Heat pump with a hydraulic module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat pumps are not designed to be flexibly installed as compact components independent of combined service water and heating systems, limiting their adaptability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic module with injection-molded plastic walls connected via welding processes, featuring optimized flow paths for low pressure loss, additional electrical heating, and flexible connection options to minimize deflections and enhance compatibility with various installation configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the hydraulic module uses injection-molded plastic walls joined by welding processes, then the manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the housing walls and internal flow channels into a single injection-molded plastic component. The first and second walls are formed as one piece with integrated fluid-conducting connections, eliminating the need for separate welding processes and reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The injection-molded plastic housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, creates watertight seals, forms flow channels, and integrates mounting features. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall device structure
2Loss of energy
If the flow paths are optimized for minimal internal pressure loss, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes flow path parameters such as channel diameter, curvature radius, and path length to minimize pressure loss. By carefully selecting and adjusting these geometric parameters during the injection molding design phase, the system achieves low energy loss without requiring post-manufacturing adjustments
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hydraulic module is designed for flexible installation as a compact component, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic module is designed as a compact, self-contained unit with integrated components. By segmenting the system into this modular housing unit that can be independently installed and connected to existing heating systems, the patent achieves installation flexibility without increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with universal connection features that allow it to be installed in various configurations and connected to different types of heating systems. The integrated design provides multiple connection points and adaptable mounting options without requiring complex additional components
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 hydraulic module allows for efficient and flexible integration into heat pumps, supporting increased flow temperatures and cold outdoor conditions, while maintaining low internal pressure losses and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second walls are made of plastic and are joined together, in particular by a welding process such as vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, friction welding, or laser welding
Implementation Method 2
The first and second walls are made of plastic and are joined together, in particular by a welding process such as vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, friction welding, or laser welding
Implementation Method 3
The first and second walls are made of plastic and are joined together, in particular by a welding process such as vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, friction welding, or laser welding
Implementation Method 4
The first and second walls are made of plastic and are joined together, in particular by a welding process such as vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, friction welding, or laser welding
Implementation Method 5
an auxiliary electric heater is integrated into the at least one cavity
Data Source
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AI summary
The hydraulic module (100) has a flow connection (220) and a return connection (210), through which a liquid is channeled. A cavity is partially formed by a wall of the hydraulic module and a liquid channeled connection of the cavity is provided with the flow connection and with the return connection. The cavity is formed by the wall (200) and another wall (300). The former wall is waterproof connected with the later wall towards outside in the region of the cavity. A cable inlet (230) is connected with the flow connection. An independent claim is also included for a heat pump.