gaseous state, at least partially and preferably completely.

[0116] The expansion mechanism 4 of the cooling device shown in Figure 1 has a first expansion valve 4.1 located downstream of the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2.

[0117] Furthermore, the expansion mechanism 4 is located downstream of the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 and has a plurality of second expansion valves 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4 connected to the second utilization-side heat exchangers, respectively.

[0118] In other words, not only is the hot water supply unit 2 equipped with a first expansion valve 4.1 located downstream of it, but the three air conditioning indoor units 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 shown in the figure are also equipped with corresponding expansion valves 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4, respectively.

[0119] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the three indoor air conditioning units 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are extended in parallel along the second refrigerant pipe 8.

[0120] An exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant system includes a controller (not shown) configured to fully close the first valve 7 when the operation of the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2, i.e., the hot water supply unit, is stopped or about to be stopped, and / or to fully close the second valve 9 when the operation of the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 is stopped or about to be stopped.

[0121] In other words, the controller (not shown) can control the flow of refrigerant to the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers.

[0122] To this end, the controller configured to control the operation of the first and second valves executes the control logic described in detail below.

[0123] For further details, please refer to the flowchart in Figure 2.

[0124] As mentioned above, the present invention was made to improve a situation that is unsatisfactory for users of the DHW-DX combined system.

[0125] Such unsatisfactory situations can occur when generating hot water (DHW) and heating (DX) for household use simultaneously, if the system, particularly the compressor and / or heat source-side heat exchanger, cannot supply sufficient capacity to meet the heat exchange requirements for both hot water generation and heating.

[0126] At this point, the lower part of the flowchart in Figure 2 further emphasizes that such a DHW-DX combined system can realize various operating conditions.

[0127] For example, the DHW-DX combined system can be completely shut down, operated in cooling mode only, operated in household hot water generation mode only, operated in (household) heating mode only, or, for example, heated indoor spaces where the second heat exchanger is located, and hot water generated simultaneously.

[0128] However, simultaneous heating of hot water in the tank (via the first heat exchanger on the utilization side) and heating of the indoor space (via at least one second heat exchanger on the utilization side) may cause problems in the event of extreme operating conditions.

[0129] Under such extreme operating conditions, the required capacity of a DHW-DX combined system operating in simultaneous heating mode may exceed the predetermined capacity, i.e., the system's available capacity.

[0130] In situations like those described and detailed below, the controller prioritizes household hot water generation or household heating in order to achieve improved operational performance.

[0131] Such extreme operating conditions can occur when the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers are operating in heating mode, for example, when there is a large temperature difference between the actual water temperature or actual room temperature in the tank and the desired water temperature or desired room temperature.

[0132] Similarly, extreme operating conditions requiring the prioritization described above can occur when there is a large temperature delta indoors, at least one secondary heat exchanger is an air conditioning indoor unit including a fan, the available fan speed is insufficient to achieve the required air conditioning performance, and household hot water is being generated in parallel.

[0133] Conversely, such prioritization is unnecessary, for example, when neither air conditioning nor household hot water generation is required, i.e., when the DHW-DX combined system is shut down (see the first flowchart column highlighted as step S1 in Figure 2).

[0134] Similarly, in a DHW-DX combined system, prioritization would be unnecessary in situations where, for example, only the air conditioning cooling mode is being executed (see the second column highlighted in step S2 of Figure 2).

[0135] In air conditioning cooling mode, the system needs to decide whether to maintain air conditioning cooling mode or switch the entire system to household hot water operation and / or household heating. This is due to the structural constraints of the DHW-DX combined system, for example, that it is not possible to generate household hot water via the first utilization-side heat exchanger while simultaneously cooling the indoor space via the second utilization-side heat exchanger (see transition to step S2 in Figure 2).

[0136] Furthermore, even if the air conditioning operation is switched to heating operation, if household hot water generation is stopped, i.e., if the first valve is closed, the DHW-DX combined system will not encounter a situation requiring prioritization (see the sixth column highlighted in step S3 of Figure 2).

[0137] On the other hand, the controller is configured to compare, for example, the available capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger and / or compressor with the required capacity of the first and second heat exchangers when the DHW-DX combined system is in operation and both the first and second heat exchangers are operating in heating mode. This comparison is highlighted in step S4 of Figure 2.

[0138] When both the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers are used in the heating mode operation of the DHW-DX combined system, the controller determines whether the available predetermined capacity of the compressor and / or heat source-side heat exchanger is sufficient to meet the required capacity of the first and second utilization-side heat exchangers (see step S5 in Figure 2).

[0139] If the capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger and / or compressor is sufficient to meet the required capacity of the first and second utilization side heat exchangers, prioritization is not necessary, and the DHW-DX combined system can operate in heating plus household hot water generation mode, i.e., simultaneous operation mode in which the room is heated while generating household hot water (see step S6 in Figure 2).

[0140] On the other hand, if the controller determines that the required capacity of the utilization-side heat exchanger on the "utilization side" of the cooling circuit exceeds the capacity that can be supplied by the heat source-side heat exchanger and / or compressor on the "generation side" of the cooling circuit, i.e., if the available heat exchange potential is insufficient to meet the required capacity of the utilization-side heat exchanger, the controller will prioritize the generation of household hot water via the first utilization-side heat exchanger or the operation of the second utilization-side heat exchanger (see step S7 in Figure 2).

[0141] In other words, if extreme operating conditions occur during simultaneous operation of DHW-DX, the controller will prioritize one over the other. If it prioritizes the operation of the second heat exchanger, it will close the first valve; if it prioritizes the operation of the first heat exchanger, i.e., the generation of hot water, it will close the second valve (see step S7 condition in Figure 2).

[0142] Here, the controller can also be a continuous system logic that continuously evaluates whether such extreme operating conditions remain apparent, whether the operation of one of the first or second utilization-side heat exchangers must be prioritized, or whether simultaneous operation of the utilization-side heat exchangers in parallel operation can be resumed.

[0143] If parallel operation is not possible in heating mode due to the above capacity discrepancy, the prioritization procedure in step S7 of Figure 2 will be performed.

[0144] Here, the controller can be configured not only to close the first valve 7 or the second valve 9 when the required capacity exceeds a predetermined capacity, but also to maintain the first valve 7 or the second valve 9 in a closed state when the corresponding priority setting is applied by the controller.

[0145] For example, if multiple second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are operating in addition to the first-side heat exchanger 2, the controller can be configured to keep the second valve 9 closed and the first valve 7 open.

[0146] Such open control conditions for the first valve 7 and the second valve 9 can occur when priority is given to generating household hot water (DHW) by the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2 located in the first refrigerant pipe 6.

[0147] In other words, even if the second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 require cooling capacity, the controller is configured to maintain priority in supplying refrigerant to the first-side heat exchanger 2 (for generating household hot water) in such situations.

[0148] In other words, for example, if the controller has performed prioritization of DHW generation when the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2 and the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 start operating in parallel, the controller may be configured to maintain the prioritization even if the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 also require cooling capacity.

[0149] Furthermore, for example, if the controller determines that the simultaneous operation of multiple second-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 constitutes an extreme operating condition, the controller can be configured to close the second valve 9 and keep the first valve 7 open.

[0150] Similar control operation conditions can occur in step S7 of Figure 2 if the temperature in the space where the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 are located is lower than the desired temperature for the space. For example, 19 degrees Celsius is one such temperature. If the room temperature is lower than 19 degrees Celsius, the controller may determine that extreme operation is necessary to heat the space and prioritize hot water generation by the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2.

[0151] The temperature can be changed according to the fan speed setting. That is, if the fan speed is set low, the temperature can be changed to a lower temperature, for example, 18 degrees. If the fan speed is set high, the temperature can be changed to a higher temperature, for example, 23 degrees. This configuration prevents the user from experiencing discomfort due to the actual temperature of the released air being too cold.

[0152] In this case, the controller can also be configured to prioritize household hot water generation via the first user-side heat exchanger 2 by closing the second valve 9 and leaving the first valve 7 open, even if the desired temperature in the space has not yet been reached. That is, even though the second user-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 should be operated in parallel heating mode, the controller prioritizes hot water generation via the first user-side heat exchanger 2.

[0153] Conversely, the controller can also be configured to close the first valve 7 and keep the second valve 9 open during parallel heating operation of the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, if the temperature of the tank 14 of the hot water supply unit 2 is considerably lower than the desired water temperature. In other words, even if the capacity of the first heat exchanger 2 is also required, in such extreme operating conditions, the priority of operation of the second heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 is maintained when the controller operates.

[0154] Similarly, the controller can be configured to close the second valve 9 and open the first valve 7 if the actual temperature of the discharged air coming out of the air conditioning indoor unit is considerably lower than the desired discharged air temperature. This configuration prevents the user from experiencing discomfort due to the actual discharged air temperature being too cold.

[0155] Similarly, in control modes under extreme operating conditions where the actual fan speed exceeds a predetermined fan speed, the controller configuration described in the claims may also close the second valve 9 and open the first valve 7 in order to prioritize the generation of household hot water.

[0156] Furthermore, for example, if the controller determines that a state in which the actual fan speed exceeds a predetermined fan speed is an extreme operating condition, the controller can be configured to close the second valve 9 and keep the first valve 7 open.

[0157] Similarly, the controller can be configured to close the second valve 9 and keep the first valve 7 open if, for example, the current condensation temperature of the operating second heat exchanger is lower than the expected condensation temperature of the second heat exchanger. This configuration prevents the user from experiencing discomfort due to the actual discharged air temperature being too cold.

[0158] Furthermore, referring to step S7 in Figure 2, the controller can also be configured to close the first valve 7 or the second valve 9 if the desired room temperature and the desired hot water temperature have not yet been reached. This prevents the first utilization-side heat exchanger 2 and the second utilization-side heat exchangers 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 from not operating satisfactorily simultaneously if the required capacity exceeds the predetermined available capacity of the "generating side" of the cooling circuit.

[0159] In this case, the available capacity may be the maximum capacity or a predetermined capacity (including a safety factor) of the heat source side heat exchanger and / or compressor.

[0160] Similarly, the controller can be configured to evaluate the required capacity based on the amount of the second heat exchanger installed on the utilization side, and to adjust the capacity based on the amount of the heat exchanger installed on the utilization side.

[0161] Similarly, the controller may determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual discharge air temperature coming from the air conditioning indoor unit (as an exemplary embodiment of the second utilization-side heat exchanger) and the desired discharge air temperature. This determination is important for the controller to calculate whether the available capacity of the compressor and / or heat source-side heat exchanger is sufficient to provide simultaneous operation of household hot water generation and heating modes.

[0162] In some cases, for example, when the actual temperature in the space where the second utilization-side heat exchanger is located reaches or exceeds the desired temperature, and thus the heating target is achieved, the controller may be configured to close the second valve and open the first valve. Similarly, the controller may also be configured to close the first valve and open the second valve when the actual temperature in the hot water unit reaches or exceeds the desired temperature.

[0163] In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to close the first or second valve based on a predetermined user priority. That is, the controller may have a memory unit configured to store information regarding the user's priority regarding household hot water generation and heating operation, and this information may be used when severe operating conditions occur.

[0164] Furthermore, the controller can be configured to change predetermined user priorities based on the time of day. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0165] 1 Compressor 2 First user side heat exchanger 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 Second-side heat exchanger (indoor unit of air conditioning system) 4. Expansion Mechanism 4.1 First expansion valve 4.2,4.3,4.4 Second expansion valve 5 Heat source side heat exchanger 6 First refrigerant pipe 6.1 Upstream side of the first valve 6.2 Downstream side of the first valve 7 First valve 8 Second refrigerant pipe 8.1 Upstream side of the second valve 8.2 Downstream side of the second valve 9. Second valve 13 coils 14 Water Tanks 15 Accumulator 16 Switching devices 17 Branch pipe

Claims

1. A cooling device configured to be used in both heating mode and cooling mode, A cooling circuit is formed by a compressor (1), a switching device (16) configured to switch the cooling circuit between the heating mode and the cooling mode, a plurality of user-side heat exchangers, an expansion mechanism (4), and a heat source-side heat exchanger (5), all of which are connected in series in a fluid-communicable manner, and through which the refrigerant flows in the following order when the cooling device is used in the heating mode, A first refrigerant pipe (6) extending to the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) among the plurality of utilization-side heat exchangers, the first refrigerant pipe (6) having a first valve (7) configured to at least fully open / fully close, A second refrigerant pipe (8) extending to the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) among the plurality of utilization-side heat exchangers, the second refrigerant pipe (8) having a second valve (9) configured to at least fully open / fully close the second refrigerant pipe (8), A branch pipe (17) is located downstream of the switching device (16) when the cooling device is operating in the heating mode, and connects the switching device (16) to the first refrigerant pipe (6) and the second refrigerant pipe (8), A controller configured to control the operation of the first valve (7) and the second valve (9), It is equipped with, When the cooling device is used in the heating mode, and both the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) and the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) are operated, the controller is configured to compare a predetermined capacity of the heat source-side heat exchanger (5) and / or the compressor (1) with the required capacity of the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) and the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3). The controller is configured to close the first valve (7) or the second valve (9) when the required capacity exceeds the predetermined capacity.

2. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined capacity is the maximum capacity of the heat source side heat exchanger (5) and / or the compressor (1).

3. A cooling device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to close the first valve (7) or the second valve (9) based on a predetermined user priority order.

4. A cooling device according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to change the predetermined user priority based on the time of day.

5. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) is a coil (13) in a hot water supply unit or water tank (14) for generating household hot water when the cooling device is used in heating mode.

6. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is an air conditioning indoor unit or radiator for heating the space in which the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is located when the cooling device is used in heating mode, and / or for cooling the space in which the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is located when the cooling device is used in cooling mode.

7. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of second utilization-side heat exchangers (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) are arranged in parallel downstream (8.2) of the second valve in the second refrigerant pipe.

8. A cooling device according to claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to determine the predetermined capacity based on the amount of the provided second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3).

9. A cooling device according to claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to determine and / or adjust the predetermined capacity based on the amount of the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) that is in operation.

10. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine the predetermined capacity based on the volume of the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) or hot water supply unit, or the volume of its tank, and / or based on the volume of the compressor (1).

11. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the refrigerant temperature in the heat source side heat exchanger (5) and the refrigerant temperature in the second utilization side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3), or, when the cooling device is used in heating mode, based on a threshold between the actual temperature in the space where the second utilization side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is located and a desired temperature in the space, or, when the cooling device is used in heating mode, based on a threshold between the actual temperature in the first utilization side heat exchanger (2) or in the hot water supply unit for generating household hot water and a desired temperature in the first utilization side heat exchanger (2) or in the hot water supply unit.

12. A cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is an air conditioning indoor unit, The controller is a cooling device configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual discharge air temperature coming out of the air conditioning indoor unit and a desired discharge air temperature.

13. The cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is equipped with a fan, The controller is configured to determine the required capacity based on a threshold between the actual fan speed and the maximum fan speed.

14. A cooling device according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the controller is configured to close the second valve and open the first valve (7) when the actual temperature in the space where the second utilization-side heat exchanger (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) is located reaches or exceeds a desired temperature in the space, and / or The controller is configured to close the first valve (7) and open the second valve when the actual temperature in the first utilization-side heat exchanger (2) or in the hot water supply unit for generating household hot water when the cooling device is used in heating mode reaches or exceeds the desired temperature.

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