KR20220068610A - Heat pump - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a heat pump. The heat pump according to the present invention comprises: a refrigerant pipe for providing a flow path for flowing refrigerant, the refrigerant pipe being connected to a compressor for generating the flow of the refrigerant; a circulating water pipe for providing a flow path for flowing circulating water, the circulating water being connected to a circulating water pump for generating the flow of the circulating water; a supply water pipe for providing a flow path for flowing supply water, the supply water pipe being connected to a supply water pump for generating the flow of the supply water; a first heat exchanger connected to the refrigerant pipe and the circulating water pipe to induce heat exchange between the refrigerant and the circulating water; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulating water pipe and the supply water pipe to induce heat exchange between the circulating water and the supply water; a water tank for storing or discharging the supply water, the water tank being connected to the supply water pipe at an upper part and a lower part of the water tank; a plurality of valves installed on the supply water pipe to adjust the flow path of the supply water pipe; and a control part for adjusting the operation of the plurality of valves to discharge the supply water to the second heat exchanger from one of the upper part and the lower part of the water tank and to introduce the supply water having passed the second heat exchanger to the other. Therefore, provided is a heat pump capable of preventing the freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while performing defrosting operations.

Description

heat pump {HEAT PUMP}

The present disclosure relates to a heat pump. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a heat pump capable of preventing freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while performing a defrosting operation.

In general, a heat pump refers to a device that cools or heats a room through compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. If the outdoor heat exchanger of the heat pump functions as a condenser, but the indoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the room may be cooled. Conversely, when the indoor heat exchanger of the heat pump functions as a condenser, but the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the room may be heated.

For example, the heat pump may be an Air-to-Water Heat Pump (AWHP) using water as a medium for heat exchange with a refrigerant. In this case, hot water can be supplied to the room by increasing the temperature of the water stored in the water tank by using the heated water while exchanging heat with the refrigerant. Alternatively, the indoor space may be heated as water heated while exchanging heat with the refrigerant flows through a water pipe installed in the indoor space.

At this time, as the refrigerant passes through the outdoor heat exchanger and evaporates, moisture in the outdoor air is condensed and frozen, and frost may form in the outdoor heat exchanger. And, in order to remove the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger as described above, a defrosting operation may be performed.

However, it is necessary to develop a technology capable of preventing freezing of the water-refrigerant heat exchanger during the defrosting operation of the water-refrigerant heat pump.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present disclosure aims to solve the above and other problems.

Another object may be to provide a heat pump capable of preventing freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while performing a defrosting operation.

Another object may be to provide a heat pump capable of preventing freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while maximally preserving the energy value of water stored in a water tank at a relatively high temperature.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above or other object, a refrigerant pipe providing a flow path through which a refrigerant flows; as a refrigerant pipe connected to a compressor causing the refrigerant flow; A circulating water pipe providing a flow path through which the circulating water flows, comprising: a circulating water pipe connected to a circulating water pump causing the circulating water to flow; A supply water pipe providing a flow path through which the supply water flows; a supply water pipe connected to the supply water pump causing the flow of the supply water; a first heat exchanger connected to the refrigerant pipe and the circulating water pipe to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the circulating water; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulating water pipe and the supply water pipe to exchange heat between the circulating water and the feed water; a water tank for storing or discharging the supply water; a water tank connected to the supply water pipe at upper and lower portions of the water tank; a plurality of valves installed in the supply water pipe to control the flow path of the supply water pipe; And, by controlling the operation of the plurality of valves, the control unit for discharging the feed water from any one of the upper and lower parts of the water tank to the second heat exchanger and introducing the feed water that has passed through the second heat exchanger into the other. It provides a heat pump comprising a.

The effect of the heat pump according to the present disclosure will be described as follows.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a heat pump capable of preventing freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while performing a defrosting operation.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a heat pump capable of preventing freezing of a water-refrigerant heat exchanger while maximally preserving the energy value of water stored in a water tank at a relatively high temperature.

Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are given by way of example only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a heat pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a diagram for explaining the flow of refrigerant and water in a hot water supply operation or a cold water supply operation mode.
2 and 3 show the configuration of a heat pump according to an example of the present disclosure, and are views for explaining the flow of refrigerant and water in a defrosting operation mode.
4 and 5 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of a heat pump according to another example of the present disclosure, and for explaining the flow of refrigerant and water in a defrosting operation mode.
6 to 9 are views illustrating the configuration of a heat pump according to another example of the present disclosure, and are views for explaining the flow of refrigerant and water in a defrosting operation mode, and FIG. 10 is a control method of the heat pump according to the above example. It is a flowchart.

Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the same or similar components are assigned the same reference numbers regardless of reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes "module" and "part" for the components used in the following description are given or mixed in consideration of only the ease of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles by themselves.

In addition, in describing the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed herein is not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all changes included in the spirit and scope of the present invention , should be understood to include equivalents or substitutes.

Terms including an ordinal number such as 1st, 2nd, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When a component is referred to as being “connected” or “connected” to another component, it may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but it is understood that other components may exist in between. it should be On the other hand, when it is said that a certain element is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another element, it should be understood that the other element does not exist in the middle.

The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the present application, terms such as "comprises" or "have" are intended to designate that the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification exist, but one or more other features It should be understood that this does not preclude the existence or addition of numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

Referring to FIG. 1 , the heat pump 1 is installed on one side (eg, the left side) of the heat exchangers 4 and 8 and a refrigerant pipe through which the refrigerant circulates (P: P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) And, it may be provided with a water pipe (R: R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) installed on the other side (eg, the right side) of the heat exchanger (4, 8) through which water circulates. In this case, heat exchange between the refrigerant and water may be performed in the heat exchangers 4 and 8 . Meanwhile, the heat pump 1 may be referred to as an air-to-water heat pump (AWHP).

For example, the heat exchangers 4 and 8 may include a first heat exchanger 4 and a second heat exchanger 8 connected to each other by water pipes Q: Q1, Q2, and Q3. The first heat exchanger 4 may be connected to the refrigerant pipe P and the water pipe Q. In this case, heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe (P) and water flowing through the water pipe (Q) in the first heat exchanger (4) may be performed. The second heat exchanger 8 may be connected to the water pipe Q and the water pipe R. In this case, heat exchange between the water flowing through the water pipe Q and the water flowing through the water pipe R in the second heat exchanger 8 may be performed. Meanwhile, the first heat exchanger 4 may be referred to as a water-refrigerant heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger 8 may be referred to as a water-water heat exchanger.

On the other hand, the water pipe (Q) may be referred to as a circulating water pipe (Q), and water flowing through the flow path of the circulating water pipe (Q) may be referred to as circulating water. In addition, the water pipe (R) may be referred to as a supply water pipe (R), and water flowing through the flow path of the supply water pipe (R) may be referred to as feed water.

The heat pump (1) includes a compressor (2), a switching valve (3), a first heat exchanger (4), an expansion valve (5), an outdoor heat exchanger (6), and an accumulator connected to each other by a refrigerant pipe (P). (7) can be provided.

The compressor 2 may compress the refrigerant flowing in from the accumulator 7 to discharge the refrigerant of high temperature and high pressure. In this case, the accumulator 7 may provide the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor 2 through the first pipe P1 . Meanwhile, the second pipe P2 may be installed between the compressor 2 and the switching valve 3 to provide a flow path of the refrigerant from the compressor 2 to the switching valve 3 .

The selector valve 3 switches the flow path according to the operation mode of the heat pump 1 to selectively guide the refrigerant flowing into the selector valve 3 to the first heat exchanger 4 or the outdoor heat exchanger 6 . can For example, the switching valve 3 may be a four-way valve. Meanwhile, the sixth pipe P6 may be installed between the switching valve 3 and the accumulator 7 to provide a flow path of the refrigerant from the switching valve 3 to the accumulator 7 . On the other hand, the third pipe (P3) is installed between the switching valve (3) and the first heat exchanger (4), it can provide a flow path of the refrigerant connecting the switching valve (3) and the first heat exchanger (4). .

The first heat exchanger 4 may exchange heat between the refrigerant and water. The heat transfer direction between the refrigerant and water in the first heat exchanger 4 may vary depending on the operation mode of the heat pump 1 . For example, the first heat exchanger 4 may be a plate heat exchanger. Here, the plate heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat transfer plates stacked on each other, and the refrigerant and water introduced into the plate heat exchanger flow along a flow path formed between the plurality of heat transfer plates, and can exchange heat with each other in a non-contact manner. However, the first heat exchanger 4 is not limited to the plate heat exchanger, and other heat exchangers capable of heat-exchanging refrigerant and water in a non-contact manner may also be applied to the present disclosure.

The outdoor heat exchanger 6 may exchange heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium. The heat transfer direction between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium in the outdoor heat exchanger (6) may vary depending on the operation mode of the heat pump (1).

For example, the heat transfer medium is outdoor air, and heat exchange between the refrigerant and outdoor air may be performed in the outdoor heat exchanger 6 . In this case, the outdoor fan 6a is installed on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger 6 to control the amount of air provided to the outdoor heat exchanger 6 . Meanwhile, the fifth pipe P5 may be installed between the switching valve 3 and the outdoor heat exchanger 6 to provide a refrigerant flow path connecting the switching valve 3 and the outdoor heat exchanger 6 .

The expansion valve 5 may be installed in the fourth pipe P4 to expand the refrigerant flowing through the flow path of the fourth pipe P4 . Here, the fourth pipe (P4) is installed between the first heat exchanger (4) and the outdoor heat exchanger (6) to provide a flow path of the refrigerant connecting the first heat exchanger (4) and the outdoor heat exchanger (6). can For example, the expansion valve 5 may be an Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV).

In addition, the heat pump 1 may include a pump 7 , a first heat exchanger 4 , and a second heat exchanger 8 connected to each other by a water pipe Q . The first water pipe Q1 may be installed between the pump 7 and the first heat exchanger 4 to provide a flow path of water from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 . The second water pipe Q2 is installed between the first heat exchanger 4 and the second heat exchanger 8 to provide a flow path of water from the first heat exchanger 4 to the second heat exchanger 8 . can The third water pipe Q3 may be installed between the second heat exchanger 8 and the pump 7 to provide a flow path of water from the second heat exchanger 8 to the pump 7 . That is, water may be circulated in the water pipe Q while sequentially passing through the pump 7 , the first heat exchanger 4 , and the second heat exchanger 8 . Meanwhile, the pump 7 may be referred to as a circulating water pump 7 .

In addition, the heat pump 1 may include a pump 9 connected to each other by a water pipe R, a second heat exchanger 8 , and a water tank 10 . The first water pipe R1 may be installed between the pump 9 and the second heat exchanger 8 to provide a flow path of water from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 . The second water pipe R2 may be installed between the second heat exchanger 8 and the water tank 10 to provide a flow path of water from the second heat exchanger 8 to the water tank 10 . The third water pipe R3 may be installed between the water tank 10 and the pump 9 to provide a flow path of water from the water tank 10 to the pump 9 . That is, water may be circulated in the water pipe R by sequentially passing through the pump 9 , the second heat exchanger 8 , and the water tank 10 . Meanwhile, the pump 9 may be referred to as a feed water pump 9 .

In this case, the water tank 10 may receive and store water supplied from a water supply source, and may provide heated or cooled water to each use place in the room. For example, the water tank 10 may be formed in a cylindrical shape as a whole. The inlet 11 is provided at the lower portion of the water tank 10 to provide water from the water supply source to the water tank 10 (see Win), and the outlet 12 is provided at the upper portion of the water tank 10 . Thus, the water stored in the water tank 10 can be provided to each use in the room (see Wh or Wc).

For example, water flowing through the flow path of the water pipe R may flow into the water tank 10 to exchange heat with water stored in the water tank 10 . That is, the water flowing through the flow path of the water pipe R may be stored in the water tank 10 or may pass through the water tank 10 . The first hole 10a may be formed in the lower portion of the water tank 10 and may be connected to the third water pipe R3. That is, the first hole 10a may communicate with the flow path of the third water pipe R3. The second hole 10b may be formed in the upper portion of the water tank 10 and may be connected to the second water pipe R2. That is, the second hole 10b may communicate with the flow path of the second water pipe R2.

As another example, water flowing through the flow path of the water pipe R may flow through the flow path of a coil-shaped water pipe (not shown) surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the water tank 10 . In this case, the water stored in the water tank 10 may exchange heat in a non-contact manner with the water flowing through the flow path of the coil-shaped water pipe.

On the other hand, the control unit (M, not shown) may control the operation of the heat pump (1). The control unit M may be electrically connected to each component of the heat pump 1 . The control unit M may control the operation of each configuration of the heat pump 1 according to the operation mode of the heat pump 1 .

<Heat pump hot water supply operation mode>

Referring to the upper figure of FIG. 1 , when a hot water supply operation signal of the heat pump 1 is received, the controller M may perform a hot water supply operation of the heat pump 1 . For example, the hot water supply operation signal may be a signal arbitrarily input by the user. For another example, the hot water supply operation signal is generated when the temperature of water stored in the water tank 10 sensed by a temperature sensor (not shown) provided in the water tank 10 is lower than the target temperature by a certain level or more, the temperature sensor may be a signal provided to the control unit M.

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the third pipe P3 in sequence.

As thermal energy is transferred from the refrigerant introduced through the third pipe P3 in the first heat exchanger 4 to the water introduced through the first water pipe Q1, the refrigerant may be condensed. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as a condenser. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing into the first heat exchanger 4 from the pump 7 through the first water pipe Q1 may be increased. The water heated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2.

Thermal energy may be transferred from the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 to the water introduced through the first water pipe R1. That is, the temperature of the water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 from the pump 9 through the first water pipe R1 may be increased. Water heated while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may flow into the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 to heat the water stored in the water tank 10 . Accordingly, the water tank 10 can provide hot water (Wh) to each use place in the room through the discharge port 12 .

Meanwhile, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may return to the pump 7 through the third water pipe Q3. Meanwhile, the water passing through the water tank 10 may return to the pump 9 through the third water pipe R3.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant condensed while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and may be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. And, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve (5) may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger (6).

As thermal energy of outdoor air is transferred from the outdoor heat exchanger 6 to the refrigerant, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as an evaporator. The refrigerant evaporated while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (6) passes through the fifth pipe (P5), the switching valve (3), the sixth pipe (P6), the accumulator (7), and the first pipe (P1) in sequence to the compressor ( 2) can be introduced. Accordingly, the cycle of refrigerant and water for the hot water supply operation of the above-described heat pump 1 can be completed.

<Cold water supply operation mode of heat pump>

Referring to the lower figure of FIG. 1 , when a cold water supply operation signal of the heat pump 1 is received, the controller M may perform a cold water supply operation of the heat pump 1 . For example, the cold water supply operation signal may be a signal arbitrarily input by a user. For another example, the cold water supply operation signal is generated when the temperature of the water stored in the water tank 10 detected by a temperature sensor (not shown) provided in the water tank 10 is higher than the target temperature by a certain level or higher, the temperature sensor may be a signal provided to the control unit M.

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled by passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2.

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may flow into the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 to cool the water stored in the water tank 10 . Accordingly, the water tank 10 may provide the cold water Wc to each use place in the room through the discharge port 12 .

Meanwhile, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may return to the pump 7 through the third water pipe Q3. Meanwhile, the water passing through the water tank 10 may return to the pump 9 through the third water pipe R3.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle of refrigerant and water for the cold water supply operation of the heat pump 1 can be completed.

2 and 3 , the first valve 21 may be installed in the second water pipe R2 to open or close the flow path of the second water pipe R2 . The second valve 22 may be installed in the third water pipe R3 to open or close the flow path of the third water pipe R3 .

In the above and below, the opening of the flow path by the valve means that the flow path located upstream of the valve and the flow path located downstream of the valve are connected to each other, and closing of the flow path by the valve is the flow path located upstream of the valve and downstream of the valve. It means that the connection between the flow paths located in the And, the opening or closing of the flow path by the valve can be simply described as the opening or closing of the valve.

One end of the fourth water pipe R4 is connected to the second water pipe R2 between the first valve 21 and the water tank 10 (see a2), and the other end of the fourth water pipe R4 is connected to the second water pipe R2. 2 It may be connected to the third water pipe R3 between the valve 22 and the pump 9 (refer to a4). In addition, the third valve 23 may be installed in the fourth water pipe R4 to open or close the flow path of the fourth water pipe R4 .

One end of the fifth water pipe R5 is connected to the second water pipe R2 between the second heat exchanger 8 and the first valve 21 (see a1), and the other end of the fifth water pipe R5 may be connected to the third water pipe R3 between the water tank 10 and the second valve 22 (see a3). And, the fourth valve 24 may be installed in the fifth water pipe R5 to open or close the flow path of the fifth water pipe R5.

In the hot water supply operation mode or the cold water supply operation mode of the above-described heat pump, the control unit M opens the first valve 21 and the second valve 22, but the third valve 23 and the fourth valve 24 ) can be closed (see Figure 1). For example, the first valve 21 , the second valve 22 , the third valve 23 , and the fourth valve 24 may be a solenoid valve or an Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV).

The first temperature sensor S1 may be installed in the second water pipe Q2 to detect the temperature of the water that has passed through the first heat exchanger 4 . The second temperature sensor S2 may be installed in the second water pipe R2 to detect the temperature of water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 . The control unit M may obtain information about the temperature of water from the first temperature sensor S1 and the second temperature sensor S2 .

The internal accommodation space of the water tank 10 may be divided into a first space 10L, a second space 10M, and a third space 10H. The first space 10L is formed in the lower part of the water tank 10 , the third space 10H is formed in the upper part of the water tank 10 , and the second space 10M is formed in the first space 10L and It may be formed between the third spaces 10H. In this case, the temperature of the water stored in the first space 10L is the lowest, the temperature of the water stored in the third space 10H is the highest, and the temperature of the water stored in the second space 10M is the temperature stored in the first space 10L. It may be a temperature between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the water stored in the third space 10H.

That is, the temperature of the water stored in the internal accommodating space of the water tank 10 may increase from the lower part to the upper part. Meanwhile, the internal accommodating space of the water tank 10 may be divided into a lower space and an upper space according to the temperature distribution of water, or may be divided into four or more spaces.

<Defrost operation mode of heat pump>

In the hot water supply operation mode of the heat pump (1), etc., moisture in the outdoor air is condensed and frozen while the refrigerant passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (6) and evaporates, and frost may form on the outdoor heat exchanger (6). . And, in order to remove the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger 6 as described above, a defrosting operation may be performed.

When the defrost operation signal of the heat pump 1 is received, the control unit M may perform a defrost operation of the heat pump 1 . For example, the defrost operation signal may be a signal arbitrarily input by the user. For another example, when the frost implantation amount detected by a sensor (not shown) disposed on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger 6 is above a certain level, the sensor may provide a signal to the control unit M. In this case, the sensor may be an infrared sensor, a differential pressure sensor, or a temperature sensor.

Referring back to FIG. 2 , in the defrost operation mode of the heat pump, the first outlet temperature Ta, which is the temperature of the water that the first temperature sensor S1 has passed through the first heat exchanger 4, is the first reference temperature T1. ) is detected, the controller M may perform a first defrost operation. Here, the first reference temperature T1 is a temperature set to prevent freezing of the first heat exchanger 4, and may be higher than the temperature at which water passing through the first heat exchanger 4 starts to freeze by a certain temperature. .

In the first defrosting operation mode, the control unit (M) drives the compressor (2) and the pumps (7, 9) while the switching valve (3) transfers the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (2) to the outdoor heat exchanger (6) guide, and the expansion valve 5 may be controlled to adjust the opening degree of the flow path of the fourth pipe P4. In addition, the control unit M may open the first valve 21 and the second valve 22 , but close the third valve 23 and the fourth valve 24 .

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. Thereby, the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger (6) can be removed. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled by passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. And, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is provided to the first heat exchanger 4 through the third water pipe Q3, the pump 7, and the first water pipe Q1 in order, 4 It can participate in the evaporation process of the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (4) through the pipe (P4).

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may be introduced into the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 and the second hole 10b. Then, the water discharged from the lower portion of the water tank 10 through the first hole 10a passes through the third water pipe R3, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order to the second heat exchanger. It is provided as (8), and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle for the first defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 may be completed.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the first space 10L and provides water at a relatively low temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to perform the first defrosting operation. In this case, as water of a relatively high temperature stored in the third space 10H, it can be used to provide hot water (Wh, see the upper figure of FIG. 1 ), and the water of high value is converted into the second heat exchanger 8 . can be minimized.

Referring back to FIG. 3 , in the defrost operation mode of the heat pump, the first outlet temperature Ta, which is the temperature of the water that the first temperature sensor S1 has passed through the first heat exchanger 4, is the first reference temperature T1. ) or less, the control unit M may perform a second defrosting operation. Here, the first reference temperature T1 is a temperature set to prevent freezing of the first heat exchanger 4, and may be higher than the temperature at which water passing through the first heat exchanger 4 starts to freeze by a certain temperature. .

In the second defrosting operation mode, the control unit (M) drives the compressor (2) and the pumps (7, 9) while the switching valve (3) transfers the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (2) to the outdoor heat exchanger (6) guide, and the expansion valve 5 may be controlled to adjust the opening degree of the flow path of the fourth pipe P4. In addition, the control unit M may close the first valve 21 and the second valve 22 , but may open the third valve 23 and the fourth valve 24 .

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. Thereby, the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger (6) can be removed. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. And, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is provided to the first heat exchanger 4 through the third water pipe Q3, the pump 7, and the first water pipe Q1 in order, 4 It can participate in the evaporation process of the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (4) through the pipe (P4).

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. The water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the fifth water pipe R5, and through the first hole 10a It may flow into the lower part of the water tank 10 . And, the water discharged from the upper part of the water tank 10 through the second hole 10b is guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the fourth water pipe R4, It is provided to the second heat exchanger 8 through the pump 9 and the first water pipe R1, and can participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. have.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle for the second defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 may be completed.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the third space 10H and provides water at a relatively high temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to provide the first heat exchanger 4 and/or the second heat exchanger ( 8), the second defrosting operation can be performed while preventing the freezing. In this case, by guiding the cooled water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 to the lower portion of the water tank 10 , the temperature of the water stored in the third space 10H can be maintained as much as possible.

4 and 5 , the first three-way valve 25 may be installed in the second water pipe R2 , and the second three-way valve 26 may be installed in the third water pipe R3 .

One end of the sixth water pipe (R6) is connected to the first three-way valve (25), and the other end of the sixth water pipe (R6) is between the second three-way valve (26) and the pump (9), the third water pipe ( R3) can be connected (see b2).

One end of the seventh water pipe (R7) is connected to the second water pipe (R2) between the second heat exchanger (8) and the first three-way valve (25) (see b1), the seventh water pipe (R7) The other end may be connected to the second three-way valve 26 .

In the hot water supply operation mode or the cold water supply operation mode of the above-described heat pump, the control unit (M) adjusts the flow path of the first three-way valve (25) to pass the water passing through the second heat exchanger (8) to the second water pipe The upper portion of the water tank 10 may be guided through (R2) and the second hole 10b. Then, the control unit M controls the flow path of the second three-way valve 26 to pump water discharged from the lower portion of the water tank 10 through the first hole 10a through the third water pipe R3. (9) can be guided.

Referring back to FIG. 4 , in the defrost operation mode of the heat pump, the first outlet temperature Ta, which is the temperature of the water that the first temperature sensor S1 has passed through the first heat exchanger 4, is the first reference temperature T1. ) is detected, the controller M may perform a first defrost operation. Here, the first reference temperature T1 is a temperature set to prevent freezing of the first heat exchanger 4, and may be higher than the temperature at which water passing through the first heat exchanger 4 starts to freeze by a certain temperature. .

In the first defrosting operation mode, the control unit (M) drives the compressor (2) and the pumps (7, 9) while the switching valve (3) transfers the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (2) to the outdoor heat exchanger (6) guide, and the expansion valve 5 may be controlled to adjust the opening degree of the flow path of the fourth pipe P4. In addition, the control unit M may adjust the flow path of the first three-way valve 25 to block the connection between the second water pipe R2 and the sixth water pipe R6. Also, the control unit M may adjust the flow path of the second three-way valve 25 to block the connection between the third water pipe R3 and the seventh water pipe R7. In this case, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is guided to the upper part of the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 and the second hole 10b, and through the first hole 10a. Water discharged from the lower part of the water tank 10 may be guided to the pump 9 through the third water pipe R3.

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. Thereby, the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger (6) can be removed. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled by passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. And, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is provided to the first heat exchanger 4 through the third water pipe Q3, the pump 7, and the first water pipe Q1 in order, 4 It can participate in the evaporation process of the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (4) through the pipe (P4).

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may be introduced into the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 and the second hole 10b. Then, the water discharged from the lower portion of the water tank 10 through the first hole 10a passes through the third water pipe R3, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order to the second heat exchanger. It is provided as (8), and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle for the first defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 may be completed.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the first space 10L and provides water at a relatively low temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to perform the first defrosting operation. In this case, as water of a relatively high temperature stored in the third space 10H, it can be used to provide hot water (Wh, see the upper figure of FIG. 1 ), and the water of high value is converted into the second heat exchanger 8 . can be minimized.

Referring back to FIG. 5 , in the defrosting operation mode of the heat pump, the first outlet temperature Ta, which is the temperature of the water that the first temperature sensor S1 has passed through the first heat exchanger 4, is the first reference temperature T1. ) or less, the control unit M may perform a second defrosting operation. Here, the first reference temperature T1 is a temperature set to prevent freezing of the first heat exchanger 4, and may be higher than the temperature at which water passing through the first heat exchanger 4 starts to freeze by a certain temperature. .

In the second defrosting operation mode, the control unit (M) drives the compressor (2) and the pumps (7, 9) while the switching valve (3) transfers the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (2) to the outdoor heat exchanger (6) guide, and the expansion valve 5 may be controlled to adjust the opening degree of the flow path of the fourth pipe P4. And, the control unit M may adjust the flow path of the first three-way valve 25 to connect the second water pipe R2 and the sixth water pipe R6. In addition, the control unit M may adjust the flow path of the second three-way valve 25 to connect the third water pipe R3 and the seventh water pipe R7. In this case, the water that has passed through the second heat exchanger 8 is guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the seventh water pipe R7, and passes through the second hole 10b. The water discharged from the upper part of the water tank 10 through the water may be guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the sixth water pipe R6.

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. Thereby, the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger (6) can be removed. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. And, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is provided to the first heat exchanger 4 through the third water pipe Q3, the pump 7, and the first water pipe Q1 in order, 4 It can participate in the evaporation process of the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (4) through the pipe (P4).

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. The water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the seventh water pipe R7, and through the first hole 10a It may flow into the lower part of the water tank 10 . And, the water discharged from the upper part of the water tank 10 through the second hole 10b is guided from the second water pipe R2 to the third water pipe R3 through the sixth water pipe R6, It is provided to the second heat exchanger 8 through the pump 9 and the first water pipe R1, and can participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. have.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle for the second defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 may be completed.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the third space 10H and provides water at a relatively high temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to provide the first heat exchanger 4 and/or the second heat exchanger ( 8), the second defrost operation can be performed while preventing the freezing. In this case, by guiding the cooled water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 to the lower portion of the water tank 10 , the temperature of the water stored in the third space 10H can be maintained as much as possible.

6 to 9 , the third hole 10c is spaced apart from the first hole 10a and may be formed under the water tank 10 . The fourth hole 10d is spaced apart from the second hole 10b and may be formed in the upper portion of the water tank 10 .

The first valve 31 may be installed in the second water pipe R2 to open or close the flow path of the second water pipe R2. The second valve 32 may be installed in the third water pipe R3 to open or close the flow path of the third water pipe R3 .

One end of the eighth water pipe R8 is connected to the fourth hole 10d, and the other end of the eighth water pipe R8 is between the second valve 32 and the pump 9 and the third water pipe R3. can be connected to (see c2). And, the third valve 33 may be installed in the eighth water pipe R8 to open or close the flow path of the eighth water pipe R8.

One end of the ninth water pipe R9 is connected to the second water pipe R2 between the second heat exchanger 8 and the first valve 31 (see c1), and the other end of the ninth water pipe R9 is may be connected to the third hole 10c. And, the fourth valve 34 may be installed in the ninth water pipe R9 to open or close the flow path of the ninth water pipe R9.

In the hot water supply operation mode or the cold water supply operation mode of the above-described heat pump, the control unit M opens the first valve 31 and the second valve 32 , but the third valve 33 and the fourth valve 34 ) can be closed. For example, the first valve 31 , the second valve 32 , the third valve 33 , and the fourth valve 34 may be a solenoid valve or an Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV).

6 and 10 , when a defrosting operation signal is received ( S1 ), the control unit M may perform a defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 .

When the defrosting operation is started, the control unit M supplies water from the lower portion of the water tank 10 to the second heat exchanger 8 , and transfers the water that has passed through the second heat exchanger 8 to the water tank 10 . ) can be obtained from the upper part (S2).

In S2, the control unit M drives the compressor 2 and the pumps 7 and 9, and the switching valve 3 guides the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 to the outdoor heat exchanger 6, and the expansion valve ( 5) can be controlled to adjust the opening degree of the flow path of the fourth pipe (P4). In addition, the control unit M may open the first valve 31 and the second valve 32 , but close the third valve 33 and the fourth valve 34 .

Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor 2 from the accumulator 7 through the first pipe P1 may be compressed in the compressor 2 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 may be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 6 through the second pipe P2 , the switching valve 3 , and the fifth pipe P5 in sequence.

As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger 6, the refrigerant may be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 6 may function as a condenser. Thereby, the frost formed on the outdoor heat exchanger (6) can be removed. The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 6 passes through the expansion valve 5 in the fourth pipe P4 and can be expanded to a low temperature and low pressure state. In addition, the refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve 5 may be introduced into the first heat exchanger 4 .

As thermal energy of water introduced through the first water pipe Q1 is transferred from the first heat exchanger 4 to the refrigerant introduced through the fourth pipe P4, the refrigerant may be evaporated. In this case, the first heat exchanger 4 may function as an evaporator. And, according to the heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 7 to the first heat exchanger 4 through the first water pipe Q1 may be decreased. Water cooled by passing through the first heat exchanger 4 may be introduced into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. And, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 is provided to the first heat exchanger 4 through the third water pipe Q3, the pump 7, and the first water pipe Q1 in order, 4 It can participate in the evaporation process of the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (4) through the pipe (P4).

Thermal energy of the water introduced through the first water pipe R1 may be transferred to the water introduced through the second water pipe Q2 in the second heat exchanger 8 . That is, the temperature of the water flowing from the pump 9 to the second heat exchanger 8 through the first water pipe R1 may be decreased. Water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may be introduced into the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 and the second hole 10b. Then, the water discharged from the lower part of the water tank 10 through the first hole 10a passes through the third water pipe R3, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order to the second heat exchanger. It is provided as (8), and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2.

Meanwhile, the refrigerant evaporated while passing through the first heat exchanger 4 passes through the third pipe P3, the switching valve 3, the sixth pipe P6, the accumulator 7, and the first pipe P1 in order. through the compressor (2). Accordingly, the cycle for the defrosting operation of the heat pump 1 can be completed.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the first space 10L and provides water at a relatively low temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to perform the defrosting operation. In this case, as water of a relatively high temperature stored in the third space 10H, it can be used to provide hot water (Wh, see the upper figure of FIG. 1 ), and the water of high value is converted into the second heat exchanger 8 . can be minimized.

7 and 10 , after S2 , the controller M determines that the first outlet temperature Ta, which is the temperature of the water through which the first temperature sensor S1 has passed through the first heat exchanger 4 , is the first reference temperature. (T1) or less may be determined (S10). Here, the first reference temperature T1 is a temperature set to prevent freezing of the first heat exchanger 4 , and may be higher than a temperature at which water passing through the first heat exchanger 4 starts to freeze by a certain temperature.

When it is determined in S10 that the first outlet temperature Ta exceeds the first reference temperature T1 (No in S10), the control unit M controls the second temperature sensor S2 to control the second heat exchanger 8. It may be determined whether the second outlet temperature Tb, which is the temperature of the passing water, is equal to or less than the second reference temperature T2 (S20). Here, the second reference temperature T2 is a temperature set to prevent the temperature of the water stored in the upper portion of the water tank 10 from being too low, and may be higher than the first reference temperature T1 by a predetermined temperature.

If it is determined in S20 that the second outlet temperature Tb is equal to or less than the second reference temperature T2 (Yes in S20), the controller M drains water from the lower part of the water tank 10 and then the second heat exchanger 8 ), and the water that has passed through the second heat exchanger 8 can be obtained in the lower part of the water tank 10 (S21).

In S21 , the control unit M may open the second valve 32 and the fourth valve 34 , but may close the first valve 31 and the third valve 33 . In this case, the water discharged from the lower portion of the water tank 10 through the first hole 10a passes through the third water pipe R3, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order for the second heat exchange. It is provided as the unit 8, and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. Then, the water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 flows into the third hole 10c from the second water pipe R2 through the ninth water pipe R9, and the lower part of the water tank 10 can be introduced into

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the first space 10L and provides water at a relatively low temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to perform the defrosting operation. And, by guiding the cooled water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 to the lower portion of the water tank 10, it is possible to minimize the cooling of the relatively high temperature water stored in the third space 10H. .

6 and 10 again, if it is determined in S20 that the second outlet temperature Tb exceeds the second reference temperature T2 (No in S20), the controller M pours water into the water tank 10 Water can be supplied to the second heat exchanger 8 from the lower part of the , and water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 can be obtained from the upper part of the water tank 10 (S22).

On the other hand, after S21 or S22, the control unit M may determine whether the defrosting operation is finished (S23). If it is determined in S23 that the defrost operation has not ended, it may be returned to S10.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10 , when it is determined in S10 that the first outlet temperature Ta is equal to or less than the first reference temperature T1 (Yes in S10 ), the controller M pumps water from the upper part of the water tank 10 . The discharged water is provided to the second heat exchanger 8 , and the water that has passed through the second heat exchanger 8 can be obtained from the lower portion of the water tank 10 ( S11 ).

In S11 , the control unit M may open the third valve 33 and the fourth valve 34 , but may close the first valve 31 and the second valve 32 . In this case, the water discharged from the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the fourth hole 10d passes through the eighth water pipe R8, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order for the second heat exchange. It is provided as the unit 8, and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. Then, the water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 flows into the third hole 10c from the second water pipe R2 through the ninth water pipe R9, and the lower part of the water tank 10 can be introduced into

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the third space 10H and provides water at a relatively high temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to provide the first heat exchanger 4 and/or the second heat exchanger ( 8), the defrost operation can be performed while preventing the freezing. In this case, by guiding the cooled water passing through the second heat exchanger 8 to the lower portion of the water tank 10 , the temperature of the water stored in the third space 10H can be maintained as much as possible.

9 and 10 , after S11 , the controller M determines that the second outlet temperature Tb, which is the temperature of the water through which the second temperature sensor S2 has passed through the second heat exchanger 8, is the second reference temperature. (T2) or less may be determined (S12). Here, the second reference temperature T2 is a temperature set to prevent the temperature of the water stored in the upper portion of the water tank 10 from being too low, and may be higher than the first reference temperature T1 by a predetermined temperature.

If it is determined in S12 that the second outlet temperature Tb is equal to or less than the second reference temperature T2 (Yes in S12), the control unit M drains water from the upper part of the water tank 10, and the second heat exchanger 8 ), and the water that has passed through the second heat exchanger 8 can be obtained from the lower portion of the water tank 10 (S13, refer to the description of FIGS. 8 and S11).

If it is determined in S12 that the second outlet temperature Tb exceeds the second reference temperature T2 (No in S12), the control unit M discharges water from the upper portion of the water tank 10 to perform the second heat exchange The water provided to the unit 8 and passed through the second heat exchanger 8 may be obtained from the upper portion of the water tank 10 (S14).

In S14 , the control unit M may open the first valve 31 and the third valve 33 , but may close the second valve 32 and the fourth valve 34 . In this case, the water discharged from the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the fourth hole 10d passes through the eighth water pipe R8, the pump 9, and the first water pipe R1 in order for the second heat exchange. It is provided as the unit 8, and may participate in the heating process of water flowing into the second heat exchanger 8 through the second water pipe Q2. In addition, the water cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger 8 may be introduced into the upper portion of the water tank 10 through the second water pipe R2 and the second hole 10b.

Accordingly, the heat pump 1 is stored in the third space 10H and provides water at a relatively high temperature to the second heat exchanger 8 to provide the first heat exchanger 4 and/or the second heat exchanger ( 8), the defrost operation can be performed while preventing the freezing.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a refrigerant pipe providing a flow path through which the refrigerant flows, comprising: a refrigerant pipe connected to a compressor causing a flow of the refrigerant; A circulating water pipe providing a flow path through which the circulating water flows, comprising: a circulating water pipe connected to a circulating water pump causing the circulating water to flow; A supply water pipe providing a flow path through which the supply water flows; a supply water pipe connected to a supply water pump causing the flow of the supply water; a first heat exchanger connected to the refrigerant pipe and the circulating water pipe to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the circulating water; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulating water pipe and the supply water pipe to exchange heat between the circulating water and the feed water; a water tank for storing or discharging the supply water; a water tank connected to the supply water pipe at upper and lower portions of the water tank; a plurality of valves installed in the supply water pipe to control a flow path of the supply water pipe; And, by controlling the operation of the plurality of valves, the control unit for discharging the feed water from any one of the upper and lower parts of the water tank to the second heat exchanger and introducing the feed water that has passed through the second heat exchanger into the other. It provides a heat pump comprising a.

According to another (another) aspect of the present disclosure, it is connected to the refrigerant pipe, the outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging the refrigerant and outdoor air; a switching valve selectively guiding the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the first heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger; and an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant that has passed through the first heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger, wherein the control unit, when a defrost operation signal is received, allows the switching valve to convert the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the outdoor heat exchange You can control it to guide you to the plane.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the feed water pipe includes: a first installed between the feed water pump and the second heat exchanger to provide a flow path connecting the feed water pump and the second heat exchanger. water pipe; a second water pipe installed between the second heat exchanger and the water tank to provide a flow path connecting the second heat exchanger and the water tank; and a third water pipe installed between the water tank and the pump to provide a flow path connecting the water tank and the pump, wherein the water tank is formed under the water tank and the third a first hole connected to the water pipe; And, it may include a second hole formed in the upper portion of the water tank and connected to the second water pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of valves may include: a first valve installed in the second water pipe to open and close the flow path of the second water pipe; and a second valve installed in the third water pipe to open and close the flow path of the third water pipe, wherein the supply water pipe has: one end of the second valve between the first valve and the water tank a fourth water pipe connected to the water pipe and having the other end connected to the third water pipe between the second valve and the feed water pump; and a fifth water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first valve and the other end connected to the third water pipe between the water tank and the second valve. The plurality of valves may include: a third valve installed on the fourth water pipe to open and close a flow path of the fourth water pipe; And, it may include a fourth valve installed on the fifth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the fifth water pipe.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to sense a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger further comprises: the control unit When a defrost operation signal is received and it is detected that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature, the first valve and the second valve are opened, but the third valve and the fourth valve are closed. and, when it is sensed that the first outlet temperature is equal to or less than the first reference temperature, the third valve and the fourth valve may be opened, but the first valve and the second valve may be closed.

According to another (another) aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of valves may include: a first three-way valve installed in the second water pipe; And, further comprising a second three-way valve installed in the third water pipe, the supply water pipe: one end connected to the first three-way valve, the other end between the second three-way valve and the feed water pump a sixth water pipe connected to the third water pipe; And, it may further include a seventh water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the second three-way valve.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, it further comprises a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to detect a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger, the control unit When a defrost operation signal is received and it is detected that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature, the flow path of the first three-way valve is adjusted to connect the second water pipe and the sixth water pipe. cut off, and adjust the flow path of the second three-way valve to block the connection between the third water pipe and the seventh water pipe, and when it is sensed that the first outlet temperature is below the first reference temperature, the first three-way The second water pipe and the sixth water pipe may be connected by adjusting the flow path of the valve, and the third water pipe and the seventh water pipe may be connected by adjusting the flow path of the second three-way valve.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the water tank may include: a third hole spaced apart from the first hole and formed in a lower portion of the water tank; and a fourth hole spaced apart from the second hole and formed at an upper portion of the water tank, wherein the plurality of valves are installed in the second water pipe to open and close the flow path of the second water pipe. a first valve to; and a second valve installed in the third water pipe to open and close the flow path of the third water pipe, wherein the supply water pipe has: one end connected to the fourth hole, and the other end connected to the second an eighth water pipe connected to the third water pipe between the valve and the feed water pump; and a ninth water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first valve and the other end connected to the third hole, wherein the plurality of valves include: 8 a third valve installed in the water pipe to open and close the flow path of the eighth water pipe; And, it may include a fourth valve installed in the ninth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the ninth water pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to sense a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger; and a second temperature sensor installed in the second water pipe to sense a second outlet temperature that is a temperature of the supply water that has passed through the second heat exchanger, wherein the control unit receives a defrost operation signal, When it is detected that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature, and it is detected that the second outlet temperature exceeds a second reference temperature that is higher than the first reference temperature, the first valve and the second valve but the third valve and the fourth valve are closed, and when it is sensed that the second outlet temperature is equal to or less than the second reference temperature, the second valve and the fourth valve are opened, the first valve and closing the third valve.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit receives a defrost operation signal, detects that the first outlet temperature is equal to or less than the first reference temperature, and the second outlet temperature is the second reference temperature When it is sensed that the temperature exceeds The third valve and the fourth valve may be opened, but the first valve and the second valve may be closed.

Any or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any of the above-described embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined or combined in each configuration or function.

For example, it means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and/or drawings may be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and/or drawings. That is, even if the coupling between the components is not directly described, it means that the coupling is possible except for the case where it is described that the coupling is impossible.

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects and should be considered as exemplary. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (10)

A refrigerant pipe providing a flow path through which the refrigerant flows, comprising: a refrigerant pipe connected to a compressor causing the refrigerant to flow;
A circulating water pipe providing a flow path through which the circulating water flows, comprising: a circulating water pipe connected to a circulating water pump causing the circulating water to flow;
A supply water pipe providing a flow path through which the supply water flows; a supply water pipe connected to the supply water pump causing the flow of the supply water;
a first heat exchanger connected to the refrigerant pipe and the circulating water pipe to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the circulating water;
a second heat exchanger connected to the circulating water pipe and the supply water pipe to exchange heat between the circulating water and the feed water;
a water tank for storing or discharging the supply water; a water tank connected to the supply water pipe at upper and lower portions of the water tank;
a plurality of valves installed in the supply water pipe to control a flow path of the supply water pipe; and,
and a control unit for discharging the supply water from one of the upper and lower portions of the water tank to the second heat exchanger by controlling the operation of the plurality of valves, and introducing the supply water passing through the second heat exchanger into the other. a heat pump. According to claim 1,
an outdoor heat exchanger connected to the refrigerant pipe to exchange heat between the refrigerant and outdoor air;
a switching valve selectively guiding the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the first heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger; and,
Further comprising an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant that has passed through the first heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger,
The control unit is
When the defrost operation signal is received,
A heat pump controlling the switching valve to guide the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the outdoor heat exchanger. According to claim 1,
The supply water pipe is:
a first water pipe installed between the feed water pump and the second heat exchanger to provide a flow path connecting the feed water pump and the second heat exchanger;
a second water pipe installed between the second heat exchanger and the water tank to provide a flow path connecting the second heat exchanger and the water tank; and,
and a third water pipe installed between the water tank and the pump to provide a flow path connecting the water tank and the pump,
The water tank is:
a first hole formed in a lower portion of the water tank and connected to the third water pipe; and,
and a second hole formed at an upper portion of the water tank and connected to the second water pipe. 4. The method of claim 3,
The plurality of valves include:
a first valve installed in the second water pipe to open and close the flow path of the second water pipe; and,
It is installed on the third water pipe, further comprising a second valve for opening and closing the flow path of the third water pipe,
The supply water pipe is:
a fourth water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the first valve and the water tank and the other end connected to the third water pipe between the second valve and the feed water pump; and,
A fifth water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first valve and the other end connected to the third water pipe between the water tank and the second valve, and ,
The plurality of valves include:
a third valve installed in the fourth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the fourth water pipe; and,
and a fourth valve installed on the fifth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the fifth water pipe. 5. The method of claim 4,
Further comprising a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to detect a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger,
The control unit is
The defrost operation signal is received,
When it is sensed that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature, the first valve and the second valve are opened, but the third valve and the fourth valve are closed;
When it is sensed that the first outlet temperature is equal to or less than the first reference temperature, the third valve and the fourth valve are opened, but the first valve and the second valve are closed. 4. The method of claim 3,
The plurality of valves include:
a first three-way valve installed in the second water pipe; and,
Further comprising a second three-way valve installed in the third water pipe,
The supply water pipe is:
a sixth water pipe having one end connected to the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the third water pipe between the second three-way valve and the feed water pump; and,
The heat pump further comprising a seventh water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the second three-way valve. 7. The method of claim 6,
Further comprising a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to detect a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger,
The control unit is
The defrost operation signal is received,
When it is sensed that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature, the flow path of the first three-way valve is adjusted to cut off the connection between the second water pipe and the sixth water pipe, and the second three-way valve Control the flow path to block the connection between the third water pipe and the seventh water pipe,
When it is sensed that the first outlet temperature is below the first reference temperature, the flow path of the first three-way valve is adjusted to connect the second water pipe and the sixth water pipe, and the flow path of the second three-way valve is adjusted to connect the third water pipe and the seventh water pipe. 4. The method of claim 3,
The water tank is:
a third hole spaced apart from the first hole and formed under the water tank; and,
It is spaced apart from the second hole and further includes a fourth hole formed in the upper portion of the water tank,
The plurality of valves include:
a first valve installed in the second water pipe to open and close the flow path of the second water pipe; and,
It is installed on the third water pipe, further comprising a second valve for opening and closing the flow path of the third water pipe,
The supply water pipe is:
an eighth water pipe having one end connected to the fourth hole and the other end connected to the third water pipe between the second valve and the feed water pump; and,
A ninth water pipe having one end connected to the second water pipe between the second heat exchanger and the first valve and the other end connected to the third hole,
The plurality of valves include:
a third valve installed in the eighth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the eighth water pipe; and,
and a fourth valve installed on the ninth water pipe to open and close the flow path of the ninth water pipe. 9. The method of claim 8,
a first temperature sensor installed in the circulating water pipe to sense a first outlet temperature that is a temperature of the circulating water that has passed through the first heat exchanger; and,
Further comprising a second temperature sensor installed in the second water pipe to detect a second outlet temperature that is the temperature of the supply water that has passed through the second heat exchanger,
The control unit is
The defrost operation signal is received,
It is detected that the first outlet temperature exceeds the first reference temperature,
When it is sensed that the second outlet temperature exceeds a second reference temperature higher than the first reference temperature, the first valve and the second valve are opened, and the third valve and the fourth valve are closed;
When it is sensed that the second outlet temperature is equal to or less than the second reference temperature, the second valve and the fourth valve are opened, but the first valve and the third valve are closed. 10. The method of claim 9,
The control unit is
The defrost operation signal is received,
It is detected that the first outlet temperature is equal to or less than the first reference temperature,
When it is sensed that the second outlet temperature exceeds the second reference temperature, the first valve and the third valve are opened, but the second valve and the fourth valve are closed;
When it is sensed that the second outlet temperature is equal to or less than the second reference temperature, the third valve and the fourth valve are opened, but the first valve and the second valve are closed.

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