Heat pump coupling frame kit with energy monitoring

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat pump coupling frame kit (1) for a hybrid energy transformation device (600). The heat pump coupling frame kit (1) comprises a frame (2) for connecting the heat pump coupling frame kit (1) to a wall and to a boiler unit (500), in particular a boiler frame kit (100). Further provided is a distributor (10) arranged in the frame (2), in particular connected to the frame (2). The distributor (10) comprises at least one load connector set (17, 18) for connecting the distributor (10) with at least one load circuit (300) of an energy system (400), the load connector set (17, 18) comprising a first load connector configured to connect the load circuit of the energy system (400) to an output of the distributor (10) and a second load connector configured to connect a return from the load circuit to the distributor (10); a boiler connector set (15), comprising a first boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to an output line of the boiler unit (500) and a second boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to a return line of the boiler unit (500); and an energy monitoring module (1000) configured to determine a thermal energy production of the boiler unit (500) by: (a) querying the boiler unit (500) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or (b) determining a first temperature and first flow volume at the first boiler connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a first temperature sensor and a first flow sensor; and / or (c) determining the first temperature and the first flow volume at the first load connector or at a combined output of the distributor (10) to the at least one load circuit (300), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a first temperature sensor (1110) and a first flow sensor (1112); and / or (d) determining the heat demand of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler efficiency; and / or (e) determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and determining the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and the heat boiler efficiency; and / or (f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

Description

[0001] HEAT PUMP COUPLING FRAME KIT WITH ENERGY MONITORING

[0002] The invention relates to a heat pump coupling frame kit. The invention further relates to a boiler frame kit, a hybrid energy transformation device and an energy system. The invention further relates to the use of such a heat pump coupling frame kit and / or boiler frame kit. The invention further relates to a method of installation a hybrid energy transformation device.

[0003] Heat pumps become more and more popular for heating and / or cooling of houses, more and more also in addition to a boiler. Using a heat pump alongside a boiler is referred to as a ‘hybrid heat pump’. In other words, this term refers to an energy transfer system that uses a heat pump alongside a further heat source. Typically, it describes fitting a heat pump alongside a natural gas, LPG or oil boiler. Systems comprising a common boiler and a common heat pump require additional installation space. This installation space is not always available, in particular in cases where an already existing boiler needs to be replaced.

[0004] In order to reduce the needed installation space for such hybrid heat pump system, more recent hybrid heat pump systems comprise a heat pump unit, an outdoor unit, and a boiler unit in one compact system, sometimes referred to as a complete hybrid heat pump product. Such a complete hybrid heat pump product is designed for a cooperation of the individual units in the system, which are easy to transport and install such a compact system. These compact systems allow that the components of the units can be accessed from the front of the system. These known complete hybrid heat pump products are configured to determine cheap and energy-efficient heating modes depending on the internal heating demand, energy prices and outdoor temperatures. A disadvantage of such known complete hybrid heat pump systems is that the heat pump is directly connected to the central heating load circuit, this leads to highly fluctuating volume flow during operation, which can reduce the service life of a heat pump. In addition, the thermostatic radiator valves are constantly active during operation, which changes the volume flow constantly. In addition, the heater valves can be opened and closed manually, which also leads to changes in the volume flow. Also these volume flow changes lead to reduced service life of a heat pump.

[0005] Commonly known hybrid heat pumps including complete hybrid heat pump products have the further disadvantage that the installation requires an installer who is trained on refrigeration system mechatronics including the required certifications. As part of the energy transition requirements and regulations, a large number of replacement and upgrading of existing installations is expected, which leads to a need that also installers who are trained in boiler installations, only, need to be able to upgrade or replace an existing boiler installation without the need for refrigeration system mechatronic training and certification. Any new hybrid systems in addition need to be configured to prove that the hybrid heating system is climate-friendly. The European Green Deal aims at reducing net greenhouse gas emissions at least 55% by 2030 from the current 40% and to make CO2 neutrality by 2050 legally binding. Different sectors are addressed in the Green New Deal like heating and cooling of buildings. The Commission Recommendation (EU) of 7 June 2019 for example on building modernization already stated that buildings account for nearly 40% of the final energy consumption; therefore, the reduction in energy intensity is deemed one of the most important measures to combat environmental change and global warming. The aim is also to reach zero-emission building stock by 2050. The building sector leads to an increasing energy demand and, as a result, an increase in carbon dioxide emissions. It is calculated that 50% of energy consumption is used for heating and cooling purposes, 80% of which is related to ensuring comfortable thermal conditions in buildings. This energy consumption is to be impacted by using renewable energy sources and new solutions with higher efficiency. The effects achieved in this way are deemed to not only be beneficial to the environment, but, above all, to the consumer, whose operating costs are significantly reduced. Both environmental and economic factors have led e.g. the European Union (EU) regulators to introduce a definition for "nearly Zero-Energy Buildings", hereinafter referred to as "sustainable buildings". Pursuant to the Directive of the European Parliament, they are buildings with low demand for heating, cooling, and electricity, which should be covered to a very significant extent by energy from renewable sources. The document does not include the exact values of the coefficients to be met by a building, as these are defined by each Member State. In Germany for example, climate target regulation requires energy monitoring implementation to ensure climate-friendly heating. The energy monitoring is intended to help ensure that newly installed heating systems will be powered at least 65% by renewable energy sources and is thus considered sustainable under the respective regulation. This in a hybrid heat pump system requires that both consumed and delivered energy can be determined and allocated to the respective heating device and the information can be monitored, displayed, and reported, so that the sustainability of the hybrid heat pump system can e.g. be proven, improved, or adjusted. The object of the invention is therefore, to facilitate the constructively easy and safe installation and connection of hybrid heat pump systems and of their components wherein the installation and connection does not require specific refrigeration system training of the installer and wherein recirculation in the hybrid energy transfer system is reduced or avoided in a constructively simple manner, optimally changes in the negative impact of volume flow fluctuation within the central heating load circuit on the service life of the hybrid heat pump system is reduced, preferably avoided. In addition, it is an object of the invention to facilitate that the consumed and delivered heat of such hybrid heat pump systems can be easily monitored, displayed, and reported.

[0006] The object is solved by a heat pump coupling frame kit for a hybrid energy transformation device, the heat pump coupling frame kit comprising a frame for connecting the heat pump coupling frame kit to a wall and to a boiler unit, in particular a boiler frame kit as described below, and a distributor arranged within a volume delimited by the frame, in particular connected to the frame, wherein the distributor comprises at least one load connector set for connecting a cavity of=the distributor with at least one load circuit of an energy system, the load connector set comprising a first load connector configured to connect the load circuit of the energy system to an output of the distributor and a second load connector configured to connect a return from the load circuit to the distributor; a boiler connector set, comprising a first boiler connector configured to connect the distributorto an output line of the boiler unit and a second boiler connector configured to connect the distributor to a return line of the boiler unit; and an energy monitoring module configured to determine a thermal energy production of the boiler unit by:

[0007] (a) querying the boiler unit via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or

[0008] (b) determining a first temperature and first flow volume at the first boiler connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a first temperature sensor and a first flow sensor; and / or

[0009] (c) determining the first temperature and the first flow volume at the first load connector or at a combined output of the distributor to the at least one load circuit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a first temperature sensor and a first flow sensor; and / or (d) determining the heat demand of the boiler unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit and a boiler efficiency; and / or

[0010] (e) determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and determining the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and the heat boiler efficiency; and / or

[0011] (f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

[0012] The heat pump coupling frame kit according to the invention thus allows for both consumed and delivered energy to be determined and allocated to the respective heating device and the information to be monitored, displayed, and reported, so that the sustainability of a heat pump system comprising the heat pump coupling frame kit can e.g. be proven, improved, or adjusted.

[0013] The heat pump coupling frame kit according to the invention further allows for the decoupling of the volume flow to the heat pump and to the central heating load circuit by provision of the distributor. The heat pump coupling frame kit according to the invention thereby reduces or even avoids the negative impact of volume flow fluctuation within the central heating load circuit on the service life of the energy system. The heat pump coupling frame kit according to the invention can further be installed by an installer without requiring a specific refrigeration system training. The heat pump coupling frame kit allows to install and connect a heat pump unit and a boiler unit to form a hybrid energy transfer system in a standardized, easy manner, reducing the chance of errors. The installation further requires few changes to the existing installation site, in particular, extensive interventions in the piping system of the existing, e.g. boiler installation can be reduced to a minimum or even avoided. Thus, the heat pump coupling frame kit according to the invention allows for a constructively easy, fast, error-reduced and safe installation and connection to provide a hybrid energy transfer system and of its components. The installation and connection does not require specific refrigeration system training of the installer and in addition, the heat pump coupling frame kit ensures that changes in the negative impact of volume flow within the central heating load circuit on the service life of the hybrid heat pump system is reduced, preferably avoided. The heat pump frame kit according to the invention further allows for the reduction or even avoidance of recirculation in the hybrid energy transfer system in a constructively simple manner. The heat pump coupling frame kit can be fluidically connected to a heat pump unit. The heat pump unit can be a monobloc heat pump, in particular an outdoor unit of a heat pump. Further the heat pump can be an air source heat pump or ground source heat pump.

[0014] Another advantage of the heat pump coupling frame kit to an existing heat pump unit and / or boiler unit in an existing installation is constructively easy and safe and does not require additional training and can be connected by an installer trained for boiler installation.

[0015] The heat pump coupling frame kit is to be connected to the wall and the boiler unit is to be connected to the heat pump coupling frame kit such that the heat pump coupling frame kit is in between the wall and the boiler unit.

[0016] The boiler unit uses fuel, which may be oil, natural gas, propane, hydrogen or a mixture of hydrogen and another fuel, such as natural gas or propane. The boiler unit comprises a burner, a burner chamber and a heat exchanger and can comprise valves, at least one control unit, a control panel and an expansion valve.

[0017] The distributor is a hydronic or hydraulic distributor by means of which a liquid, in particular water, as an energy carrier is distributed between the heat pump unit and / or boiler on one side and at least one load circuit on the other side. The terms hydraulic and hydronic are used as synonymously. The term is used in this application to mean a liquid, in particular a liquid aqueous system, in particular water, as a heat-transfer medium in heating and / or cooling system, as also the term hydraulic is used in the field of heating and cooling for such a heat-transfer medium system, the terms are used synonymously in this application. The (first inner space of the) distributor is fluidly connected with a heat pump unit and a boiler unit to receive water from the heat pump unit and the boiler unit that is to be distributed to the one or more load circuits of the energy system. The (first inner space of the) distributor is also fluidly connected to the one or more load circuits to discharge water received from the heat pump unit and the boiler unit to the one or more load circuits. The (second inner space of the) distributor is also fluidly connected to the one or more load circuits to receive water from the one or more load circuits that is to be distributed to the heat pump unit and the boiler unit for heating or cooling (the latter only with respect to the heat pump unit). The (second inner space of the) distributor is also fluidly connected to the heat pump unit and the boiler unit to distribute water received from the one or more load circuits to the heat pump unit and the boiler unit to be heated or cooled, the latter only with respect to the heat pump unit. The terms first and second inner space are defined below.

[0018] The term connector set is used to refer to a set of connectors, comprising at least one connector functioning as a fluid outlet from the distributor and one corresponding connector functioning as a fluid inlet to the distributor. Connector sets may be provided as pairs. More generally, connectors sets may also comprise one or more connector functioning as a fluid outlet from the distributor and one or more corresponding connectors functioning as a fluid inlet to the distributor. The corresponding connector is part of a pipe that is attached to the wall of the housing.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to use a return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit, and wherein the energy monitoring module is configured to determine the return temperature by querying via a local connection, bus, or network, a heat pump unit connected to the distributor. Additionally or alternatively, determining the return temperature at the second boiler connector, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a second temperature sensor. Additionally or alternatively, determining the return temperature at the second load connector, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a return temperature sensor. Additionally or alternatively, determining the return temperature in a cavity within the distributor for water returned from the at least one load circuit.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the heat pump coupling frame kit can further comprise a heat pump connector set, comprising a first heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor to an output line of a heat pump unit and a second heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor to a return line of the heat pump unit wherein the energy monitoring module is configured to determine a thermal energy production of the heat pump unit by querying the heat pump unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining a second temperature and second flow volume at the first heat pump connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a second temperature sensor and a second flow sensor; Additionally or alternatively, determining the second temperature and the second flow volume at the first load connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module comprises a second temperature sensor and a second flow sensor. Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the heat pump unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining a power consumption of the heat pump unit and determining the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the power consumption of the heat pump unit and the heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to use the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to determine an energy consumption of the heat pump unit by querying the heat pump unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from an electrical meter via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the heat pump unit, and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is configured to receive the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based on the heat pump unit fan speed and compressor speed.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to use the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit, the output flow temperature of the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit or at the first heat pump connector, and / or the flow volume from the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit or at the first heat pump connector to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to determine an energy consumption of the boiler unit by querying the boiler unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from an electrical meter or a gas meter via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the boiler unit, and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit and a boiler unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining the thermal energy production of the boiler unit and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the boiler unit and a boiler unit efficiency.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is configured to receive the energy consumption of the boiler unit based on the fan speed and / or a mass flow sensor at a fuel input to the boiler unit.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the heat pump coupling frame kit further comprises an analogue control signal adaptor configured to receive a set point for the boiler unit via a local bus or network and to control the boiler unit via an analogue signal, more particularly a 0-10 volt analogue signal, and / or a 4-20mA analogue signal, and / or an on / off signal.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to allocate thermal energy production of the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit to a load circuit, in particular either to a heating load circuit or to a domestic hot water load circuit, according to a setting of a switch valve, and / or according to a pump that is used for the load circuit, and / or according to a heat meter connected to the load circuit.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to determine an efficiency of the boiler unit, and / or an efficiency of the heat pump unit, and / or a system efficiency.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is further configured to determine an amount of energy consumption from renewable sources and / or an amount of energy consumption from fossil fuel sources.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the heat pump coupling frame kit further comprises at least one control unit wherein the control unit is configured for controlling a boiler unit and / or a heat pump unit.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is configured to be executed on the control unit. In a further embodiment, the energy monitoring module is configured to be loaded and executed on a control unit associated with either the boiler unit or the heat pump unit.

[0033] According to an embodiment the distributor comprises a separation wall separating the cavity in a first inner space and a second inner space. The separation wall separates the liquid flowing from the boiler unit and heat pump unit into the first inner space from the liquid flowing from the at least one load circuit into the second inner space. Thus, it can be prevented that the inflowing liquids having different temperatures mix resulting in a lower efficiency of the energy system.

[0034] The first inner space may be above the second inner space. The first and second inner spaces are within the distributor. The first inner space may be configured to comprise warm water received from the heat pump unit and / or boiler unit. The second inner space may be configured to comprise cold water received from the one or more load circuits of the energy system.

[0035] According to an embodiment the distributor has a connection line fluidically connecting the first inner space and the second inner space.

[0036] This prevents a short circuit in the distributor. Water coming from the heat pump unit enters the first inner space, then via the connection line to the second inner space and from there, back to the heat pump unit. Water that flows in, must also flow out. Depending on the requirements, part of the water flows towards the one or more load circuits, to also end up in the second inner space. The mass flows are independent.

[0037] The connection line may be connected to any connection set comprising at least one connector having an open end in the first inner space and / or at least one other connector having an open end in the second inner space.

[0038] According to an embodiment the distributor comprises at least one heat pump connector set for a heat pump unit.

[0039] By providing more than one heat pump connector set, the installer may select the heat pump connector set that is best accessible in the given situation. In particular, the installer can use the connector set that can be easier connected to the lines that fluidically connect the distributer to the heat pump unit. Also, the non-used heat pump connector set may be used to connect the connection line fluidically connecting the first inner space and the second inner space as mentioned above.

[0040] According to an embodiment the distributor comprises a first heat pump connector set and a second heat pump connecting set, wherein the first heat pump connector set and the second heat pump connector set are positioned at opposite sides of the distributor.

[0041] The opposite sides are opposite in horizontal direction, when the heat pump coupling frame kit is in its normal operation orientation. The first heat pump connector set may be positioned on the left, and the second heat pump connector set may be positioned right, when seen in a direction perpendicular to the wall to which the heat pump coupling frame kit is to be connected.

[0042] According to an embodiment the distributor comprises a boiler connector set for a boiler unit.

[0043] The boiler connector set for connecting the distributor to the boiler unit may be positioned centrally in the distributor.

[0044] According to an embodiment each connector set comprises a first connector to the first inner space and a second connector to the second inner space.

[0045] This applies to all connector sets, including the load connector set(s), as well as to the heat pump and boiler connector sets.

[0046] According to an embodiment the distributor comprises at least one load connector set arranged coaxially to a corresponding connector set of a load circuit. The at least one load connector of a first load connector set connects the cavity of the distributor fluidically with at least one load circuit of an energy system for example a central heating circuit. The at least one connector is configured to be coaxially connected to a corresponding connector of a corresponding connector set of the load circuit in case the distributor is fluidically connected to the load circuit. The corresponding connector of the corresponding connector set comprises or is a shut-off valve.

[0047] The load connector set, in particular for connecting the distributor with a central heating circuit, may be arranged at a standard distance from the wall (or the parts of the heat pump coupling frame kit to be positioned against the wall, i.e. the back panel(s)) and at a standard mutual distance relative to each other, i.e. the first connector and the second connector are at a standard mutual distance relative to each other. The distances are all measured from the centre point of the connectors. The distance from the wall may be in the range of 45 - 55 mm, for instance 50 mm. The mutual distance may be in the range of 120 - 140 mm, for instance 130 mm.

[0048] According to an embodiment the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises a flow pipe fluidically connected to the first inner space.

[0049] Assuming the energy system is used for heating purposes, the flow pipe is connected to the first inner space and configured to receive warm water from the first inner space and transport the warm water to the at least one load circuit(s). Said flow pipe can be arranged in an inner space of the heat pump coupling frame kit. The inner space is delimited by panels of the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0050] According to an embodiment the flow pipe extends along a central body axis of the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0051] The central body axis may be a vertical central body axis, where the term vertical is used to refer to the normal operation or installation position and orientation of the heat pump coupling frame kit. By providing the flow pipe centrally, the flow pipe is reachable from different sides. In use, the heat pump coupling frame kit is positioned in between the wall and the boiler unit, so the heat pump coupling frame kit can easiest be maintained from the sides. By providing the flow pipe centrally, it is accessible from both sides. The flow line may run in upward direction from the distributor. The flow line may be perpendicular to the distributor, connected to the upper side of the distributor. The term upper side is used to the normal operation orientation of the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0052] According to an embodiment the flow pipe is fluidically connected with a pump and / or a deaerator.

[0053] Assuming the energy system is used for heating purposes, the pump is provided to pump warm water to the at least one load circuit. The deaerator is provided to allow entrapped air to escape, thereby preventing air to reach the pump and / or the load circuits. Preferably the deaerator is provided upstream with respect to the pump. A deaerator is a device that is used for the removal of air and other dissolved gases from water. The pump may be positioned between the central body axis or flow pipe and a first side panel of the heat pump coupling frame kit or between the central body axis or flow pipe and a second side panel of the heat pump coupling frame kit. The installer has the choice to position the pump on either side, depending on which side is best accessible for installation and maintenance. This may depend on the geometry of the installation room in which the heat pump coupling frame kit is installed and the exact position of the heat pump coupling frame kit in the installation room.

[0054] According to an embodiment wherein the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises a switch valve, fluidly connected to the flow pipe, the switch valve configured to divide the water over two or more load circuits.

[0055] The switch valve is preferably positioned downstream of the pump. The switch valve is with an inlet side fluidly connected to the flow line via the pump (and the deaerator if present) and with an outlet side to two or more load circuits. A switch valve actuator may be provided to actuate the switch valve to divide the water as desired. The switch valve may be configured to send a first portion of the water to a first load circuit and a second, remaining, portion of the water to a second load circuit. Alternatively, the switch valve can be configured such that the water flows only into one load circuit.

[0056] According to an embodiment the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises two side panels, in particular a right-hand side panel and a left-hand side panel.

[0057] The side panels are provided at opposite sides of the heat pump coupling frame kit to shield the interior of the heat pump coupling frame kit comprising the distributor and other components, like the deaerator, the pump, the flow pipe, diverting valve. In particular, the side panels can be opposite to each other regarding a plane comprising the central body axis of the heat pump coupling panel. The side panels refer to the sides of the heat pump coupling frame kit that are covered by the wall or the boiler unit when the heat pump coupling panel is connected to the wall and the boiler unit.

[0058] According to an embodiment the side panels can comprise at least one of steel, aluminium, a polymeric, in particular a thermoplastic material, and a composite material or can be made of steel, aluminium, a polymeric, in particular a thermoplastic material, and a composite material. Steel provides the side panels with strength. The aluminium, the polymeric, in particular the thermoplastic material, and the composite material may be used to reduce the noise generated by the heat pump coupling frame kit and the boiler unit and reduce the weight of the respective unit.

[0059] According to an embodiment the side panels are configured to be attached to the frame in an operational state of the heat pump coupling frame kit and are configured to be opened or removed from the heat pump coupling frame kit in a maintenance state.

[0060] In the operational state the side panels cover the inside of the heat pump coupling kit and close off the inside of the heat pump coupling kit to prevent accidental access of bypassers or dust. The side panels can be removed or opened to provide access to the inside of the heat pump coupling frame kit. This allows maintenance personnel to access the heat pump coupling frame kit without the need to remove the boiler unit and / or the boiler frame kit. Depending on the circumstances, the maintenance personnel may access from one side or the other side.

[0061] According to an embodiment the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises a control unit. The control unit is used for controlling the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit. Additionally, the control unit can be used to control the components discussed above that are arranged in the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0062] According to an embodiment the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises a receiving portion in which selectively an expansion vessel or a control unit can be arranged. The receiving portion can comprise a mounting fixture for the control unit.

[0063] The expansion vessel comprises air and water from a load circuit for the central heating. The expansion vessel maintains a predetermined level of pressure in the load circuit. Expansion vessels are also referred to as expansion tanks. Expansion vessels have various designs. One common design is a rectangular shaped container. Also known are cylinder or disk shaped expansion vessels. The expansion vessel is split in two parts by diaphragm. One part is filled with water from the load circuit, the other part is filled with nitrogen. An expansion vessel further comprises an air valve which allows for the expansion vessel to be depressurized and repressurized as needed. The air valve is used to check the pressure of the expansion vessel and correct it if necessary. For testing, the expansion vessel on the water side must first be depressurized. In case the control unit is selected to be arranged in the receiving portion of the heat pump coupling frame kit, the expansion vessel can be arranged in the boiler unit or can be arranged outside an energy system. This has the advantage, that the configuration of the heat pump coupling frame kit can be constructively easily optimized to the respective installation needs, requirements and limitations.

[0064] The control unit may be integrated in the heat pump coupling frame kit. The control unit may be configured to control the switch valve. The control unit may be configured to control the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit to which the heat pump coupling frame kit may be connected. The control unit comprises one or more processors or be a processor. Alternatively, the control unit can be a control board circuit or can be part of a control board circuit. Any or all sensors, pumps, actuators, room units of the energy system can be connected the controller unit, wirelessly or via electric lines.

[0065] According to an embodiment the boiler frame kit comprises a mounting fixture for a control unit or an expansion vessel.

[0066] According to an embodiment the heat pump coupling frame kit comprises a mounting fixture for a boiler unit or the heat pump unit. The mounting fixture allows for easy installation, in particular only requiring one installer. The mounting fixture can be comprised in or part of the support panels. The mounting fixture can comprise two protruding sheet metal strips on the top right and on the top left, respectively (in installation position). The mounting fixture can be is designed such, that the out-out in a rear panel of a boiler unit, in particular a boiler frame kit, can be accommodated and the weight of the boiler unit, in particular the boiler frame kit, is introduced into the frame of the heat pump coupling frame kit. In other words, the frame of the heat pump coupling frame kit replaces a mounting rail of the boiler unit, in particular a boiler frame kit, which is otherwise attached to the wall with screws. The mounting fixture can be a mounting bracket.

[0067] According to a further aspect there is provided a boiler frame kit for a hybrid energy transformation device, comprising o a frame for connecting the boiler frame kit to a heat pump coupling frame kit and / or o at least one control unit wherein the control unit is configured for controlling a boiler unit and / or a heat pump unit. The boiler frame kit is configured to be attached to the heat pump coupling frame kit. The boiler frame kit may be a newly installed boiler unit which is now combined with a heat pump unit using the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0068] According to an embodiment the boiler frame kit comprises a mounting fixture for a control unit, in particular for fixing the control unit to the frame of the boiler frame kit.

[0069] The control unit may be integrated in the boiler frame kit. The control unit may be configured to control the boiler unit, the heat pump unit and / or the heat pump coupling frame kit.

[0070] According to an embodiment the boiler frame kit comprises a control panel, which is configured to or configurable to communicate with the at least one control unit. In case the control unit is selected to be arranged in the receiving portion of the heat pump coupling frame kit, the expansion vessel can be arranged in the boiler unit or can be arranged outside an energy system. This has the advantage, that the configuration of the heat pump coupling frame kit can be constructively easily optimized to the respective installation needs, requirements and limitations.

[0071] The control unit may be configured to control and communicate with boiler parts, including sensors, pumps, actuators, room units via wired or wireless connections (including Internet). The control unit may comprise recesses for receiving plugs.

[0072] According to an aspect there is provided a hybrid energy transformation device comprising a heat pump coupling frame kit as described, further comprising further comprising a boiler unit, in particular a boiler frame kit as described wherein the heat pump coupling frame kit supports the boiler unit, in particular the boiler frame kit.

[0073] According to an aspect there is provided an energy system, comprising a hybrid energy transformation device as described and a heat pump unit.

[0074] The heat pump unit may be a monobloc heat pump unit.

[0075] According to an embodiment, there is provided an energy system, further comprising at least one load circuit. The load circuit can be a central heating circuit or a domestic hot water circuit. The central heating circuit can comprise a radiator for heating a room and / or can be a floor heating. The domestic hot water circuit provides hot water for e.g. showering. An energy system can comprise more load circuits. The energy system can comprise one or more central heating circuits and / or one or more domestic hot water circuits.

[0076] The energy system may comprise one load circuit, or two or more load circuits. The load circuits may be selected from a central heating or cooling circuit and a domestic hot water circuit.

[0077] When the energy system is used for cooling purposes, the pipes and components are preferably insulated, in particular diffusion-proof insulated, to prevent condensation formation. Diffusion-proof, also referred to as diffusion-tight insulation is diffusion-proof cold and heat insulation.

[0078] The invention further relates to the use of the heat pump coupling frame kit and / or boiler frame kit in a hybrid energy transformation device as described or in an energy system as described.

[0079] According to an aspect there is provided a method of monitoring energy in an energy system, in particular as described herein, the method comprising: determining a thermal energy production of a boiler unit by querying the boiler unit via a local connection, bus, or network; Additionally or alternatively, determining, using sensors, a first temperature and first flow volume at a first boiler connector of a boiler connector set, the first boiler connector configured to connect a distributor to an output line of the boiler unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume; Additionally or alternatively, determining, using sensors, the first temperature and the first flow volume at a first load connector of a load connector set or at a combined output of the distributor to the load circuit, the first load connector configured to connect the load circuit of the energy system to an output of the distributor, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume; Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the boiler unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit and a boiler efficiency; Additionally or alternatively, determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit and determining the thermal energy output of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the energy consumption of the boiler unit and the heat boiler efficiency; Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network. In a further embodiment, the method can further comprise using a return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit, the return temperature determined by querying via a local connection, bus, or network a heat pump unit connected to the distributor. Additionally or alternatively, determining, using a sensor, the return temperature at a second boiler connector of the boiler connector set, the second boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to a return line of the boiler unit. Additionally or alternatively, determining, using a sensor, the return temperature at a second load connector, the second load connector configured to connect a return from the load circuit to the distributor; Additionally or alternatively, determining, using a sensor, the return temperature in a cavity within the distributor for water returned from the at least one load circuit.

[0080] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining a thermal energy production of a heat pump unit by querying the heat pump unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining, using a sensor, a second temperature and second flow volume at a first heat pump connector of a heat pump connector set, the first heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor to an output line of a heat pump unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume. Additionally or alternatively, determining, using a sensor, the second temperature and the second flow volume at the first load connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume. Additionally or alternatively, determining a heat demand of the heat pump unit, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining a power consumption of the heat pump unit and determining the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the power consumption of the heat pump unit and the heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises using the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit.

[0082] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining an energy consumption of the heat pump unit by querying the heat pump unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from an electrical meter via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the heat pump unit, and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit and a heat pump unit efficiency.

[0083] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining the energy consumption of the heat pump unit based on a heat pump unit fan speed and a heat pump unit compressor speed.

[0084] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises using the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit, the output flow temperature of the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit or at the first heat pump connector, and / or the flow volume from the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit or at the first heat pump connector to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit.

[0085] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit by querying the boiler unit via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, receiving information from an electrical meter or a gas meter via a local connection, bus, or network. Additionally or alternatively, determining the heat demand of the boiler unit, and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit and a boiler unit efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, determining the thermal energy production of the boiler unit and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the boiler unit and a boiler unit efficiency.

[0086] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining the energy consumption of the boiler unit based on a fan speed and / or a mass flow sensor at a fuel input to the boiler unit.

[0087] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises allocating thermal energy production of the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit to a load circuit, in particular either to a heating load circuit or to a domestic hot water load circuit, according to a setting of a switch valve, and / or according to a pump that is used for the load circuit, and / or according to a heat meter connected to the load circuit.

[0088] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining an efficiency of the boiler unit (500), and / or an efficiency of the heat pump unit (200), and / or a system efficiency.

[0089] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining an amount of energy consumption from renewable sources and / or an amount of energy consumption from fossil fuel sources.

[0090] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises displaying monitored energy information on a local display and / or in an application executing on a mobile computing device, in particular a mobile phone and / or a tablet.

[0091] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises making monitored energy information available via an API and / or an interface.

[0092] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises sending monitored energy information over a network, in particular the Internet, to a cloud service.

[0093] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises sending monitored energy information to a cloud service comprises sending the monitored energy information to the cloud service at regular intervals, in particular hourly, and / or daily, and / or weekly, and / or monthly.

[0094] According to an aspect a computer program product is provided comprising programmed instructions that, when executed on a processor, cause the processor to carry out the method described herein.

[0095] The invention further relates to a method of operation of an energy system according to the invention, wherein an operation mode of a heat pump unit and of a boiler unit is selected dependent on an outside air temperature and / or an outlet temperature of a load circuit liquid, and / or a threshold value of at least 2,5 COP for the heat pump unit. The COP value is defined as the relationship between the power (kW) that is drawn out of the heat pump as cooling or heat, and the power (kW) that is supplied to the compressor. The COP value can be determined according to DIN EN 14511 . A further problem to be solved by the application is to provide a method to optimize the use of renewable energies during operation of an energy system.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises that the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit is selected such that in a first operation mode the boiler unit is operated and the heat pump unit is deactivated when the outside air temperature is 0 °C, in particular -4 °C, in particular -5 °C, in particular -7°C, in particular -10 °C or less. Additionally or alternatively, such that in a first operation mode the heat pump unit is operated and the boiler unit is deactivated or only provides peak load coverage when the outside air temperature is greater than - 10 °C, in particular -7 °C, in particular -5 °C, in particular -4 °C, in particular 0 °C and the outlet temperature of the load circuit liquid is less than 55 °C, in particular less than 52 °C, in particular less than 50 °C, in particular less than 45 °C, in particular less than 35 °C. Additionally or alternatively, such that in a first operation mode the boiler unit is operated and the heat pump unit is deactivated when the outlet temperature of the load circuit liquid is 35 °C, in particular, 45 °C, in particular 50°C, in particular 53 °C, in particular 55 °C or greater.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit is selected such that a heat load of the heat pump unit is at least 30% at 2 °C outside air temperature and 35 °C outlet temperature of the load circuit liquid.

[0098] This has the additional advantage that the method is particularly optimized to the use of renewable energies.

[0099] In a further embodiment, the first mode comprises that the selection comprises a delay time for switching on the boiler unit depending on at least one outside temperature condition / threshold.

[0100] This has the additional advantage that the heat pump use is further optimized by delaying the use of the boiler even further.

[0101] In a further embodiment, the first mode comprises a step of selecting a heating zone or room in a building, The first mode can further comprise a pre-heating setting wherein a target temperature is reached over a time period. The time period is selected, received or inputted. This pre-heating step has the additional advantage, that the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit can operate in a low power mode, whereby the efficiency is further enhanced.

[0102] Instead of the first operation mode or additionally, in a further embodiment, the method comprises an alternative or second operation mode, wherein the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit is alternatively or additionally selected based on the actual or forecasted energy cost price. The method further comprising a step of selecting, receiving or inputting at least one cost parameter.

[0103] This has the additional advantage that in addition or as a starting point for the user, the optimization can be based on cost price of the energy used.

[0104] Instead of the first operation mode or additionally, in a further embodiment, the method comprises an alternative or third operation mode, wherein the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit is alternatively or additionally selected based on actual, simulated or forecasted CO2 emission threshold.

[0105] The method can further comprise the step of selecting, receiving or inputting at least one CO2parameter.

[0106] This has the additional advantage that flexible to renewable, sustainable energies are chosen based on their CO2footprint parameters.

[0107] In a further embodiment, the method comprises a step of using surplus energy of a PV module of the energy system, wherein the energy of the PV module can be transferred to a buffer tank or used in the operational mode of the heating unit or the boiler unit. This has the additional benefit that the efficiency is further enhanced.

[0108] This has the additional advantage that local renewable energy can be stored optimally and enhance sustainability.

[0109] The invention further relates to a computer program product comprising programmed instructions for controlling an energy management system as described, wherein the programmed instructions, when executed on a processor of a control unit configured for controlling a boiler unit as described and / or a heat pump unit as described, cause the control unit to carry out the method as described for selecting the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit. In the figures, the subject-matter of the invention is schematically shown, wherein identical or similarly acting elements are usually provided with the same reference signs.

[0110] Figures 1 , 2 schematically show a heat pump coupling frame kit according to an embodiment,

[0111] Figure 3 schematically shows a hybrid energy transformation device according to an embodiment,

[0112] Figures 4, 5 schematically show more detailed views of part of a heat pump coupling frame kit according to an embodiment,

[0113] Figure 6 schematically shows an energy system according to an embodiment and first and second installation implementation,

[0114] Figures 7a, b schematically show a heat pump coupling frame kit according to different embodiments,

[0115] Figure 8 schematically shows a complete hybrid heat pump product according to the prior art,

[0116] Figure 9 schematically shows a mounting bracket for mounting a boiler unit according to an embodiment

[0117] Figure 10 shows a block diagram of an energy monitoring module according to an embodiment, and

[0118] Figure 11 schematically shows an example of an energy system using a heat pump coupling frame kit, and including a heat pump, a boiler, and an energy monitoring module according to an embodiment.

[0119] Figures 1 and 2 schematically show a heat pump coupling frame kit 1. In Fig. 1 the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 is shown with the side panels removed for better visibility. The side panels are in position in Fig. 2.

[0120] The heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises a frame 2, which is configured to be attached to a wall. The frame 2 may comprise one or more back panels 3 which, when installed, are positioned against the wall. The back panels 3 may comprise one or more holes for to facilitate attaching the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 to the wall with screws, hooks, nails or the like.

[0121] The frame 2 further comprises a top panel 4 and two support panels 5 to support the top panel 4 and connect it to the back panels 3. Further provided are two side panels 6. The support panels 5 further are a mounting fixture 34 for a boiler. The mounting fixture 34 in this embodiment comprises two protruding sheet metal strips 35 on the top right and on the top left (in installation position), respectively. The mounting fixture 34 is designed such, that the out-out in a rear panel of a boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100 (not shown), can be accommodated and the weight of the boiler unit 500, in particular the boiler frame kit 100, is introduced into the frame 2. In other words, the frame 2 replaces a mounting rail (not shown) of the boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100, which is otherwise attached to the wall with screws (not shown).

[0122] The side panels 6 can comprise at least one of steel, aluminium, a polymeric, in particular a thermoplastic martial, and a composite material or can be made of steel, aluminium, a polymeric, in particular a thermoplastic martial, and a composite material. Steel provides for strong and durable side panels. The aluminium, the polymeric, in particular the thermoplastic material, and the composite material may be used to reduce the noise generated by the heat pump coupling frame kit and the boiler unit and reduce the weight of the respective unit.

[0123] The side panels 6 may be attached to the frame 2 in a removable or openable manner. The side panels 6 may be configured to be attached to the frame 2 in an operational state to close off the interior of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 and are configured to be opened or removed from the frame in a maintenance state to allow access to the interior of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 . The side panels 6 may be connected to the frame 2 via a hinge, allowing the side panels 6 to be opened.

[0124] The frame 2 may further be configured to connect to a boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100. When installed, the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 is positioned in between the wall and the boiler unit 500, in particular the boiler frame kit 100. Fig. 3 shows the boiler unit 500 as the boiler frame kit 100 in position attached to the wall.

[0125] The heat pump coupling frame kit 1 further comprises a distributor 10 which is arranged within a volume delimited by the frame 2, in the figure the distributor 10 is connected to the frame 2. The distributor 10 is a hydronic or hydraulic distributor by means of which a liquid, in particular water, as an energy carrier is distributed between the heat pump unit and / or boiler on one side and at least one load circuit on the other side. The terms hydraulic and hydronic are used synonymously.

[0126] The distributor 10 is more clearly depicted in Fig.’s 4 and 5. The distributor 10 comprises a first inner space 11 and a second inner space 12. The distributor 10 may have a block shape or any other suitable shape. The distributor 10 may comprise a cavity in which a separation wall 13 is provided to divide the cavity in the first and second inner spaces

[0127] 11 , 12. In heating mode, the first inner space 11 is used to receive warm water from the heat pump unit 200 and / or the boiler unit 500 and discharge water to the one or more load circuits 300. The second inner space 12 is used to receive water back from the one or more load circuits 300 and discharge water back to the heat pump unit 200 and / or the boiler unit 500.

[0128] The distributor 10 comprises a plurality of connector sets, each connector set comprising a first connector to the first inner space 11 and a second connector to the second inner space 12. Some connector sets may be provided below the second inner space 12, preferably at the bottom of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 . This may be the case for the heat pump connector set and the boiler connector set, which will be described in more detail below. The first connectors of these connecting sets may therefore be connected to the first inner space 11 by a connection running through the second inner space 12.

[0129] The heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises a boiler connector set 15 for connection to a boiler unit 500. The boiler connector set 15 includes a first boiler connector, connected to the first inner space 11 , for connecting an output of the boiler unit 500 to the distributor 10, and a second boiler connector, connected to the second inner space

[0130] 12, for connecting the distributor 10 to a return water input of the boiler unit 500.

[0131] The heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises at least one heat pump connector set 14 for connection to a heat pump unit 200. The heat pump connector set 14 includes a first heat pump connector, connected to the first inner space 11 , for connecting an output of the heat pump unit 200 to the distributor 10, and a second heat pump connector, connected to the second inner space 12, for connecting the distributor 10 to a return water input of the heat pump unit 200.

[0132] In the embodiment shown, a first heat pump connector set 14 is provided on the left and a second heat pump connector set 14’ is provided on the right. The first heat pump connector set 14 is connected to a heat pump unit 200. The second heat pump connector set 14’ is used for a different purpose, i.e. the connectors of the second heat pump connector set 14’ are mutually connected by a connection line 16, which forms a direct fluidical connection between the first inner space 11 and the second inner space 12. The connection line 16 may be a U-shape connection. The first and second heat pump connector sets may switch roles, depending on which side the heat pump unit 200 is located relative to the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 .

[0133] The distributor 10 comprises at least one load connector 17 of a first load connector set for fluidically connecting the cavity (i.e. the first and second inner spaces 11 , 12) of the distributor 10 with at least one load circuit of an energy system 400 (e.g. central heating circuit). The at least one connector 17 is configured to be coaxially connected to a corresponding connector 28 of a corresponding connector set of the load circuit in case the distributor 10 is fluidically connected to the load circuit. The corresponding connector 28 of the corresponding connector set 17 comprises or is a shut-off valve. The load connector set 17 may be arranged at a standard distance from the wall (or the parts of the heat pump coupling frame kit to be positioned against the wall, i.e. the back panel(s)) and at a standard mutual distance relative to each other, i.e. the first connector and the second connector are at a standard mutual distance relative to each other. The distances are all measured from the centre point of the connectors. The distance from the wall may be in the range of 45 - 55 mm, for instance 50 mm. The mutual distance may be in the range of 120 - 140 mm, for instance 130 mm. The load connector set 17 includes a first load connector that is configured to connect the load circuit to an output of the distributor 10, and a second load connector that is configured to connect the return water from the load circuit to the distributor 10.

[0134] The distributor 10 further comprises a second load connector set 18, which may be connected or connectable to a second load circuit of the energy system (e.g. domestic hot water).

[0135] Fig. 1 and 2 further show a flow pipe 20, which runs upwards from the distributor 10 to fluidly connect the first inner space 11 of the distributor 10 to an inlet of a pump 22. In between the inner space 11 and the pump 22 there is provided a deaerator 21 to prevent air from reaching the pump 22. The outlet of pump 22 is fluidically connected to a first connector of first load connector set 17 and to a first connector of second load connector set 18. A switch valve 23 may be provided to connect the outlet of pump 22 with both the first and second load circuits. The switch valve 23 may be operated with a switch valve actuator 24 to divide the water from the first inner space 11 over the load circuits.

[0136] The flow pipe 20 is positioned centrally, along central body axis B of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 . This allows the pump 22, the switch valve 23 and the switch valve actuator 24 to be positioned on the left (as in Fig. 2) or right (as in Fig. 1) of the flow pipe 20, depending on the circumstances. For instance, in Fig. 3 the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 is attached to a wall, close to a corner. In this situation, it would be more convenient to position the pump 22, the switch valve 23 and the switch valve actuator 24 as shown in Fig. 2, as this allows the pump 22, the switch valve 23 and the switch valve actuator 24 to be reachable for maintenance via the left-side panel 6, where the rightside panel 6 is blocked.

[0137] Fig. 6 shows a more schematic overview of the system, showing an energy system 400. The energy system 400 comprises a heat pump unit 200 connected to a so-called hybrid energy transformation device 600, which is formed by the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 , a boiler frame kit 100 or a boiler unit 500. The boiler frame kit 100 is configured to be connected to the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 by means of a frame. The boiler frame kit 100 may further comprise a control unit configured for controlling a boiler unit and a heat pump unit. For clarity, the lines through which cold water runs (when used in heating mode) are depicted as dotted lines.

[0138] The heat pump coupling frame kit as described above may be used in combination with a heat pump unit 200, being a monobloc heat pump unit 200 in which all the components of a heat pump unit 200 are provided in a single unit: including a compressor, an expansion valve, a source medium-refrigerant heat exchanger and a refrigerantdestination medium heat exchanger.

[0139] The energy system 400 as shown schematically in Fig. 6 comprises a hybrid energy transformation device 600, which can be installed in a first and second implementation. The boiler unit 500 is installed to a wall and a heat pump frame kit 1 can be installed behind the existing boiler unit 500 as part of an energy system 400 (first implementation) or the boiler unit 500 can be replaced by a heat pump frame kit 1 and a replacement boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100 (second implementation) and the frame kits are connected to provide a hybrid energy transformation device 600 as part of an energy system 400.

[0140] Dismantling of existing boiler unit 500

[0141] As preceding steps prior to the removal of the boiler unit 500 from the wall, the following is performed. In a step, a system on the water and gas side (not shown) is shut off using an existing connector set 17 of a load circuit 30, in particular shut-off valves 36, in particular a set of shut-off valves 36 for gas and a central heating load circuit. The boiler unit 500 is drained. The connector set 17, in particular the set of shut-off valves 36, can remain in place but can also be replaced if necessary. In case of a second heating circuit, a respective pump or pump group of said second heating circuit is shut off, pipes of the second heating circuit to the boiler unit 500 are drained (not shown) and respective the connections are uninstalled. If needed, in a further step, a drinking water storage tank (not shown) which can be located under the boiler unit 500, can be uninstalled. In a further step, electrical connections of the boiler unit 500 are disconnected, a condensate drain (not shown) and a flue gas connection of a flue gas system (not shown) to the boiler unit 500 can be uninstalled. If needed, a new flue gas system (not shown) can be installed.

[0142] Installation of a hybrid energy transformation device 600 according to the first implementation

[0143] In the first implementation, in a first step, the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 is installed by connecting it to the wall and the previously removed boiler unit 500 is installed in a further step by connecting the boiler unit 500 to the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 . The boiler unit 500 can advantageously be installed using the two protruding sheet metal strips 35 of the mounting fixture 34 positioned on the top right and on the top left (in installation position) of the frame 2, respectively. The mounting fixture 34 is designed such, that the out-out in a rear panel of the boiler unit 500 can be accommodated and the weight of the boiler unit 500 is introduced into the frame 2. The mounting fixture can be a mounting bracket 40 as shown in Fig. 9. In other words, the frame 2 replaces a mounting rail (not shown) of the boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100, which is otherwise attached to the wall with screws (not shown). Further details of the installation process are described for the second implementation and also apply to the first implementation.

[0144] Installation of a hybrid energy transformation device 600 according to the second implementation

[0145] In a first step of the second implementation, a heat pump coupling frame kit 1 is installed by connecting it to the wall and a boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100, is installed in a further step by connecting the boiler unit 500, in particular the boiler frame kit 100, to the heat pump coupling frame kit 1. At least one load connector 17 of a distributor 10 of a connector set is fluidically connecting a cavity of the distributor 10 with at least one load circuit 30 of an energy system 400. The at least one connector 17 is configured to be coaxially connected to a corresponding connector 28, in particular a shut-off valve 36, of a corresponding connector set of the load circuit in case the distributor 10 is fluidically connected to the load circuit 30. This can in other words be described as a pin-2-pin fit of connection geometry of the existing connector set 37 of the previous boiler unit 500 installation. The frame 2 can be aligned with the aid of an integrated spirit level (not shown). In the upper left and right corner of the frame 2 two drill holes each can be provided, through which the frame 2 can be screwed to the wall, for example by means of key screws.

[0146] Optional Right / Left Execution

[0147] Depending on the conditions on site (niches, walls, fixtures, closets, etc.), a pump 22 and a switch valve 23 may not be accessible in the frame 2 without having to remove the boiler unit 500, in particular in the form of the boiler frame kit 100. In the event of maintenance, repair, replacement or to carry out a hydraulic balancing, the side panels 6 can be easily removed. For example, in case of a niche installation, a removable righthand side panel 6 could be of no use, because the pump 22 and the switch valve 23 would not be accessible due to the niche installation (not shown). In order to be able to adapt the installation constructively easily to the specific conditions on site, the pump 22 and switch valve 23 positioning can be converted on site from a right-hand version to a left-hand version. The conversion is achieved by way of the positioning the pump 22 and the switch valve 23 on a flow pipe 20, which is positioned centrally, along central body axis B, such that the pump 22, the switch valve 23 and also a switch valve actuator 24 can be positioned during the installation on the left (as in Fig. 2) of the flow pipe 20. In this example, the components are accessible from the left for maintenance and servicing in the niche installation blocking the right-hand side panel 6.

[0148] Depending on the installation location of the heat pump outdoor unit (not shown) or site conditions, the connectors 17, 18 are available in right-hand or left-hand version. This provides even greater flexibility during installation.

[0149] Boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100 installation

[0150] As a subsequent step, a boiler unit 500, in particular a boiler frame kit 100 can be installed on the heat pump coupling frame kit 1. This can be constructively easily achieved by hooking the boiler unit 500, in particular the boiler frame kit 100 into the mounting fixture 34, for example provided as a mounting bracket 40 as shown in Fig. 9, provided on the frame 2. The connecting set 15 for boiler flow, boiler return flow and gas to the heat pump frame kit 1 . The offset from the old to the new connection on the boiler preferably is 150 mm which is the depth of the frame 2. The flue gas connection can be re-established to a new flue gas system or connection to the existing system (not shown).

[0151] Installation of a control unit 25

[0152] The boiler unit 500, in particular the boiler frame kit 100, can be opened and a control unit 25 can be installed, which can be pre-mounted in the boiler frame kit 100, in the boiler unit 500. The control unit 25 can also be arranged, in particular pre-mounted, in the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 , allowing for constructively easy adaption of the installation depending on the specific conditions on site. The existing electrical lines of the energy system 400 can be rewired to the control unit 25, such as a domestic hot water sensor, a room unit, an outdoor sensor, a pump and mixer of a 2ndheating circuit. The controller 25 according to the invention can comprise pre-installed lines.

[0153] Plug in connectors of the pump 22 and the switch valve 23 can be connected to the control unit 25. Subsequently, a boiler front cover can be installed.

[0154] All system components connected to the control unit 25, such as the heat pump unit 200, the boiler unit 500 and any consumers (not shown), can be controlled via a boiler unit control panel 37.

[0155] The commissioning of the boiler unit 500, including leak test, flue gas measurement, etc., can be carried out as usual.

[0156] Fig.’s 7a schematically depict an embodiment in which the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises a control unit 25.

[0157] The control unit 25 may be integrated in the heat pump coupling frame kit. The control unit may be configured to control the switch valve, the heat pump unit and / or the boiler unit to which the heat pump coupling frame kit may be connected. The control unit comprises one or more processors or be a processor. Alternatively, the control unit can be a control board circuit or can be part of a control board circuit. Any or all sensors, pumps, actuators, room units of the energy system can be connected the controller unit, wirelessly or via electric lines (not shown).

[0158] Fig. 7b shows an alternative embodiment in which the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises an expansion vessel 26. The expansion vessel 26 comprises air and water from a load circuit 300 for the central heating. The expansion vessel 26 may preferably be arranged in a receiving portion 33 of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 . The receiving portion 33 can in particular comprise a mounting fixture 38 for the expansion vessel 26. The expansion vessel 26 maintains a predetermined level of pressure in the load circuit 300. Expansion vessels 26 are also referred to as expansion tanks. Expansion vessels 26 have various designs. One common design is a rectangular shaped container. Also known are cylinder or disk shaped expansion vessels. The expansion vessel 26 is split in two parts by diaphragm. One part is filled with water from the load circuit 300, the other part is filled with nitrogen. An expansion vessel 26 further comprises an air valve which allows for the expansion vessel 26 to be depressurized and repressurized as needed. The air valve is used to check the pressure of the expansion vessel 26 and correct it if necessary. For testing, the expansion vessel 26 on the water side must first be depressurized.

[0159] Together, Fig.’s 7a and 7b show an embodiment in which the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 comprises a receiving portion 33 in which selectively an expansion vessel 26 or a control unit 25 can be arranged. In case the control unit 25 is selected to be arranged in the receiving portion 33 of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 , the expansion vessel 26 can be arranged in the boiler unit 500 or can be arranged outside an energy system 400. This has the advantage, that the configuration of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 can be constructively easily optimized to the respective installation needs, requirements and limitations.

[0160] Fig. 8 shows a complete hybrid heat pump product 700 according to the prior art, comprising a heat pump unit 800 with an heat exchanger, an outdoor unit (not shown), and a boiler unit 900 in one compact system, wherein a load line 31 of the heat pump unit 900 and a load line 32 of the boiler unit 900 are directly fluidically connected via a T-piece 29 to the load connector to the load circuit for a central heating 30. The complete hybrid heat pump product 700 allows for components of the units (800, 900) to be accessed from the front F of the complete hybrid heat pump product 700.

[0161] Energy monitoring

[0162] As was discussed above, monitoring the energy production, consumption, and efficiency of a hybrid heat pump may be useful for determining whether efficiency targets are being met. Since such efficiency targets, as well as targets relating to energy input, e.g., from renewable energy sources are increasingly important for meeting regulatory requirements, a heat pump coupling frame kit such as is described above may also provide for energy monitoring. Fig. 10 shows a block diagram of an energy monitoring module 1000 that may be included as part of the heat pump coupling frame kit 1 , and / or as part of the energy system 400.

[0163] In some embodiments, the energy monitoring module 1000 may be implemented, at least in part, as a software module that executes on the controller 25. It will be understood that the energy monitoring module 1000 may be implemented, at least in part, as a software module that executes on other controllers that may be associated with the energy system 400, including, e.g., a controller associated with the heat pump unit 200 or a controller associated with the boiler 500. In some embodiments, the functions of the energy monitoring module 1000 may be distributed between such controllers. Other implementations of the energy monitoring module 1000 could also be used, including a separate controller or other computing device that performs the functions of the energy monitoring module 1000. The energy monitoring module may also include and / or be connected to a variety of sensors, such as temperature sensors and flow sensors, as described below.

[0164] As seen in Fig. 10, the energy monitoring module 1000 includes a boiler monitoring function 1002 that is configured to monitor the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the boiler 500, a heat pump monitoring function 1004 that is configured to monitor the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the heat pump 200, a load monitoring function 1006 that is configured to monitor the thermal energy delivered to each load circuit in systems having multiple load circuits, and a reporting function 1008 that is configured to report the monitored energy information, through, e.g., a display, an application executing on a mobile computing device such as a smart phone or tablet, and / or using an cloud-based service.

[0165] The boiler monitoring function 1002 is configured to monitor the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the boiler 500. There are several ways of monitoring and / or estimating the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the boiler 500, depending on the type of boiler that is being used in an installation. Various embodiments of the energy monitoring module 1000 may selectively support one or more of these monitoring methods, so that the heat pump frame kit 1 may be used with a variety of types of boilers. In some systems, the boiler 500 is able to communicate data over a network or local bus, e.g., using the OpenTherm protocol or other communication protocol suitable for communication between components of a heating or energy system. In such installations, if the boiler 500 is able to collect data on its own energy consumption and / or thermal energy production, the boiler monitoring function 1002 may query the boiler over the local bus or network to obtain energy monitoring information.

[0166] In some systems, the heat pump frame kit 1 may be used to connect to an existing boiler, or to a boiler that is unable to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000. For example, older boiler units may not monitor the information needed by the energy monitoring module 1000, or may not be able to communicate with the energy monitoring module over a network or local bus. Even a new boiler may be unable to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000, if, e.g., it uses a proprietary protocol that is not recognized by the energy monitoring module 1000. In such systems, other methods may be used to monitor and / or estimate the energy consumption and thermal energy output of the boiler 500. To support these monitoring methods, the energy monitoring module and / or the heat pump frame kit 1 may include sensors that may be used to monitor, e.g., the thermal energy output of the boiler 500.

[0167] In some embodiments, the boiler monitoring function 1002 may use a temperature sensor and a flow sensor at the first boiler connector (i.e., the output from the boiler 500) of the boiler connection set 15, along with information on the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler 500. As is well-understood, the difference in temperature between the input water to the boiler (i.e., the return temperature), and the output from the boiler, along with the volume of the heated water output from the boiler can be used to calculate the amount of thermal energy output by the boiler. It will be understood that when it is indicated that sensors are located at the first boiler connector, the sensors could be placed at the connector, or along any line between the output of the boiler 500 and the distributor 10, or even within the distributor 10, prior to the water from the output of the boiler 500 being mixed with other water in, e.g., the first inner space 11 .

[0168] It will also be understood that there are numerous ways of determining the return temperature. The temperature of the water that is input to the boiler could be measured by a temperature sensor at the input connection to the boiler 500, such as at the second boiler connector of the boiler connection set 15. Similarly, the return temperature could be measured by a temperature sensor at the second load connector (i.e., the return water connector) of the load connection set 17, assuming that there is only one load, or that all load circuits return their water to the distributor 10 through the second load connector of the load connection set 17. The return temperature could also be measured in the second inner space 12 of the distributor 10, in which the return water from all loads is combined in the distributor. Additionally, if the system is equipped with a heat pump that is capable if reporting the temperature of its input water, then the temperature of the return water can be obtained by querying the heat pump via a local bus or network. The temperature of the return water at the input to the heat pump should be substantially the same as the temperature of the return water at the input to the boiler.

[0169] In some embodiments, in which the heat pump unit 200 is able to report on its thermal energy output, but the boiler unit 500 does not have this capability, the thermal energy output of the boiler unit 500 may be determined based on subtracting the thermal energy output of the heat pump 200 from the thermal energy output of the entire system. Thus, by measuring the output temperature and flow to the load, and querying the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 via a local bus or network, the thermal energy output / production of the boiler unit 500 can be calculated. The temperature and flow volume to the load can be determined by using a temperature sensor and a flow sensor at the first load connector of the load connector set 17 in systems that have only a single load circuit or that have a load connector set 17 that handles the output of the system for all load circuits. Alternatively, the temperature and flow volume to the load circuits can be measured at any combined output of the distributor 10, such as at the output of the pump 22.

[0170] In some embodiments, the thermal output / production of the boiler may be estimated based on the heat demand of the boiler unit and a predetermined estimate of the boiler efficiency. For example, the controller 25 may receive a heat demand for the system. To meet the heat demand, the controller 25 may choose to use the heat pump unit 200, the boiler unit 500, or a combination of the heat pump unit 200 and the boiler unit 500. The controller, therefore, knows the heat demand that is being placed on the boiler unit 500, and can provide this information to the boiler monitoring function 1002. This heat demand (which may be adjusted according to return temperature and / or may already take the return temperature into account) can be used, e.g., with a table of predetermined values for thermal energy delivery and consumption of the boiler, based on heat demand. A predetermined value for the efficiency of the boiler unit 500 may also be used in combination with the heat demand to estimate thermal energy production and energy consumption for the boiler unit 500, without requiring further sensor readings or communication with the boiler unit 500.

[0171] In some embodiments, a heat meter connected to the boiler unit 500 may be used to determine the thermal output / production of the boiler. Such a heat meter may communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000, e.g., via a bus, a network, or a connection to the controller 25.

[0172] The boiler monitoring function 1002 also monitors and / or estimates the energy consumption of the boiler unit 500. For some boiler units, that monitor the energy consumption themselves and that are able to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000 via a local bus or network, the boiler monitoring function 1002 may query the boiler unit 500 via a local bus or network to obtain energy consumption information on the boiler unit 500.

[0173] It should be noted that the boiler unit 500 itself may determine its energy consumption based on proxies such as fan speed (for electronic and pneumatic combustion) and mass flow sensor readings (electronic combustion). Such fan speed and fuel mass flow readings can be used to determine the amount of fuel that is being used by a boiler, which determines the energy consumption for a gas boiler. For an electric boiler, the boiler will be able to monitor energy consumption by knowing the amount of electrical power supplied to a resistive heating element. It will be understood that in systems in which the controller 25 is integrated into the boiler, or in which the energy monitoring module and / or the boiler monitoring function 1002 is integrated into the boiler controller, the boiler monitoring function may have access to information such as fan speed, mass flow, electrical power supplied to a resistive element, and / or other information that would normally be internal to a boiler and / or a boiler controller. If the boiler monitoring function 1002 is able to access such information, at may be able to determine the energy consumption of the boiler based on this information.

[0174] As discussed above, not all boiler units that may be used with the system will have the capability to monitor and report their own energy monitoring information. When such a boiler is used, other means of monitoring or estimating the energy consumption of the boiler may be used by the boiler monitoring function 1002. In some embodiments, the energy consumption information may be obtained from a smart meter that is connected to the boiler, such as a smart electrical meter for an electric boiler, or a smart gas meter for a boiler that uses a fuel gas, such as propane, natural gas, or hydrogen. Such smart meters are able to report on the amount of electricity used by a particular appliance / circuit or the amount of a fuel gas that is used, typically via a network or local bus. Therefore, when such smart meters are available, they may be queried by the boiler monitoring function 1002 to provide information on energy consumption by the boiler unit 500.

[0175] In some embodiments, as noted above, heat demand may be used to estimate energy consumption. As above, a heat demand for the boiler unit may be provided to the boiler monitoring function 1002, e.g., by the controller 25. This heat demand (which may be adjusted according to return temperature and / or may already take the return temperature into account) can be used, e.g., with a table of predetermined values for thermal energy delivery and consumption of the boiler, based on heat demand to estimate energy consumption. In some embodiments, the heat demand and a predetermined boiler efficiency may be used to estimate the energy consumption of the boiler unit 500.

[0176] In some embodiments, the thermal energy output / production of the boiler unit may be determined using any of the methods discussed above. If a value for the thermal energy production of the boiler unit 500 is known, a predetermined value for the efficiency of the boiler unit 500 may be used in the boiler monitoring function 1002 to estimate the energy consumption based on the thermal energy output / production. It will be understood that this method, based on a predetermined value for efficiency, can also be used to estimate thermal energy output / production of a boiler unit based on measured values for energy consumption, in systems that have a good energy consumption measurement, but that lack the sensors or communication needed to determine thermal energy output / production.

[0177] The boiler monitoring function 1002 may also determine the efficiency of the boiler, if it has measurements of the boiler unit’s energy consumption and thermal energy output / production. The efficiency is generally determined by dividing the energy output by the energy consumption. This efficiency can be determined as in “instantaneous” efficiency, e.g., based on instantaneous monitoring of the energy consumption and thermal energy production / output, e.g., in kW. The efficiency can also be determined over time, using, e.g. energy consumption and thermal energy production / output over time, e.g. in kWh. Determination of efficiency overtime may be based on “historical” data, which may be kept, e.g. on a cloud service. In some embodiments, determination of the boiler unit’s efficiency may be handled outside of the boiler monitoring function 1002, such as in the reporting module 1008, or even outside of the energy monitoring module 1000, such as on a cloud-based service that stores data sent from the energy monitoring module 1000.

[0178] The heat pump monitoring function 1004 is configured to monitor the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the heat pump unit 200. There are several ways of monitoring and / or estimating the energy consumption and thermal energy production of the heat pump unit 200. Various embodiments of the energy monitoring module 1000 may selectively support one or more of these monitoring methods, so that the heat pump frame kit 1 may be used with a variety of heat pump units having varying capabilities and from various manufacturers.

[0179] In many systems, the heat pump unit 200 is able to communicate data over a network or local bus, e.g., using the OpenTherm protocol or other communication protocol suitable for communication between components of a heating or energy system. In such installations, if the heat pump unit 200 is able to collect data on its own energy consumption and / or thermal energy production, the heat pump monitoring function 1004 may query the heat pump unit 200 over the local bus or network to obtain energy monitoring information.

[0180] In some systems, the heat pump frame kit 1 may be used to connect to a heat pump unit that is either unable to collect the needed energy monitoring information or unable to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000. For example, a heat pump unit 200 may be unable to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000, if, e.g., it uses a proprietary protocol that is not recognized by the energy monitoring module 1000. In such systems, other methods may be used to monitor and / or estimate the energy consumption and thermal energy output of the heat pump unit 200. To support these monitoring methods, the energy monitoring module and / or the heat pump frame kit 1 may include sensors that may be used to monitor, e.g., the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit 200.

[0181] In some embodiments, the heat pump monitoring function 1004 may use a temperature sensor and a flow sensor at the first heat pump connector (i.e., the output from the heat pump unit 200) of the heat pump connection set 14 or 14’, along with information on the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit 200. As is well-understood, the difference in temperature between the input water to the heat pump (i.e., the return temperature), and the output from the heat pump, along with the volume of the heated water output from the heat pump can be used to calculate the amount of thermal energy output by the heat pump unit 200. It will be understood that when it is indicated that sensors are located at the first heat pump connector, the sensors could be placed at the connector, or along any line between the output of the heat pump unit 200 and the distributor 10, or even within the distributor 10, prior to the water from the output of the heat pump unit 200 being mixed with other water in, e.g., the first inner space 11 .

[0182] It will also be understood that, as described above, there are numerous ways of determining the return temperature. The temperature of the water that is input to the heat pump could be measured by a temperature sensor at the input connection to the heat pump unit 200, such as at the second heat pump connector of the heat pump connection set 14 or 14’. Similarly, as discussed above, the return temperature could be measured by a temperature sensor at the second load connector, in the second inner space 12 of the distributor 10, or in other places where return water from load circuits is mixed prior to being used as input water to the heat pump unit 200. Additionally, if the system is equipped with a boiler that is capable of reporting the temperature of its input water, then the temperature of the return water can be obtained by querying the boiler via a local bus or network. The temperature of the return water at the input to the boiler should be substantially the same as the temperature of the return water at the input to the heat pump.

[0183] In some embodiments, in which the boiler unit 500 is able to report on its thermal energy output, but the heat pump unit 200 does not have this capability, the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit 200 may be determined based on subtracting the thermal energy output of the boiler unit 500 from the thermal energy output of the entire system. Thus, by measuring the output temperature and flow to the load, and querying the thermal energy output / production of the boiler unit 500 via a local bus or network, the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 can be calculated. The temperature and flow volume to the load can be determined by using a temperature sensor and a flow sensor at the first load connector of the load connector set 17 in systems that have only a single load circuit or that have a load connector set 17 that handles the output of the system for all load circuits. Alternatively, the temperature and flow volume to the load circuits can be measured at any combined output of the distributor 10, such as at the output of the pump 22.

[0184] In some embodiments, the thermal output / production of the heat pump may be estimated based on the heat demand of the heat pump unit 200 and a predetermined estimate of the heat pump efficiency, which may based, e.g., on an outdoor air temperature for an air source heat pump, or on a temperature of the exchange medium for a ground source heat pump. The outdoor air temperature or exchange medium temperature will generally be measured or known by either the heat pump itself and / or by the controller 25, so that reasonable decisions can be made regarding what portion of a heat demand should be met by the heat pump. It should be noted that for ground source and heat pumps, the temperature of the exchange medium may be essentially constant, meaning that estimating efficiency may be done in some embodiments without requiring the temperature of the exchange medium.

[0185] As discussed above, the controller 25 may receive a heat demand for the system. To meet the heat demand, the controller 25 may choose to use the heat pump unit 200, the boiler unit 500, or a combination of the heat pump unit 200 and the boiler unit 500. The controller, therefore, knows the heat demand that is being placed on the heat pump unit 200, and can provide this information to the heat pump monitoring function 1004. This heat demand (which may be adjusted according to return temperature and / or may already take the return temperature into account) can be used, e.g., with a table of predetermined values for thermal energy delivery and consumption of the heat pump, based on heat demand and outdoor air temperature or exchange medium temperature. A predetermined value for the efficiency of the heat pump unit 200, depending on the outdoor air temperature or exchange medium temperature may also be used in combination with the heat demand to estimate thermal energy production and energy consumption for the heat pump unit 200. It will be understood that a value for efficiency, can also be used to estimate thermal energy output / production of a heat pump unit based on measured values for energy / power consumption.

[0186] In some embodiments, a heat meter connected to the heat pump unit 200 may be used to determine the thermal output / production of the heat pump unit 200. Such a heat meter may communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000, e.g., via a bus, a network, or a connection to the controller 25.

[0187] The heat pump monitoring function 1004 also monitors and / or estimates the energy consumption of the heat pump unit 200. For most heat pump units, which monitor the energy consumption themselves and that are able to communicate with the energy monitoring module 1000 via a local bus or network, the heat pump monitoring function 1004 may query the heat pump unit 200 via a local bus or network to obtain energy consumption information. It should be noted that the heat pump unit 200 itself may determine its energy consumption based on proxies such as fan speed and compressor speed, since the fan and compressor are the major energy consumers in a typical (air source) heat pump system (note that for ground source heat pumps, a pump may be used instead of a fan, so pump energy consumption would substitute for fan speed as a proxy for energy consumption in such systems). It will be understood that in systems in which the controller 25 is integrated into the heat pump, or in which the energy monitoring module and / or the heat pump monitoring function 1004 is integrated into the heat pump controller, the heat pump monitoring function 1004 may have access to information such as fan or pump speed, compressor speed, and / or other information that would normally be internal to a heat pump and / or a heat pump controller. If the heat pump monitoring function 1004 is able to access such information, it may be able to determine the energy consumption of the heat pump based on this information.

[0188] As discussed above, not all heat pump units that may be used with the system will have the capability to monitor and report their own energy monitoring information. When such a heat pump is used, other means of monitoring or estimating the energy consumption of the heat pump may be used by the heat pump monitoring function 1004. In some embodiments, the energy consumption information may be obtained from an electrical meter that is connected to the heat pump, such as a smart electrical meter, or an electrical meter that provides pulse output. A smart meter may be able to report on the amount of electricity used by a particular appliance / circuit, typically via a network or local bus, using a protocol such as Modbus or M-Bus. Therefore, when such smart meters are available, they may be queried by the heat pump monitoring function 1004 to provide information on energy consumption by the heat pump unit 200. Alternatively, a meter that provides a pulse output, connected, e.g., to the controller 25, may be used to monitor the energy consumption of the heat pump.

[0189] In some embodiments, as noted above, heat demand may be used to estimate energy consumption. As above, a heat demand for the heat pump unit may be provided to the heat pump monitoring function 1004, e.g., by the controller 25. This heat demand (which may be adjusted according to return temperature and / or may already take the return temperature into account) can be used, e.g., with a table of predetermined values for thermal energy delivery and consumption of the heat pump, based on heat demand to estimate energy consumption. In some embodiments, the heat demand and an efficiency (which may be based on an external air temperature or an exchange medium temperature) may be used to estimate the energy consumption of the heat pump unit 200.

[0190] In some embodiments, the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 may be determined using any of the methods discussed above. If a value for the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit 200 is known, a value for the efficiency of the heat pump unit 200 may be used in the heat pump monitoring function 1004 to estimate the energy consumption based on the thermal energy output / production. It will be understood that this method, based on a value for efficiency, can also be used to estimate thermal energy output / production of a heat pump unit based on measured values for energy consumption, in systems that have a good energy consumption measurement, but that lack the sensors or communication needed to determine thermal energy output / production.

[0191] The heat pump monitoring function 1004 may also determine the efficiency of the heat pump unit 200, if it has measurements of the heat pump unit’s energy consumption and thermal energy output / production. The efficiency is generally determined by dividing the energy output by the energy consumption. This efficiency can be determined as in “instantaneous” efficiency, e.g., based on instantaneous monitoring of the energy consumption and thermal energy production / output, e.g., in kW. The efficiency can also be determined over time, using, e.g. energy consumption and thermal energy production / output over time, e.g. in kWh. Determination of efficiency over time may be based on “historical” data, which may be kept, e.g. on a cloud service. In some embodiments, determination of the heat pump unit’s efficiency may be handled outside of the heat pump monitoring function 1004, such as in the reporting module 1008, or even outside of the energy monitoring module 1000, such as on a cloud-based service that stores data sent from the energy monitoring module 1000.

[0192] In some embodiments, particularly those having more than one load circuit, it may be desirable to know how much thermal energy has been provided by the system to each of the load circuits. Indeed, in some countries, regulations may require that information on, e.g., the amount of thermal energy production allocated to domestic hot water and the amount of thermal energy output allocated to heating be known and reported. The load monitoring function 1006 handles monitoring how much of the total thermal energy output is allocated to each load circuit. In some embodiments, this may be achieved by knowing to which load circuit the output of the distributor 10 is being directed. Depending on the position of the switch valve 23, for example, the water from the first inner space 11 may be divided over the load circuits, such as a heating load circuit and a domestic hot water load circuit, or load circuits for different zones in a building. By knowing the setting of the switch valve 23, the load monitoring function 1006 may determine how much of the total thermal energy output of the system is being directed to each load circuit. The total thermal energy output / production of the system may be measured as described above, by using a temperature sensor and a flow sensor, or a heat meter, at the first load connector of the load connector set 17 or at any combined output of the distributor 10, such as at the output of the pump 22. Alternatively, the total thermal energy output of the system may be determined by combining the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 with the thermal energy output / production of the boiler unit 500. These thermal energy outputs may be determined as described above.

[0193] In some embodiments, a heat meter could be used with each load circuit to determine how much of the thermal energy output by the system has been provided to each load circuit. In some embodiments, different load circuits may use separate pumps, in which case the amount of thermal energy output provided to each load circuit may be determined based at least in part on the flow through each of these pumps.

[0194] The reporting function 1008 reports the energy monitoring information to a user of the system, and / or to other parties who are authorised to receive the information (e.g., energy providers, government entities, etc.). For reporting to a user or maintenance provider, the energy monitoring information may be displayed on a local display device, such as a display associated with the controller 25, the boiler unit 500, the heat pump unit 200, a thermostat, or other local device that can communicate over a local bus or network with the reporting function 1008. Ifthe controller 25 or another component of the system that is able to communicate with the reporting function 1008 is connected to a network, such as a local area network and / or a wide area network, the energy monitoring information my displayed using an application running on a computing device, such as a mobile computing device (e.g., a mobile phone or tablet) that accesses the energy monitoring information over the network. In the case of systems connected to a wide area network, such as the Internet, the reporting function 1008 may also communicate with a cloud-based service that may aggregate and analyse the energy monitoring information and allow access through the cloud-based service. In some embodiments, the reporting function 1008 may make the monitoring information available via an API or open interface, such as Modbus Gateway or OpenTherm, so that data can be shared with third party monitoring systems. In some embodiments, the reporting function 1008 may communicate with a cloud-based service at regular intervals, such as hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly. This can be used to limit the amount of energy monitoring information retained in the energy monitoring module 1000, while keeping potentially large amounts of energy monitoring information available in the cloud-based service. For example, in some embodiments, the energy monitoring module 1000 may keep only totals for the energy monitoring information that it collects, such as a total energy consumption and production for the boiler unit 500 and / or the heat pump unit 200. By reporting these totals to the cloud-based service at regular intervals, such as hourly or daily, the cloud-based service is able to compute energy monitoring information for each such interval, providing useful data for analysing a system’s energy consumption and thermal energy production over time.

[0195] In some embodiments, the reporting function 1008 may also handle determination and reporting of a total system efficiency. This may be determined, e.g., based on total energy consumption and total thermal energy output / production. In addition to system efficiency, in some embodiments, the reporting function 1008 may monitor and report the amount of the energy consumption from renewable sources and the amount of energy consumption from fossil fuel sources. For example, for boiler units powered by propane, the energy consumption is from a fossil fuel source. Heat pump units are powered by electricity, all or part of which may be from renewable sources.

[0196] Fig. 11 shows a schematic overview of an energy system 1100 having a controller 25 on which the energy monitoring module 1000 operates. The energy system 1100 uses a heat pump frame kit 1 that includes the energy monitoring module 1000, and various sensors to support the collection of information described above, for determining the energy monitoring information. In the example shown in Fig. 11 , the boiler unit 500 is an older boiler unit, that does not support communication of energy monitoring information with the energy monitoring module 1000, while the heat pump unit 200 is able to provide energy monitoring information over a local bus 1102. Accordingly, the energy monitoring module 1000 (and, therefore, the heat pump frame kit 1) includes a temperature sensor 1110 and a flow sensor 1112 at the output of the distributor 10, after the pump 22. In the system shown in Fig. 11 , the temperature sensor 1110 and flow sensor 1112 communicate with the controller 25 and energy monitoring module 1000 via the local bus 1102, but it will be understood that in some systems, they could be connected directly to the controller 25. The temperature sensor 1110 and the flow sensor 1112 provide information to the energy management module 1000 that may be used to determine the total thermal energy output / production of the energy system 1100. Using this information and information on the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 that is provided by querying the heat pump unit 200, the energy monitoring module 1000 is able to calculate the thermal output / production of the boiler unit 500 by subtracting the thermal energy output / production of the heat pump unit 200 from the total thermal energy output / production of the energy system 1100. The energy monitoring module 1000 may then estimate the energy consumption of the boiler unit 500 based on a predetermined efficiency of the boiler unit 500 and the thermal energy output / production of the boiler unit 500. The energy monitoring module 1000 may report its energy monitoring information to a cloud-based service 1152 via the Internet 1150. As discussed above, this information may be reported to the cloud-based service at regular intervals, such as hourly or daily.

[0197] It should be noted that the boiler unit 500 used in the energy system 1100, like many older boiler units, receives its set point via an analogue signal, rather than receiving its set point digitally over a local data bus or network. To send a setpoint from a more modern system, in which most of the components communicate digitally, the energy system 1100 uses an analogue control signal adaptor 1160, which may be included as a part of the heat pump frame kit 1 in a configuration for use with legacy boilers. The analogue control signal adaptor 1160 receives a set point for the boiler unit 500 via a digital signal sent over the local bus 1102, e.g. using the OpenTherm protocol, and converts the set point into an analogue signal for the boiler unit 500. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the digital signal may be sent via a network or other connection. The analogue signal may be a 0-10 volt analogue signal that is commonly used by older boilers and / or building management systems, in which 10 volts represents 100° C, and the rest of the range of voltages is scaled linearly, so a voltage of 4 volts would represent a set point of 40° C (note that other scales, in which 10 volts represents other set point temperatures are also possible). Alternatively, for some boilers, a standard 4-20mA analogue electrical signal may be used to control the set point. In some embodiments, the analogue control signal adaptor 1160 may be used to control a boiler using on / off signals. Other analogue control signal types, such as OpenTherm analogue signals, may also be handled by the analogue control signal adaptor 1160. It will be further understood that adaptors similar to the analogue control signal adaptor 1160 may be used to translate between protocols, both analogue and digital, to permit an energy system such as is described herein to use a wide variety of boilers produced by various manufacturers.

[0198] It will be understood that the example shown in Fig. 11 represents only one example of the configuration of the heat pump frame kit 1 , including the energy monitoring module 1000, for use in providing an energy system. In the case of the energy system 1100 of Fig. 11 , the heat pump frame kit 1 , including the energy monitoring module 1000 is configured to use a heat pump unit that is able to communicate its energy monitoring information, and a legacy boiler unit that is not able to communicate its energy monitoring information, and that requires analogue control. Thus, the sensors and adaptors included in the configuration of the heat pump frame kit 1 of the example shown in Fig. 11 are appropriate to that configuration. Many other configurations of the heat pump frame kit 1 and energy monitoring module 1000 could also be used, such as the sensor placements and configurations described above with reference to Fig. 10 and the possible configurations of the energy monitoring module 1000. It will be appreciated that many combinations of sensors and operating modes of the energy monitoring module 1000 could be used to accommodate a wide variety of heat pump units, boiler units, and load circuits, as described above. Additionally, it will be understood that in some embodiments, the energy monitoring module 1000 may support all of the described combinations of sensors and monitoring methods, which may be selectively used according to the setup of the energy system with which the energy monitoring module 1000 is deployed.

[0199] Reference Signs

[0200] 1 . Heat pump coupling frame kit

[0201] 2. Frame

[0202] 3. Back panel

[0203] 4. Top panel

[0204] 5. Support panel

[0205] 6. Side panel

[0206] 10. Distributor

[0207] 11 . First inner space

[0208] 12. Second inner space

[0209] 13. Separation wall

[0210] 14., 14’ Heat pump connector set

[0211] 15. Boiler connector set

[0212] 16. Connection line

[0213] 17. Load connector set (heating / cooling)

[0214] 18. Load connector set (domestic hot water)

[0215] 20. Flow pipe

[0216] 21. Deaerator

[0217] 22. Pump

[0218] 23. Switch valve

[0219] 24. Switch valve actuator

[0220] 25. Control unit

[0221] 26. Expansion vessel

[0222] 27. load connector

[0223] 28. corresponding connector of a corresponding connector set of the load circuit

[0224] 29. T-piece

[0225] 30. load circuit for a central heating

[0226] 31 . load line (heat pump unit 800)

[0227] 32. load line (boiler unit 900)

[0228] 33. receiving portion

[0229] 34. mounting fixture for a boiler

[0230] 35. sheet metal strips

[0231] 36. shut-off valve

[0232] 37. boiler unit control panel

[0233] 40. Mounting bracket 100. Boiler frame kit

[0234] 200. Heat pump unit

[0235] 300. Load circuit

[0236] 400. Energy system

[0237] 500. Boiler unit

[0238] 600. Hybrid energy transformation device

[0239] 700. Complete hybrid heat pump product

[0240] 800. Heat pump unit

[0241] 900. Boiler unit

[0242] 1000. Energy monitoring module

[0243] 1002. Boiler monitoring function

[0244] 1004. Heat pump monitoring function

[0245] 1006. Load monitoring function

[0246] 1008. Reporting function

[0247] 1100. Energy system

[0248] 1102. Local bus

[0249] 1110. Temperature sensor

[0250] 1112. Flow sensor

[0251] 1150. Internet

[0252] 1152. Cloud-based service

[0253] 1160. Control signal adaptor

[0254] F. Front

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS1 . Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) for a hybrid energy transformation device, the heat pump coupling frame kit (1) comprising: a frame (2) for connecting the heat pump coupling frame kit (1) to a wall and to a boiler unit (500), in particular a boiler frame kit (100); a distributor (10) arranged within a volume delimited by the frame (2), in particular connected to the frame (2), wherein the distributor (10) comprises at least one load connector set (17, 18) for connecting a cavity of the distributor (10) with at least one load circuit (300) of an energy system (400), the load connector set (17, 18) comprising a first load connector configured to connect the load circuit of the energy system (400) to an output of the distributor (10) and a second load connector configured to connect a return from the load circuit to the distributor (10); a boiler connector set (15), comprising a first boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to an output line of the boiler unit (500) and a second boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to a return line of the boiler unit (500); and an energy monitoring module (1000) configured to determine a thermal energy production of the boiler unit (500) by:(a) querying the boiler unit (500) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(b) determining a first temperature and first flow volume at the first boiler connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a first temperature sensor and a first flow sensor; and / or(c) determining the first temperature and the first flow volume at the first load connector or at a combined output of the distributor (10) to the at least one load circuit (300), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a first temperature sensor (1110) and a first flow sensor (1112); and / or(d) determining a heat demand of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler efficiency; and / or(e) determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and determining the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, onthe energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and the heat boiler efficiency; and / or(f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

2. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to use a return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500), and wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to determine the return temperature by:(a) querying via a local connection, bus (1102), or network, a heat pump unit (200) connected to the distributor; and / or(b) determining the return temperature at the second boiler connector, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a second temperature sensor; and / or(c) determining the return temperature at the second load connector, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a return temperature sensor; and / or(d) determining the return temperature in a cavity within the distributor (10) for water returned from the at least one load circuit.

3. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a heat pump connector set (14), comprising a first heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to an output line of a heat pump unit (200) and a second heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to a return line of the heat pump unit (200); wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to determine a thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200) by:(a) querying the heat pump unit (200) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(b) determining a second temperature and second flow volume at the first heat pump connector, and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a second temperature sensor and a second flow sensor; and / or(c) determining the second temperature and the second flow volume at the first load connector or at a combined output of the distributor (10) to the at least one load circuit (300), and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the second temperature and thesecond flow volume, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) comprises a second temperature sensor and a second flow sensor; and / or(d) determining a heat demand of the heat pump unit (200), and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(e) determining a power consumption of the heat pump unit (200) and determining the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the power consumption of the heat pump unit (200) and the heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

4. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 3, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to use the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200).

5. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to determine an energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) by:(a) querying the heat pump unit (200) via a local connection, bus (1102), or network; and / or(b) receiving information from an electrical meter via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(c) determining the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200), and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(d) determining the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200) and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency.

6. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 5, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to receive the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) based on a heat pump unit fan speed and compressor speed.

7. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to use the thermalenergy production of the heat pump unit (200), an output flow temperature of the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit (200) or at the first heat pump connector, and / or the flow volume from the heat pump unit (200) as measured by the heat pump unit (200) or at the first heat pump connector to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500).

8. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to determine an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) by:(a) querying the boiler unit (500) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(b) receiving information from an electrical meter or a gas meter via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(c) determining the heat demand of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler unit (500) efficiency; and / or(d) determining the thermal energy production of the boiler unit (500) and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler unit efficiency.

9. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 8, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to receive the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) based on a fan speed and / or a mass flow sensor at a fuel input to the boiler unit (500).

10. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an analogue control signal adaptor (1160) configured to receive a set point for the boiler unit (500) via a local bus or network and to control the boiler unit (500) via an analogue signal, more particularly a 0-10 volt analogue signal and / or a 4-20mA analogue signal and / or an on / off signal.

11. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to allocate thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200) and / or the boiler unit (500) to a load circuit, in particular either to a heating load circuit or to a domestic hot water load circuit, according to a setting of a switch valve (23), and / or according to a pump that is used for the load circuit, and / or according to a heat meter connected to the load circuit.

12. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to determine an efficiency of the boiler unit (500), and / or an efficiency of the heat pump unit (200), and / or a system efficiency.

13. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is further configured to determine an amount of energy consumption from renewable sources and / or an amount of energy consumption from fossil fuel sources.

14. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one control unit (25) wherein the control unit (25) is configured for controlling a boiler unit (500) and / or a heat pump unit (200).

15. Heat pump coupling frame kit (1) according to claim 14, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to be executed on the control unit (25).

16. Heat pump frame kit (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the energy monitoring module (1000) is configured to be loaded and executed on a control unit associated with either the boiler unit (500) or the heat pump unit (200).

17. Hybrid energy transformation device (600) comprising a heat pump coupling frame kit according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a boiler unit (500).

18. Energy system (400, 1100), comprising a hybrid energy transformation device (600) according to claim 17 and a heat pump unit (200).

19. Method of monitoring energy in an energy system (400, 1100), in particular according to claim 18, the method comprising: determining a thermal energy production of a boiler unit (500) by:(a) querying the boiler unit (500) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(b) determining, using sensors, a first temperature and first flow volume at a first boiler connector of a boiler connector set (15), the first boiler connector configured to connect a distributor (10) to an output line of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume; and / or(c) determining, using sensors (1110, 1112), the first temperature and the first flow volume at a first load connector of a load connector set (17, 18) or at a combined output of the distributor (10) to a load circuit (300), the first load connector configured to connect the load circuit (300) of the energy system (400, 1100) to an output of the distributor (10), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the first temperature and the first flow volume; and / or(d) determining a heat demand of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler efficiency; and / or(e) determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and determining the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) and the heat boiler efficiency; and / or(f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

20. Method according to claim 19, further comprising using a return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500), the return temperature determined by:(a) querying via a local connection, bus, or network, a heat pump unit (200) connected to the distributor; and / or(b) determining, using a sensor, the return temperature at a second boiler connector of the boiler connector set (15), the second boiler connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to a return line of the boiler unit (500); and / or(c) determining, using a sensor, the return temperature at a second load connector, the second load connector configured to connect a return from the load circuit to the distributor (10); and / or(d) determining, using a sensor, the return temperature in a cavity within the distributor (10) for water returned from the load circuit.21 . Method according to claim 19 or claim 20, further comprising determining a thermal energy production of a heat pump unit (200) by:(a) querying the heat pump unit (200) via a local connection, bus (1102), or network; and / or(b) determining, using a sensor, a second temperature and second flow volume at a first heat pump connector of a heat pump connector set (14), the first heat pump connector configured to connect the distributor (10) to an output line of a heat pump unit (200), and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume; and / or(c) determining, using a sensor (1110, 1112), the second temperature and the second flow volume at the first load connector or at a combined output of the distributor (10) to the load circuit (300), and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the second temperature and the second flow volume; and / or(d) determining a heat demand of the heat pump unit (200), and calculating the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(e) determining a power consumption of the heat pump unit (200) and determining the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the power consumption of the heat pump unit (200) and the heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(f) receiving information from a heat meter via a local connection, bus, or network.

22. Method according to claim 21 , further comprising using the return temperature to calculate the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200).

23. Method according to claim 21 or claim 22, further comprising determining an energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) by:(a) querying the heat pump unit (200) via a local connection, bus (1102), or network; and / or(b) receiving information from an electrical meter via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(c) determining the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200), and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency; and / or(d) determining the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200) and calculating the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) based, at leastin part, on the thermal energy output of the heat pump unit (200) and a heat pump unit efficiency.

24. Method according to claim 23, wherein the energy consumption of the heat pump unit (200) is determined based on a heat pump unit fan speed and a heat pump unit compressor speed.

25. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 24, further comprising using the thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200), an output flow temperature of the heat pump unit as measured by the heat pump unit (200) or at the first heat pump connector, and / or the flow volume from the heat pump unit (200) as measured by the heat pump unit (200) or at the first heat pump connector to calculate the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500).

26. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 25, further comprising determining an energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) by:(a) querying the boiler unit (500) via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(b) receiving information from an electrical meter or a gas meter via a local connection, bus, or network; and / or(c) determining the heat demand of the boiler unit (500), and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the heat demand of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler unit (500) efficiency; and / or(d) determining the thermal energy production of the boiler unit (500) and calculating the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) based, at least in part, on the thermal energy output of the boiler unit (500) and a boiler unit efficiency.

27. Method according to claim 26, wherein the energy consumption of the boiler unit (500) is determined based on a fan speed and / or a mass flow sensor at a fuel input to the boiler unit (500).

28. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 26, further comprising allocating thermal energy production of the heat pump unit (200) and / or the boiler unit (500) to a load circuit, in particular either to a heating load circuit or to a domestic hot water load circuit, according to a setting of a switch valve (23), and / or according to a pump that is used for the load circuit, and / or according to a heat meter connected to the load circuit.

29. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 28, further comprising determining an efficiency of the boiler unit (500), and / or an efficiency of the heat pump unit (200), and / or a system efficiency.

30. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 29, further comprising determining an amount of energy consumption from renewable sources and / or an amount of energy consumption from fossil fuel sources.

31. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 30, further comprising displaying monitored energy information on a local display and / or in an application executing on a mobile computing device, in particular a mobile phone and / or a tablet.

32. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 31 , further comprising making monitored energy information available via an API and / or an interface.

33. Method according to any one of claims 19 to 32, further comprising sending monitored energy information over a network, in particular the Internet (1150), to a cloud service (1152).

34. Method according to claim 33, wherein sending monitored energy information to a cloud service (1152) comprises sending the monitored energy information to the cloud service at regular intervals, in particular hourly, and / or daily, and / or weekly, and / or monthly.

35. A computer program product comprising programmed instructions that, when executed on a processor, cause the processor to carry out the method of any one of claims 19 to 34.

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