Temperature control system and method for controlling the temperature control system

Abstract

The present invention provides a temperature control system and a control method for the temperature control system that can improve the COP (Coefficient of Performance). [Solution] The system comprises a refrigerant circuit 10, a heat transfer circuit 30, and a control unit 50. The heat transfer circuit 30 includes a temperature control device 33 that heats a temperature-controlled object using a heat transfer device HM, and a heat-generating device 34 mounted on the vehicle. The control unit 50 mixes the heat transfer device HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 with the heat transfer device HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14, and flows the mixed heat transfer device HM into the condenser 12 and the evaporator 14. In a heater mode in which the heat transfer device HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 flows into the temperature control device 33, the control unit 50 executes an absorption mode in which the heat transfer device HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14 flows into the heat-generating device 34 in order to absorb heat from the heat-generating device 34.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a temperature control system and a method for controlling the temperature control system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a vehicle thermal management system having an operation mode for heating a device to be heated at an early stage at a low outside air temperature is known (for example, Patent Document 1). The vehicle thermal management system disclosed in Patent Document 1 can execute an operation mode (third operation mode) in which a cooling water circuit is configured by a pump, a cooling water cooler, a cooling water heater, and a device to be heated.

[0003] In the third operation mode of Patent Document 1, when supplying a heat medium to the device to be heated, the heat medium discharged from the pump is branched into three systems of a low-pressure side heat exchanger, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, and the device to be heated by a first switching valve and supplied to each of them, and the three systems are merged into one by a second switching valve and then guided back to the pump again. And by executing this operation mode, it is said that the device to be heated can be heated at an early stage at a low outside air temperature.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the third operation mode of the vehicle thermal management system of Patent Document 1, the device to be heated is heated by using the power of the compressor of the refrigeration cycle. Therefore, there is a concern about a decrease in the coefficient of performance (COP: Coefficient of Performance).

[0006] This disclosure is made in view of these circumstances and aims to provide a temperature control system and a method for controlling the temperature control system that can improve the COP. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the temperature control system and control method for the temperature control system of this disclosure employ the following means.

[0008] A temperature control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a refrigerant circuit through which a refrigerant circulates, having a compressor, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, a depressurization unit, and a low-pressure side heat exchanger; a heat medium circuit through which a heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates; and a control unit, wherein the heat medium circuit includes a temperature control device that heats a temperature control target using the heat medium, and a heat generating device mounted on a vehicle, and the control unit mixes the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger with the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger, flows the mixed heat medium into the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger, and in a heater mode in which the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger flows into the temperature control device, it executes a heat absorption mode in which the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger flows into the heat generating device in order to absorb heat from the heat generating device.

[0009] A control method for a temperature control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a refrigerant circuit through which a refrigerant circulates, having a compressor, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, a depressurization section, and a low-pressure side heat exchanger, and a heat medium circuit through which a heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates, wherein the heat medium circuit comprises a temperature control device that heats a temperature control target using the heat medium, and a heat generating device mounted on a vehicle, wherein in a heater mode in which the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger is mixed with the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger, the mixed heat medium is flowed into the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger, and the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger is flowed into the temperature control device, the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is flowed into the heat generating device in order to absorb heat from the heat generating device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, the COP can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing a temperature control system (heater mode, endothermic mode) according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing a temperature control system (non-absorbent mode of heater mode) according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing a temperature control system (heater mode, endothermic mode) according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing a temperature control system (non-endothermic mode of heater mode) according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing a temperature control system (heat absorption mode of heater mode) according to a modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, the temperature control system and control method for the temperature control system according to the first and second embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following explanation, pipe names may be distinguished, but this does not necessarily mean that each pipe is a separate pipe. Conversely, separate pipes may be combined to form a pipe system with the same name.

[0013] [First Embodiment] The temperature control system 1 is a system installed in a vehicle not shown in the figure. Examples of vehicles include electric vehicles, which do not have an engine and obtain driving force from an electric motor, and so-called hybrid vehicles, which obtain driving force from both an engine and / or an electric motor.

[0014] The temperature control system 1 is responsible for air conditioning, including heating, cooling, dehumidification, and ventilation of the passenger compartment, as well as thermal management and / or heat recovery of on-board equipment such as the battery unit (power supply unit), traction motor, and heat-generating electronic devices installed in the vehicle. The process of maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels and managing on-board equipment to an optimal temperature is collectively referred to as "thermal management."

[0015] The electric and electronic equipment installed in the temperature control system 1 and the on-board equipment are supplied with power stored in the battery unit. The battery unit is charged from an external power source, for example, when the vehicle is stopped.

[0016] The temperature control system 1 comprises a refrigerant circuit 10 configured to circulate a refrigerant RF, a heat transfer medium HM configured to circulate a heat transfer medium HM that exchanges heat with the refrigerant RF, and a control unit 50 that controls electric and electronic equipment provided in each circuit. The temperature control system 1 includes sensors (not shown) for acquiring information necessary for control (e.g., temperature and pressure), such as a sensor for detecting the outside temperature, a sensor for detecting the temperature of the conditioned air blown into the vehicle compartment, a sensor for detecting the temperature of the vehicle compartment, a sensor for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant RF, a sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium HM, and a sensor for detecting the pressure of the refrigerant RF.

[0017] The temperature control system 1 can execute an operation mode selected by the occupant or by the control unit 50. Examples of the operation modes of the temperature control system 1 according to the present embodiment include a heater mode and a heat pump mode (not shown).

[0018] <Configuration of Refrigerant Circuit> As shown in FIG. 1, the refrigerant circuit 10 includes a compressor 11 that compresses the refrigerant RF, a condenser (high-pressure side heat exchanger) 12 that condenses the refrigerant RF, an expansion valve (pressure reducing section) 13 that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant RF, an evaporator (low-pressure side heat exchanger) 14 that evaporates the refrigerant RF, and a plurality of pipes that connect the respective devices. The refrigerant RF is enclosed in the refrigerant circuit 10. The enclosed refrigerant RF circulates in the refrigerant circuit according to a known refrigeration cycle.

[0019] A single refrigerant or a mixed refrigerant is employed for the refrigerant RF. For example, for the refrigerant RF, HFC (Hydro Fluoro Carbon) refrigerants such as R410A and R32, HFO (Hydro Fluoro Olefin) refrigerants such as R1234ze and R1234yf, and hydrocarbon (HC)-based refrigerants such as propane and isobutane can be employed. In particular, it is preferable to use R290 as the refrigerant RF of the present embodiment.

[0020] When using the exemplified fluorocarbon-based or hydrocarbon-based refrigerant RF, the refrigerant circuit 10 constitutes a subcritical refrigeration cycle in which the refrigerant pressure on the high-pressure side does not exceed the critical pressure of the refrigerant RF. When using carbon dioxide (CO2) as the refrigerant RF, the refrigerant circuit 10 constitutes a transcritical refrigeration cycle in which the refrigerant pressure on the high-pressure side exceeds the critical pressure of the refrigerant RF. Even in that case, the refrigerant RF dissipates heat by the high-pressure side heat exchanger similar to the condenser 12 of the present embodiment, and the refrigerant RF absorbs heat by the low-pressure side heat exchanger similar to the evaporator 14 of the present embodiment.

[0021] The compressor 11 is a device that compresses the refrigerant RF supplied from the evaporator 14. The compressor 11 is, for example, an electric compressor equipped with an electric motor (not shown). The rotational speed of the compressor 11 is controlled by the control unit 50. Examples of compressors 11 include scroll compressors and rotary compressors.

[0022] One end of the compressor refrigerant piping L11 is connected to the refrigerant outlet (discharge port) of the compressor 11. The other end of the compressor refrigerant piping L11 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser 12.

[0023] The condenser 12 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant RF, which is introduced from the compressor 11 via the compressor refrigerant piping L11, and the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the heat transfer medium circuit 30.

[0024] One end of the condenser refrigerant piping L12 is connected to the refrigerant outlet of the condenser 12. The other end of the condenser refrigerant piping L12 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the expansion valve 13.

[0025] The expansion valve 13 is a device that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant RF led from the condenser 12 via the condenser refrigerant piping L12 and also adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant RF. An example of an expansion valve 13 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening degree is controlled based on a command from the control unit 50.

[0026] One end of the expansion valve refrigerant piping L13 is connected to the refrigerant outlet of the expansion valve 13. The other end of the expansion valve refrigerant piping L13 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the evaporator 14.

[0027] The evaporator 14 is a device that exchanges heat between the refrigerant RF, which is introduced from the expansion valve 13 via the expansion valve refrigerant piping L13, and the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the heat transfer circuit 30.

[0028] One end of the evaporator refrigerant piping L14 is connected to the refrigerant outlet of the evaporator 14. The other end of the evaporator refrigerant piping L14 is connected to the refrigerant inlet (suction port) of the compressor 11.

[0029] The compressor 11, condenser 12, expansion valve 13, evaporator 14, and the refrigerant piping connecting these components are installed, for example, outside the vehicle compartment.

[0030] <Configuration of the heat transfer circuit> The heat transfer medium circuit 30 is configured to allow the heat transfer medium HM, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 and evaporator 14 of the refrigerant circuit 10, to circulate. The heat transfer medium HM is used to heat or cool at least one temperature-controlled object. In this embodiment, the temperature-controlled object is, for example, the air supplied to the vehicle interior for air conditioning.

[0031] The heat transfer medium circuit 30 includes a first pump 31 and a second pump 32 for pressurizing the heat transfer medium HM, an indoor air conditioning unit (temperature control equipment) 33, a heat generating equipment 34, four-way valves 35, 36, 37, and 38 that allow the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from four directions, and a plurality of pipes connecting each of the equipment. The heat transfer medium circuit 30 is filled with a heat transfer medium HM. The filled heat transfer medium HM circulates within the heat transfer medium circuit 30 according to a cycle (heat transfer medium loop) corresponding to the operating mode.

[0032] The heat transfer medium HM sealed in the heat transfer circuit 30 is a liquid such as water or brine that circulates through the heat transfer circuit 30 while maintaining a liquid phase state. Examples of brine include a mixture of water and propylene glycol or a mixture of water and ethylene glycol.

[0033] The first pump 31 is a device that pumps the heat transfer medium HM in a series of heat transfer medium loops according to the operating mode. The rotational speed of the first pump 31 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0034] One end of the first pump outlet pipe L21 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet (discharge port) of the first pump 31. The other end of the first pump outlet pipe L21 is connected to the first port of the four-way valve 35. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0035] The four-way valve 35 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from four directions. The four-way valve 35 has four ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). The four-way valve 35 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM, which is led from the first pump 31 via the first pump outlet piping L21 and flows in from the first port, flows out from the second port.

[0036] One end of the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23 is connected to the second port of the four-way valve 35. This second port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the indoor air conditioning unit 33.

[0037] The interior air conditioning unit 33 is configured to supply conditioned air to the vehicle interior by exchanging heat between air sent by a fan (not shown) and a heat transfer medium HM led from a four-way valve 35 via the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23. The rotation speed of the fan (not shown) is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0038] One end of the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the indoor air conditioning unit 33. The other end of the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24 is connected to the first port of the four-way valve 36. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0039] The four-way valve 36 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from four directions. The four-way valve 36 has four ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). The four-way valve 36 is configured to distribute the heat transfer medium HM, which is guided from the indoor air conditioning unit 33 via the temperature control equipment outlet piping L24 and flows in from the first port, to the ports (second port and third port) which serve as heat transfer medium outlets, in any desired proportion. The four-way valve 36 is controlled by the control unit 50, which adjusts the ratio of the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM directed to each port, which serves as the heat transfer medium outlet. In other words, the ratio of the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM directed to the condenser 12 to the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM directed to the evaporator 14 is adjusted.

[0040] One end of the condenser inlet pipe L25 is connected to the second port of the four-way valve 36. This second port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the condenser inlet pipe L25 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the condenser 12.

[0041] One end of the evaporator inlet pipe L26 is connected to the third port of the four-way valve 36. This third port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the evaporator inlet pipe L26 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the evaporator 14.

[0042] The condenser 12 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the four-way valve 36 via the condenser inlet pipe L25, and the refrigerant RF flowing through the refrigerant circuit 10.

[0043] One end of the condenser outlet pipe L27 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the condenser 12. The other end of the condenser outlet pipe L27 is connected to the first port of the four-way valve 37, which will be described later. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0044] The evaporator 14 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the four-way valve 36 via the evaporator inlet pipe L26, and the refrigerant RF flowing through the refrigerant circuit 10.

[0045] One end of the evaporator outlet pipe L28 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the evaporator 14. The other end of the evaporator outlet pipe L28 is connected to the second port of the four-way valve 37, which will be described later. This second port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0046] The four-way valve 37 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from four directions. The four-way valve 37 has four ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). In the endothermic mode described later (Figure 1), the four-way valve 37 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the condenser 12 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 and flows in from the first port, flows out from the fourth port, and the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the evaporator 14 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28 and flows in from the second port, flows out from the third port. In the non-endocrine mode described later (Figure 2), the four-way valve 37 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the condenser 12 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 and enters from the first port, and the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the evaporator 14 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28 and enters from the second port, flows out from the fourth port. In other words, the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the evaporator 14 merge at the four-way valve 37.

[0047] One end of the heat-generating equipment inlet piping L31 is connected to the third port of the four-way valve 37. This third port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the heat-generating equipment inlet pipe L31 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the heat-generating equipment 34.

[0048] One end of the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35 is connected to the fourth port of the four-way valve 37. This fourth port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35 is connected to the first port of the four-way valve 38. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0049] The heat-generating device 34 is a device that generates heat and is mounted on the vehicle. Examples of heat-generating devices 34 include electric motors (for example, electric motors that provide driving force for vehicle operation) and battery devices.

[0050] Furthermore, the heat-generating device 34 is not limited to the example device, but can be any device that generates heat at a temperature higher than that which can transfer heat to the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14 (i.e., a device that can reach a temperature higher than the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14). Furthermore, the heat-generating device 34 is not limited to one, and two or more heat-generating devices 34 may be combined. Furthermore, the heat-generating device 34 does not need to be a device that generates heat at all times.

[0051] One end of the heat transfer fluid outlet pipe L32 is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet of the heat transfer device 34. The other end of the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L32 is connected to the second port of the four-way valve 38. This second port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0052] The four-way valve 38 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from four directions. The four-way valve 38 has four ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). In the heat absorption mode (Figure 1), the four-way valve 38 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the four-way valve 37 via the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35 and from the first port, and the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the heat-generating equipment 34 via the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L32 and from the second port, flows out from the third port. In other words, the heat transfer medium HM that flows from the four-way valve 37 via the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35 and the heat transfer medium HM that flows from the heat-generating equipment 34 via the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L32 merge at the four-way valve 38. Here, considering that (1) the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 and the four-way valve 37 flows through the heat-generating equipment bypass pipe L35, and (2) the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28, the four-way valve 37, the heat-generating equipment inlet pipe L31, and the heat-generating equipment 34 flows through the heat-generating equipment outlet pipe L32, the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14 will merge at the four-way valve 38. In the non-heat-absorbing mode (Figure 2), the four-way valve 38 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM, which is guided from the four-way valve 37 via the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35 and flows in from the first port, flows out from the third port.

[0053] One end of the first pump inlet pipe L33 is connected to the third port of the four-way valve 38. This third port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the first pump inlet pipe L33 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the first pump 31.

[0054] Although not used in this embodiment, one end of the second pump inlet pipe L34 is connected to the fourth port of the four-way valve 38. This fourth port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the second pump inlet pipe L34 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the second pump 32.

[0055] Although not used in this embodiment, the second pump 32 is a device that pumps the heat transfer medium HM in a series of heat transfer medium loops according to the operating mode. The rotational speed of the second pump 32 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0056] Although not used in this embodiment, one end of the second pump outlet pipe L22 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet (discharge port) of the second pump 32. The other end of the second pump outlet pipe L22 is connected to the third port of the four-way valve 35.

[0057] Although not used in this embodiment, the first pump inlet pipe L33 and the second pump inlet pipe L34 may be connected by a connecting pipe L36. A reserve tank 39 is provided in the connecting pipe L36. The reserve tank 39 is a container that accepts heat transfer fluid HM when its volume expands due to a rise in temperature, exceeding the volume of the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 30 (limited to the part where the heat transfer fluid HM loops). Conversely, when the volume of heat transfer fluid HM decreases due to a drop in temperature, heat transfer fluid HM is supplied from the reserve tank 39 to the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 30, so that the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 30 is maintained in a state where it is filled with heat transfer fluid HM.

[0058] <Configuration of the control unit> The control unit 50 is a device that controls the electric motors and electronic equipment installed in each circuit. The control unit 50 is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and a computer-readable storage medium. A series of processes for realizing various functions are stored in the storage medium in the form of a program, for example. The CPU reads this program into the RAM and performs information processing and calculations to realize the various functions. The program may be pre-installed in the ROM or other storage medium, provided in a state where it is stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or distributed via wired or wireless communication. Computer-readable storage media include magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, semiconductor memory, etc.

[0059] <Flow of refrigerant and heat transfer medium in heater mode> The heater mode is suitable for heating when the outside temperature is too low for the heat transfer medium (HM) to absorb heat from the outside air. In heater mode, the heat transfer medium HM is used to transport a heat amount equivalent to the power of the compressor 11 as a heat source to the vehicle compartment (indoor air conditioning unit 33) via the heat transfer medium HM, while avoiding heat loss from the heat transfer medium HM to the outside air. In other words, in heater mode, the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the evaporator 14 circulates through the heat transfer medium circuit 20 without being led to an outdoor heat exchanger (a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium and the outside air) (not shown). This ensures heating capacity even when the outside temperature is significantly below 0°C.

[0060] The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant RF, compressed by the compressor 11, is supplied to the condenser 12. In the condenser 12, the refrigerant RF dissipates heat by exchanging heat with the heat transfer medium HM, and the refrigerant RF is condensed and liquefied (it may be supercooled). The liquefied high-pressure refrigerant RF is depressurized by the expansion valve 13 and then supplied to the evaporator 14. In the evaporator 14, the refrigerant RF evaporates by exchanging heat with the heat transfer medium HM, obtaining latent heat of vaporization, and becomes a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant RF. The gasified refrigerant RF is drawn into the compressor 11. The cycle is then repeated.

[0061] The heater modes include an absorbent mode and a non-absorbent mode. The following describes each mode.

[0062] <<Heat absorption mode: Figure 1>> The endothermic mode is a mode in which the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the evaporator 14 is guided to the heat generating device 34, thereby absorbing heat from the heat generating device 34 and heating the heat transfer medium HM with the heat from the heat generating device 34. The endothermic mode is executed by the control unit 50, for example, when the heat-generating device 34 is at or above a first predetermined temperature, which is higher than the temperature of the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14. The first predetermined temperature is, for example, 10°C. The first predetermined temperature may also be the ambient temperature.

[0063] All the heat transfer medium HM heated by the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 (all the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the condenser 12) is led to the four-way valve 38 via the condenser outlet pipe L27, the four-way valve 37, and the heat-generating equipment bypass pipe L35. On the other hand, all the heat transfer medium HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (all the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14) is led to the heat-generating equipment 34 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28, the four-way valve 37, and the heat-generating equipment inlet pipe L31, where it is heated by the heat of the heat-generating equipment 34. The heat transfer medium HM heated by the heat of the heat-generating equipment 34 is then led to the four-way valve 38 via the heat-generating equipment outlet pipe L32. The heat transfer fluid HM discharged from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer fluid HM discharged from the evaporator 14 are joined by a four-way valve 38 and led to the first pump 31 via the first pump inlet piping L33. The heat transfer medium HM, which is led to the first pump 31, is then led to the indoor air conditioning unit 33 via the first pump outlet pipe L21, the four-way valve 35, and the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23. The heat transfer medium HM, which is guided to the indoor air conditioning unit 33, provides heat to the air inside the vehicle, for example, to perform heating. The heat transfer medium HM, which has been heated and then cooled, is led to the four-way valve 36 via the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24. The heat transfer medium HM, guided to the four-way valve 36, is distributed in arbitrary proportions to the condenser inlet pipe L25 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26. The heat transfer medium HM introduced to the condenser 12 absorbs heat from the refrigerant RF flowing through the condenser 12, liquefying the refrigerant RF. Meanwhile, the heat transfer medium HM introduced to the evaporator 14 transfers the latent heat of vaporization to the refrigerant RF flowing through the evaporator 14, causing the refrigerant RF to evaporate.

[0064] The flow of the heat transfer medium HM described above is generated by the first pump 31. Furthermore, as long as the aforementioned flow of the heat transfer medium HM can be generated, the positions of the first pump 31 and the various valves are not particularly limited.

[0065] <<Non-absorbent mode: Figure 2>> The non-endothermic mode is a mode in which the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14 is not guided to the heat-generating equipment 34. In other words, it is a mode in which no heat is absorbed from the heat-generating equipment 34. The non-endothermic mode is executed by the control unit 50, for example, when the heat-generating equipment 34 is below the second predetermined temperature at which it flows out of the evaporator 14. The second predetermined temperature is the same as the first predetermined temperature or lower than the first predetermined temperature, for example, 0°C. The first predetermined temperature may be the ambient temperature. If the second predetermined temperature is the same as the first predetermined temperature, hunting can be avoided, for example, by controlling the system to maintain the mode for a certain period of time when switching modes.

[0066] All the heat transfer fluid HM heated by the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 (all the heat transfer fluid HM that flows out of the condenser 12) is led to the four-way valve 37 via the condenser outlet pipe L27. On the other hand, all the heat transfer fluid HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (all the heat transfer fluid HM that flows out of the evaporator 14) is led to the four-way valve 37 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28. The heat transfer fluid HM discharged from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer fluid HM discharged from the evaporator 14 are joined at the four-way valve 37 and led to the first pump 31 via the heat-generating equipment bypass piping L35, the four-way valve 38, and the first pump inlet piping L33. The heat transfer medium HM, which is led to the first pump 31, is then led to the indoor air conditioning unit 33 via the first pump outlet pipe L21, the four-way valve 35, and the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23. The heat transfer medium HM, which is guided to the indoor air conditioning unit 33, provides heat to the air inside the vehicle, for example, to perform heating. The heat transfer medium HM, which has been heated and then cooled, is led to the four-way valve 36 via the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24. The heat transfer medium HM, guided to the four-way valve 36, is distributed in arbitrary proportions to the condenser inlet pipe L25 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26. The heat transfer medium HM, guided to the condenser 12 via the condenser inlet pipe L25, absorbs heat from the refrigerant RF flowing through the condenser 12, liquefying the refrigerant RF. Meanwhile, the heat transfer medium HM, guided to the evaporator 14 via the evaporator inlet pipe L26, imparts latent heat of vaporization to the refrigerant RF flowing through the evaporator 14, causing the refrigerant RF to evaporate.

[0067] The flow of the heat transfer medium HM described above is generated by the first pump 31. Furthermore, as long as the aforementioned flow of the heat transfer medium HM can be generated, the positions of the first pump 31 and the various valves are not particularly limited.

[0068] [Second Embodiment] The temperature control system according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in the configuration of the heat transfer medium circuit, but the other configurations are the same.

[0069] As shown in Figure 3, the temperature control system 2 includes a refrigerant circuit 10 configured to circulate a refrigerant RF, a heat transfer medium HM configured to circulate a heat transfer medium HM that exchanges heat with the refrigerant RF, and a control unit 50 that controls electric and electronic equipment provided in each circuit.

[0070] The temperature control system 2 can execute an operating mode selected by the occupants or by the control unit 50. Examples of operating modes for the temperature control system 2 according to this embodiment include a heater mode and a heat pump mode (not shown).

[0071] <Refrigerant circuit configuration> This is identical to the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed explanation of it will be omitted here.

[0072] <Configuration of the heat transfer circuit> The heat transfer medium circuit 40 is configured to allow the heat transfer medium HM, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 and evaporator 14 of the refrigerant circuit 10, to circulate. The heat transfer medium HM is used to heat or cool at least one temperature-controlled object. In this embodiment, the temperature-controlled object is, for example, the air supplied to the vehicle interior for air conditioning.

[0073] The heat transfer medium circuit 40 includes a first pump 41 and a second pump 42 for pressurizing the heat transfer medium HM, an indoor air conditioning unit (temperature control equipment) 43, a heat generating equipment 44, three-way valves 45, 46, 47, and 48 that can arbitrarily select the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM from three directions, and a plurality of pipes connecting each of the equipment. The heat transfer medium circuit 40 is filled with a heat transfer medium HM. The filled heat transfer medium HM circulates within the heat transfer medium circuit 40 according to a cycle (heat transfer medium loop) corresponding to the operating mode.

[0074] The heat transfer medium HM sealed in the heat transfer circuit 40 is a liquid such as water or brine that circulates through the heat transfer circuit 40 while maintaining a liquid phase state. Examples of brine include a mixture of water and propylene glycol or a mixture of water and ethylene glycol.

[0075] The first pump 41 is a device that pumps the heat transfer medium HM in a series of heat transfer medium loops according to the operating mode. The rotational speed of the first pump 41 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0076] One end of the first pump outlet pipe L21 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet (discharge port) of the first pump 41. The other end of the first pump outlet pipe L21 is connected to the first port of the three-way valve 45. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0077] The second pump 42 is a device that pumps the heat transfer medium HM in a series of heat transfer medium loops according to the operating mode. The rotational speed of the second pump 42 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0078] One end of the second pump outlet pipe L22 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet (discharge port) of the second pump 42. The other end of the second pump outlet pipe L22 is connected to the second port of the three-way valve 45. This second port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0079] The three-way valve 45 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from three directions. The three-way valve 45 has three ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). The three-way valve 45 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the first pump 41 via the first pump outlet pipe L21 and enters from the first port, and the heat transfer medium HM that flows in from the second pump 42 via the second pump outlet pipe L22 and enters from the second port, flows out from the third port. In other words, the heat transfer medium HM that flows from the first pump 41 via the first pump outlet pipe L21 and the heat transfer medium HM that flows from the second pump 42 via the second pump outlet pipe L22 merge at the three-way valve 45. Here, considering that (1) the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 and the first pump 41 flows through the first pump outlet pipe L21, and (2) the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28 and the second pump 42 flows through the second pump outlet pipe L22, the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14 will merge at the three-way valve 45.

[0080] One end of the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23 is connected to the third port of the three-way valve 45. This third port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the indoor air conditioning unit 43.

[0081] The interior air conditioning unit 43 is configured to supply conditioned air to the vehicle interior by exchanging heat between air sent by a fan (not shown) and a heat transfer medium HM led from a three-way valve 45 via the temperature control equipment inlet pipe L23. The rotation speed of the fan (not shown) is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0082] One end of the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the indoor air conditioning unit 43. The other end of the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24 is connected to the first port of the three-way valve 46. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0083] The three-way valve 46 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from three directions. The three-way valve 46 has three ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). The three-way valve 46 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM, which is guided from the indoor air conditioning unit 43 via the temperature control equipment outlet piping L24 and flows in from the first port, is distributed in any proportion to the ports (second port and third port) which serve as heat transfer medium outlets. The three-way valve 46 is controlled by the control unit 50, which adjusts the ratio of the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM to each port, which serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. In other words, the ratio of the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM to the condenser 12 to the flow rate of the heat transfer medium HM to the evaporator 14 is adjusted. Specifically, in the endothermic mode (Figure 3), which will be described later, the three-way valve 46 is configured so that all the heat transfer medium HM flowing in from the first port flows in from the second port and is led to the condenser inlet pipe L25. On the other hand, in the non-endothermic mode (Figure 4), which will be described later, the three-way valve 46 is configured so that the heat transfer medium HM flowing in from the first port is distributed to the second and third ports in a predetermined ratio, that is, to the condenser inlet pipe L25 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26 in a predetermined ratio.

[0084] One end of the condenser inlet pipe L25 is connected to the second port of the three-way valve 46. This second port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the condenser inlet pipe L25 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the condenser 12.

[0085] One end of the evaporator inlet pipe L26 is connected to the third port of the three-way valve 46. This third port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the evaporator inlet pipe L26 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the evaporator 14.

[0086] The condenser 12 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the three-way valve 46 via the condenser inlet pipe L25, and the refrigerant RF flowing through the refrigerant circuit 10.

[0087] One end of the condenser outlet pipe L27 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the condenser 12. The other end of the condenser outlet pipe L27 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the first pump 41.

[0088] The evaporator 14 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the three-way valve 46 via the evaporator inlet pipe L26, and the refrigerant RF flowing through the refrigerant circuit 10.

[0089] One end of the evaporator outlet pipe L28 is connected to the heat transfer medium outlet of the evaporator 14. The other end of the evaporator outlet pipe L28 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the second pump 42.

[0090] The first pump outlet pipe L21 and the second pump outlet pipe L22 are connected by the upstream connecting pipe L41.

[0091] A three-way valve 47 is provided in the upstream connecting pipe L41. The three-way valve 47 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from three directions. The three-way valve 47 has three ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). In the heat absorption mode (Figure 3), the three-way valve 47 is configured such that a portion of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the second pump outlet pipe L22 flows in through the first port, which serves as the heat transfer medium inlet, and that the heat transfer medium HM flows out through the second port. In the non-heat-absorbing mode (Figure 4), the three-way valve 47 is configured to direct all of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the second pump outlet piping L22 to the three-way valve 45. In other words, the three-way valve 47 is configured to block the flow of the heat transfer medium HM.

[0092] One end of the heat-generating equipment inlet piping L42 is connected to the second port of the three-way valve 47. This second port serves as the outlet for the heat transfer medium. The other end of the heat-generating equipment inlet pipe L42 is connected to the heat transfer medium inlet of the heat-generating equipment 44.

[0093] The heat-generating device 44 is a device that generates heat and is mounted on the vehicle. Examples of heat-generating devices 44 include electric motors (for example, electric motors that provide driving force for vehicle operation) and battery devices.

[0094] Furthermore, the heat-generating device 44 is not limited to the example device, but can be any device that generates heat at a temperature higher than that which can transfer heat to the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14 (i.e., a device that can reach a temperature higher than the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14). Furthermore, the heat-generating device 44 is not limited to one, and two or more heat-generating devices 44 may be combined. Furthermore, the heat-generating device 44 does not need to be a device that generates heat at all times.

[0095] One end of the heat transfer fluid outlet pipe L43 is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet of the heat transfer fluid device 44. The other end of the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L43 is connected to the first port of the three-way valve 48. This first port serves as the inlet for the heat transfer medium.

[0096] The three-way valve 48 is installed in the downstream connecting pipe L44 that connects the condenser inlet pipe L25 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26. The three-way valve 48 is a valve that allows the flow direction of the heat transfer medium HM to be arbitrarily selected from three directions. The three-way valve 48 has three ports (heat transfer medium inlet or heat transfer medium outlet). In the absorption mode described later (Figure 3), the three-way valve 48 is configured such that the heat transfer medium HM, which is introduced from the heat-generating equipment 44 via the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L43 and flows in from the first port, flows out from the second port, which acts as the heat transfer medium outlet. In addition, in the absorption mode, the three-way valve 48 is configured such that a portion of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the condenser inlet piping L25 flows in from the third port, which acts as the heat transfer medium inlet, and that heat transfer medium HM flows out from the second port. In other words, the heat transfer medium HM introduced from the heat-generating equipment 44 via the heat-generating equipment outlet piping L43 and a portion of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the condenser inlet piping L25 merge at the three-way valve 48, flows out from the second port, and is introduced to the evaporator inlet piping L26. The three-way valve 48 is configured to block the flow of the heat transfer medium HM in the non-absorbent mode (Figure 4), which will be described later.

[0097] Although not used in this embodiment, the condenser outlet pipe L27 and the evaporator outlet pipe L28 may be connected by a connecting pipe L45. A reserve tank 49 is provided in the connecting pipe L45. The reserve tank 49 is a container that accepts heat transfer fluid HM when its volume expands due to a rise in temperature, exceeding the volume of the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 40 (limited to the part where the heat transfer fluid HM loops). Conversely, when the volume of heat transfer fluid HM decreases due to a drop in temperature, heat transfer fluid HM is supplied from the reserve tank 49 to the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 40, so that the piping of the heat transfer fluid circuit 40 is maintained in a state where it is filled with heat transfer fluid HM.

[0098] <Configuration of the control unit> This is identical to the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed explanation of it will be omitted here.

[0099] <Flow of refrigerant and heat transfer medium in heater mode> The heater mode is suitable for heating when the outside temperature is too low for the heat transfer medium (HM) to absorb heat from the outside air. In heater mode, the heat transfer medium HM is used to transport a heat amount equivalent to the power of the compressor 11 as a heat source to the vehicle compartment (indoor air conditioning unit 43) via the heat transfer medium HM, while avoiding heat loss from the heat transfer medium HM to the outside air. In other words, in heater mode, the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the evaporator 14 circulates through the heat transfer medium circuit 20 without being led to an outdoor heat exchanger (a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium and the outside air) (not shown). This ensures heating capacity even when the outside temperature is significantly below 0°C.

[0100] The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant RF, compressed by the compressor 11, is supplied to the condenser 12. In the condenser 12, the refrigerant RF dissipates heat by exchanging heat with the heat transfer medium HM, and the refrigerant RF is condensed and liquefied (it may be supercooled). The liquefied high-pressure refrigerant RF is depressurized by the expansion valve 13 and then supplied to the evaporator 14. In the evaporator 14, the refrigerant RF evaporates by exchanging heat with the heat transfer medium HM, obtaining latent heat of vaporization, and becomes a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant RF. The gasified refrigerant RF is drawn into the compressor 11. The cycle is then repeated.

[0101] The heater modes include an absorbent mode and a non-absorbent mode. The following describes each mode.

[0102] <<Heat absorption mode: Figure 3>> The endothermic mode is a mode in which the heat transfer medium HM that flows out from the evaporator 14 is guided to the heat generating device 44, and heat is absorbed from the heat generating device 44, thereby heating the heat transfer medium HM with the heat from the heat generating device 44. The endothermic mode is executed by the control unit 50, for example, when the heat-generating device 44 is at or above a first predetermined temperature, which is higher than the temperature of the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14. The first predetermined temperature is, for example, 10°C. The first predetermined temperature may also be the ambient temperature.

[0103] The heat transfer medium HM heated by the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 (the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the condenser 12) is led to the three-way valve 45 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 (to the first pump 41) and the first pump outlet pipe L21. On the other hand, a portion of the heat transfer medium HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (a portion of the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14) is led to the three-way valve 45 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28 (to the second pump 42) and the second pump outlet pipe L22. The heat transfer medium HM discharged from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14 are joined by a three-way valve 45 and led to the indoor air conditioning unit 43 via the temperature control equipment inlet piping L23. The heat transfer medium HM, which is guided to the indoor air conditioning unit 43, provides heat to the air inside the vehicle, for example, to perform heating. The heat transfer medium HM, which has been heated and then cooled, is led to the three-way valve 46 via the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24. All of the heat transfer fluid HM, which is guided to the three-way valve 46, is then led to the condenser inlet piping L25. A portion of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the condenser inlet pipe L25 is led directly to the condenser 12 via the condenser inlet pipe L25. On the other hand, the portion of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the condenser inlet pipe L25 that is not led to the condenser 12 is led to the three-way valve 48 via the downstream connecting pipe L44. Of the heat transfer medium HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14), the portion of the heat transfer medium HM that is not led to the three-way valve 45 (the remaining portion of the heat transfer medium HM) is led to the heat-generating equipment 44 via the upstream connecting pipe L41, the three-way valve 47, and the heat-generating equipment inlet pipe L42, where it is heated by the heat from the heat-generating equipment 34. The heat transfer medium HM heated by the heat from the heat-generating equipment 34 is then led to the three-way valve 48 via the heat-generating equipment outlet pipe L43. Of the heat transfer medium HM flowing through the condenser inlet pipe L25, the heat transfer medium HM that is not led to the condenser 12, and the heat transfer medium HM heated by the heat generating equipment 34, are merged at the three-way valve 48 and led to the evaporator 14 via the downstream connecting pipe L44 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26. In the evaporator inlet pipe L26, no flow of heat transfer medium HM is formed in the range from the three-way valve 46 to the downstream connecting pipe L44. The heat transfer medium HM introduced to the condenser 12 absorbs heat from the refrigerant RF flowing through the condenser 12, liquefying the refrigerant RF. Meanwhile, the heat transfer medium HM introduced to the evaporator 14 transfers the latent heat of vaporization to the refrigerant RF flowing through the evaporator 14, causing the refrigerant RF to evaporate.

[0104] The flow of the heat transfer medium HM described above is generated by the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. Furthermore, as long as the aforementioned flow of the heat transfer medium HM can be generated, the positions of the first pump 41, the second pump 42, and the various valves are not particularly limited.

[0105] <<Non-absorbent mode: Figure 4>> The non-absorbent mode is a mode in which the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14 is not guided to the heat-generating equipment 44. In other words, it is a mode in which no heat is absorbed from the heat-generating equipment 44. The non-endothermic mode is executed by the control unit 50, for example, when the heat-generating equipment 44 is below the second predetermined temperature at which it flows out of the evaporator 14. The second predetermined temperature is the same as the first predetermined temperature or lower than the first predetermined temperature, for example, 0°C. The first predetermined temperature may be the ambient temperature. If the second predetermined temperature is the same as the first predetermined temperature, hunting can be avoided, for example, by controlling the system to maintain the mode for a certain period of time when switching modes.

[0106] All the heat transfer medium HM heated by the refrigerant RF in the condenser 12 (all the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the condenser 12) is led to the three-way valve 45 via the condenser outlet pipe L27 (to the first pump 41) and the first pump outlet pipe L21. On the other hand, all the heat transfer medium HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (all the heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14) is led to the three-way valve 45 via the evaporator outlet pipe L28 (to the second pump 42) and the second pump outlet pipe L22. The heat transfer medium HM discharged from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14 are joined by a three-way valve 45 and led to the indoor air conditioning unit 43 via the temperature control equipment inlet piping L23. The heat transfer medium HM, which is guided to the indoor air conditioning unit 43, provides heat to the air inside the vehicle, for example, to perform heating. The heat transfer medium HM, which has been heated and then cooled, is led to the three-way valve 46 via the temperature control equipment outlet pipe L24. The heat transfer medium HM, guided to the three-way valve 46, is distributed in any proportion to the condenser inlet pipe L25 and the evaporator inlet pipe L26. The heat transfer medium HM, guided to the condenser 12 via the condenser inlet pipe L25, absorbs heat from the refrigerant RF flowing through the condenser 12, liquefying the refrigerant RF. Meanwhile, the heat transfer medium HM, guided to the evaporator 14 via the evaporator inlet pipe L26, imparts latent heat of vaporization to the refrigerant RF flowing through the evaporator 14, causing the refrigerant RF to evaporate.

[0107] The flow of the heat transfer medium HM described above is generated by the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. Furthermore, as long as the aforementioned flow of the heat transfer medium HM can be generated, the positions of the first pump 41, the second pump 42, and the various valves are not particularly limited.

[0108] [Differentiation] In the endothermic mode, the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the condenser 12 and the heat transfer medium HM discharged from the evaporator 14 may be combined at a location other than the three-way valve 45.

[0109] For example, as shown in Figure 5, all the heat transfer medium HM cooled by the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 (all the heat transfer medium HM that has flowed out of the evaporator 14) may be guided to the upstream connecting pipe L41 and distributed in any proportion to the heat generating equipment inlet pipe L42 and the first pump outlet pipe L21 by the three-way valve 47.

[0110] <Effects of the First and Second Embodiments> The low-temperature heat transfer medium HM that flows out of the evaporator 14 can be heated by the heat generated by the heat generating devices 34 and 44. Therefore, compared to the case where the low-temperature heat transfer medium HM is not heated by the heat generating devices 34 and 44, the temperature of the heat transfer medium HM flowing into the evaporator 14 rises, and the amount of heat that the heat transfer medium HM can supply to the refrigerant RF in the evaporator 14 increases. This reduces the power required by the compressor 11 and improves the COP.

[0111] By executing the heat absorption mode when the heat-generating devices 34, 34 are at or above a first predetermined temperature, it is possible to select to introduce the heat transfer medium HM into the heat-generating devices 34, 44 only when effective heat absorption can be expected.

[0112] By executing a non-absorption mode when the heat-generating devices 34 and 44 are below a second predetermined temperature, it is possible to choose not to allow the heat transfer medium HM to flow into the heat-generating devices 34 and 44 when effective heat absorption cannot be expected. Furthermore, multiple heat-generating devices may be used, with different first and second predetermined temperatures set for each device. For example, the first and second predetermined temperatures for the electric motor used for vehicle operation may be the ambient temperature, while the first predetermined temperature for the battery may be 10°C and the second predetermined temperature may be 0°C.

[0113] [Note] The temperature control systems and control methods for each embodiment described above can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0114] A temperature control system (1,2) according to a first aspect of this disclosure comprises a refrigerant circuit (10) through which a refrigerant (RF) circulates, having a compressor (11), a high-pressure side heat exchanger (12), a depressurization unit (13), and a low-pressure side heat exchanger (14); a heat transfer medium (HM) circulating through which a heat transfer medium (HM) that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates; and a control unit (50). The heat transfer medium circuit includes temperature control equipment (33,43) that heats the temperature-controlled object using the heat transfer medium, and is mounted on a vehicle. The control unit has heating devices (34, 44), and in a heater mode in which the control unit mixes the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger with the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure heat exchanger, flows the mixed heat transfer medium into the high-pressure heat exchanger and the low-pressure heat exchanger, and flows the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger into the temperature control device, it executes a heat absorption mode in which it flows the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure heat exchanger into the heating device in order to absorb heat from the heating device.

[0115] In the temperature control system according to this embodiment, the heat transfer medium flowing out from the high-pressure heat exchanger and the heat transfer medium flowing out from the low-pressure heat exchanger are combined and then fed into the temperature control equipment, and the heat transfer medium flowing out from the temperature control equipment is fed into the high-pressure and low-pressure heat exchangers. In the heater mode, an absorption mode is performed in which the heat transfer medium flowing out from the low-pressure heat exchanger is fed into the heat-generating equipment in order to absorb heat from the heat-generating equipment. As a result, the low-temperature heat transfer medium flowing out from the low-pressure heat exchanger can be heated by the heat of the heat-generating equipment. Therefore, compared to the case where the low-temperature heat transfer medium is not heated by the heat of the heat-generating equipment, the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the low-pressure heat exchanger rises, and the amount of heat that the heat transfer medium can supply to the refrigerant in the low-pressure heat exchanger increases. This reduces the power required by the compressor and improves the COP.

[0116] In the temperature control system according to a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the first aspect, the control unit performs either the heat absorption mode or the non-heat absorption mode in which the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is combined with the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger without flowing the heat transfer medium into the heat generating equipment.

[0117] In the temperature control system according to this embodiment, the control unit performs either an endothermic mode or a non-endothermic mode in heater mode, where the heat transfer medium flowing out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is not allowed to flow into the heat-generating equipment but is instead combined with the heat transfer medium flowing out from the high-pressure side heat exchanger. Therefore, for example, depending on the temperature state of the heat-generating equipment, it is possible to select whether or not to allow the heat transfer medium to flow into the heat-generating equipment.

[0118] In the temperature control system (1) according to the third aspect of this disclosure, in the first or second aspect, the control unit, in the heat absorption mode, allows all of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the heat generating equipment to flow back into the heat generating equipment, and merges the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the heat generating equipment with the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the high-pressure side heat exchanger.

[0119] In the temperature control system (2) according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the first or second aspect, the control unit, in the heat absorption mode, combines a portion of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger with the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the high-pressure side heat exchanger without allowing it to flow into the heat generating equipment, allows the remaining portion of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger to flow into the heat generating equipment, and allows the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the heat generating equipment to flow into the low-pressure side heat exchanger.

[0120] In the temperature control system according to the fifth aspect of this disclosure, in any of the second to fourth aspects, the control unit executes the heat absorption mode when the heat-generating equipment is at or above a first predetermined temperature that is higher than the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger.

[0121] In the temperature control system according to this embodiment, the control unit executes an absorption mode when the temperature of the heat-generating equipment is above a first predetermined temperature, which is higher than the temperature of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger. Therefore, it is possible to choose to introduce the heat transfer medium into the heat-generating equipment only when effective heat absorption can be expected.

[0122] In the temperature control system according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, in the fifth aspect, when the second predetermined temperature is set to the same temperature as the first predetermined temperature or to a temperature lower than the first predetermined temperature, the control unit executes the non-absorbent mode when the heating device is at or below the second predetermined temperature.

[0123] In the temperature control system according to this embodiment, the control unit executes a non-absorption mode when the heat-generating equipment is below a first predetermined temperature or a second predetermined temperature. Therefore, if effective heat absorption cannot be expected, the control unit can choose not to allow the heat transfer medium to flow into the heat-generating equipment.

[0124] In the temperature control system according to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, in any of the first to sixth aspects, the heating device is either an electric motor and / or a battery device mounted on the vehicle.

[0125] A control method for a temperature control system according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure comprises a refrigerant circuit through which a refrigerant circulates, having a compressor, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, a depressurization section, and a low-pressure side heat exchanger, and a heat medium circuit through which a heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates, wherein the heat medium circuit comprises a temperature control device that heats a temperature control target using the heat medium, and a heat generating device mounted on a vehicle, wherein in a heater mode in which the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger is mixed with the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger, the mixed heat medium is introduced into the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger, and the heat medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger is introduced into the temperature control device, the heat medium discharged from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is introduced into the heat generating device in order to absorb heat from the heat generating device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0126] 1,2 Temperature control system 10 Refrigerant Circuit 11 Compressor 12. Condenser (High-pressure side heat exchanger) 13. Expansion valve (pressure reducing section) 14. Evaporator (low-pressure heat exchanger) 30 Heat carrier circuit 31 Pump No. 1 32. Pump No. 2 33. Indoor air conditioning unit (temperature control equipment) 34 Heat-generating devices 35 Four-way valve 36 Four-way valve 37 Four-way valve 38 Four-way valve 39 Reserve Tank 40 Heat carrier circuit 41 Pump No. 1 42. Pump No. 2 43. Indoor air conditioning units (temperature control equipment) 44 Heat-generating devices 45 Three-way valve 46 Three-way valve 47 Three-way valve 48 Three-way valve 49 Reserve Tank 50 Control Unit L11 Compressor Refrigerant Piping L12 Condenser Refrigerant Piping L13 Expansion valve refrigerant piping L14 Evaporator Refrigerant Piping L21 First pump outlet piping L22 Second pump outlet piping L23 Temperature control equipment inlet piping L24 Temperature controller outlet piping L25 Condenser Inlet Piping L26 Evaporator Inlet Piping L27 Condenser outlet piping L28 Evaporator outlet piping L31 Heat-generating equipment inlet piping L32 Heat-generating equipment outlet piping L33 First pump inlet piping L34 Second pump inlet piping L35 Heat-generating equipment bypass piping L36 Connection Piping L41 Upstream connection piping L42 Heat-generating equipment inlet piping L43 Heat-generating equipment outlet piping L44 Downstream connection piping L45 connecting pipe

Claims

1. A refrigerant circuit comprising a compressor, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, a depressurization section, and a low-pressure side heat exchanger, through which the refrigerant circulates, A heat transfer medium circuit through which the heat transfer medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates, Control unit and Equipped with, The aforementioned heat transfer circuit is A temperature control device that heats a temperature-controlled object using the aforementioned heat transfer medium, and Heating devices installed in vehicles It has, The control unit, In a heater mode in which the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger is mixed with the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure heat exchanger, the mixed heat transfer medium is fed into the high-pressure heat exchanger and the low-pressure heat exchanger, and the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger is fed into the temperature control device, In order to absorb heat from the heat-generating equipment, an absorption mode is performed in which the heat transfer medium that has flowed out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is flowed into the heat-generating equipment. The heat transfer medium that flows into the aforementioned heating device is combined with the heat transfer medium that flows out from the aforementioned high-pressure side heat exchanger. Temperature control system.

2. In the heater mode, the control unit, The aforementioned heat absorption mode, and Non-absorbent mode in which the heat transfer medium flowing out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is not allowed to flow into the heating equipment, but is instead merged with the heat transfer medium flowing out from the high-pressure side heat exchanger. Perform one of the following: The temperature control system according to claim 1.

3. In the heat absorption mode, the control unit causes all of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heat generating equipment to flow into the temperature control equipment, and combines the heat transfer medium discharged from the heat generating equipment with the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure side heat exchanger. The temperature control system according to claim 1.

4. In the heat absorption mode, the control unit, A portion of the heat transfer medium that flows out from the low-pressure side heat exchanger is not allowed to flow into the heat generating equipment, but is instead merged with the heat transfer medium that flows out from the high-pressure side heat exchanger. The remaining portion of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the low-pressure heat exchanger is allowed to flow into the heating equipment, and the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the heating equipment is allowed to flow into the low-pressure heat exchanger. The temperature control system according to claim 1.

5. The control unit executes the heat absorption mode when the heating device is at or above a first predetermined temperature, which is higher than the temperature of the heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the low-pressure side heat exchanger. The temperature control system according to claim 2.

6. When the second predetermined temperature is set to the same temperature as the first predetermined temperature or a temperature lower than the first predetermined temperature, The control unit executes the non-absorbent mode when the heating device is below the second predetermined temperature. The temperature control system according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned heating device is either one or both of the electric motor and / or battery device mounted on the vehicle. A temperature control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A refrigerant circuit comprising a compressor, a high-pressure side heat exchanger, a depressurization section, and a low-pressure side heat exchanger, through which the refrigerant circulates, A heat transfer medium circuit through which the heat transfer medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the high-pressure side heat exchanger and the low-pressure side heat exchanger circulates, Equipped with, The aforementioned heat transfer circuit is A temperature control device that heats a temperature-controlled object using the aforementioned heat transfer medium, and Heating devices installed in vehicles It has A method for controlling a temperature control system, In a heater mode in which the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger is mixed with the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure heat exchanger, the mixed heat transfer medium is fed into the high-pressure heat exchanger and the low-pressure heat exchanger, and the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger is fed into the temperature control device, in order to absorb heat from the heating device, the heat transfer medium discharged from the low-pressure heat exchanger is fed into the heating device, and the heat transfer medium fed into the heating device is combined with the heat transfer medium discharged from the high-pressure heat exchanger. A method for controlling a temperature control system.

Images