Heat pump and method for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump

Abstract

The application includes a heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, a housing (2), a compressor (4), an electric motor (6) which comprises two bearing shields (14, 16), one bearing shield (14, 16) being cast in and onto the housing (2), at least one expansion valve (8), and two heat exchangers (10, 12), wherein at least the compressor (4), the electric motor (6) and the at least one expansion valve (8) are provided in the housing (2), the compressor (4) and the two heat exchangers (10, 12) being designed to be fluidically connected together and the at least one expansion valve (8) and the two heat exchangers (10, 12) being designed to be fluidically connected together, and the cast bearing shield (14, 16) has at least one cutout which is designed to fluidically connect the compressor (4) and one heat exchanger (10). The invention further relates to a corresponding method for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump (1).

Description

[0001] ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0002] Heat pump and method for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump

[0003] Description

[0004] Technical field

[0005] The present invention relates to a heat pump.

[0006] Furthermore, the invention relates to a thermal management system for a motor vehicle comprising a heat pump, a distribution unit, and a compressor. The thermal management system is characterized by the fact that the heat pump is designed as described.

[0007] background

[0008] In the prior art, heat pumps are known whose refrigeration circuit essentially consists of the central components of a compressor, at least one expansion valve and at least two heat exchangers, which are configured in a specific arrangement to enable efficient heat transfer between a heat source and a heat consumer.

[0009] All these components – the compressor, the expansion valve, and the heat exchangers – are known in the state of the art as independent components and are installed as such. These components are used as stand-alone units and are typically not all integrated into a single heat pump housing. Instead, they are connected to each other via their own lines and connections, which allows for a flexible arrangement of the components.

[0010] In stand-alone compressors, one of two end shields is typically cast as part of the main housing. This is usually the end shield to which the power electronics are connected. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0011] This stand-alone design leads to disadvantages, such as increased space requirements, more complex installation requirements, and a higher risk of leaks at the connection points.

[0012] Furthermore, the use of separate components typically increases the number of connection points, which in turn represent a potential source of energy losses. Additionally, the matching of the performance characteristics of the individual components is often suboptimal, which can negatively impact the overall energy efficiency of the system. This separate design can also lead to maintenance problems, as it makes accessing individual components more difficult, increasing the effort required for repairs and maintenance. Consequently, there is a need for an integrated solution where the essential components of the heat pump are combined in a single compact unit.

[0013] Therefore, it is desirable to house all components in a single enclosure to ensure the most compact and efficient design possible. In addition to the compressor, including the electric motor and compressor unit, other components such as sensors, expansion valves, oil separators, and piping should also be integrated into this enclosure. Furthermore, two or more heat exchangers should be directly connected to the main enclosure to enable optimal heat transfer.

[0014] The problem is that a cast-on bearing shield, which seals the housing to the outside, is then no longer feasible.

[0015] Summary description of the invention

[0016] Therefore, one of the underlying objectives of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of heat pumps in the prior art.

[0017] In particular, one of the objectives underlying the present invention is to provide heat pumps that have a cast-on end shield which seals the housing to the outside. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0018] These and other problems are solved by the subject matter of the attached independent claims.

[0019] Preferred embodiments can be found in the dependent claims and furthermore in the following description, in particular taking into account various embodiments as discussed and described in the attached claims.

[0020] The embodiments, features, and combinations of features described herein in connection with the invention, as well as the combination of features specified in the appended claims, and also any combination of features mentioned and described in connection with the embodiments, are deemed to be disclosed herein, or at least to be derivable by a person skilled in the art. In particular, each feature and each combination of features in the embodiments described herein may, for example, be claimed in a different combination, especially in a different claim category, at least because the person skilled in the art will recognize that each individual combination of the features mentioned herein is suitable for contributing to the solution of the underlying problem.

[0021] Furthermore, each feature and each combination of features in the claims and in the description below can be used and claimed separately, independently of the subject matter claimed, independent of claim dependencies and cross-references, and independent of the claim category in which the feature is claimed. For example, in an arbitrary combination selected from one or more claims, one or more embodiments according to the description below and / or the accompanying figures may be provided.

[0022] The problems described above are solved according to the invention by a heat pump, in particular for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising:

[0023] - a case,

[0024] - a compressor, ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0025] - an electric motor comprising two bearing shields, wherein one bearing shield is cast into and with the housing,

[0026] - at least one expansion valve, and

[0027] - two heat exchangers, wherein at least the compressor, the electric motor and the at least one expansion valve are arranged in the housing, wherein the compressor and the two heat exchangers, as well as the at least one expansion valve and the two heat exchangers are designed to be in fluid communication, wherein the cast-on bearing shield has at least one recess designed to fluidly connect the compressor and a heat exchanger.

[0028] All essential components, such as the compressor, electric motor, and expansion valve, are housed in a single unit. This design offers several advantages. By integrating all essential components—such as the compressor, heat exchangers, and expansion valve—into a single unit, the heat pump becomes significantly more compact and space-saving. This design allows for optimal use of available space and a reduction in the overall dimensions of the system.

[0029] Minimizing the number of external connections significantly reduces the risk of leaks, as each connection represents a potential weak point where leaks can occur. Fewer connections mean a lower likelihood of seals or fittings wearing out or becoming damaged over time. This not only reduces the risk of refrigerant loss, which could impair the heat pump's efficiency and cause environmental damage, but also reduces maintenance and associated costs.

[0030] Furthermore, a direct fluidic connection between the compressor and the heat exchangers can significantly increase the system's efficiency, as potential heat losses through connections and pipes are minimized. This reduced heat loss allows for the effective utilization of a greater amount of the heat generated or absorbed by the compressor, thus improving the overall system performance (ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27). Simultaneously, energy consumption is reduced because less energy is required to maintain the desired temperature difference. Such an optimized connection ensures that thermal energy is transferred with maximum efficiency, resulting in more economical operation of the heat pump and increasing its environmental friendliness.

[0031] Finally, an enclosure with integrated components can simplify installation and reduce installation costs. Since fewer individual parts and connections are required, the installation process is accelerated and the likelihood of installation errors is reduced.

[0032] A fluidic connection is a connection between two or more components of the heat pump that allows the flow of a fluid - be it a gas or a liquid.

[0033] In the present invention, temperature control is understood to mean cooling or heating.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the cast-on bearing shield can further comprise a sensor.

[0035] A sensor that can be integrated into the end shield of a heat pump could be, for example, a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor. A temperature sensor could monitor the temperature of the fluid or other critical components. Accurate temperature monitoring ensures that the heat pump operates efficiently and that overheating is avoided.

[0036] A pressure sensor could monitor the fluid pressure in the system. This is important to ensure that the pressure remains within optimal operating limits, which increases the efficiency and safety of the heat pump.

[0037] Integrating a sensor into the bearing shield saves space inside the housing. This results in a more compact design for the heat pump. A more compact design can also simplify the installation and maintenance of the heat pump, as less space is required for the components. (ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27)

[0038] Another advantage is that the sensor, due to its position in the bearing shield, has direct access to the relevant measuring points. This can improve the accuracy and response time of the measurements, as the sensor is positioned closer to the areas being monitored.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the cast-on bearing shield can further comprise an expansion valve or a plurality of expansion valves.

[0040] This results in a more compact design, as separate components and connections are reduced. Furthermore, the efficiency of the heat pump can be increased, since integrating the expansion valves into the end shield leads to better heat transfer and an optimized refrigerant circuit.

[0041] Using multiple expansion valves in a heat pump offers several advantages. Firstly, the refrigerant flow can be controlled more precisely by multiple expansion valves, leading to higher heat pump efficiency as it can be better adapted to different operating conditions and load requirements.

[0042] Furthermore, multiple expansion valves allow for more precise temperature control in different parts of the system, which helps to minimize temperature differences and ensure a more even heat distribution.

[0043] Furthermore, by dividing the refrigerant flow across multiple valves, the load on each individual valve is reduced, which extends the service life of the valves.

[0044] Finally, multiple expansion valves also offer redundancy, since if one valve fails, the others can continue to function, thus reducing downtime and increasing operational reliability. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0045] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the compressor can be a spiral compressor having two interlocking spiral elements, wherein one spiral element is stationary and the other spiral element is movable.

[0046] The interlocking spiral elements of the spiral compressor enable continuous compression, resulting in higher efficiency compared to conventional compressors.

[0047] Because the movement of the spiral elements is smooth and without sudden pressure changes, the compressor operates more quietly. This smooth movement also reduces vibrations, which extends the service life of the compressor and the entire heat pump.

[0048] Scroll compressors are more compact than other compressor types, saving space and facilitating integration into various systems. Their simple and robust design makes scroll compressors less prone to mechanical failures and reduces maintenance requirements.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the spiral compressor can be an axial or a radial spiral compressor.

[0050] Axial scroll compressors are more efficient at high flow rates: These compressors are particularly efficient in applications requiring large quantities of gas, as they increase the gas pressure through a sequence of rotating and stationary blades. This results in uniform and continuous compression, which increases efficiency.

[0051] Furthermore, axial scroll compressors generally have a more compact design compared to radial compressors. This compact design allows the compressors to be installed in confined spaces without compromising performance. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0052] Furthermore, axial spiral compressors exhibit lower mechanical losses. The continuous movement of the rotating screw minimizes mechanical losses, resulting in higher overall energy efficiency and lower operating costs.

[0053] In comparison, radial scroll compressors are better suited for applications requiring high pressure ratios at low flow rates. Radial scroll compressors use impellers to accelerate the gas radially outwards, resulting in an effective pressure increase.

[0054] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the cast-on bearing shield can be arranged between the compressor and the electric motor.

[0055] By placing the cast-on bearing shield between the compressor and the electric motor, the bearing housing of the most heavily loaded component becomes part of the main housing. This eliminates weak points that could arise from joints.

[0056] Cast housings then result in shorter demolding distances, which makes production processes more efficient. Shorter tools can also be used, which are less susceptible to vibration.

[0057] Finally, the bearing seat of the most heavily loaded bearing and the compressor elements can be machined in a single clamping operation, resulting in better tolerances.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the cast-on bearing shield can be arranged between a heat exchanger and the electric motor, and the cast-on bearing shield can be arranged on the side of the electric motor facing away from the compressor and towards one of the heat exchangers. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0059] By arranging the bearing shield on the side of the electric motor facing away from the compressor, the bearing seat, the spiral element diameter and the diameter of a stator can be machined in a single clamping operation.

[0060] This results in higher precision and improved tolerances. Furthermore, the compressor components can be largely pre-assembled, which simplifies installation in the main housing, as the components can be installed from one side.

[0061] This variant also allows for independent testing of the compressor, which makes the testing and development processes more efficient.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the compressor can have at least one inlet at the outer edge, which is designed to allow fluid to enter the compressor through this inlet in order to be compressed there, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with a heat exchanger.

[0063] This design offers flexibility in application, as it can be adapted to different operating conditions.

[0064] The term "outer edge" refers to the area of ​​the compressor furthest from the center or axis of the device, and this edge can be either part of the compressor housing or a stationary element. In this embodiment, the inlet is therefore located at the outermost area of ​​the compressor, meaning that the fluid is introduced at the edge of the compressor rather than closer to the center.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the inlet at the outer edge of the compressor can be designed to introduce a fluid with a pressure of 1 to 3 bar into the compressor.

[0066] By selectively introducing the fluid at a specific pressure, the efficiency of the compressor, and therefore of the entire heat pump, can be increased. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the compressor can have at least one inlet in the stationary spiral element, which is designed to allow fluid to enter the compressor through this inlet in order to be compressed there, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with a heat exchanger, and wherein this fluid communication leads through the recess in the cast-on bearing shield.

[0068] The inlet in the stationary spiral element allows the fluid to enter an already compressed portion of the medium, as the inlet is positioned not at the outer edge of the housing, but within the stationary spiral element itself. This results in more efficient compression of the fluid and improves the compressor's performance. This positioning also minimizes pressure loss, leading to reduced stress on the compressor.

[0069] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the inlet in the stationary spiral element can be designed to introduce a fluid with a pressure of 4 to 7 bar into the compressor.

[0070] This increases energy efficiency, as less energy is required to compress the fluid. This not only contributes to cost savings but also to reducing the heat pump's environmental footprint.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment of the heat pump according to the invention, particularly for a motor vehicle, especially an electric or hybrid vehicle, the inlet can be located in a region of the stationary spiral element which extends from one third to half of the diameter, starting from the outer edge of the stationary spiral element.

[0072] By placing the inlet in a specific area of ​​the stationary spiral element, extending from one-third to one-half of its diameter, the medium is introduced into a region that is already partially compressed. This supports the compression process and leads to more efficient heat transfer. This targeted positioning reduces thermal losses and allows for a more compact pump design, saving space and facilitating integration into various systems.

[0073] Furthermore, the invention relates to a thermal management system, in particular for a motor vehicle, with a heat pump according to the invention.

[0074] Furthermore, the invention relates to a thermal management system for a motor vehicle comprising a heat pump, a distribution unit, and a compressor. The thermal management system is characterized by the fact that the heat pump is designed as described.

[0075] Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising such a thermal management system and / or a heat pump according to the invention.

[0076] A thermal management system is a system that regulates the temperature of at least two devices. A device is therefore a unit that needs to be cooled or heated. One device can be cooled and the other heated.

[0077] Furthermore, the invention relates to a building with a thermal management system and / or a heat pump according to the invention. The building is characterized in that the thermal management system and / or the heat pump is designed as described.

[0078] The problems described above are also solved according to the invention by a method according to the invention for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump according to the invention, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) introducing a fluid into the compressor, b) compressing the fluid in the compressor, c) transferring the fluid to a heat exchanger in which the fluid releases heat to a system, d) directing the fluid from the heat exchanger to an expansion valve, e) expanding the fluid in the expansion valve, f) transferring the fluid to a heat exchanger in which the fluid absorbs heat from a system, g) introducing the fluid into the compressor to continue the heat transfer process in step b).

[0079] The principle of the heat transfer process in a heat pump is based on a closed circuit in which a fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) circulates continuously, passing through various thermodynamic states to transport heat. Initially (step a), the fluid is introduced into the compressor, where it is compressed (step b), increasing the fluid's pressure and temperature. The heated and pressurized fluid is then directed to a first heat exchanger (step c), where it releases heat to an external system, such as a heating system. From the first heat exchanger, the fluid flows to an expansion valve (step d), where it expands and cools down (step e). The cooled fluid is then transferred to a second heat exchanger (step f), where it absorbs heat from an external system, such as the ambient air or the ground.Finally, the fluid is reintroduced into the compressor (step g) to continue the heat transfer process, thus closing the cycle and starting the process again.

[0080] It should also be noted in connection with the method according to the invention that the steps indicated do not necessarily have to be carried out in the specified order. The steps indicated can be carried out in any other suitable order or even simultaneously. In particular, all steps can be carried out simultaneously, since the fluid circulates in the circuit.

[0081] It will also be recognized by a person skilled in the art that a feature, embodiment, effect, or advantage, as described here in connection with the inventive heat pump and / or the inventive method for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump, can also be a feature, embodiment, effect, or advantage of the inventive method, or vice versa. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0082] In the present description and the accompanying claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the word “comprise” and variations such as “includes” and “comprehensive” are understood to imply the inclusion of a specified element, integer, or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, although in some embodiments such other elements, integers, or steps, or groups of elements, integers, or steps may be excluded; i.e., the subject matter consists of the inclusion of a specified element, integer, or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps.

[0083] The terms “a”, “an”, and “that”, and similar references used in the context of the description of the invention (particularly in the context of the claims) are to be interpreted as covering both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradicted by the context. The indication of value ranges serves only as a shorthand to refer individually to each value within the range. Unless otherwise specified herein, each individual value is included in the specification as if it were listed individually herein.

[0084] Within the present application, terms such as “side” or “lateral”, “rear”, “front”, “top”, “bottom”, “ground”, “opposite”, “inside”, “outside” or the like, which describe the position of a first object relative to another object, preferably refer to the relative position of each respective part or object in relation to its position when it is fully assembled for its intended use.

[0085] Brief description of the characters

[0086] The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings, from which further features, embodiments and ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0087] Advantages can be derived from this. In the embodiments shown in the illustrations, elements with similar or identical functions are designated with the same reference numerals. It should be noted that the illustrations may not be to scale.

[0088] This shows:

[0089] FIG. 1 shows a sectional view of a heat pump according to the invention.

[0090] Detailed description

[0091] The heat pump 1 according to the invention, which is shown in a sectional view in FIG. 1, consists of several components which are arranged in the housing 2 of the heat pump 1:

[0092] The housing 2 of the heat pump 1 contains the compressor 4, the electric motor 6, at least one expansion valve 8 and two heat exchangers 10, 12. The electric motor 6 is equipped with two bearing shields 14, 16, one of which is cast into the housing 2.

[0093] In this embodiment, compressor 4 is a scroll compressor and consists of two interlocking spiral elements. One of these elements is stationary, while the other is movable. This scroll compressor can be configured either axially or radially, depending on the specific requirements.

[0094] The compressor 4 and the two heat exchangers 10, 12, and the at least one expansion valve 8 and the two heat exchangers 10, 12 are designed to be in direct fluid contact with each other. These fluidic connections enable efficient exchange and transport of the fluid within the heat pump 1. The coordinated integration of these components ensures that the fluid circulates continuously between the various stations, thus optimizing the performance of the heat pump 1. (ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27)

[0095] The cast-in bearing shield 14, 16 has a special recess that fluidically connects the compressor 4 and one of the heat exchangers 10. It can also include a sensor and one or more expansion valves.

[0096] A sensor integrated into the bearing shield 14, 16 of a heat pump 1 could, for example, be a temperature or pressure sensor. A temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the fluid or other critical components. Precise temperature monitoring ensures that the heat pump 1 operates efficiently and that overheating is avoided.

[0097] A pressure sensor, on the other hand, monitors the pressure of the fluid in the heat pump 1. This is crucial to ensure that the pressure remains within the optimal operating limits, which increases the efficiency and safety of the heat pump 1.

[0098] The cast-on bearing shield 14 is arranged between the compressor 4 and the electric motor 6 or between a heat exchanger 10 and the electric motor 6. The cast-on bearing shield 16 is located on the side of the electric motor 6 facing away from the compressor 4 and towards the heat exchanger 10.

[0099] In this embodiment, the compressor 4 has an inlet at its outer edge through which fluid at a pressure of 1 to 3 bar can enter the compressor 4. Additionally, an inlet can be arranged in the stationary spiral element of the compressor 4 through which fluid at a pressure of 4 to 7 bar is introduced. In this case, the inlet at the outer edge is in fluid communication with the heat exchanger 10.

[0100] The compressor 4 can have at least one inlet in the stationary spiral element, designed to allow fluid to enter the compressor 4 for compression. This inlet is connected to a heat exchanger 10 via a fluid path through the recess in the cast-on bearing shield 14, 16. This inlet in the stationary spiral element (ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509, Friedrichshafen, 2024-09-27) is designed to introduce a fluid at a pressure of 4 to 7 bar into the compressor 4. Furthermore, the inlet can be located in a region of the stationary spiral element extending from one-third to one-half of its diameter, measured from the outer edge of the stationary spiral element.

[0101] A heat pump 1 according to the invention, as described in this embodiment, can be installed in a thermal management system, in particular for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, a motor vehicle can include such a thermal management system.

[0102] A method for carrying out a heat transfer process in this heat pump 1 comprises several steps: First, a fluid is introduced into the compressor 4 and compressed there. The compressed fluid is then transferred to a heat exchanger 12, where it releases heat to a system. Next, the fluid is directed to an expansion valve 8, where it expands. Finally, the expanded fluid is transferred to a second heat exchanger 10, where it absorbs heat from a system before being reintroduced into the compressor 4 to continue the process.

[0103] Various materials can be used for the manufacture of the heat pump 1. The housing 2 could be made of aluminum or a high-strength plastic to ensure both lightness and stability. The heat exchangers 10, 12 could be made of copper or aluminum, as these materials have high thermal conductivity. The compressor 4 and the spiral elements could be made of steel or special alloys to withstand the high pressure and temperature requirements. ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27

[0104] Reference mark

[0105] 1 heat pump

[0106] 2 cases

[0107] 4 Compressor

[0108] 6 electric motor

[0109] 8 Expansion valve

[0110] 10 heat exchangers

[0111] 12 heat exchangers

[0112] 14 Storage sign

[0113] 16 Storage sign

Claims

ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27 Patent claims 1. Heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising: - a case (2), - a compressor (4), - an electric motor (6) comprising two bearing shields (14, 16), wherein one bearing shield (14, 16) is cast into and with the housing (2), - at least one expansion valve (8), and - two heat exchangers (10, 12), wherein at least the compressor (4), the electric motor (6) and the at least one expansion valve (8) are arranged in the housing (2), wherein the compressor (4) and the two heat exchangers (10, 12), as well as the at least one expansion valve (8) and the two heat exchangers (10, 12) are designed to be in fluid communication, wherein the cast-on bearing shield (14, 16) has at least one recess designed to fluidly connect the compressor (4) and a heat exchanger (10).

2. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 1 , wherein the cast-on bearing shield (14, 16) further comprises a sensor.

3. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cast-on bearing shield (14, 16) further comprises an expansion valve or a plurality of expansion valves.

4. Heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressor (4) is a scroll compressor having two interlocking spiral elements, ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27 wherein one spiral element is fixed and the other spiral element is movable.

5. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 4, wherein the spiral compressor (4) is an axial or a radial spiral compressor.

6. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cast-on bearing shield (14) is arranged between the compressor (4) and the electric motor (6).

7. Heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cast-on bearing plate (16) is arranged between a heat exchanger (10) and the electric motor (6), and wherein the cast-on bearing plate (16) is arranged on the side of the electric motor (6) that is facing away from the compressor (4) and towards the heat exchanger (10).

8. Heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressor (4) has at least one inlet at the outer edge which is designed to allow fluid to enter the compressor (4) through this inlet in order to be compressed there, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with a heat exchanger (10).

9. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 8, wherein the inlet at the outer edge of the compressor (4) is designed to introduce a fluid at a pressure of 1 to 3 bar into the compressor (4). ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27 10. Heat pump (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressor (4) has at least one inlet in the stationary spiral element, which is designed to allow fluid to enter the compressor (4) through this inlet in order to be compressed there, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with a heat exchanger (10), and wherein this fluid communication leads through the recess in the cast-on bearing shield (14, 16). 1 1. Heat pump (1 ), in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 10, wherein the inlet in the stationary spiral element is designed to introduce a fluid at a pressure of 4 to 7 bar into the compressor (4).

12. Heat pump (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric or hybrid vehicle, according to claim 10 or 1 1 , wherein the inlet is located in a region of the stationary spiral element which extends from one third to half of the diameter, starting from the outer edge of the stationary spiral element.

13. Thermal management system, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising a heat pump (1), characterized in that the heat pump (1) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

14. Motor vehicle comprising a thermal management system according to claim 13 and / or a heat pump (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. Method for carrying out a heat transfer process in a heat pump (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) introducing a fluid into the compressor (4), b) compressing the fluid in the compressor (4), ZF Friedrichshafen AG File 305509 Friedrichshafen 2024-09-27 c) Transferring the fluid to a heat exchanger (12) in which the fluid releases heat to a system, d) Directing the fluid from the heat exchanger to an expansion valve (8), e) Expanding the fluid in the expansion valve (8), f) Transferring the fluid to a heat exchanger (12) in which the fluid absorbs heat from a system, g) Introducing the fluid into the compressor (4) to continue the heat transfer process in step b).

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