JPWO2017085859A1 - Air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

  An air conditioner that includes a refrigerant circulation circuit and a heat medium circulation circuit and performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium in the first heat exchanger related to heat medium, and includes a heat storage tank that stores the heat medium. The heat medium circulation circuit includes a heat storage tank, and the heat medium circulation circuit includes a heat medium flow switching device that connects the heat storage tank to the heat medium circulation circuit by switching the flow path and enables the heat medium to flow into and out of the heat storage tank.

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly to an air conditioner applied to a building multi-air conditioner or the like.

Conventionally, in an air conditioner such as a multi air conditioner for buildings, for example, a refrigerant is circulated between an outdoor unit that is a heat source unit arranged outside a building rooftop or the like and an indoor unit arranged inside a building or the like. Thus, the cooling operation or the heating operation is performed by transporting the cooling heat or the warm heat into the room.
As a refrigerant used in such an air conditioner, for example, an HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) refrigerant is widely used. Further, there has been proposed one using a natural refrigerant such as CO 2 _(carbon dioxide).
However, in the conventional air conditioner that circulates the HFC refrigerant, since the refrigerant is conveyed to the indoor unit and used, there is a problem that the refrigerant leaks into the room and the indoor environment may deteriorate.

  Moreover, in an air conditioner called a chiller, cold heat or warm heat is generated by a heat source device arranged outside the building. Then, a heat exchanger such as water or antifreeze liquid is heated or cooled by a heat exchanger arranged in the outdoor unit, and this is transferred to a fan coil unit, a panel heater or the like, which is an indoor unit, for cooling or heating.

In an air conditioner such as a chiller, the refrigerant is circulated only in the heat source unit arranged outdoors, and the refrigerant does not pass through the indoor unit. Therefore, the problem of refrigerant leakage into the room that occurs in an air conditioner that circulates a conventional HFC refrigerant does not occur.
However, in this air conditioner, it is necessary to heat or cool a heat medium such as water or antifreeze liquid in a heat source unit outside the building and transport it to the indoor unit. Therefore, when the circulation path becomes long, the conveyance power becomes very large, and there is a problem that it is difficult to save energy.

  Therefore, as a method for solving these problems, an intermediate heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and a safe heat medium even when leaking into a room different from the refrigerant is provided, and the heat source machine and the intermediate heat exchange are provided. An air conditioner in which a refrigerant circulation circuit is configured with a heat exchanger and a heat medium circulation circuit is configured with an intermediate heat exchanger and an indoor unit has been proposed and put into practical use (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

  In such an air conditioner, the heat medium is transferred to the indoor unit disposed in the room or the like, so that leakage of the refrigerant into the room or the like can be prevented. Further, when compared with a chiller, the heat medium circulation path can be shortened, so that energy saving can be achieved.

International Publication No. 2010/049998 International Publication No. 2011/030429

In the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, sufficient performance can be ensured as compared with the chiller by heat exchange between the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle and the indoor air via the heat medium and the intermediate heat exchanger.
However, when compared with a normal direct expansion air conditioner, there is a problem that the air conditioning performance deteriorates due to an increase in the number of heat exchanges and a difference in energy consumption due to the transfer of the heat medium when compared with the refrigerant. It was.

Moreover, the air conditioning apparatus described in Patent Document 2 includes a plurality of intermediate heat exchangers, and a cooling only operation mode in which the operation mode of all of the plurality of indoor units is cooling, or an operation mode of all of the plurality of indoor units. In the heating only operation mode in which heating is performed, it is possible to improve the heat exchange efficiency by switching the refrigerant circulation circuit so that all the intermediate heat exchangers perform heat exchange corresponding to cooling or heating. .
However, in the cooling / heating mixed operation mode in which the operation mode varies depending on the indoor unit, it is necessary to divide a plurality of intermediate exchangers for cooling or heating, so that there is a problem that sufficient improvement in heat exchange efficiency cannot be achieved. there were.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems in the prior art, and in an air conditioner having an intermediate heat exchanger and having a refrigerant circulation circuit and a heat medium circulation circuit, improvement in air conditioning performance and It aims at providing the air conditioning apparatus which can aim at energy saving.

  An air conditioner according to the present invention includes a refrigerant circulation circuit that circulates a refrigerant by connecting a refrigerant side flow path of a compressor, a heat source side heat exchanger, a throttling device, and a first heat exchanger related to heat medium with a refrigerant pipe, A heat medium side flow path of the first heat exchanger between heat medium, a heat medium circulation circuit that connects the use side heat exchanger with a heat medium pipe to circulate the heat medium, and between the first heat medium An air conditioner for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the heat medium in a heat exchanger, comprising a heat storage tank having a heat storage tank for storing the heat medium, wherein the heat medium circulation circuit switches a flow path Accordingly, the heat storage tank is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit, and the heat medium flow switching device that enables the heat medium to flow into and out of the heat storage tank is provided.

  As described above, according to the present invention, in the air conditioner having the refrigerant circulation circuit and the heat medium circulation circuit, the heat accumulation tank is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit by switching the flow path, and the heat accumulation provided in the heat accumulation tank. By using the heat medium in the tank, it is possible to improve air conditioning performance and save energy.

It is the schematic which shows an example of a structure of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic which shows an example of the circuit structure of the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic which shows an example of the circuit structure of the heat-medium circulation circuit of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the heating only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the heating main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the heat carrier at the time of the heat storage tank non-use in the heat carrier circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the heat carrier at the time of heat storage tank use in the heat carrier circulation circuit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process which judges the usability of the heat storage tank at the time of the air_conditionaing | cooling operation in the heat medium circulation circuit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process which judges the usability of the thermal storage tank at the time of heating operation in the heat-medium circulation circuit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process which judges the usability of the thermal storage tank at the time of completion | finish of the cooling operation in the heat medium circulation circuit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process which judges the usability of the heat storage tank at the time of completion | finish of the heating operation in the heat-medium circulation circuit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process which judges the usability of the heat storage tank at the time of the defrost operation in the heat carrier circuit of FIG. It is the schematic which shows an example of a structure of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is the schematic which shows an example of the circuit structure of the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution path | route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution path | route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the heating only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the heating only operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the cooling main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution path | route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of heating main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG. It is the schematic for demonstrating the distribution path | route of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of the heating main operation mode in the refrigerant | coolant circulation circuit of FIG.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an air-conditioning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioning apparatus 1 includes an outdoor unit 10 as a heat source unit, a plurality of indoor units 20, an intermediate heat exchanger 30, a heat storage tank 40, and a control device 50. In addition, although the example of FIG. 1 shows the case where two indoor units 20 are provided, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, three or more indoor units 20 may be provided.

The outdoor unit 10 is connected to the refrigerant side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 by two refrigerant pipes 2 through which refrigerant flows. The refrigerant circulation circuit 5 is formed by the outdoor unit 10, the intermediate heat exchanger 30, and the refrigerant pipe 2.
The plurality of indoor units 20 are each connected to the heat medium side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 by two heat medium pipes 3 through which the heat medium flows. Furthermore, the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 by two heat medium pipes 4 through which the heat medium flows. The heat medium circulation circuit 6 is formed by the plurality of indoor units 20, the intermediate heat exchanger 30, the heat storage tank 40, and the heat medium pipes 3 and 4.

[Circuit configuration of refrigerant circulation circuit]
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of the air-conditioning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
As described above, the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 includes the outdoor unit 10, the intermediate heat exchanger 30, and the refrigerant pipe 2.
The intermediate heat exchanger 30 has a portion related to the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 and a portion related to the heat medium circulation circuit 6. In the intermediate heat exchanger 30 shown in FIG. 2, only the portions related to the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 are illustrated and described.

[Outdoor unit]
The outdoor unit 10 includes a compressor 11, a first refrigerant flow switching device 12, a heat source side heat exchanger 13, and four check valves 14a to 14d.

  The compressor 11 sucks in a low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant, compresses the refrigerant, and discharges it into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant state. As the compressor 11, for example, an inverter compressor or the like that can control the capacity that is the refrigerant delivery amount per unit time by arbitrarily changing the drive frequency can be used.

  The first refrigerant flow switching device 12 switches between the cooling operation and the heating operation by switching the direction in which the refrigerant flows. The 1st refrigerant | coolant flow path switching apparatus 12 shown in FIG. 2 shows the state at the time of heating operation. As the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, for example, a four-way valve can be used, but other valves may be used in combination.

The heat source side heat exchanger 13 performs heat exchange between air (hereinafter referred to as “outdoor air” as appropriate) supplied by a heat source side blower such as a fan (not shown) and the refrigerant.
Specifically, the heat source side heat exchanger 13 functions as a condenser that radiates the heat of the refrigerant to the outdoor air and condenses the refrigerant during the cooling operation and the defrosting operation. The heat source side heat exchanger 13 functions as an evaporator that evaporates the refrigerant during the heating operation and cools the outdoor air by the heat of vaporization at that time.

The check valves 14a to 14d allow the flow of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe 2 only in a predetermined direction.
The check valve 14a is provided in the refrigerant pipe 2 between the intermediate heat exchanger 30 and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and intermediately heats the refrigerant during a cooling operation including a cooling only operation and a cooling main operation described later. Circulate in the direction from the exchanger 30 to the outdoor unit 10.
The check valve 14b is provided in the first connection pipe 2a that connects the two refrigerant pipes 2, and the refrigerant returned from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 during the heating operation including the all heating operation and the heating main operation is compressed by the compressor. 11 is distributed to the suction side.
The check valve 14 c is provided in the second connection pipe 2 b that connects the two refrigerant pipes 2, and causes the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 during the heating operation to flow to the intermediate heat exchanger 30.
The check valve 14d is provided in the refrigerant pipe 2 between the heat source side heat exchanger 13 and the intermediate heat exchanger 30, and distributes the refrigerant in the direction from the outdoor unit 10 to the intermediate heat exchanger 30 during the cooling operation.

[Intermediate heat exchanger (refrigerant circuit side)]
The intermediate heat exchanger 30 includes two first heat exchangers 31a and 31b, two expansion devices 32a and 32b, two switch devices 33a and 33b, two second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b.

The first heat exchangers 31 a and 31 b function as condensers or evaporators, and exchange heat between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 and the heat medium flowing through the heat medium circulation circuit 6.
The first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is provided between the expansion device 32a and the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a. The first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is provided between the expansion device 32b and the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b.

The expansion devices 32a and 32b function as expansion valves that depressurize and expand the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5. The expansion devices 32a and 32b are configured with valves capable of controlling the opening, such as an electronic expansion valve.
The expansion device 32a is provided upstream of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a in the refrigerant flow during the cooling only operation mode. The expansion device 32b is provided upstream of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b in the refrigerant flow during the cooling only operation mode.

The opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are, for example, two-way valves, and open / close the refrigerant pipe 2.
The switchgear 33 a is provided in the refrigerant pipe 2 on the refrigerant inlet side in the intermediate heat exchanger 30. The opening / closing device 33 b is provided in a pipe connecting the refrigerant pipe 2 on the refrigerant inlet side and outlet side in the intermediate heat exchanger 30.

The second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b switch the direction in which the refrigerant flows according to the operation mode. 2nd refrigerant | coolant flow path switching apparatus 34a and 34b shown in FIG. 2 show the state at the time of heating operation. For example, a four-way valve can be used as the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, but other valves may be used in combination.
The second refrigerant flow switching device 34a is provided on the downstream side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a in the refrigerant flow in the cooling only operation mode. The second refrigerant flow switching device 34b is provided on the downstream side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b in the refrigerant flow in the cooling only operation mode.

[Circuit configuration of heat medium circulation circuit]
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of the air-conditioning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
As described above, the heat medium circulation circuit 6 includes the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20c, the intermediate heat exchanger 30, the heat storage tank 40, and the heat medium pipes 3 and 4.

  In the intermediate heat exchanger 30 shown in FIG. 3, only the portion related to the heat medium circulation circuit 6 is illustrated and described. Moreover, although this example demonstrates the case where the three indoor units 20a-20c are provided, the number of the indoor units 20 is not restricted to this, For example, 2 units | sets or 4 units | sets or more may be sufficient.

[Intermediate heat exchanger (heat medium circulation circuit side)]
The intermediate heat exchanger 30 includes two first heat exchangers 31a and 31b, two pumps 35a and 35b, two first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b, and six second heats. It includes medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f and four heat medium temperature sensors 38a to 38d.

The pumps 35a and 35b are provided to circulate the heat medium flowing through at least one of the heat medium pipes 3 and 4. The pumps 35a and 35b are preferably constituted by, for example, pumps capable of capacity control, and it is preferable that the flow rate can be adjusted according to the load in the indoor unit 20.
The pump 35a is provided between the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the first heat medium flow switching device 36a. The pump 35b is provided in the heat medium pipe 3 between the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b and the first heat medium flow switching device 36b.

The first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b switch the direction in which the heat medium flows according to the use state of the heat storage tank 40 described later. The first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b shown in FIG. 3 show a state where the heat storage tank 40 is not used. For example, a four-way valve can be used as the first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b, but other valves may be used in combination.
The first heat medium flow switching device 36a is provided on the downstream side of the pump 35a. The first heat medium flow switching device 36b is provided on the downstream side of the pump 35b.

  The second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f are, for example, three-way valves, and switch the direction in which the heat medium flows. Note that the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f are provided in a number corresponding to the number of indoor units 20 provided in the air conditioner 1.

The second heat medium flow switching device 37a is provided on the inlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21a provided in the indoor unit 20a described later. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37a, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36a, and one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36b. In addition, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21a of the indoor unit 20a.
The second heat medium flow switching device 37b is provided on the outlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21a in the indoor unit 20a. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37b, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and one of the three sides is connected to the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. In addition, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21a of the indoor unit 20a.

The second heat medium flow switching device 37c is provided on the inlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21b provided in the indoor unit 20b described later. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37c, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36a, and one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36b. At the same time, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21b of the indoor unit 20b.
The second heat medium flow switching device 37d is provided on the outlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21b in the indoor unit 20b. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37d, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and one of the three sides is connected to the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. At the same time, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21b of the indoor unit 20b.

The second heat medium flow switching device 37e is provided on the inlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21c provided in the indoor unit 20c described later. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37e, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36a, and one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium flow switching device 36b. At the same time, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21c of the indoor unit 20c.
The second heat medium flow switching device 37f is provided on the outlet side of the heat medium flow path of the use side heat exchanger 21c in the indoor unit 20c. In the second heat medium flow switching device 37f, one of the three sides is connected to the first heat medium heat exchanger 31a, and one of the three directions is connected to the first heat medium heat exchanger 31b. At the same time, one of the three sides is connected to the use side heat exchanger 21c of the indoor unit 20c.

  The heat medium temperature sensors 38a to 38d are provided in the heat medium pipes 3 on the inlet side and the outlet side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b, respectively, and the temperature of the heat medium Is detected. As the heat medium temperature sensors 38a to 38d, for example, a thermistor can be used.

The heat medium temperature sensor 38a is provided in the heat medium pipe 3 on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The heat medium temperature sensor 38b is provided in the heat medium pipe 3 on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The heat medium temperature sensor 38c is provided in the heat medium pipe 3 on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b, and detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The heat medium temperature sensor 38d is provided in the heat medium pipe 3 on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b, and detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The temperature information obtained by these heat medium temperature sensors 38a to 38d is supplied to the control device 50 described later.

[Indoor unit]
The indoor units 20a to 20c perform, for example, cooling and heating of air in an indoor space (hereinafter appropriately referred to as “room air”).
The indoor unit 20a includes a use side heat exchanger 21a and an indoor temperature sensor 22a. The indoor unit 20b includes a use side heat exchanger 21b and an indoor temperature sensor 22b. The indoor unit 20c includes a use side heat exchanger 21c and an indoor temperature sensor 22c.
In the following description, the indoor units 20a to 20c are simply referred to as “indoor unit 20” when it is not necessary to distinguish them. Similarly, the use side heat exchangers 21a to 21b are simply referred to as “use side heat exchanger 21”. Further, the indoor temperature sensors 22a to 22c are also simply referred to as “indoor temperature sensor 22”.

The use side heat exchanger 21 performs heat exchange between indoor air and a heat medium supplied by a use side blower such as a fan (not shown). Thereby, heating air or cooling air supplied to the indoor space is generated.
The use-side heat exchanger 21 functions as an evaporator when the heat medium carries cold heat during the cooling operation, and cools the indoor air by cooling it. Moreover, the utilization side heat exchanger 21 functions as a condenser when the heat medium conveys warm heat during heating operation, and heats indoor air to perform heating.

Each of the indoor temperature sensors 22 is provided at a predetermined position with respect to the indoor unit 20.
The indoor temperature sensor 22a is provided at a predetermined position of the indoor unit 20a and detects the temperature of the indoor space in which the indoor unit 20a is provided. The indoor temperature sensor 22b is provided at a predetermined position of the indoor unit 20b and detects the temperature of the indoor space in which the indoor unit 20b is provided. The indoor temperature sensor 22c is provided at a predetermined position of the indoor unit 20c and detects the temperature of the indoor space in which the indoor unit 20c is provided.
Temperature information indicating the temperature of the indoor space obtained as a detection result by the indoor temperature sensors 22a to 22c is supplied to the control device 50.

[Heat storage tank]
The heat storage tank 40 includes a heat storage tank 41 and a tank temperature sensor 42.
The heat storage tank 41 stores a heat medium that flows through the heat medium pipe 4. The heat storage tank 41 has a function of keeping the heat medium in the tank warm by its material or mechanism.
The tank temperature sensor 42 is provided in the heat storage tank 41 and detects the temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41. Temperature information indicating the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 obtained as a detection result is supplied to the control device 50.

The control device 50 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer, and controls the entire air conditioner 1.
For example, the control device 50 determines the driving frequency of the compressor 11, the rotational speed of the blower (including ON / OFF), the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 based on detection results by various detection means such as a temperature sensor. Switching, opening of expansion devices 32a and 32b, opening and closing of switching devices 33a and 33b, switching of second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, driving of pumps 35a and 35b, first heat medium flow switching device 36a And 36b, the switching of the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f, and the like, and each operation mode to be described later is executed.
In addition, the control apparatus 50 may be provided in predetermined apparatuses, such as the outdoor unit 10, and may be provided for every apparatus.

[Operation of refrigerant circulation circuit]
Next, the operation of the refrigerant in the cooling only operation mode, the heating only operation mode, the cooling main operation mode, and the heating main operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of the air conditioner 1 having the above configuration will be described.
The air conditioner 1 can perform a cooling operation or a heating operation under the control of the control device 50 based on an instruction from each indoor unit 20. That is, in the air conditioner 1, all the indoor units 20 can be operated in the same mode, and can be operated in different modes for each indoor unit 20.
Here, the operation mode when all the indoor units 20 perform the cooling operation is referred to as “all cooling operation mode”, and the operation mode when the heating operation is performed is referred to as “all heating operation mode”. In addition, among the operations performed by all the indoor units 20, the operation mode when the cooling operation is the main is referred to as “cooling main operation mode”, and the operation mode when the heating operation is the main is the “heating main operation mode”. Called.

[Cooling operation mode]
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow path in the cooling only operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 2.
In FIG. 4, a flow path indicated by a bold line is a refrigerant flow path in the cooling only operation mode, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In the cooling only operation mode, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing device 33a is opened, and the opening / closing device 33b is closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with the outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant that flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14 d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the expansion devices 32a and 32b through the opening / closing device 33a.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the expansion device 32a is decompressed and expanded to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant. It flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31 a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34 a and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

On the other hand, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing into the expansion device 32b is decompressed and expanded to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant. It flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated.

[Heating operation mode]
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path in the heating only operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 2.
In FIG. 5, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path in the heating only operation mode, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In the heating only operation mode, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched as shown in FIG. The opening / closing device 33a is closed and the opening / closing device 33b is opened.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14c provided in the second connection pipe 2b, It flows into the heat exchanger 30.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b via the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the switching device 33b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  On the other hand, the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium, and in a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32b flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the switching device 33b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b provided in the first connection pipe 2a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and becomes a low temperature and low pressure gas refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Cooling operation mode]
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path in the cooling main operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 2.
In FIG. 6, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path in the cooling main operation mode, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In the cooling main operation mode, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14 d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30.

The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming liquid refrigerant. It flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 31a.
The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the expansion device 32a.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32a flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b through the expansion device 32b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 flows out of the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows into the outdoor unit 10 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

  In this example, the heat medium is heated by the first first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the heat medium is cooled by the other first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. Is not limited to this example. For example, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched, the heat medium is cooled by one first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and the heat medium is transferred by the other first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. May be heated.

[Heating main operation mode]
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow path in the heating main operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 2.
In FIG. 7, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path in the heating main operation mode, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

In the heating main operation mode, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.
The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14 c and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30.

The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming a liquid refrigerant. It flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 31b.

The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32b flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a through the expansion device 32a.

The low-temperature low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a cools the heat medium by exchanging heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, and heat exchange between the first heat medium Out of the vessel 31a.
The refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a flows into the outdoor unit 10 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a.

The refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b.
The refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

  In this example, the heat medium is cooled by the first first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and the heat medium is heated by the other first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. Is not limited to this example. For example, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b are switched, the heat medium is heated by one first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and the heat medium is heated by the other first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b. May be cooled.

[Operation of heat medium circulation circuit]
Next, the operation of the heat medium in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of the air conditioner 1 will be described.
The air conditioner 1 can be operated according to the use state of the heat storage tank 40 under the control of the control device 50.

[When not using heat storage tank]
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining a heat medium flow path when the heat storage tank 40 is not used in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In FIG. 8, the flow path indicated by the thick line is a heat medium flow path when the heat storage tank 40 is not used, and the flow direction of the heat medium in the heat medium flow path is indicated by an arrow.
In this example, in order to prevent the description from being complicated, the flow path of the heat medium flowing between the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the use side heat exchanger 21a and the heat exchange between the first heat medium. Only the flow path of the heat medium flowing between the heat exchanger 31b and the use side heat exchanger 21c is shown and described.
In addition to this example, the flow path of the heat medium flowing through the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a includes a flow path flowing through the use side heat exchangers 21b and 21c. In addition to this example, the flow path of the heat medium flowing through the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b includes a flow path flowing through the use side heat exchangers 21a and 21b.

  When the heat storage tank 40 is not used, first, the first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b are switched as shown in FIG. Then, the heat medium cooled or heated by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a passes through the pump 35a, the first heat medium flow switching device 36a, and the second heat medium flow switching device 37a. It flows out of the exchanger 30.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the indoor unit 20a through the heat medium pipe 3, and flows into the use side heat exchanger 21a. The heat medium that has flowed into the use side heat exchanger 21a exchanges heat with the room air, absorbs or dissipates heat, cools or heats the room air, and flows out of the use side heat exchanger 21a. The heat medium flowing out from the use side heat exchanger 21 a flows out from the indoor unit 20 a and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 3.

  The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat medium heat exchanger 31a via the second heat medium flow switching device 37b, and the above-described circulation is repeated.

  On the other hand, the heat medium cooled or heated by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b passes through the pump 35b, the first heat medium flow switching device 36b, and the second heat medium flow switching device 37e. It flows out of the heat exchanger 30.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the indoor unit 20c through the heat medium pipe 3, and flows into the use side heat exchanger 21c. The heat medium that has flowed into the use side heat exchanger 21c exchanges heat with the indoor air, absorbs or dissipates heat, cools or heats the indoor air, and flows out of the use side heat exchanger 21c. The heat medium flowing out from the use side heat exchanger 21 c flows out from the indoor unit 20 c and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 3.

  The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b via the second heat medium flow switching device 37f, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[When using heat storage tank]
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining a heat medium flow path when the heat storage tank 40 is used in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In FIG. 9, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a heat medium flow path when the heat storage tank 40 is used, and a flow direction of the heat medium in the heat medium flow path is indicated by an arrow.
In this example, in order to prevent the explanation from becoming complicated, the heat medium flow path of the heat medium that flows between the first heat medium heat exchanger 31a and the use side heat exchanger 21a via the heat storage tank 40, and The heat medium flow path of the heat medium that flows between the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b and the use side heat exchanger 21c is illustrated and described.
In addition to this example, the flow path of the heat medium that flows through the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a includes a flow path that flows through the use side heat exchangers 21b and 21c via the heat storage tank 40. In addition to this example, the flow path of the heat medium that flows through the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b includes a flow path that flows through the use side heat exchangers 21a and 21b via the heat storage tank 40.

  In the case of using the heat storage tank 40, first, the first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b are switched as shown in FIG. The heat medium cooled or heated by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the pump 35a and the first heat medium flow switching device 36a.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the heat storage tank 40 through the heat medium pipe 4 and flows into the heat storage tank 41. When the heat medium flows into the heat storage tank 41, the heat medium stored in the heat storage tank 41 in the same amount as the inflowed heat medium flows out and flows out from the heat storage tank 40.

  The heat medium flowing out from the heat storage tank 40 flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 4. The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the first heat medium flow switching device 36a and the second heat medium flow switching device 37a.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the indoor unit 20a through the heat medium pipe 3, and flows into the use side heat exchanger 21a. The heat medium that has flowed into the use side heat exchanger 21a exchanges heat with the room air, absorbs or dissipates heat, cools or heats the room air, and flows out of the use side heat exchanger 21a. The heat medium flowing out from the use side heat exchanger 21 a flows out from the indoor unit 20 a and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 3.

  The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat medium heat exchanger 31a via the second heat medium flow switching device 37b, and the above-described circulation is repeated.

  On the other hand, the heat medium cooled or heated by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the pump 35b and the first heat medium flow switching device 36b.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the heat storage tank 40 through the heat medium pipe 4 and flows into the heat storage tank 41. When the heat medium flows into the heat storage tank 41, the heat medium stored in the heat storage tank 41 in the same amount as the inflowed heat medium flows out and flows out from the heat storage tank 40.

  The heat medium flowing out from the heat storage tank 40 flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 4. The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 via the first heat medium flow switching device 36b and the second heat medium flow switching device 37e.

  The heat medium flowing out from the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the indoor unit 20c through the heat medium pipe 3, and flows into the use side heat exchanger 21c. The heat medium that has flowed into the use side heat exchanger 21c exchanges heat with the indoor air, absorbs or dissipates heat, cools or heats the indoor air, and flows out of the use side heat exchanger 21c. The heat medium flowing out from the use side heat exchanger 21 c flows out from the indoor unit 20 c and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 through the heat medium pipe 3.

  The heat medium flowing into the intermediate heat exchanger 30 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b via the second heat medium flow switching device 37f, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

  Thus, during operation of the air conditioner 1, the heat storage tank 40 is not always included in the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and it is determined whether to use the heat storage tank 40 according to preset conditions. The Then, the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit 6 by switching the first heat medium flow switching devices 36a and 36b according to the determination result.

[Judgment process of availability of heat storage tank]
Next, a process for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used will be described.
In the air conditioner 1 according to the first embodiment, whether or not to use the heat storage tank 40 is determined based on the operation state such as the cooling operation or the heating operation, and various indoor temperature sensors 22a provided in the heat medium circulation circuit 6. To 22c, 38a to 38d, and the temperature information indicated by 42. Here, the flow of processing for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used will be described for each operation state.

[During cooling operation]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used during the cooling operation in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In the following description, a path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a will be described as an example. In addition, the “cooling operation” in the following description refers to an operation in which the heat medium is cooled by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a such as a full cooling operation and a cooling main operation.

  First, in step S1, the control device 50 switches the first heat medium flow switching device 36a and the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f and drives the pump 35a to start the cooling operation.

Next, in step S2, the control device 50 compares the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a with the target water temperature.
Here, the target water temperature indicates a temperature calculated based on the indoor temperature requested from the indoor unit 20. Specifically, for example, the temperature of the heat medium necessary for setting the temperature of the room air to the room temperature requested from the indoor unit 20 is shown.
As described above, the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the target water temperature are compared with the temperature at which the room air is requested by the heat medium flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a. This is to determine whether or not cooling can be performed.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is higher than the target water temperature (step S2; YES), the process proceeds to step S3.
In step S3, the control device 50 stores heat based on the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the tank 41 is compared.
The reason for comparing the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a with the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is to determine whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S3; YES), the process proceeds to step S4. .
In step S4, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and lower flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3 and connect the right and upper flow paths. . As a result, the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 flows into the heat medium circuit 6.

Next, in step S5, the control device 50 compares the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38b with the predicted water temperature.
The predicted water temperature is calculated based on the room temperature detected by the room temperature sensor 22 of the indoor unit 20 in operation and the temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 detected by the tank temperature sensor 42. This predicted temperature indicates the temperature of the heat medium when the heat medium flowing out of the heat storage tank 41 circulates through the heat medium circuit 6 and flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
Thus, the comparison between the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the predicted water temperature determines whether or not the heat medium flowing out of the heat storage tank 41 has circulated through the heat medium circuit 6. Because.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or lower than the predicted water temperature (step S5; YES), the process proceeds to step S6.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is higher than the predicted water temperature (step S5; NO), the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is the predicted water temperature. The process of step S5 is repeated until the following is obtained.

  Next, in step S6, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and upper flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3, and to connect the right and lower flow paths. Connect. As a result, the heat storage tank 41 is disconnected from the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and a series of processing ends.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S2 that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or lower than the target water temperature (step S2; NO), a series of processing ends.
Further, when it is determined in step S3 that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S3; NO), the series of processes is completed. To do.

In this way, by performing the processing of Step S1 to Step S6 described above, the temperature of the room air can be quickly requested at the time of the cooling operation as compared with the case where the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is not used. You can get closer.
In the above example, the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a has been described, but the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35b is the same.

[During heating operation]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process flow for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used during heating operation in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In the following description, a path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a will be described as an example. In addition, the “heating operation” in the following description refers to an operation in which the heat medium is heated by the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a such as a full heating operation and a heating main operation.

  First, in step S11, the control device 50 switches the first heat medium flow switching device 36a and the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f and drives the pump 35a to start the heating operation.

Next, in step S12, the control device 50 compares the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a with the target water temperature.
As a result of comparison, when the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is lower than the target water temperature (step S12; YES), the heat medium flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a It is determined that the air can be heated to the required temperature, and the process proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, the controller 50 stores heat based on the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the tank 41 is compared.
As a result of the comparison, when the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S13; YES), it is determined that the heat storage tank 40 is used, and processing is performed. Goes to step S14.

  In step S14, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and lower flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3 and connect the right and upper flow paths. . As a result, the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 flows into the heat medium circuit 6.

Next, in step S15, the control device 50 compares the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38b with the predicted water temperature.
As a result of the comparison, when the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or higher than the predicted water temperature (step S15; YES), the heat medium flowing out of the heat storage tank 41 circulates in the heat medium circulation circuit 6. Then, it is determined that it has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a, and the process proceeds to step S16.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is lower than the predicted water temperature (step S15; NO), the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is the predicted water temperature. Until this is the case, the process of step S15 is repeated.

  Next, in step S16, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and upper flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3, and to connect the right and lower flow paths. Connect. As a result, the heat storage tank 41 is disconnected from the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and a series of processing ends.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S12 that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or higher than the target water temperature (step S12; NO), a series of processing ends.
Further, in step S13, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S13; NO), the series of processes is completed. To do.

As described above, by performing the processes of Steps S11 to S16 described above, the temperature of the room air is quickly changed to the required temperature during the heating operation as compared with the case where the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is not used. You can get closer.
In the above example, the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a has been described, but the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35b is the same.

[At the end of cooling operation]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used at the end of the cooling operation in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In the following description, a path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a will be described as an example.

  First, in step S21, the control device 50 stops the cooling operation while maintaining the state of the first heat medium flow switching device 36a and the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f during the cooling operation. .

Next, in step S22, the control device 50 detects the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 based on the above is compared.
Thus, the comparison between the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 can recover the cold heat remaining in the heat medium circuit 6 to the heat storage tank 41. This is to determine whether or not.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S22; YES), the process proceeds to step S23. .
In step S23, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and lower flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3 and to connect the right and upper flow paths. . As a result, the heat medium in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 having a temperature lower than that of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 flows into the heat storage tank 41.

Next, in step S24, the control device 50 detects the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 based on the above is compared.
Thus, the reason for comparing the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a with the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is that the cold energy remaining in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 can be recovered in the heat storage tank 41. This is to determine whether or not.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S24; YES), the process proceeds to step S25. .
On the other hand, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S24; NO), the first heat exchanger related to heat medium The process of step S24 is repeated until the outlet water temperature of 31a becomes equal to or higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41.

  Depending on the structure of the heat storage tank 41, the installation position of the tank temperature sensor 42, and the like, it may be difficult to accurately detect the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41. Therefore, if it is difficult to satisfy the condition of step S24, for example, a margin may be given to the temperature used for the determination.

  Next, in step S25, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and upper flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3, and to connect the right and lower flow paths. Connect. As a result, the heat storage tank 41 is disconnected from the heat medium circulation circuit 6.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S22 that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S22; NO), the process proceeds to step S26. Transition.

  In step S26, the control device 50 stops driving the pump 35a. As a result, a series of processing ends.

As described above, by performing the processes of steps S21 to S26 described above, the cold energy in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 remaining when the cooling operation is stopped can be recovered in the heat storage tank 41.
In the above example, the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a has been described, but the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35b is the same.

[At the end of heating operation]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used at the end of the heating operation in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In the following description, a path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a will be described as an example.

  First, in step S31, the control device 50 stops the heating operation while maintaining the states of the first heat medium flow switching device 36a and the second heat medium flow switching devices 37a to 37f during the heating operation. .

Next, in step S32, the control device 50 detects the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a, and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 based on the above is compared.
As described above, the comparison between the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a and the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 can recover the heat remaining in the heat medium circuit 6 in the heat storage tank 41. This is to determine whether or not.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S32; YES), the process proceeds to step S33. .
In step S33, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and lower flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3 and connect the right and upper flow paths. . As a result, the heat medium in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 having a higher temperature than the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 flows into the heat storage tank 41.

Next, in step S34, the control device 50 detects the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a based on the temperature information supplied from the heat medium temperature sensor 38a and the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42. The water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 based on the above is compared.
In this way, the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is compared with the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 because the heat remaining in the heat medium circuit 6 can be recovered in the heat storage tank 41. This is to determine whether or not.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S34; YES), the process proceeds to step S35. .
On the other hand, if it is determined that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is higher than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S34; NO), the first heat exchanger related to heat medium The process of step S34 is repeated until the outlet water temperature of 31a becomes equal to or lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41.

  Depending on the structure of the heat storage tank 41, the installation position of the tank temperature sensor 42, and the like, it may be difficult to accurately detect the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41. Therefore, if it is difficult to satisfy the condition of step S34, for example, a margin may be given to the temperature used for determination.

  Next, in step S35, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and upper flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3, and to connect the right and lower flow paths. Connect. As a result, the heat storage tank 41 is disconnected from the heat medium circulation circuit 6.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S32 that the outlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is equal to or lower than the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (step S32; NO), the process proceeds to step S36. Transition.

  In step S36, the control device 50 stops driving the pump 35a. As a result, a series of processing ends.

As described above, the heat in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 remaining at the time of stopping the heating operation can be recovered in the heat storage tank 41 by performing the processing of the above-described steps S31 to S36.
In the above example, the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a has been described, but the process for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35b is the same.

[Defrosting operation]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process flow for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used during the defrosting operation in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 of FIG. 3.
In this example, it is assumed that cold heat is applied to the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b. Moreover, all the indoor units 20a-20c shall start defrosting operation during heating operation.
In the following description, a path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a will be described as an example.

When the defrosting operation is started in step S41, in step S42, the control device 50 compares the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 based on the temperature information supplied from the tank temperature sensor 42 with the heating application temperature. .
Here, the heating application temperature indicates the water temperature of the heat medium calculated based on the temperature information supplied from the indoor temperature sensor 22 of the indoor unit 20 during the heating operation, and will be described in the processing during the heating operation shown in FIG. Is defined as a value lower than the target water temperature. The heating application temperature is a temperature at which the temperature can be increased from the current room temperature, although there is no amount of heat until the room temperature reaches the target temperature required from the indoor unit 20.
Thus, the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is compared with the heating application temperature in order to determine whether the heating operation can be performed using the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41. is there.

As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is higher than the heating application temperature (step S42; YES), the process proceeds to step S43.
In step S43, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and lower flow paths shown in FIG. 3 and connect the right and upper flow paths. . As a result, the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 flows into the heat medium circuit 6. Therefore, the heat medium having the heat from the heat storage tank 41 can be supplied also to the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35a that is not given heat for defrosting, and the heating operation is performed even during the defrost operation. Can continue.

Next, in step S45, the control device 50 compares the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 with the heating application temperature, similarly to the process of step S42.
As a result of the comparison, when it is determined that the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is higher than the heating application temperature (step S45; YES), the process proceeds to step S46.

In step S46, the control device 50 determines whether or not the defrosting operation has been completed.
For example, a method of requesting information indicating the current operation mode from the control device 50 to the outdoor unit 10 can be determined as to whether or not the defrosting operation has ended. For example, when the operation mode changes, the control device 50 may receive information indicating the current operation mode from the outdoor unit 10.

  If it is determined that the defrosting operation has been completed (step S46; YES), the process proceeds to step S48. On the other hand, when it is determined that the defrosting operation has not ended (step S46; NO), the process returns to step S45.

  Next, in step S48, the control device 50 controls the first heat medium flow switching device 36a to connect the left and upper flow paths shown in the drawing of FIG. 3, and to connect the right and lower flow paths. Connect. As a result, the heat storage tank 41 is disconnected from the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and a series of processing ends.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S42 that the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is equal to or lower than the heating application temperature (step S42; NO), the process proceeds to step S44.
In step S44, the control device 50 performs control to stop the fans of all the indoor units 20 as in the normal defrosting operation.

In step S45, when it is determined that the water temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is equal to or lower than the heating application temperature (step S45; NO), the process proceeds to step S47.
In step S47, the control device 50 performs control to stop all the fans of the indoor units 20 in the same manner as in step S44.

Thus, after performing the process of step S41-step S48, the control apparatus 50 starts the process according to the operation mode changed from defrosting operations, such as a cooling operation or a heating operation.
The processing for the path through which the heat medium circulates by the pump 35b is the same as in the above example.

As described above, in the first embodiment, when the cooling operation or the heating operation is started, the temperature of the heat medium flowing in and out of the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b and the heat storage tank 41 Whether or not the heat storage tank 40 is used is determined by comparing the temperature of the heat medium. Then, when the condition is satisfied, the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 having more cold or warmer than the heat medium circulating in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 is used.
Thereby, compared with the case where the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is not used, the temperature of indoor air can be rapidly brought close to the required temperature.

  That is, when the cooling operation is started, the heating operation is started, the operation is switched, the heat medium in the heat storage tank 40 is used, thereby improving the air conditioning performance and saving energy by shortening the operation switching time. it can.

Further, at the end of the cooling operation or the heating operation, the temperature of the heat medium flowing out from the first heat exchangers 31 a and 31 b is compared with the temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41. When the condition is satisfied, the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and the heat medium circulating in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 is stored in the heat storage tank 41.
As a result, the cold or warm heat remaining in the heat medium circulation circuit 6 can be recovered in the heat storage tank 41.

Furthermore, during the defrosting operation, the temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is compared with the heating application temperature. When the condition is satisfied, the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit 6, and the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is circulated to the heat medium circulation circuit 6.
Thereby, heating operation can be continued even during defrosting operation.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
Next, an air conditioner according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described.
In the first embodiment described above, the heat medium circulating in the heat medium circuit 6 is caused to flow into the heat storage tank 41, whereby cold heat or warm heat is stored in the heat storage tank 40.
On the other hand, in this Embodiment 2, the heat exchanger between heat media for cooling or heating the heat medium in a heat storage tank is provided in a heat storage tank. Thereby, cold heat or warm heat is stored in the heat storage tank 41.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the air-conditioning apparatus 101 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 15, the air conditioner 101 includes an outdoor unit 10 as a heat source unit, a plurality of indoor units 20, an intermediate heat exchanger 130, a heat storage tank 140, and a control device 50. Although the example of FIG. 15 shows a case where two indoor units 20 are provided, the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, three or more indoor units 20 may be provided.
In the following description, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Further, the indoor unit 20 in the air conditioner 101, the heat medium circuit 6 side of the intermediate heat exchanger 130, and the heat medium circuit 6 side of the heat storage tank 140 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Description is omitted.

  The outdoor unit 10 is connected to the refrigerant side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 by two refrigerant pipes 2 through which refrigerant flows. The refrigerant side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 is connected to the refrigerant side flow path of the heat storage tank 140 by the three refrigerant pipes 7. The refrigerant circulation circuit 5 is formed by the outdoor unit 10, the intermediate heat exchanger 130, the heat storage tank 140, and the refrigerant pipes 2 and 7.

  The plurality of indoor units 20 are each connected to the heat medium side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 by two heat medium pipes 3 through which the heat medium flows. Further, the heat medium side flow path of the heat storage tank 40 is connected to the heat medium side flow path of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 by two heat medium pipes 4 through which the heat medium flows. The heat medium circulation circuit 6 is formed by the plurality of indoor units 20, the intermediate heat exchanger 130, the heat storage tank 140, and the heat medium pipes 3 and 4.

[Circuit configuration of refrigerant circulation circuit]
FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of the air-conditioning apparatus 101 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
As described above, the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 includes the outdoor unit 10, the intermediate heat exchanger 130, the heat storage tank 140, and the refrigerant pipes 2 and 7.
The intermediate heat exchanger 130 and the heat storage tank 140 include a portion related to the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 and a portion related to the heat medium circulation circuit 6. In the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and the heat storage tank 140 shown in FIG. 16, only parts related to the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 are illustrated and described.
Moreover, since the outdoor unit 10 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 mentioned above, description is abbreviate | omitted here.

[Intermediate heat exchanger (refrigerant circuit side)]
In addition to the configuration of the intermediate heat exchanger 30 according to the first embodiment, the intermediate heat exchanger 130 is provided with three refrigerant pipes 7 connected to the heat storage tank 140.

[Heat storage tank (refrigerant circuit side)]
The heat storage tank 140 includes a second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141, an expansion device 142, and a third refrigerant flow switching device 143.

The second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 functions as a condenser or an evaporator, and exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 and the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 (not shown) in the heat storage tank 140. Do.
The second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 is provided between the expansion device 142 and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143.

The expansion device 142 functions as an expansion valve that depressurizes and expands the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5. The expansion device 142 is configured by a valve capable of controlling the opening, such as an electronic expansion valve.
The expansion device 142 is provided upstream of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 in the flow of the refrigerant when the cold energy is stored in the heat storage tank 140.

The third refrigerant flow switching device 143 switches the direction of refrigerant flow according to the operation mode. The 3rd refrigerant | coolant flow path switching apparatus 143 shown in FIG. 16 shows the state in the case of accumulating warm heat in the thermal storage tank 140. FIG. For example, a four-way valve can be used as the third refrigerant flow switching device 143, but other valves may be used in combination.
The 3rd refrigerant | coolant flow path switching apparatus 143 is provided in the downstream of the 1st heat exchanger 31a between heat exchangers in the flow of the refrigerant | coolant at the time of storing cold heat in the thermal storage tank 140. As shown in FIG.

[Operation of refrigerant circulation circuit]
Next, the operation of the refrigerant in the cooling only operation mode, the heating only operation mode, the cooling main operation mode, and the heating main operation mode in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of the air conditioning apparatus 101 having the above configuration will be described.
Moreover, below, the case where the heat medium in the thermal storage tank 41 is further cooled or heated in each of these operation modes is demonstrated.

[Cooling operation mode / Cool energy storage]
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow paths in the cooling circuit operation mode and the cold heat storage mode in the refrigerant circuit 5 of FIG.
In FIG. 17, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path during the cooling only operation mode and during cold heat storage in the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing device 33a is opened, and the opening / closing device 33b is closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with the outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant that flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the expansion devices 32a and 32b through the opening / closing device 33a. Further, this high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 as it is, and also flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the expansion device 32a is decompressed and expanded to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant. It flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

On the other hand, the high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing into the expansion device 32b is decompressed and expanded to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant. It flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 142 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium. It becomes a gas refrigerant and flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143, and is also connected to the intermediate heat exchanger via the refrigerant pipe 7. 130 flows.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and flows into the outdoor unit 10 as it is.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated.

[Cooling operation mode / heat storage]
FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow path during the cooling only operation mode and the thermal heat storage in the refrigerant circuit 5 of FIG.
In FIG. 18, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path during the cooling only operation mode and during heat storage in the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130.

The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 as it is, and flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143.

The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming liquid refrigerant. It flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.
The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 142 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 142 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b through the expansion devices 32a and 32b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 from the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31 a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34 a and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

On the other hand, the low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. And flows out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[All-heating mode / cold heat storage]
FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow path in the heating circuit operation mode and in the cold heat storage in the refrigerant circuit 5 of FIG.
In FIG. 19, a flow path indicated by a bold line is a refrigerant flow path during the heating only operation mode and during cold heat storage to the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14c provided in the second connection pipe 2b, It flows into the heat exchanger 130.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b through the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32a.

  On the other hand, the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium, and in a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion devices 32 a and 32 b flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium. It becomes a gas refrigerant and flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143, and is also connected to the intermediate heat exchanger via the refrigerant pipe 7. 130 flows.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and flows into the outdoor unit 10 as it is.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b provided in the first connection pipe 2a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[All-heating operation mode and thermal storage]
FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path during the heating only operation mode and the thermal heat storage in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 16.
In FIG. 20, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path during the heating only operation mode and during heat storage in the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. The opening / closing device 33a is closed and the opening / closing device 33b is opened.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14c provided in the second connection pipe 2b, It flows into the heat exchanger 130.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchangers 31a and 31b through the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 as it is and flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the switching device 33b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  On the other hand, the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium, and in a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant And flows out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32b flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the switching device 33b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 142 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 142 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the switchgear 33 b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b provided in the first connection pipe 2a.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and becomes a low temperature and low pressure gas refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Cooling operation mode / Cool energy storage]
FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path in the cooling main operation mode and the cold heat storage in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 16.
In FIG. 21, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path during the cooling main operation mode and during cold heat storage in the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130.

The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming liquid refrigerant. It flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 31a.
The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the expansion device 32a.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32a flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b through the expansion device 32b. The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and also flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 flows out of the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and reducing the low-pressure gas. It becomes a refrigerant and flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143, and also the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the refrigerant pipe 7. Flow into.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and flows into the outdoor unit 10 as it is.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Cooling-based operation mode / thermal storage]
FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path in the cooling main operation mode and the thermal heat storage in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 16.
In FIG. 22, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path during the cooling main operation mode and during the heat storage to the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 condenses while exchanging heat with outdoor air and dissipates heat, and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.
The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 through the check valve 14d and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130.

  The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34a. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 as it is and flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming liquid refrigerant. It flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 31a.
The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32a to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and flows out of the expansion device 32a.

  In addition, the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143.

  The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium and becoming a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 142 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 142 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32a and the low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 from the expansion device 142 are transferred between the first heat medium via the expansion device 32b. It flows into the heat exchanger 31b.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 flows out of the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit 10 is sucked into the compressor 11 through the check valve 14a and the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Heating-main operation mode / cold heat storage]
FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram for explaining the refrigerant flow path in the heating main operation mode and in the cold heat storage in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 16.
In FIG. 23, a flow path indicated by a thick line is a refrigerant flow path at the time of the heating main operation mode and cold heat storage to the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14c provided in the second connection pipe 2b, It flows into the heat exchanger 130.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32b flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a through the expansion device 32a. The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and also flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 from the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31 a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34 a and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and reducing the low-pressure gas. It becomes a refrigerant and flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143, and also the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the refrigerant pipe 7. Flow into.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and flows into the outdoor unit 10 as it is.

The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b provided in the first connection pipe 2a.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Heating-based operation mode / heat storage]
FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram for explaining a refrigerant flow path in the heating main operation mode and in the heat storage in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5 of FIG. 16.
In FIG. 24, the flow path indicated by the thick line is the refrigerant flow path during the heating main operation mode and during the heat storage to the heat storage tank 140, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path is indicated by an arrow.

  In this case, first, the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, the second refrigerant flow switching devices 34a and 34b, and the third refrigerant flow switching device 143 are switched as shown in FIG. Further, the opening / closing devices 33a and 33b are closed.

The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 11 and discharged as a high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flows out of the outdoor unit 10 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12 and the check valve 14c provided in the second connection pipe 2b, It flows into the heat exchanger 130.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34b. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flows out from the intermediate heat exchanger 130 and also flows into the heat storage tank 140 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out from the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b.

  The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31b is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 32b, becomes a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 32b.

The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the heat storage tank 140 flows into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 via the third refrigerant flow switching device 143.
The high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 exchanges heat with the heat medium and condenses while dissipating heat, thereby heating the heat medium to become a supercooled high-pressure liquid refrigerant. And flows out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141.

The high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has flowed out of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 is decompressed and expanded by the expansion device 142 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows out of the expansion device 142.
The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 142 flows out of the heat storage tank 140 and flows into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 through the refrigerant pipe 7.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the switchgear 33 b and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

  The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the expansion device 32b and the low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the intermediate heat exchanger 130 from the heat storage tank 140 are transferred between the first heat medium via the expansion device 32a. It flows into the heat exchanger 31a.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a exchanges heat with the heat medium to absorb heat and evaporate, thereby cooling the heat medium and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. 1 from the heat exchanger related to heat medium 31a.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium 31 a flows out of the intermediate heat exchanger 130 via the second refrigerant flow switching device 34 a and flows into the outdoor unit 10.

The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 through the check valve 14b provided in the first connection pipe 2a.
The low-pressure gas refrigerant flowing into the heat source side heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with outdoor air, absorbs heat and evaporates, and flows out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed out of the heat source side heat exchanger 13 is sucked into the compressor 11 via the first refrigerant flow switching device 12, and the above-described circulation is repeated thereafter.

[Judgment process of heat storage tank availability]
The process for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 140 can be used in the second embodiment is the same as the process for determining whether or not the heat storage tank 40 can be used in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted here.

As described above, in the second embodiment, by providing the second heat exchanger related to heat medium 141 in the heat storage tank 140, the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 is cooled by the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circulation circuit 5. Or it can be heated. Accordingly, it is possible to store cold or warm heat in the heat storage tank 41 without operating the pumps 35a and 35b provided in the heat medium circulation circuit 6.
In other words, energy can be saved by using the heat in the refrigerant circuit 5.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment 2, in all the operation modes, cold heat or warm heat can be stored with respect to the heat medium in the heat storage tank 41 of the heat storage tank 140. Therefore, necessary heat can be stored according to the needs of the user.

  Note that such heat storage in the heat storage tank 140 is preferably performed, for example, at night when the power rate is low. By storing heat at night, more energy can be saved.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,101 Air conditioning apparatus, 2 Refrigerant piping, 2a 1st connection piping, 2b 2nd connection piping, 3, 4 Heat medium piping, 5 Refrigerant circulation circuit, 6 Heat medium circulation circuit, 7 Refrigerant piping, 10 Outdoor unit , 11 Compressor, 12 First refrigerant flow switching device, 13 Heat source side heat exchanger, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d Check valve, 20, 20a, 20b, 20c Indoor unit, 21, 21a, 21b, 21c User side heat exchanger, 22, 22a, 22b, 22c Indoor temperature sensor, 30, 130 Intermediate heat exchanger, 31a, 31b First heat exchanger between heat mediums, 32a, 32b Expansion device, 33a, 33b Opening / closing device, 34a, 34b Second refrigerant flow switching device, 35a, 35b pump, 36a, 36b First heat medium flow switching device, 37a, 37b, 37c, 37d, 37e, 37f Heat medium flow switching device, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d heat medium temperature sensor, 40, 140 heat storage tank, 41 heat storage tank, 42 tank temperature sensor, 50 control device, 141 second heat medium heat exchanger, 142 throttle device, 143 third refrigerant flow switching device.

An air conditioner according to the present invention includes a refrigerant circulation circuit that circulates a refrigerant by connecting a refrigerant side flow path of a compressor, a heat source side heat exchanger, a throttling device, and a first heat exchanger related to heat medium with a refrigerant pipe, A heat medium side flow path of the first heat exchanger between heat medium, a heat medium circulation circuit that connects the use side heat exchanger with a heat medium pipe to circulate the heat medium, and between the first heat medium An air conditioner for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the heat medium in a heat exchanger, comprising a heat storage tank having a heat storage tank for storing the heat medium, wherein the heat medium circulation circuit switches a flow path the heat storage tank connected to the heat medium circulation circuit by, have a heat medium flow path switching apparatus capable of inflow and out of the heat medium to said heat storage tank, the flow path by the heat medium flow path switching apparatus The heat storage tank is connected to the heat medium circuit by switching. The case, the said heat medium by heat exchange flows into the heat storage tank in the first heat medium heat exchanger, in which heat is stored in the heat storage tank.

Claims (7)

A refrigerant circulation circuit that circulates a refrigerant by connecting a refrigerant side flow path of a compressor, a heat source side heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a first heat exchanger related to heat medium with a refrigerant pipe, and heat between the first heat medium A heat medium side flow path of the exchanger, and a heat medium circulation circuit that circulates the heat medium by connecting the use side heat exchanger with a heat medium pipe, and the refrigerant and the heat exchanger in the first heat medium heat exchanger An air conditioner that exchanges heat with a heat medium,
A heat storage tank having a heat storage tank for storing the heat medium;
The heat medium circuit is
An air conditioner having a heat medium flow switching device that connects the heat storage tank to the heat medium circulation circuit by switching a flow path and enables the heat medium to flow into and out of the heat storage tank. The heat storage tank
A second heat exchanger related to heat medium that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat medium stored in the heat storage tank;
The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a refrigerant side flow path of the second heat exchanger related to heat medium is connected to the refrigerant circulation circuit. A control device for controlling the compressor and the throttle device;
A heat medium temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the heat medium flowing out of the first heat exchanger related to heat medium;
An indoor temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the space provided with the use side heat exchanger;
A tank temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat medium in the heat storage tank,
The controller is
The flow path of the heat medium flow switching device is switched based on a temperature detected by the heat medium temperature sensor, a temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor, and a temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor. The air conditioning apparatus according to 1 or 2. The controller is
During cooling operation, when the temperature detected by the heat medium temperature sensor is higher than the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor, the heat storage tank is switched by switching the flow path of the heat medium flow switching device. Connected to the heat medium circuit,
During the heating operation, when the temperature detected by the heat medium temperature sensor is lower than the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor, the heat storage tank is changed by switching the flow path of the heat medium flow switching device. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the air conditioning apparatus is connected to a heat medium circulation circuit. The controller is
When stopping the cooling operation, when the temperature detected by the heat medium temperature sensor is lower than the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor, the heat storage tank is switched by switching the flow path of the heat medium flow switching device. Connected to the heat medium circuit,
When stopping the heating operation, if the temperature detected by the heat medium temperature sensor is higher than the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor, the heat storage tank is switched by switching the flow path of the heat medium flow switching device. The air conditioner according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the air conditioner is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit. The controller is
When the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor is higher than the heating application temperature calculated based on the temperature detected by the room temperature sensor during the defrosting operation, the flow path of the heat medium flow path switching device is switched. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the heat storage tank is connected to the heat medium circulation circuit. During the cooling operation, the heat medium stored in the heat storage tank is heated by the second heat exchanger related to heat medium,
The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the heating medium stored in the heat storage tank is cooled by the second heat exchanger related to heat medium during heating operation.

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