GB2522723A

GB2522723A - Heating apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2522723A
Application number: GB1403419.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Peter Mintoft
Original assignee: Charlton and Jenrick Ltd
Current assignee: Charlton and Jenrick Ltd
Priority date: 2014-01-07
Filing date: 2014-02-26
Publication date: 2015-08-05
Anticipated expiration: 2034-02-26
Also published as: GB201400275D0; GB201403419D0; GB2522723B

Abstract

Heating apparatus (10) adapted for installation at least in part within chimneyed fireplace (F), the apparatus (10) comprising a heat pump (12) locatable within the fireplace (F), an air inlet conduit (14) defined within the chimney (C) and extending between a first air inlet (16) of the heat pump and a first air source (A) and a second air outlet conduit (18) defined within the chimney (C) and extending between a first air outlet (20) of the heat pump (12) to an air exhaust (E). The heating apparatus (10) of the present invention finds particular application as heating appliances for domestic dwellings. The apparatus is dimensioned primarily for installation within existing fireplaces of domestic dwellings, in particular open fireplaces that have a traditional chimney associated therewith

Description

HEATING APPARATUS

The present invention relates to heating apparatus and particularly but not exclusively to heating apparatus comprising a heat pump for domestic application.

Gas fires, electric fires and solid fuel fires are perhaps the most common single source heating appliances used in domestic environments.

They provide convenient, selective heating of spaces such as living rooms, sitting rooms and the like within domestic dwellings and are the typical focal point heat sources used today.

Heat pumps as a means of heating are known. They function generally by transferring heat energy from a heat source to a heat sink against a temperature gradient. Heat pumps are generally considered to be an efficient way of generating heat, because although they require external high-grade energy for their operation, such as an electricity source, most of the energy for heating comes from the external environment.

In certain electrical powered heat pumps, the heat generated can be several times greater than the electrical power consumed.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention there is provided heating apparatus adapted for installation at least in part within a chimneyed fireplace, the apparatus comprising a heat pump locatable within or in close proximity to the fireplace, an air inlet conduit defined within the chimney and extending between a first air inlet of the heat pump and a first air source, and an air outlet conduit defined within the chimney and extending between a first air outlet of the heat pump and an air exhaust.

Within the present specification the term "chimneyed fireplace" relates to fireplaces that have associated with them a chimney originally provided for the exhaustion of combustion by-products produced within the fireplace, such as by a traditional open fire within the fireplace.

The air inlet conduit may extend from the first air inlet, up and along the length of the chimney.

The air inlet conduit may connect the first air inlet to atmospheric air at or near the top of the chimney.

Alternatively or in addition the air inlet conduit may connect the first air inlet to an air source partway up the chimney.

The air inlet conduit may be defined by rigid ducting located within the chimney.

Alternatively the air inlet conduit may be defined by ducting that is flexible, at least in part.

Alternatively the air inlet conduit may be defined, at least in part, by the internal structure of the chimney itself.

The air outlet conduit may extend from the first air outlet, up and along the length of the chimney.

The air outlet conduit may connect the first air outlet to atmospheric air to allow air to be exhausted at or near the top of the chimney.

Alternatively the air outlet conduit may connect the first air outlet to an air exhaust located partway up the length of the chimney.

The air outlet conduit may be defined by rigid ducting.

Alternatively the air outlet conduit may be defined by ducting that is flexible, at least in part.

Alternatively the air outlet conduit may be defined, at least in part, by the internal structure of the chimney itself.

One of both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit may comprise expandable ducting, which may enable selective adjustment of the cross sectional area thereof to enable control of the air flow resistance therewithin.

In certain embodiments one or both of the conduits may comprise non-corrodible ducting.

One of both of the air inlet conduit ducting and air outlet conduit ducting may comprise aluminium, plastic and/or other suitable materials.

One or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit may be thermally insulated to reduce or control heat exchange between air within the conduit and the exterior of the conduit.

One or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit may comprise noise attenuation material and/or anti-drumming material.

One or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit may be fixed or braced within the chimney to reduce or control resonance and vibration during use.

Noise attenuation materials may comprise open cell acoustic foams of appropriate density and thickness.

One of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit is substantially wholly located within the other of the air outlet conduit and air inlet conduit, and may be so that they extend concentrically with one extending around the other.

The heat pump may comprise a housing having a first chamber with which the first air inlet and the first air outlet are in communication.

A first heat exchanger may be provided within the first chamber and configured to receive air driven by first air drive means through the first chamber from the first air inlet to the first air outlet.

The heat pump may comprise a second chamber having a second air inlet, a second air outlet and a second heat exchanger located within the second chamber and configured to receive air driven by second air drive means through the second chamber from the second air inlet to the second air outlet, the first and second heat exchangers being interconnected by a fluid-containing conduit circuit through which fluid can circulate between the heat exchangers, a compressor and a metering device being provided within the circuit.

The first heat exchanger may be located between the first air inlet and the first air outlet and may be generally elongate, extending in a direction generally transverse to the direction of air driven therethrough by the first drive means.

The first drive means may be a fan or any other suitable means to draw air in, down through the first air inlet conduit, through the first air inlet, and to cause the air to flow over the first heat exchanger and out through the first air outlet.

The first air inlet is configured to receive air from the first air source which is separate from a second air source from which air is drawn in to the second chamber through the second air inlet. The air source for the second air inlet may be located within the space that the apparatus is operable to heat, such as a room within which the fireplace is located.

The first chamber may be located at or towards the rear of the housing and may be located, at least in part, above the second chamber.

The first and second chambers may be mutually isolated or substantially isolated to prevent or restrict any air flow therebetween.

The second air inlet may be located on or near a front side of the apparatus, and may be located at or near the base of the apparatus.

The second air outlet may be located at or near a front side of the apparatus and may be at or near the top of the apparatus.

The second heat exchanger may be elongate and may be configured to extend in the general direction of the passage of air driven from the second air inlet to the second air outlet.

This configuration provides for prolonged interaction of the driven air with the second heat exchanger, providing for effective heat transfer between the air and the second heat exchanger.

The second heat exchanger may extend around, at least in part, the second air drive means. The second heat exchanger may comprise a plurality of interconnected heat exchange panels, which together may extend in series around the second air drive means.

The second air drive means may comprise a fan or any other suitable means to draw air in through the second air inlet(s), to flow through the second chamber, over the second heat exchanger and out through the second air outlet.

This configuration again helps to enhance efficient and effective heat transfer between the second heat exchanger and the air flowing through the second chamber.

The second air outlet may comprise a second air outlet passage that extends through the second chamber. The second air outlet passage may have an elongate cross section and may extend over or adjacent to a substantial part and may be substantially all of a side of the housing, which side may be the front side of the housing.

The second air outlet passage may extend behind a flame effect panel provided on or towards the front of the housing, which flame effect panel provides a visual image of flickering flames.

The first chamber may comprise the compressor and the metering device. Alternatively the second chamber may house the metering device.

The heat pump apparatus may comprise a domestic heating appliance and may be an alternative or a replacement for a domestic gas fire, electric fire, multi-fuel stove fire, or open fire.

The flame effect panel may comprise an LED, video or other electronic display panel.

The housing may have an overall width of approximately 500 mm, a height of approximately 610 mm and depth of approximately 350 mm.

The apparatus may be adapted to fit within a pre-existing recess of a domestic fireplace, and in particular a domestic open fireplace.

According to further aspects of the present invention there is a provided an air inlet conduit, as described in any of the preceding forty four paragraphs, for use with heat pump apparatus.

According to further aspects of the present invention there is a provided an air outlet conduit, as described in any of the preceding forty five paragraphs, for use with heat pump apparatus.

According to still further aspects of the present invention there is provided a conduit kit for a heat pump, comprising an air inlet conduit adapted for location within a chimney to extend between a first air inlet of a heat pump and a first air source and an air outlet conduit adapted for location within a chimney and to extend between a first air outlet of a heat pump and an air exhaust.

The air inlet conduit and/or air outlet conduit may be as described in any of the preceding forty six paragraphs.

Aspects of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig 1 is a diagrammatic cross sectional view of heating apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention, installed within a chimneyed fireplace; Fig 2 is a diagrammatic cross section of the apparatus of Fig 1 along the section Il/lI; Fig 3 is a diagrammatic cross section of heating apparatus in accordance with further aspects of the present invention, installed within a chimneyed fireplace; Fig 4 is a diagrammatic cross section of further heating apparatus in accordance with still further aspects of the present invention, installed within a chimneyed fireplace; Fig 5 is a diagrammatic cross section similar to that of Fig 1, of still further heating apparatus of the present invention, installed within a chimneyed fireplace; Fig 6 is a diagrammatic cross section similar to that of Fig 2, of heating apparatus according to still further aspects of the present invention, installed within a fireplace; and Fig 7 is a diagrammatic cross section similar to that of Fig 4, of heating apparatus according to still further aspects of the present invention, installed within a fireplace.

The present invention provides heating apparatus 10 adapted for installation at least in part within a chimneyed fireplace F, the apparatus 10 comprising a heat pump 12 locatable within the fireplace F, an air inlet conduit 14 defined within the chimney C and extending between a first air inlet 16 of the heat pump and a first air source A and a second air outlet conduit 18 (Fig 2) defined within the chimney C and extending between a first air outlet 20 of the heat pump 12 to an air exhaust E. The heating apparatus 10 of the present invention finds particular application as heating appliances for domestic dwellings. The apparatus is dimensioned primarily for installation within existing fireplaces of domestic dwellings, in particular open fireplaces that have a traditional chimney associated therewith.

In general, the apparatus 10 will generate a heat output in the order of 2 kW, which is equivalent to a typical domestic electric fire.

The present invention therefore enables the relatively energy efficient heat production capabilities of heat pump technology to be employed and enjoyed in domestic environments.

The heat pump 10 comprises a housing 22 which generally has a base 24, two lateral sides 26, 28, a top 30, a front side 32 and a rear side 34.

The housing 22 would generally be fabricated of metal or other suitable material and would have an overall width of approximately 500 mm, a height of approximately 610 mm and a depth of approximately 350 mm.

The air inlet conduit 14 extends from the top 30 of the housing 22 whereat the first air inlet 16 is located, up and along the length of the chimney C to protrude from the top T of the chimney C to extend into the atmospheric air externally of the chimney. One or more openings 36 are provided at or near the upper end of the air inlet conduit 14, through which air can be drawn into the air inlet conduit 14, as will be described.

In Figs I and 2, the air inlet conduit 14 is illustrated as a straight, linear conduit, defined by a duct within the chimney C. Where the internal profile of the chimney C allows, the air inlet conduit 14 can follow such a straight, direct line up through the chimney C, as illustrated in Figs I and 2. In such circumstanbes, the air inlet conduit 14 can be made of rigid material.

Alternatively the air inlet conduit ducting can be flexible in terms of being able to be bent at at least certain points along its length, thus allowing the conduit 14 to follow a non-linear path up the chimney (as will be described in more detail with reference to Fig 5).

The conduit can be defined by ducting that is resistant to corrosion, such as one or more of aluminium, plastic or other suitable material.

Typically, the ducting would not however need to be particularly temperature resistant.

The air inlet conduit 14 may be lagged or otherwise provided with thermal insulation to help reduce or control heat exchange between air passing through the conduit and the atmosphere exterior of the conduit. The air inlet conduit can be formed of material that provides thermal insulation.

The air inlet conduit 14 may comprise noise aftenuation material, to help attenuate noise generated by the movement of air therealong. Suitable noise attenuation materials include open cell foam and similar.

The air inlet conduit 14 may be fixed, such as by one or more bracings 38, that secure the conduit 14 to the inside of the chimney C to help prevent movement and vibration, and thus reduce potential vibration noises during use. The conduit 14 would also typically be held securely as it passes through the top T of the chimney.

The upper, exposed end of the air inlet conduit 14 would typically be capped with a cap 40 to prevent unwanted entry of debris and other articles down the conduit and into the heat pump 12.

In the embodiments illustrated in Figs 1 and 2, the air outlet conduit is similar in construction and configuration to the air inlet conduit 14. It extends up from the first air outlet 20, generally parallel to the air inlet conduit, up along the length of the chimney C to protrude above the top T of the chimney C, again generally alongside the air inlet conduit 14. A cap 42 is provided on the upper end in similar fashion to the cap 40 on the air inlet conduit 14.

Openings 44 which act as the exhaust are provided in the exposed sides of the air outlet conduit 18 to provide for the exhaustion of air, as will be described.

The materials, construction and general characteristics of the air outlet conduit 18 are the same or similar to those described in relation to the air inlet conduit 14. Again, appropriate bracing 46 is provided, generally within and at the top of the chimney structure.

Within the housing 22 is defined a first chamber 48 which is in communication with the first air inlet 16 and the first air outlet 20 and in which is located a first heat exchanger 50 configured to receive air driven by first air drive means 52, through the first chamber 48 from the first air inlet 16 to the first air outlet 20.

A second chamber 54 having a second air inlet 56 and a second air outlet 58 (Fig 1) contains a second heat exchanger 60 configured to receive air driven by second air drive means 62, through the second chamber 54 from the second air inlet 56 to the second air outlet 58. The first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 are interconnected by fluid-containing conduits 64, 66 through which fluid can circulate between the heat exchangers 50, 60. A compressor 68 is located within the conduit 60 and a metering device 70 is located within the conduit 64 between the heat exchangers 50, 60, to complete the heat pump circuitry.

The first heat exchanger 50 is located between the first air inlet 16 and the first air outlet 20 and may be generally elongate, extending in a direction generally transverse to the direction of air driven therethrough by the first drive means.

The first drive means is illustrated diagrammatically in the form of a fan that rotates to draw air through the chamber generally in the direction from the first air inlet 16 to the first air outlet 20, through the first heat exchanger 50.

The general flow of air down through the air inlet conduit 14, through the first air inlet 16, through the first heat exchanger 50, through the first chamber 48, and out through the first air outlet 20 and up through the second air outlet conduit 18 to be exhausted through the opening 44, is illustrated by the sequence of emboldened arrows in Fig 2.

The first chamber 48 is located towards the rear of the housing, and generally above at least part of the second chamber 54. The first and second chambers 48, 54 are mutually isolated by internal partitioning 72 to prevent or restrict any air flow between the chambers. The conduits 64, 66 sealingly extend through the partitioning 72.

The second heat exchanger 60 is elongate and configured to extend in the general direction of the passage of air driven from the second air inlet 56 to the second air outlet 58.

The second heat exchanger 60 extends around, at least in part, the second air drive means 62, which again is illustrated as a fan, although other suitable air drive means can be employed. The second heat exchanger is made up of a plurality of interconnected heat exchange panels which between them have a general "C" configuration which extends in series around the second air drive means.

The second air drive means is operable to draw air in through the second air inlet 56, to flow through the second chamber 54, through and along the second heat exchanger 60 to be expelled through the second air outlet 58.

The second air outlet may comprise a second air outlet passage 74 that extends through the second chamber behind a substantial part, if not all, of the front side 32 of the housing 22, behind a flame effect panel 76 provided on or towards the front side 32 of the housing 22, which flame effect panel 76 provides a visual image of flickering flames.

The flame effect panel can be an LED, video or other electronic panel display that provides a visual emulation of flickering flames.

As previously indicated, the apparatus 10 of the present invention finds particular application as a domestic heat source and is particularly suitable for installation within a pre-existing fireplace to use a pre-existing chimney structure associated with that fireplace.

The apparatus has been carefully configured to functionally and aesthetically fit within the spacial confines of such fireplaces. The configuration of the various components of the apparatus have been carefully engineered to ensure efficient and effective heating of the space, such as a room, in which the fireplace is located. An explanation and description of the operation of the apparatus 10 of the present invention will now be provided.

The heat pump 12, housed within the housing 22, is sited within the fireplace and the air inlet and air outlet conduits 14, 18 are sited to extend upward from the first air inlet 16 and second air outlet 18 respectively1 through and along the length of the chimney C to protrude to the desired degree above the top T of the chimney C to provide for appropriate ventilation for air to be drawn both into the air inlet conduit 14 and to be exhausted from the air outlet conduit 18. Typically, the first air source A is the atmospheric air external of the dwelling and the exhaust from the second air outlet conduit 18 is also to that external atmosphere.

To operate the apparatus 10, the heat pump 12 is activated. This can be provided by an appropriate switching mechanism (not shown) on the housing 22, which may be actuated manually and/or remotely.

Upon actuation, a first air drive means 52 rapidly rotates and draws air down through the openings 36, down the length of the conduit 14 and into the first chamber 48 through the first air inlet 16. The second air drive means 62 is also actuated.

As is most clearly illustrated in Fig 2, the first air drive means 52 produces an air flow that draws air in from the first air inlet 16, generally through the first heat exchanger 50 and then urges it upwards, out of the first air outlet 20, up through the air outlet conduit 18 to be exhausted/expelled through the openings 44.

The first heat exchanger 50 functions as an evaporator within the apparatus 10. The fluid contained within the conduit circuitry 64, 66 connecting the two heat exchangers 50, 60 is typically liquid and generally a common refrigerant combined with appropriate compressor lubricant. The fluid cycles from the heat exchanger 50 to the compressor 68 which acts to pressurise the fluid. As the fluid, often referred to as the working fluid, is discharged from the compressor 34 towards the second heat exchanger 60 it is relatively hot and highly pressurised. As this hot and pressurised liquid passes through the second heat exchanger 60, which acts as a condenser, the air being driven through the second heat exchanger 60 by the second air drive means 62 is heated. The condensed fluid, having passed through the second heat exchanger 60, or condenser, then passes through the metering device 70 (pressure-lowering device) from which the working fluid re-enters the first heat exchanger 50 in a cooled state. As the cooled liquid passes through the first heat exchanger 50 it absorbs heat from the air circulating through the first chamber 48. The cooled air is expelled up through the second air outlet conduit 18. The warm fluid then circulates to the compressor 68 for the above cycle to repeat.

The second air drive means 62 draws air from the room to be heated, in through the second air inlet 56, to circulate around and through the second heat exchanger 60. The configuration of the second heat exchanger 60, extending around at least in part the second air drive means, presents a generally elongate heat exchange matrix along which air is driven by the second air drive means, helping to ensure efficient heat flow exchange and thus heating of the air flowing through the second chamber. The second air drive means 62 continues to drive the heated air, up through the second air outlet passage 74 and out through the second air outlet 58 to be expelled into the room to be heated. The general flow of air through the second chamber is illustrated by the sequence of emboldened arrows in Fig 1.

Using the facility of a pre-existing chimney structure within which to site the air inlet conduit 14 and the air outlet conduit 18 offers a number of advantages.

Firstly, it obviates the need for holes or other openings to be produced within the structure of the dwelling, to provide appropriate air sources and dumps for function of the heat pump. This provides not only efficiencies in installation and construction, but obviates problems presented by certain configurations of dwelling, where forming openings in the structure is either not permissible, because of for example preservation orders, building restrictions or are otherwise not possible because of for example the general location of the fireplace.

Further, siting of the conduits 14, 18 within the chimney helps to mitigate the noise that is typically generated by the flow of air down such conduits emanating into the room. The general noise insulating properties of the chimney help in this regard.

However, in certain embodiments noise attenuation materials and anti-drumming materials may be provided, as indicated.

Fig 3 is a diagrammatic representation of apparatus 110 according to other embodiments of the present invention. The apparatus 110 shares many features of the apparatus 10, and these are referred to with corresponding reference numerals, prefixed with the number "1".

However, in this embodiment the air outlet conduit 118 is defined in the main by the internal structure of the chimney C. The internal structure or profile of the chimney C can in certain circumstances provide a suitable conduit for the air to be exhausted from the first chamber, as illustrated diagrammatically by the emboldened arrows.

Conversely, the air inlet conduit 114 can be defined in the main by the internal structure of the chimney C, with ducting defining the outlet conduit 118.

Other than this structural difference, the apparatus 110 functions in generally the same manner as the apparatus 10.

Fig 4 illustrates apparatus 210 according to still further embodiments of the present invention. Again, many of the features of the apparatus 210 are shared with the apparatus 10, and these are referenced with the same numerals, prefixed with the number "2".

However, in this embodiment the air inlet conduits 214, 218 are defined within a single duct 78 so that they extend generally parallel, alongside each other, up through the duct 78.

To facilitate appropriate air flow channelling an air flow deflector 80 is be provided within the first chamber 248.

Again, this apparatus 210 functions generally as described above with reference to Figs 1 and 2, with the sequence of emboldened arrows illustrating typical airflow.

Fig 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of apparatus 310 according to still further aspects of the present invention. The apparatus 310 is generally similar to apparatus 10, and again shared features are referenced with the same reference numerals, prefixed with the number "3".

In these particular embodiments, the air inlet conduits 314, 318 are adapted to accommodate internal structures within a chimney C that would or could provide obstruction to a generally linear duct.

In Fig 5 the chimney C has a smoke shelf SS as part of its internal profile and this, in conjunction with the front profile FP of the chimney breast GB, provides a bend within the passage of the chimney that the air inlet conduits 314, 318 need to accommodate. The conduits 314, 318 are therefore provided with appropriate bend profiles at the appropriate location.

These profiles can be fixed, ie preformed in rigid ducting. Alternatively the conduits 314, 318 can be flexible so as to be bendable to accommodate said internal profiles and obstructions within the chimney.

Also of course, for such chimney structures, if the internal structure of the chimney defines one of the conduits only one bent, flexible or otherwise deformable duct will be required.

In still further embodiments the air inlet and outlet conduits 314, 318 may be defined within the same ducting (as illustrated in Fig 4), but configured such that one of the air inlet duct and air outlet duct is wholly located within the other of the second air outlet conduit and air inlet conduit. In such a configuration the two conduits would extend concentrically, with one extending around the other. The conduits may be rigid or flexible.

Fig 6 is a diagrammatic illustration of apparatus 410 according to still further aspects of the present invention. The apparatus 410 is generally similar to apparatus 10, and again shared features are referenced with the same reference numerals, prefixed with the number "4".

In these particular embodiments the air inlet conduit 414 extends down the chimney, and generally centrally within the air outlet conduit 418.

The air outlet conduit 418 extends upwardly from the first air outlet 420 a short distance before sealing at its lower end around the outside of the air inlet conduit 414 to then extend upwards to be concentric thereto.

At the in use upper end of the outlet conduit 418, a cap 442 is provided that extends around and seals against the outside of inlet conduit 418.

Openings or vents 444 are provided in the outlet conduit 418 in similar manner to the vents 44 and vents 436 in the form of openings similar to the openings 36 are provided in the upper, exposed part of the inlet conduit 414.

The upper end of the inlet conduit 414 is covered with a cap 440.

In arrangements where the conduits 414, 418 are rigid, the seal of the outlet conduit 418 around the inlet conduit 414 at locations X and Y may provide sufficient relative spacial retention of the conduits 414, 418 to ensure the necessary space around the inlet conduit 414 and the outlet conduit 418 is maintained for the satisfactory movement of air through the outlet conduit 418, as illustrated by the arrows in Fig 6.

However, if necessary, spacers or other retainers 81 may be located at one or more intervals along the length of the outlet conduit 418 as it extends around the inlet conduit 414 to help ensure retention of that space.

Such spacers may be particularly useful in embodiments where one or both of the inlet and outlet conduits 414, 418 are flexible or only semi-rigid.

The operation of the apparatus 410 is generally the same as described above, but the concentric arrangement of the inlet and outlet conduits 414, 418 provides for a neat and generally more space efficient arrangement within the chimney.

Fig 7 illustrates still further aspects of the present invention in which the air inlet and air outlet conduits 514, 518 extend generally concentrically up through the chimney C. Again, the apparatus 510 is generally similar to apparatus 10, and shared features are referenced with the same reference numerals, prefixed with the numeral "5".

In this particular embodiment, the concentric inlet and outlet conduits 514, 518 extend in concentric relation directly from the top 530 of the housing 522. In this arrangement an air deflector 580 is provided in similar manner to the air flow deflector 80 of Fig 4 to help channel the flow of air through the first chamber 548 as illustrated by the emboldened arrows.

In this arrangement the air drive means or fan 552 has been located to be nearer to the air outlet 520, to draw the circulation of air through the first chamber 548 and up and out through the air outlet conduit 518.

A section 590 of the lower end of the air outlet conduit 518 may be sealed against the outside of the air inlet conduit 514 (typically by a portion of the top 530) to prevent any unwanted migration of air coming in through the inlet up through the outlet conduit without having circulated through the chamber 548.

The upper ends of the air inlet and air outlet conduits 514, 518 are configured generally as described in relation to the apparatus of Fig 6.

It will be appreciated that whilst the embodiments illustrated with reference to Figs 6 and 7 show the inlet conduit extending within the outlet conduit, it is within the scope of the present invention for the opposite configuration to be provided, with the outlet conduit extending within the inlet conduit.

In further embodiments one or both of the conduits may be adapted so that the lateral cross section thereof can be selectively adjusted. This adaptation may enable the lateral cross section along the whole length to be selectively adjusted and controlled, or at one or more regions along the length. This enables the air flow resistance of the conduit(s) to be selectively controlled to help improve function and/or mitigate noise generation.

Features described in the present description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described. Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features, whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those embodiments may also be present in other embodiments, whether described or not.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Heating apparatus adapted for installation at least in part within a chimneyed fireplace, the apparatus comprising a heat pump locatable within or in close proximity to the fireplace, an air inlet conduit defined within the chimney and extending between a first air inlet of the heat pump and a first air source, and an air outlet conduit defined within the chimney and extending between a first air outlet of the heat pump and an air exhaust.
2. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the air inlet conduit extends from the first air inlet, up and along the length of the chimney.
3. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, in which the air inlet conduit connects the first air inlet to atmospheric air at or near the top of the chimney. a

SO*t*O o
4. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the air inlet conduit connects the first air inlet to an air source partway up the chimney.
5. Heating apparatus as claimed in any precedin9 claim, in which the air inlet conduit is defined by rigid ducting located within the chimney.
6. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, in which the air inlet conduit is defined by ducting that is flexible, at least in part.
7. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims I to 4, in which the air inlet conduit is defined, at least in part, by the internal structure of the chimney itself.
8. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the air outlet conduit extends from the first air outlet, up and along the length of the chimney.
9. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the air outlet conduit connects the first air outlet to atmospheric air to allow air to be exhausted at or near the top of the chimney.
10. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims ito 8, in which the air outlet conduit connects the first air outlet to an air exhaust located partway up the length of the chimney.
11. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the air outlet conduit is defined by rigid ducting.
12. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims Ito 10, in which the air * outlet conduit is defined by ducting that is flexible, at least in part. 0 * * S S * **
13. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims Ito 10, in which the air outlet conduit is defined, at least in part, by the internal structure of the *5,e*.chimney itself S..S
14. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit comprise(s) expandable ducting, which enables selective adjustment of the cross sectional area thereof to enable control of the air flow resistance therewithin.
15. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the conduits comprise non-corrodible ducting
16. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the air inlet conduit ducting and air outlet conduit ducting comprises aluminium and/or plastic material.
17. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit are thermally insulated to reduce or control heat exchange between air within the conduit and the exterior of the conduit.
18. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit comprises noise attenuation material and/or anti-drumming material.
19. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one or both of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit is fixed or braced within the * chimney to reduce or control resonance and vibration during use.* 0*** * .
20. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, in which noise *...* attenuation materials comprise open cell acoustic foams of appropriate density and thickness. * 0 **** . . . . *
21. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit is substantially wholly located within the other of the air outlet conduit and air inlet conduit.
22. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which one of the air inlet conduit and air outlet conduit extend concentrically, with one * extending around the other.
23. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the heat pump comprises a housing having a first chamber with which the first air inlet and the first air outlet are in communication.
24. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 23, in which a first heat exchanger is provided within the first chamber and configured to receive air driven by first air drive means through the first chamber from the first air inlet to the first air outlet.
25. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 24, in which the heat pump comprises a second chamber having a second air inlet, a second air outlet and a second heat exchanger located within the second chamber and configured to receive air driven by second air drive means through the second chamber from the second air inlet to the second air outlet, the first and second heat exchangers being interconnected by a fluid-containing conduit circuit through which fluid can circulate between the heat exchangers, a compressor and a metering device being provided within the circuit. *:"*
26. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 24 or claim 25, in which the first * *.*.* * heat exchanger is located between the first air inlet and the first air outlet. ** * * 0* * ***....:
27. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 24 to 26, in which the first heat exchanger is generally elongate, extending in a direction generally transverse to the direction of air driven therethrough by the first drive means.
28. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 24 to 27, in which the first drive means is a fan or any other suitable means to draw air in, down through the first air inlet conduit, through the first air inlet, and to cause the air to flow over the first heat exchanger and out through the first air outlet.
29. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 28, in which the first air inlet is configured to receive air from the first air source which is separate from a second air source from which air is drawn in to the second chamber through the second air inlet.S S30. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 29, in which the air source for the second air inlet is located within the space that the apparatus is operable to heat, such as a room within which the fireplace is located.31. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 30, in which the first chamber is located at or towards the rear of the housing.32. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 31, in which the first chamber is located, at least in part, above the second chamber.33. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 31, in which the first and second chambers are mutually isolated or substantially isolated to prevent or restrict any air flow therebetween.34. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 33, in which the 0*** second air inlet is located on or near a front side of the apparatus, and may be 0*s*** * located at or near the base of the apparatus. 0 0 * * * * **a:...: 35. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 34, in which the second air outlet is located at or near a front side of the apparatus. * .36. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 35, in which the second air outlet is located at or near the top of the apparatus.37. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 36, in which the second heat exchanger is elongate and configured to extend in the general direction of the passage of air driven from the second air inlet to the second air outlet.38. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 37, in which the second heat exchanger extends around, at least in part, the second air drive means.39. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 38, in which the second heat exchanger comprises a plurality of interconnected heat exchange panels, which together extend in series around the second air drive means.40. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 39, in which the second air drive means comprises a fan or any other suitable means to draw air in through the second air inlet(s), to flow through the second chamber, over the second heat exchanger and out through the second air outlet.41. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 40, in which the second air outlet comprises a second air outlet passage that extends through the second chamber.42. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 41, *in which the second air 4eeO outlet passage has an elongate cross section and extends over or adjacent to *0e*O * ° a substantial part and substantially all of a side of the housing. S. S * * S * **43. Heating apparatus as claimed in claim 42, in which the second air outlet passage extends over or adjacent the front side of the housing. *5*SS * S44. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 41 to 43, in which the second air outlet passage extends behind a flame effect panel provided on or towards the front of the housing, which flame effect panel provides a visual image of flickering flames.45. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 44, in which the first chamber comprises the compressor and the metering device.46. Heating apparatus as claimed in any of claims 25 to 44, in which the second chamber houses the metering device.-I47. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the heat pump apparatus comprises a domestic heating appliance.48. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the heat pump apparatus is an alternative or a replacement for a domestic gas fire, electric fire, multi-fuel stove, or open fire.49. Heating apparatuè as claimed in any of claims 44 to 48, in which the flame effect panel comprises an LED, video or other electronic display panel.50. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the housing has an overall width of approximately 500 mm, a height of approximately 610 mm and a depth of approximately 350 mm.51. Heating apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the apparatus is adapted to fit within a pie-existing recess of a domestic fireplace, fle...* and in particular a domestic open fireplace. *. * * *0 * **52. An air inlet conduit, as defined in any of the preceding claims, for heat pump apparatus. * 0S * 0** 53. An air outlet conduit, as defined in any of the preceding claims, for heat pump apparatus.54. A conduit kit for a heat pump, the conduit kit comprising an air inlet conduit adapted for location within a chimney to extend between a first air inlet of a heat pump and a first air source and an air outlet conduit adapted for location within a chimney and to extend between a first air outlet of a heat pump and an air exhaust.55. A conduit kit as claimed in claim 54, in which the air inlet conduit is as defined in any of claims 1 to 51.56. A conduit kit as claimed in claim 54 or claim 55, in which the air outlet conduit is as defined in any of claims 1 to 51.57. Heating apparatus substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.58. An air inlet conduit substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.59. An air outlet conduit substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.60. A conduit kit substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.S* * 61. Any novel subject matter or combination including novel subject matter disclosed herein, whether or not within the scope of or relating to the same invention as any of the preceding claims. a a * a.