Heat Pump Mode Switch Flow Path Design to Reduce Valve Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and reliability issues in heat pump systems due to the large number of valves required for controlling flow paths, which increases the risk of leaks and damage to the compressor.
Innovation Solution
A heat pump system with a mode switch valve assembly and a mode switch flow path that includes three controllable flow paths converging at an intersection point, utilizing throttling sections and one-way valves to switch between different modes, reducing the need for multiple valves and enhancing operational reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves (electromagnetic valves and one-way globe valves) are added to control flow paths for heat recovery function, then the system can realize different working modes, but the device complexity increases greatly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple valves (electromagnetic valves and one-way globe valves) into a single integrated four-way valve assembly. This assembly includes a valve body with multiple ports and internal valve elements that can simultaneously control multiple flow paths, thereby reducing the total number of valves while maintaining the ability to switch between heating, cooling, and heat recovery modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-way valve assembly is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it controls flow paths for both heating and cooling modes, and also enables heat recovery operation. The valve includes multiple valve elements (first and second four-way valves) that can be configured to achieve different working modes through a unified control mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are added to control flow paths, then different working modes can be realized, but the reliability of the heat pump system is reduced due to increased leak possibilities
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple valve functions into a single four-way valve assembly, the patent reduces the total number of potential leak points. The integrated design means fewer seals and fewer moving parts that could fail, thereby improving system reliability while still enabling heat recovery and other working modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary valves from the system. Specifically, it removes the need for separate one-way globe valves that were previously required to complement electromagnetic valves, thereby reducing the number of components that could potentially leak or fail.
3Ease of operation
If electromagnetic valves and one-way globe valves are used together, then flow path control is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to material constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of expensive electromagnetic valves and one-way globe valves into a single four-way valve assembly, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration lowers material costs and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining full flow path control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-way valve assembly serves as a universal component that replaces multiple specialized valves, reducing the variety of parts that need to be manufactured. This multi-functionality approach simplifies the supply chain and manufacturing processes while maintaining the ability to control all necessary flow paths.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution simplifies the system structure, reduces valve usage, and enhances operational reliability by allowing for efficient switching between refrigeration, heating, and heat recovery modes, minimizing the risk of leaks and compressor damage.
Implementation Method 1
at least the first flow path and the second flow path are respectively provided with a throttling section
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a heat pump system which comprises a compressor (110), a mode switch valve assembly (120), a mode switch flow path, and a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger and a heat recovery heat exchanger respectively connected between the mode switch valve assembly and the mode switch flow path, wherein the mode switch flow path is provided with a first flow path (160), a second flow path (170) and a third flow path (180) which converge at an intersection point, and at least the first flow path and the second flow path are respectively provided with a throttling section (161,171), and the first flow path, the second flow path and the third flow path are controllably switched on/off to realize different function modes. Therefore, a heat pump unit having a heat recovery function is provided, which has advantages of simple structure and high operational reliability, etc.