Air conditioning system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air conditioning system. The air conditioning system comprises: a first duct for sending air introduced from an outdoor space to an indoor space and having a plurality of heat exchangers disposed therein; a second duct for sending air discharged from the indoor space to the outdoor space; a first air conditioning device for supplying a refrigerant to a first upstream heat exchanger disposed in the first duct and a second duct heat exchanger disposed in the second duct; and a second air conditioning device for supplying the refrigerant to at least one first downstream heat exchanger disposed in the first duct. The first air conditioning device comprises: a first compressor for sending a refrigerant to the first upstream heat exchanger or the second duct heat exchanger; a first outdoor unit including a first outdoor heat exchanger for heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor and air; and a first heat recovery kit for heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor unit or flowing to the first outdoor unit and the refrigerant flowing to the first compressor.

Description

Air conditioning system

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system, and more specifically, to an air conditioning system that includes a plurality of air conditioning devices to exchange heat with air supplied to a room.

[0002] Typically, temperature-controlled air conditioning systems utilize technology that recovers heat energy dissipated to the outside air and recycles it as reheat energy. For example, some of the heat dissipated during the cooling cycle can be used as reheat energy to raise the temperature of the supercooled air. Alternatively, a sensible heat exchanger can be used to recover heat by exploiting the temperature difference between the incoming outdoor air and the exhaust air.

[0003] However, if some of the condensation heat is used as reheat energy to raise the temperature of the supercooled air, it is used intensively during the summer rainy season and is used significantly less during the inter-seasonal period.

[0004] Additionally, in winter, the system must switch to a heating cycle to accommodate the large heating load caused by the introduction of outside air. When using a sensible heat exchanger, the sensible heat-based heat exchange limits the amount of heat energy recovered. This can reduce the effectiveness of heat recovery during the interseasonal period or even increase the sensible heat load.

[0005] Korean Patent No. KR 10-1206278 B1 discloses an outdoor unit capable of switching between heating and cooling operations. Furthermore, the patent discloses an air conditioning system comprising a main coil capable of operating as an evaporator or condenser, a hot gas reheating coil capable of operating only as a condenser, an auxiliary heater, a humidifier, and a blower.

[0006] The above-mentioned prior literature only allows reheating using hot gas refrigerant when the air outlet temperature is subcooled during cooling operation via the main coil. Furthermore, it is difficult to increase cooling and dehumidification capacity when additional cooling and dehumidification is required during overloaded cooling operation.

[0007] Additionally, in the inter-season, when the air extraction temperature is too low to achieve subcooling, the hot gas reheat coil may shut down. Furthermore, during winter heating operation, the supply air temperature may drop sharply during defrosting or oil recovery operations.

[0008] The problem that the present disclosure seeks to solve is to provide an air conditioning system that increases cycle efficiency.

[0009] Another task of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning system capable of maintaining a stable temperature and humidity of air supplied indoors even when the outside temperature is low.

[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning system that utilizes a heat source discharged to the outside air in winter.

[0011] The tasks of the present disclosure are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0012] In order to achieve the above task, an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first duct that sends air introduced from an outdoor space to an indoor space and has a plurality of heat exchangers arranged therein, and a second duct that sends air discharged from the indoor space to the outdoor space.

[0013] The air conditioning system includes a first air conditioning unit that supplies refrigerant to a first upstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct and a second duct heat exchanger arranged in the second duct, and a second air conditioning unit that supplies refrigerant to at least one first downstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct.

[0014] The first air conditioning device includes a first compressor that sends refrigerant to the first upstream heat exchanger or the second duct heat exchanger, a first outdoor unit including a first outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor, and a first heat recovery kit that exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor unit or to the first outdoor unit the refrigerant flowing to the first compressor.

[0015] The first heat recovery kit includes a first inner heat exchanger. The first inner heat exchanger exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the first outdoor heat exchanger and refrigerant flowing to the first compressor.

[0016] The first heat recovery kit includes a first inner switching valve that sends the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor to the first upstream heat exchanger or the second duct heat exchanger.

[0017] A bypass pipe connecting the first duct and the second duct is included. A bypass pipe valve is arranged in the bypass pipe to connect or block the first duct and the second duct.

[0018] The above bypass pipe is placed upstream of the second duct heat exchanger.

[0019] The above bypass pipe sends air flowing from the second duct to the first upstream heat exchanger.

[0020] The second air conditioning device includes a second outdoor unit including a second compressor that sends refrigerant to the at least one first downstream heat exchanger, and a second outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor.

[0021] The second air conditioning device includes a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

[0022] The second heat recovery kit includes a second inner heat exchanger that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor heat exchanger and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

[0023] The above first downstream heat exchanger includes a 1-1 downstream heat exchanger arranged downstream of the first upstream heat exchanger, and a 1-2 downstream heat exchanger arranged downstream of the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger.

[0024] Either of the above 1-1 downstream heat exchanger and the above 1-2 downstream heat exchanger sends refrigerant to the second outdoor unit through the second inner heat exchanger.

[0025] The above 1-1 downstream heat exchanger is formed to have a wider heat transfer area than the above 1-2 downstream heat exchanger.

[0026] The second air conditioning device includes a second outdoor unit including a second compressor and a second outdoor heat exchanger, and a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor unit or flowing to the second outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

[0027] The above second heat recovery kit includes a second inner switching valve that sends the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor to either the first-1 downstream heat exchanger or the first-2 downstream heat exchanger.

[0028] The above second inner switching valve sends the refrigerant flowing in from the other of the first-1 downstream heat exchanger and the first-2 downstream heat exchanger to the second inner heat exchanger.

[0029] The second air conditioning device includes a second compressor, a second outdoor unit including a second outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air a refrigerant flowing from the second compressor, and a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat with a refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor unit or to the second outdoor unit a refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

[0030] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0031] According to the air conditioning system of the present disclosure, one or more of the following effects are achieved.

[0032] First, the heat recovery kit allows the heat generated during operation to be recycled to raise the temperature of the supercooled air, as before. Furthermore, even in situations where heat dissipation to the high temperature outside air is difficult, such as during extreme heat, heat can be dissipated to the relatively cooler exhaust air, preventing a decrease in cooling and dehumidifying capacity and improving cycle efficiency.

[0033] Second, through the arrangement of multiple heat exchangers placed in the first duct and their size relationship, even in situations where the amount of heat absorbed is reduced in low-temperature outside air such as in extreme cold, heat can be absorbed from the exhaust air side where the temperature is relatively high, thereby preventing a decrease in heating capacity and improving cycle efficiency.

[0034] Third, heating capacity and efficiency can be improved by securing additional evaporation heat using the exhaust air source, which is heated at a higher temperature than the outside air during winter heating. Furthermore, the number of defrosting operations can be minimized due to the delayed frost rate caused by rising evaporation temperatures. Continuous heating during defrosting and oil recovery can minimize the drop in extraction temperature. Furthermore, the range of frost-free operation can be expanded due to rising evaporation temperatures.

[0035] Fourth, even if the capacity of the supply side heat exchanger is designed to be small, sufficient heating capacity can be provided by using a heat recovery kit to operate the first upstream heat exchanger placed in the first duct for heating.

[0036] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 is a specific system diagram of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the flow of refrigerant in the summer season of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the flow of refrigerant in a general winter season in an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the flow of refrigerant in the freezing season of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the flow of refrigerant in the extremely low temperature winter season of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the flow of refrigerant in the inter-season of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] The advantages and features of the present disclosure, and methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure that the present disclosure is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the specification.

[0046] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0047] Hereinafter, an air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to drawings.

[0048] Referring to Fig. 1, the overall air conditioning system of the present disclosure is described.

[0049] The air conditioning system includes a first duct (300) that sends air flowing in from an outdoor space to an indoor space. A plurality of heat exchangers are arranged in the first duct (300). A first fan (302) that supplies air to the indoor space may be arranged in the first duct (300).

[0050] The first upstream heat exchanger (140) of the first air conditioning device (100) described below may be arranged in the first duct (300). The first downstream heat exchanger (240, 242) of the second air conditioning device (200) described below may be arranged in the first duct (300).

[0051] The first downstream heat exchanger (240, 242) may include a first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and a first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) arranged downstream of the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240). The first duct (300) may include the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) of the second air conditioning device (200) described below.

[0052] The air flowing through the first duct (300) can sequentially flow through the first upstream heat exchanger (140) and the first downstream heat exchanger (240, 242).

[0053] The air flowing through the first duct (300) can sequentially flow through the first upstream heat exchanger (140), the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240), and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0054] The air conditioning system includes a second duct (310) that sends air flowing into the indoor space to the outdoor space.

[0055] At least one heat exchanger may be arranged in the second duct (310). A second fan (312) for discharging air to the external space may be arranged in the second duct (310). A second fan (312) for discharging air from the indoor space to the external space may be arranged in the second duct (310).

[0056] In the second duct (310), a second duct heat exchanger (142) of the first air conditioning device (100) may be placed. Air flowing in the second duct (310) by the second fan (312) may be discharged to the external space through the second duct heat exchanger (142).

[0057] The air conditioning system includes a bypass pipe (320) connecting the first duct (300) and the second duct (310).

[0058] Air flowing through the second duct (310) can flow to the first duct (300) through the bypass pipe (320). The bypass pipe (320) is connected to the second duct (310) in an upstream region of the second duct heat exchanger (142). The bypass pipe (320) is connected to the first duct (300) in an upstream region of the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0059] That is, air flowing into the second duct (310) from an indoor space can flow to the upstream end of the first duct (300) through the bypass pipe (320). The air flowing into the first duct (300) through the bypass pipe (320) may be air that has not undergone heat exchange within the second duct (310).

[0060] Inside the bypass pipe (320), a first bypass pipe valve (322) is arranged to open and close the internal flow path of the bypass pipe (320).

[0061] The air conditioning system includes a first air conditioning device (100) that operates as a first compressor (112, see FIG. 2) and supplies refrigerant to a plurality of heat exchangers arranged in each of the first duct (300) and the second duct (310).

[0062] The first air conditioning device (100) includes a first upstream heat exchanger (140) arranged in the first duct (300).

[0063] The first air conditioning device (100) includes a second duct heat exchanger (142) arranged in the second duct (310).

[0064] The air conditioning system includes a second air conditioning unit (200) that operates as a second compressor (212, see FIG. 2) and supplies refrigerant to a plurality of heat exchangers arranged in each of the first duct (300) and the third duct (420).

[0065] The second air conditioning device (200) includes a first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and a first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) arranged in the first duct (300).

[0066] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) are each positioned downstream of the first upstream heat exchanger (140) within the first duct (300). Therefore, air passing through the first upstream heat exchanger (140) flows to the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242), respectively.

[0067] The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) is positioned closer to the discharge port side of the first duct (300) than the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240). Therefore, air introduced through the intake port of the first duct (300) can sequentially pass through the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the specific configuration of the first air conditioning device (100) and the second air conditioning device (200) and the connection relationship with the first duct (300) and the second duct (310) are described.

[0069] The first air conditioning device (100) includes a first outdoor unit (110) in which a first compressor (112) and a first outdoor heat exchanger (114) are arranged, and a first heat recovery kit (130) that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor unit (110) and refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor unit (110) or changes the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0070] The first air conditioning device (100) includes a first upstream heat exchanger (140) arranged in a first duct (300) and a second duct heat exchanger (142) arranged in a second duct (310).

[0071] The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first compressor (112). The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first outdoor heat exchanger (114) that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the first compressor (112) and outdoor air.

[0072] The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first accumulator (122) that supplies gaseous refrigerant to the first compressor (112). The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first switching valve (118, 120) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor (112) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) or outside the first outdoor unit (110).

[0073] The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first-to-first switching valve (118) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor (112) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) or sends the refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) to the first compressor (112). The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first-to-second switching valve (120) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor (112) to the outside of the first outdoor unit (110).

[0074] The first outdoor unit (110) includes a first outdoor expansion valve (116) that expands refrigerant flowing from or to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114).

[0075] The first outdoor expansion valve (116) can expand the liquid refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114). The first outdoor expansion valve (116) can expand the liquid refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor heat exchanger (114).

[0076] The first heat recovery kit (130) includes a first internal heat exchanger (132) that exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing outside the first outdoor unit (110) and the refrigerant flowing inside the first outdoor unit (110).

[0077] The first heat recovery kit (130) includes a first internal switching valve (134) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the first outdoor unit (110) to the second duct heat exchanger (142) or the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0078] The first internal switching valve (134) can send the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) to the second duct heat exchanger (142). In addition, the first internal switching valve (134) can send the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) to the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0079] The first air conditioning unit (100) includes a first expansion valve (150, 152) that expands refrigerant flowing through a heat exchanger arranged in the first duct (300) or the second duct (310). The first air conditioning unit (100) includes a first-first expansion valve (150) that expands refrigerant flowing to the first upstream heat exchanger (140). The first air conditioning unit (100) includes a first-third expansion valve (152) that expands refrigerant flowing to the second duct heat exchanger (142).

[0080] The second air conditioning device (200) includes a second outdoor unit (210) in which a second compressor (212) and a second outdoor heat exchanger (214) are arranged, and a second heat recovery kit (230) that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor unit (210) and refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor unit (210) or changes the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0081] The second air conditioning device (200) includes a first-second duct heat exchanger (140) and a first-third duct heat exchanger (142) arranged in the first duct (300).

[0082] The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second compressor (212). The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second outdoor heat exchanger (214) that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the second compressor (212) and outdoor air.

[0083] The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second accumulator (222) that supplies gaseous refrigerant to the second compressor (212). The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second switching valve (218, 220) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor (212) to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) or to the outside of the second outdoor unit (210).

[0084] The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second-1 switching valve (218) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor (212) to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) or sends the refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) to the second compressor (212). The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second-2 switching valve (220) that sends the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor (212) to the outside of the second outdoor unit (210).

[0085] The second outdoor unit (210) includes a second outdoor expansion valve (216) that expands refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214).

[0086] The second outdoor expansion valve (216) can expand the liquid refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214). The second outdoor expansion valve (216) can expand the liquid refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214).

[0087] The second heat recovery kit (230) includes a second internal heat exchanger (232) that heat-exchanges the refrigerant flowing outside the second outdoor unit (210) and the refrigerant flowing from the outside of the second outdoor unit (210) to the second compressor (212).

[0088] The second internal heat exchanger (232) heat-exchanges the liquid refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) and the refrigerant flowing from outside the second outdoor unit (210) to the second compressor (212) of the second outdoor unit (210).

[0089] The second heat recovery kit (230) includes a second internal switching valve (234) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the second outdoor unit (210) to the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) or the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). The second internal switching valve (234) can send the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) to the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) or the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0090] The second air conditioning device (200) includes a second expansion valve (250, 252) that expands refrigerant flowing through a heat exchanger arranged in the first duct (300).

[0091] The second air conditioning unit (200) includes a second-first expansion valve (250) that expands the refrigerant flowing into the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240). The second air conditioning unit (200) includes a second-second expansion valve (252) that expands the refrigerant flowing into the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0092] The capacity of the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) can be formed to be larger than the capacity of the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242). That is, the heat transfer area of ​​the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) can be formed to be larger than the heat transfer area of ​​the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0093] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 3, the operation of the air conditioning system of the present invention operating in the summer season will be described.

[0094] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0095] In summer, outdoor air can be hot and humid. During summer, outdoor temperatures can reach above 28 degrees Celsius.

[0096] The first duct (300) allows air from the outdoor space to flow in and supplies air to the indoor space.

[0097] The first upstream heat exchanger (140) and the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) arranged in the first duct (300) each operate as an evaporator. The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) arranged in the first duct (300) operates as a condenser.

[0098] The air flowing through the first duct (300) can be cooled by sequentially passing through the first upstream heat exchanger (140) and the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240). That is, the air flowing into the first duct (300) can have its moisture removed primarily by sequentially passing through the first upstream heat exchanger (140) and the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240).

[0099] The temperature of the air flowing through the first duct (300) may increase somewhat as it passes through the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242).

[0100] Air flowing within the first duct (300) can be supplied to the indoor space in a state of low humidity. In the summer, humid air from the outdoor space can be supplied to the indoor space in a state of low humidity as it passes through the first duct (300).

[0101] The second duct (310) allows air from the indoor space to flow in. The second duct (310) can discharge air to the outdoor space.

[0102] The second duct heat exchanger (142) placed in the second duct (310) operates as a condenser.

[0103] The air flowing through the second duct (310) can be heated through the second duct heat exchanger (142) and then discharged to the outdoor space.

[0104] Below, the flow of refrigerant in each of the first air conditioning unit (100) and the second air conditioning unit (200) is described.

[0105] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the first air conditioning device (100) is described.

[0106] A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) flows to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114). The first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can operate as a condenser.

[0107] Another portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) can flow to the second duct heat exchanger (142) through the first-second switching valve (120) and the first internal switching valve (134). Therefore, the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be operated as a condenser.

[0108] The refrigerant flowing through the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can flow to the first upstream heat exchanger (140). At this time, the refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can increase the liquid ratio of the refrigerant by passing through the first internal heat exchanger (132).

[0109] Additionally, the refrigerant flowing from the second duct heat exchanger (142) can also flow to the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0110] The first upper heat exchanger (140) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0111] The refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) can flow to the first compressor (112) through the first internal heat exchanger (132).

[0112] The ratio of refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) and flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) is adjusted to be 20% or less. In addition, the ratio of refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) and flowing to the second duct heat exchanger (142) is adjusted to be 80% or more.

[0113] That is, by controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied from the first compressor (112) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) and the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be controlled.

[0114] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the second air conditioning device (200) is described.

[0115] A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) flows to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214). The second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be operated as a condenser.

[0116] Another portion of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) can flow to the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) through the second-second switching valve (220) and the second internal switching valve (234).

[0117] The refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can flow to the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) via the second internal heat exchanger (232). The refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can increase the proportion of liquid refrigerant by passing through the second internal heat exchanger (232).

[0118] The refrigerant discharged from the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242) can also flow to the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240).

[0119] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) can be operated as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing from the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) can flow to the second compressor (212) through the second internal heat exchanger (232).

[0120] The flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be adjusted to be small.

[0121] The ratio of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) and flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) is adjusted to be 20% or less. In addition, the ratio of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) and flowing to the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) is adjusted to be 80% or more.

[0122] That is, by controlling the second outdoor expansion valve (216) and the second-second expansion valve (252), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied from the second compressor (212) to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) can be controlled.

[0123] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the operation of the air conditioning system of the present invention operating in the general winter season will be described.

[0124] During the typical winter season, outdoor air can be cold and humid. During the typical winter season, outdoor air temperatures can drop below 18 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, during the typical winter season, outdoor air temperatures can reach above 4 degrees Celsius.

[0125] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0126] The first duct (300) allows air from the outdoor space to flow in and supplies air to the indoor space.

[0127] The first upstream heat exchanger (140) placed in the first duct (300) can be operated as a condenser.

[0128] The 1-3 duct heat exchanger (242) disposed in the 1st duct (300) can be operated as a condenser or can be stopped from operating. The 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) disposed in the 1st duct (300) can be operated as an evaporator or can be stopped from operating.

[0129] The air flowing through the first duct (300) can be heated through the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0130] The air flowing through the first duct (300) can be partially cooled and reheated by passing through the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). In addition, when the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) are each stopped, heat exchange can only occur in the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0131] The air flowing inside the first duct (300) can be partially heated and supplied to the indoor space.

[0132] Additionally, in the general winter season, low-temperature air flowing from an outdoor space can be supplied to an indoor space with a raised temperature while flowing through the first duct (300).

[0133] The second duct (310) allows air from the indoor space to flow in. The second duct (310) can discharge air to the outdoor space.

[0134] The second duct heat exchanger (142) placed in the second duct (310) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0135] The air flowing through the second duct (310) can be discharged to the outdoor space in a cooled state through the second duct heat exchanger (142).

[0136] Below, the flow of refrigerant in each of the first air conditioning unit (100) and the second air conditioning unit (200) is described.

[0137] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the first air conditioning device (100) is described.

[0138] The refrigerant discharged from the first compressor (112) can flow to the first upstream heat exchanger (140) through the first-second switching valve (120) and the first internal switching valve (134). The first upstream heat exchanger (140) can be operated as a condenser.

[0139] A portion of the refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) flows to the second duct heat exchanger (142). The second duct heat exchanger (142) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0140] The refrigerant flowing from the second duct heat exchanger (142) can flow to the first compressor (112) through the first internal heat exchanger (132).

[0141] Another portion of the refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) can flow to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) through the first internal heat exchanger (132).

[0142] In the first internal heat exchanger (132), heat can be exchanged between the gaseous refrigerant flowing from the second duct heat exchanger (142) to the first compressor (112) and the liquid refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114). The proportion of the liquid refrigerant among the refrigerants flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be increased.

[0143] The first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be operated as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can flow to the first compressor (112).

[0144] The liquid refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) is supplied separately to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) and the second duct heat exchanger (142). In addition, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled by controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152). In other words, the amount of refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled so that a relatively small amount flows, thereby preventing frost formation in the first outdoor heat exchanger (114).

[0145] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the second air conditioning device (200) is described.

[0146] The second air conditioning device (200) can stop the operation of the second compressor (212).

[0147] However, when the heating supply capacity of the first air conditioning unit (100) is insufficient, the second compressor (212) can be operated. Whether the heating supply capacity of the first air conditioning unit (100) is insufficient can be determined based on the temperature of the air supplied to the indoor space through the first duct (300). That is, the second compressor (212) can be operated when the temperature of the air supplied to the indoor space through the first duct (300) is below the set temperature.

[0148] Below, the flow of refrigerant in the second air conditioner (200) under the operating conditions of the second compressor (212) is described.

[0149] The refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) can flow to the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) through the second-second switching valve (220) and the second internal switching valve (234).

[0150] A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) flows to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) via the second internal heat exchanger (232). As it passes through the second internal heat exchanger (232), the proportion of liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) may increase.

[0151] The second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be operated as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can flow to the second compressor (212).

[0152] Another portion of the refrigerant discharged from the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242) may flow to the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240). The 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) may be operated as an evaporator.

[0153] The refrigerant flowing from the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) can flow to the second compressor (212) through the second internal heat exchanger (232).

[0154] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) may be formed to have a larger heat transfer area than the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). Therefore, when only the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) is used as a condenser, the flow rate of the refrigerant may be relatively reduced.

[0155] In addition, since the refrigerant flowing from the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) is divided into the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) and the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be formed to be small.

[0156] In addition, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be reduced by controlling the second-2 expansion valve (252) and the second outdoor expansion valve (216).

[0157] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, the operation of the air conditioning system of the present invention operating in the winter season will be described.

[0158] The term "cold season" may refer to a state in which the temperature of the outdoor space is below 4 degrees Celsius and above -2 degrees Celsius. The term "cold season" may refer to a temperature condition in which the condensate generated when the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) or the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) that exchanges heat with the air in the outdoor space operates as an evaporator may easily freeze.

[0159] In winter, the air in outdoor spaces can be cold and humid.

[0160] Accordingly, the air supplied to the indoor space through the first duct (300) may not require a separate dehumidification process. However, since the air flowing into the first duct (300) is in a low temperature state, it can be supplied to the indoor space through a heating process.

[0161] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0162] Each of the first upstream heat exchanger (140), the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240), and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) arranged inside the first duct (300) can be operated as described in Fig. 4. That is, the first upstream heat exchanger (140) can be operated as a condenser.

[0163] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) can be stopped or operated as an evaporator. The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) can be stopped or operated as a condenser.

[0164] The second duct heat exchanger (142) disposed in the second duct (310) can also be operated as described in Fig. 4. That is, the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0165] Below, the flow of refrigerant in each of the first air conditioning unit (100) and the second air conditioning unit (200) is described.

[0166] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the first air conditioning device (100) is described.

[0167] The flow of refrigerant in the first air conditioning device (100) can be formed in the same manner as the flow of refrigerant in the first air conditioning device (100) described in FIG. 4.

[0168] The amount of refrigerant flowing into the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled to flow relatively less. That is, the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be maintained at 20 to 30% of the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0169] By controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) and the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be controlled. That is, by controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled.

[0170] Therefore, by minimizing the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first outdoor heat exchanger (114), the rate of frost formation occurring in the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be delayed.

[0171] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the second air conditioning device (200) is described.

[0172] The second air conditioning device (200) can stop the operation of the second compressor (212).

[0173] However, when the heating supply capacity of the first air conditioning unit (100) is insufficient, the second compressor (212) can be operated. Whether the heating supply capacity of the first air conditioning unit (100) is insufficient can be determined based on the temperature of the air supplied to the indoor space through the first duct (300). That is, the second compressor (212) can be operated when the temperature of the air supplied to the indoor space through the first duct (300) is below the set temperature.

[0174] During the operation of the second air conditioning device (200), the flow of refrigerant can be formed in the same manner as the flow of refrigerant of the second air conditioning device (200) described in FIG. 4.

[0175] When the second air conditioning device (200) is in operation, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be adjusted to be small.

[0176] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) may be formed to have a larger heat transfer area than the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). Therefore, when only the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) is used as a condenser, the flow rate of the refrigerant may be relatively reduced.

[0177] In addition, since the refrigerant flowing from the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) is divided into the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) and the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be formed to be small.

[0178] In addition, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be reduced by controlling the second-2 expansion valve (252) and the second outdoor expansion valve (216).

[0179] Therefore, even if the second air conditioning device (200) is in operation, frost formation occurring in the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be delayed as much as possible.

[0180] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, the operation of the air conditioning system of the present invention operating in the extremely low temperature winter season will be described.

[0181] Cryogenic winter can refer to outdoor temperatures falling below -2 degrees Celsius. In this type of winter, frost formation may not occur even when an outdoor heat exchanger is used as an evaporator.

[0182] In extremely cold winter months, the air in outdoor spaces can be cold and humid.

[0183] The air flowing into the first duct (300) is in an extremely low temperature state and can be supplied to the indoor space through a heating process.

[0184] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0185] The first upper heat exchanger (140) placed inside the first duct (300) can be operated as a condenser.

[0186] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) arranged inside the first duct (300) can be operated as a condenser. The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) arranged inside the first duct (300) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0187] That is, the heating performance can be improved by operating the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) with a relatively large heat transfer area as a condenser and operating the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242) with a relatively small heat transfer area as an evaporator.

[0188] The second duct heat exchanger (142) disposed in the second duct (310) can also be operated as described in Fig. 4. That is, the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be operated as an evaporator.

[0189] Below, the flow of refrigerant in each of the first air conditioning unit (100) and the second air conditioning unit (200) is described.

[0190] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the first air conditioning device (100) is described.

[0191] The flow of refrigerant in the first air conditioning device (100) can be formed in the same manner as the flow of refrigerant in the first air conditioning device (100) described in FIG. 4.

[0192] The amount of refrigerant flowing into the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled to flow relatively less. That is, the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be maintained at 20 to 30% of the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first upstream heat exchanger (140).

[0193] By controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied from the first upstream heat exchanger (140) to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) and the second duct heat exchanger (142) can be controlled. That is, by controlling the first outdoor expansion valve (116) and the first-second expansion valve (152), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger (114) can be controlled.

[0194] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the second air conditioning device (200) is described.

[0195] The refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) can flow to the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) through the 2-2 switching valve (220) and the second internal switching valve (234). The 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) can be operated as a condenser.

[0196] A portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) flows to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) via the second internal heat exchanger (232). As it passes through the second internal heat exchanger (232), the proportion of liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) may increase.

[0197] The second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be operated as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can flow to the second compressor (212).

[0198] Another portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) may flow to the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) may operate as an evaporator.

[0199] The refrigerant flowing from the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) can flow to the second compressor (212) through the second internal heat exchanger (232).

[0200] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) can be formed to have a larger heat transfer area than the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242). Therefore, when the first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) is used as a condenser, the flow rate of refrigerant can be relatively increased.

[0201] In addition, as the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) is used as a condenser, the performance of heating the air flowing through the 1st duct (300) can be improved.

[0202] In addition, since the refrigerant flowing from the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger (240) is divided and flows to the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242) and the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to each of the 2nd outdoor heat exchanger (214) and the 1-2 downstream heat exchanger (242) can be formed to be small.

[0203] In addition, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be reduced by controlling the second-2 expansion valve (252) and the second outdoor expansion valve (216).

[0204] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, the operation of the air conditioning system of the present invention operating in the inter-season will be described.

[0205] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0206] During the transitional season, the air in outdoor spaces can be humid. During the transitional season, the temperature in outdoor spaces can be set to a temperature between summer and winter.

[0207] First, the operation of multiple heat exchangers based on the duct is explained.

[0208] The first upstream heat exchanger (140) placed inside the first duct (300) can be stopped.

[0209] The first-first downstream heat exchanger (240) disposed inside the first duct (300) can be operated as an evaporator. The first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) disposed inside the first duct (300) can be operated as a condenser.

[0210] The second duct heat exchanger (142) placed in the second duct (310) can be stopped.

[0211] Below, the flow of refrigerant in each of the first air conditioning unit (100) and the second air conditioning unit (200) is described.

[0212] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the first air conditioning device (100) is described.

[0213] The first air conditioning device (100) may stop operating.

[0214] The flow of refrigerant flowing through the second air conditioning device (200) is described.

[0215] During the operation of the second air conditioning device (200), the flow of refrigerant can be formed in the same manner as the flow of refrigerant of the second air conditioning device (200) described in FIG. 3.

[0216] The flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) can be adjusted to be small.

[0217] The ratio of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) and flowing to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) is adjusted to be 20% or less. In addition, the ratio of the refrigerant discharged from the second compressor (212) and flowing to the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) is adjusted to be 80% or more.

[0218] That is, by controlling the second outdoor expansion valve (216) and the second-second expansion valve (252), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied from the second compressor (212) to the second outdoor heat exchanger (214) and the first-second downstream heat exchanger (242) can be controlled.

[0219] Referring to FIG. 8, an air conditioning system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0220] The following description focuses on the differences from the air conditioning system described in Fig. 1. Configurations not described in Fig. 8 can be understood in the same way as those described in Fig. 1.

[0221] The air conditioning system includes a first duct (300) that sends air flowing in from an outdoor space to an indoor space. A plurality of heat exchangers are arranged in the first duct (300). A first fan (402) that supplies air to the indoor space may be arranged in the first duct (300).

[0222] In the first duct (300), the heat exchangers of the first air conditioning unit (100) may be arranged in parallel. In the first duct (300), a plurality of heat exchangers of the second air conditioning unit (200) may be arranged in parallel.

[0223] The heat exchanger of the first air conditioning device (100) can be arranged in parallel in the second duct (310).

[0224] In the first duct (300), a pair of 1-1 duct heat exchangers (140a, 140b), a pair of 1-2 duct heat exchangers (240a, 240b), and a pair of 1-3 duct heat exchangers (242a, 242b) are sequentially arranged.

[0225] Each of a pair of 1-1 duct heat exchangers (140a, 140b) can be arranged in parallel inside the 1-1 duct (300). Each of a pair of 1-1 duct heat exchangers (140a, 140b) can be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0226] Each of a pair of first-second duct heat exchangers (240a, 240b) can be arranged in parallel inside the first duct (300). Each of a pair of first-second duct heat exchangers (240a, 240b) can be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0227] Each of a pair of first-third duct heat exchangers (242a, 242b) can be arranged in parallel inside the first duct (300). Each of a pair of first-third duct heat exchangers (242a, 242b) can be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0228] A pair of second duct heat exchangers (142a, 142b) may be arranged in the second duct (310). Each of the pair of second duct heat exchangers (142a, 142b) may be arranged in parallel inside the second duct (310). Each of the pair of second duct heat exchangers (142a, 142b) may be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0229] Taking into account the temperature conditions of the outdoor space, each pair of heat exchangers can be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0230] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A first duct that sends air flowing in from an outdoor space to an indoor space and has multiple heat exchangers arranged inside; A second duct that sends air discharged from the indoor space to the outdoor space; A first air conditioning device that supplies refrigerant to a first upstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct and a second duct heat exchanger arranged in the second duct; and A second air conditioning device is included that supplies refrigerant to at least one first downstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct, The above first air conditioning device, A first outdoor unit including a first compressor that sends refrigerant to the first upstream heat exchanger or the second duct heat exchanger, and a first outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor, An air conditioning system including a first heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the first outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the first compressor.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first heat recovery kit includes a first inner heat exchanger, The above first inner heat exchanger is an air conditioning system that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the first outdoor heat exchanger or flowing to the first outdoor heat exchanger and refrigerant flowing to the first compressor.

3. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system in which the first heat recovery kit includes a first inner switching valve that sends the refrigerant flowing from the first compressor to the first upstream heat exchanger or the second duct heat exchanger.

4. In paragraph 1, Including a bypass pipe connecting the first duct and the second duct, An air conditioning system in which a bypass valve is arranged in the above bypass pipe to connect or block the first duct and the second duct.

5. In paragraph 4, The above bypass pipe is an air conditioning system arranged upstream of the second duct heat exchanger.

6. In paragraph 4, The above bypass pipe is an air conditioning system that sends air flowing from the second duct to the first upstream heat exchanger.

7. In paragraph 1, The above second air conditioning device, An air conditioning system comprising a second outdoor unit including a second compressor for sending refrigerant to at least one first downstream heat exchanger, and a second outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor.

8. In paragraph 7, The above second air conditioning device, An air conditioning system including a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

9. In paragraph 8, The second heat recovery kit is an air conditioning system including a second inner heat exchanger that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor heat exchanger and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

10. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system in which the first downstream heat exchanger includes a 1-1 downstream heat exchanger disposed downstream of the first upstream heat exchanger and a 1-2 downstream heat exchanger disposed downstream of the 1-1 downstream heat exchanger.

11. In paragraph 10, An air conditioning system in which one of the first-first downstream heat exchanger and the first-second downstream heat exchanger sends refrigerant to the second outdoor unit through the second inner heat exchanger.

12. In paragraph 10, An air conditioning system in which the above 1-1 downstream heat exchanger has a larger heat transfer area than the above 1-2 downstream heat exchanger.

13. In paragraph 10, The second air conditioning device includes a second outdoor unit including a second compressor and a second outdoor heat exchanger, and a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the second outdoor unit or flowing to the second outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor. An air conditioning system in which the second heat recovery kit includes a second inner switching valve that sends the refrigerant flowing from the second compressor to either the first-first downstream heat exchanger or the first-second downstream heat exchanger.

14. In paragraph 13, The above second inner switching valve is an air conditioning system that sends refrigerant flowing in from the other of the first-1 downstream heat exchanger and the first-2 downstream heat exchanger to the second inner heat exchanger.

15. A first duct that sends air flowing in from an outdoor space to an indoor space and has multiple heat exchangers arranged inside; A second duct that sends air discharged from the indoor space to the outdoor space; A first air conditioning device that supplies refrigerant to a first upstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct and a second duct heat exchanger arranged in the second duct; and It includes a second air conditioning unit that supplies refrigerant to the first-first downstream heat exchanger and the first-second downstream heat exchanger arranged in the first duct, The above second air conditioning device, A second outdoor unit including a second compressor and a second outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from the second compressor and air, An air conditioning system including a second heat recovery kit that exchanges heat between refrigerant flowing from or to the second outdoor unit and refrigerant flowing to the second compressor.

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