Patent ID: 12247769

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND SYMBOLS

100: Refrigerant circulation line110: Compressor120: Condenser130: Vapor injection module131: First expansion means131a: First line131b: Second line131b-1: First outlet port133: Gas-liquid separator135: Second expansion means140: Exterior heat exchanger150: Evaporator151: Third expansion means160: Chiller161: Fourth expansion means170: Refrigerant branch part180: Accumulator190: Air conditioning casing200: Coolant circulation line210: Heating line211: First pump212: Coolant heater213: Interior heat exchanger214: First direction switching valve230: Cooling line230a: First connection line230b: Second connection line230c: Third connection line231: Radiator232: Second direction switching valve233: First coolant joint234: Third pump235: Battery236: Third direction switching valve237: Second coolant joint238: Second pump239: Electrical component1311: Inlet port1313: Ball valve1313a: Ball valve main body1313b: Inflow hole1313c: Outflow hole1313d: Expansion groove1331: Housing1332: Outflow passageway1333: Second outlet port1334: Partition wall part1334a: Fixing portion1335: Movement passage1335a: First body portion1350: Body1350a: Second body portion1351: Orifice1353: Check valve1360: Thermal insulation member1370: Actuator

MODE FOR INVENTION

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to some embodiments described herein but may be implemented in various different forms. One or more of the constituent elements in the embodiments may be selectively combined and substituted within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

In addition, unless otherwise specifically and explicitly defined and stated, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be construed as the meaning which may be commonly understood by the person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. The meanings of the commonly used terms such as the terms defined in dictionaries may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meanings of the related technology.

In addition, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for explaining the embodiments, not for limiting the present invention.

In the present specification, unless particularly stated otherwise, a singular form may also include a plural form. The expression “at least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C” may include one or more of all combinations that can be made by combining A, B, and C.

In addition, the terms first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used to describe constituent elements of the embodiments of the present invention.

These terms are used only for the purpose of discriminating one constituent element from another constituent element, and the nature, the sequences, or the orders of the constituent elements are not limited by the terms.

Further, when one constituent element is described as being ‘connected’, ‘coupled’, or ‘attached’ to another constituent element, one constituent element can be connected, coupled, or attached directly to another constituent element or connected, coupled, or attached to another constituent element through still another constituent element interposed therebetween.

In addition, the explanation “one constituent element is formed or disposed above (on) or below (under) another constituent element” includes not only a case in which the two constituent elements are in direct contact with each other, but also a case in which one or more additional constituent elements are formed or disposed between the two constituent elements. In addition, the expression “above (on) or below (under)” may include a meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one constituent element.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or corresponding constituent elements are assigned with the same reference numerals regardless of reference numerals, and the repetitive description thereof will be omitted.

FIGS.1to15clearly illustrate only main features for conceptually and clearly understanding the present invention. As a result, various modifications of the drawings are expected, and the scope of the present invention need not be limited to particular shapes illustrated in the drawings.

FIG.1is a view illustrating an interior of a vapor injection module according to an embodiment of the present invention,FIG.2is a perspective view ofFIG.1,FIG.3is a view illustrating a state in which a refrigerant flows into a gas-liquid separator inFIG.1,FIG.4is a view illustrating a first embodiment of a ball valve which is the component illustrated inFIG.1,FIG.5is a view illustrating a second embodiment of the ball valve which is the component illustrated inFIG.1,FIG.6is a view illustrating an arrangement structure in which an outflow hole illustrated inFIG.3allows a refrigerant to perform a bypass operation,FIG.7is a view illustrating an arrangement structure in which an expansion hole illustrated inFIG.3expands the refrigerant,FIG.8is a view illustrating a comparison between operations of expansion grooves illustrated inFIGS.4and5, andFIGS.9to12are views illustrating an arrangement position and an operation of the ball valve depending on an air conditioning mode.

Referring toFIGS.1to12, a vapor injection module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first expansion means131, an actuator1370, a gas-liquid separator133, a second expansion means135, and a first outlet port131b-1.

The first expansion means131may include an inlet port1311into which a refrigerant is introduced, and first and second lines131aand131bconnected to the inlet port1311so that the introduced refrigerant may flow therethrough. The first expansion means131may include a ball valve1313disposed at a connection portion between the first and second lines131aand131band configured to control a flow direction of the refrigerant and whether to expand the refrigerant depending on the air conditioning mode.

The inlet port1311is a passageway into which the refrigerant having passed through the compressor110is introduced. The refrigerant may flow to the ball valve1313through the inlet port1311.

The first and second lines131aand131bare passageways in which the refrigerant introduced through the inlet port1311is separated. The first line131ais connected to the gas-liquid separator133. The second line131bmay be connected to the second expansion means135so that the refrigerant flows directly to the second expansion means135without passing through the gas-liquid separator133depending on the air conditioning mode.

In one embodiment, the first and second lines131aand131bmay be disposed on the same line. The inlet port1311may be connected to the first and second lines131aand131bat an angle of 90 degrees.

The first line131adischarges the refrigerant into the gas-liquid separator133. In this case, the first line131ais disposed to be deflected toward a sidewall of an internal space of the gas-liquid separator133. The discharged refrigerant may flow downward by gravity while rotating.

The ball valve1313may be disposed in the first expansion means131. The ball valve1313may be disposed in a region in which the inlet port1311is connected to the first and second lines131aand131b. The ball valve1313may control the flow direction of the refrigerant and whether to expand the refrigerant.

Referring toFIGS.4,5, and8, the ball valve1313may include a ball valve main body1313ahaving a spherical shape. The ball valve main body1313amay include an inflow hole1313b, an outflow hole1313cconnected to the inflow hole1313b, and an expansion groove1313dconnected to an end of the outflow hole1313c.

The inflow hole1313band the outflow hole1313care connected at an angle of 90 degrees. The inflow hole1313bmay be disposed to be always directed toward the inlet port1311. The outflow hole1313cmay be disposed to be directed toward the first line131aor the second line131bby the operation of the actuator1370.

The ball valve1313may rotate about a central axis of the inflow hole1313b, such that the arrangement position of the outflow hole1313cmay be adjusted.

At least one expansion groove1313dmay be formed at an end of the outflow hole1313c. In one embodiment, the expansion groove1313dmay have an elongated shape, such that the refrigerant may be expanded by a change in pressure of the refrigerant.

The ball valve1313operates to move or expand the refrigerant. The ball valve1313may change a position of the outflow hole1313cand a position of the expansion groove1313dby rotating so that the refrigerant may be moved or expanded.

As illustrated inFIGS.4and8A, the ball valve1313may have the expansion grooves1313ddisposed at two opposite sides of the outflow hole1313cand configured to face each other. The expansion grooves1313dmay be disposed in a rotation direction of the ball valve1313and expand the refrigerant.

In this case, the ball valve1313having the expansion grooves1313ddisposed at the two opposite sides may have a rotation radius of 180 degrees in order to determine whether to expand the refrigerant in the first and second lines131aand131b.

In the case in which the expansion grooves1313dare disposed at the two opposite sides, the ball valve1313may have a rotation angle of 180 degrees so that the outflow hole1313cis disposed in the first line131aor the second line131b. The expansion by the expansion grooves1313dmay be performed at an angle smaller than the rotation angle. Therefore, a length of the expansion groove1313din the case in which the expansion grooves1313dare disposed at the two opposite sides may be shorter than a length of the expansion groove1313din the case in which the expansion groove1313dis disposed at one side (seeFIG.8B). In the case in which the expansion grooves1313dare disposed at the two opposite sides, the rotation radius of the ball valve1313may decrease, thereby improving operation responsiveness.

In the ball valve1313illustrated inFIGS.5and8B, the expansion groove1313dmay be disposed at one side based on the rotation direction. In this case, the ball valve1313may have a rotation radius of 360 degrees. The length of the expansion groove1313din the case in which the expansion groove1313dis disposed at one side is longer than the length of the expansion groove1313din the case in which the expansion grooves1313dare disposed at the two opposite sides of the outflow hole1313c. In the case in which the expansion groove1313dis disposed at one side, the length of the expansion groove1313dmay increase, thereby increasing a flow rate. Therefore, it is possible to improve controllability of the refrigerant system.

The ball valves illustrated inFIGS.4and5may be selected depending on control characteristics. An operation of the ball valve1313will be described below.

Referring toFIG.6, to allow the refrigerant to perform the bypass operation, the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313is disposed to be coincident with the inlet port1311of the first expansion means131. The outflow hole1313cis moved to an inlet of the first line131aor an inlet of the second line131bby the rotation of the ball valve1313. To allow the refrigerant to perform the bypass operation, the ball valve1313may be disposed such that the outflow hole1313ccoincides with the inlet of the first line131aso that the refrigerant may pass through the outflow hole1313cand flow to the first line131aor the second line131b.

Referring toFIG.7, to expand the refrigerant, the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313is disposed to be coincident with the inlet port1311of the first expansion means131, and the outflow hole1313cis disposed to deviate from the inlet of the first line131aor the inlet of the second line131b. The refrigerant introduced through the inlet port1311of the first expansion means131passes through the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313and flows to the outflow hole1313c. In this case, the outflow hole1313cof the ball valve1313is closed, such that the refrigerant flows to the expansion groove and expands, and the expanded refrigerant may flow to the first line131aor the second line131b.

To expand the refrigerant, the expansion groove1313dillustrated in FIGS.5and6is disposed to overlap the first line131aor the second line131b, such that the flowing refrigerant may expand. In this case, the configuration in which the expansion groove1313doverlaps the first line131aor the second line131bmeans that the first line131aor the second line131bcommunicates with the expansion groove1313dwhen viewed from an outlet of the first line131aor an outlet of the second line131b.

In addition, the amount of expansion of the refrigerant may be controlled by adjusting a region in which the expansion groove1313doverlap the first line131aor the second line131b.

The actuator1370may operate the ball valve1313. The actuator1370may determine the flow direction of the refrigerant and whether to expand the refrigerant by rotating the ball valve1313. The flow direction of the refrigerant and whether to expand the refrigerant may be determined depending on the air conditioning mode.

In one embodiment, an electric actuator or an electric operation member may be used as the actuator1370, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Various device structures for rotating the ball valve1313may be used.

The gas-liquid separator133includes a housing1331, a second outlet port1333, and a movement passage1335. The gas-liquid separator133may be connected to the first line131aand separate the refrigerant into a gas and a liquid.

The housing1331provides an internal space in which the refrigerant flows. The housing1331may have a cylindrical structure and an inclined inner wall. The inclination may decrease a radius of the housing toward a lower side of the housing, thereby providing an effect of correcting a flow velocity.

The second outlet port1333may be disposed at an upper side of the housing1331, and the movement passage1335may be disposed at a lower side of the housing1331.

An outflow passageway1332may be connected to the second outlet port1333. The evaporated refrigerant may flow to the second outlet port1333through the outflow passageway1332.

The first line131ais connected to one side of the upper side of the housing1331. The first line131amay be disposed such that the refrigerant is discharged toward the sidewall of the housing1331, thereby defining a circulation of the refrigerant. In this case, the refrigerant discharged from the first line131aflows downward while spirally flowing along a sidewall of the outflow passageway1332.

The refrigerant liquefied in the housing1331may flow to the movement passage1335. A partition wall part1334may be disposed in one region of the movement passage1335.

The partition wall part1334may be disposed at a central portion of the movement passage1335and prevent the refrigerant flowing through the movement passage1335from scattering and flowing into the outflow passageway1332. In one embodiment, the partition wall part1334may have a structure of a circular plate and have a diameter larger than a diameter of the outflow passageway1332. A shape of the partition wall part is not limited. The partition wall part may be larger than a cross-section of the outflow passageway1332. The partition wall part may be variously modified depending on a cross-sectional shape of the outflow passageway1332.

In addition, the partition wall part1334may have a fixing portion1334a, such that the partition wall part1334may be fixed to the housing1331by means of the fixing portion1334a. The fixing portion1334amay be disposed below the outflow passageway1332and fixed by being inserted into one region of the housing1331.

The second expansion means135is connected to the movement passage1335through which the liquid refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133flows. The second expansion means135may expand the introduced refrigerant.

The second expansion means135may include an orifice1351and a check valve1353that are sequentially disposed in a direction in which the refrigerant is introduced through the movement passage1335. In this case, the orifice1351and the check valve1353may be integrated.

The orifice1351may be provided at one side of the body1350constituting the second expansion means135, and the check valve1353may be disposed at a rear end of the orifice1351. The check valve1353may have a structure to which an elastic body is connected such that the orifice1351is opened or closed by pressure.

In one embodiment, when the refrigerant flows into the second line131b, the check valve1353is not opened because the pressure at the side of the orifice1351is low. When the refrigerant flows into the first line131aflows through the movement passage1335, the pressure at the side of the orifice1351may be high, the check valve1353may be opened, and the refrigerant may flow through the first outlet port131b-1.

The first outlet port131b-1is connected to the second line131band the second expansion means135and provides a passageway through which the refrigerant flows. In this case, the first outlet port131b-1and the first inlet port1311may be formed in the same direction, thereby minimizing a spatial loss when a pipe is connected to the first outlet port131b-1and the first inlet port1311.

Referring toFIGS.9to12, the ball valve1313having the single expansion groove1313drotates within a range of angle of 360 degrees, and the rotation angle varies depending on the air conditioning mode. In this case, the description will be made on the assumption that a center of the ball valve is a rotation center O and an angle of a centerline of the second line131bis 0 degree.

FIG.9illustrates an arrangement position of the ball valve when the air conditioning mode is an air conditioner mode. The outflow hole1313cof the ball valve1313is disposed at an angle of 0 degree with respect to the second line131b.

FIG.10illustrates that the air conditioning mode is a non-vapor injection heating mode. The outflow hole1313cmay be disposed at an angle of 90 degrees in a clockwise direction with respect to the second line131b. In this case, one region of the expansion groove1313dcommunicates with the second line131b, such that the refrigerant having passed through the outflow hole1313cmay expand and flow to the second line131b.

FIG.11illustrates a structure in which the refrigerant performs a bypass operation. The outflow hole1313cand the second line131bmay be disposed at an angle of 180 degrees in the clockwise direction.

FIG.12illustrates that the air conditioning mode is a vapor injection heating mode. The outflow hole1313cmay be disposed at an angle of 270 degrees with respect to the second line131b. One region of the expansion groove1313dcommunicates with the first line131a, such that the refrigerant having passed through the outflow hole13113cmay expand and flow to the first line131a. In this case, the expansion groove1313dmay be disposed at the right side of the first line131a.

Referring toFIGS.9to12, the ball valve1313may rotate by an angle of 90 degrees depending on the air conditioning mode as described above.

However,FIGS.9to12illustrate one embodiment of the expansion groove1313d. The rotation angle of the ball valve1313may be variously modified depending on the length of the expansion groove1313d.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG.2, a thermal insulation member1360may be disposed between a first body portion1335ain which the movement passage1335is disposed and a second body portion1350ain which the orifice1351is disposed. This is to prevent heat exchange, which is caused by a temperature difference between a front end and a rear end of the orifice1351when the refrigerant secondarily expands while passing through the orifice1351, from affecting decompression characteristics of the orifice. In one embodiment, the thermal insulation member1360may be made of rubber or plastic. However, the material of the thermal insulation member1360is not limited thereto, and the thermal insulation member1360may be modified to be made of various materials for thermal insulation.

FIG.13is a view illustrating an operation of the refrigerant in a cooling mode inFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.13, in the cooling mode, the refrigerant is introduced through the inlet port1311, and the introduced refrigerant flows through the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313. In this case, the ball valve1313is rotated by the actuator1370, such that the outflow hole1313cis disposed to be directed toward the second line131b. The refrigerant flows to the second line131bthrough the outflow hole1313cand then flows out through the first outlet port131b-1.

FIG.14is a view illustrating an operation of the refrigerant in a heating mode inFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.14, in the heating mode, the refrigerant is introduced through the inlet port1311, and the introduced refrigerant flows through the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313. In this case, the ball valve1313is rotated by the actuator1370, such that the expansion groove1313dis disposed to be directed toward the second line131b. The refrigerant expands while passing through the outflow hole1313cand the expansion groove1313d, flows to the second line131b, and then flows out through the first outlet port131b-1.

FIG.15is a view illustrating an operation of the refrigerant in an injection heating mode inFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.15, in the injection heating mode, the refrigerant is introduced through the inlet port1311, and the introduced refrigerant flows through the inflow hole1313bof the ball valve1313. In this case, the ball valve1313is rotated by the actuator1370, such that the expansion groove1313dis disposed to be directed toward the first line131a. The refrigerant primarily expands while passing through the outflow hole1313cand the expansion groove1313dand flows to the first line131a.

The refrigerant flowing to the first line131ais discharged toward the sidewall of the housing1331of the gas-liquid separator133, and the discharged refrigerant flows downward while rotating.

The gaseous refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133flows to the second outlet port1333while flowing upward along the second outflow passageway1332.

In addition, the liquid refrigerant flows through the movement passage1335. In this case, the partition wall part1334may prevent the scattering refrigerant from flowing into the outflow passageway1332.

The refrigerant flowing through the movement passage1335secondarily expands through the orifice1351of the second expansion means135. The check valve1353is opened by pressure, such that the refrigerant flows to the first outlet port131b-1.

Meanwhile, a heat pump system using a vapor injection module according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. A description of the configuration identical to the configuration of the vapor injection module according to the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention will be omitted.

A vapor injection heat pump system according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS.16to24. Like reference numerals indicated inFIGS.1to9refers to like members in the description with reference toFIGS.10to18, and the detailed description of the identical members will be omitted.

FIG.16is a view illustrating a first embodiment of a refrigerant circulation line in the heat pump system using the vapor injection module according to another embodiment of the present invention,FIG.17is a view illustrating a first embodiment of a gas injection module which is the component illustrated inFIG.16, andFIG.18is a second embodiment of the gas injection module which is the component illustrated inFIG.16.

Referring toFIGS.16to18, the refrigerant circulation line of the heat pump system according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a compressor110, a condenser120, a vapor injection module130, an exterior heat exchanger140, a third expansion means151, an evaporator150, an accumulator180, and an interior heat exchanger213.

The compressor110operates by receiving power from an engine (internal combustion engine) or a motor. The compressor110sucks the refrigerant, compresses the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and then discharges the refrigerant to the condenser120.

The condenser120serves as a condenser in both the cooling mode and the heating mode. The condenser120may condense the compressed refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing through the condenser120exchanges heat with a coolant in a coolant circulation line200to be described below and then is supplied to the vapor injection module130. As described above, the coolant heated by the refrigerant in the condenser120may be supplied to the interior heat exchanger213through the coolant circulation line200. In one embodiment, a water-cooled condenser120may be used as the condenser120.

The condenser120, together with the evaporator150, may be disposed in an air conditioning casing190and cool or heat a vehicle interior.

The vapor injection module130may determine the flow direction of the refrigerant and whether to expand the refrigerant having passed through the condenser120depending on the air conditioning mode. The vapor injection module130will be described below.

The exterior heat exchanger140is an air-cooled heat exchanger and is installed at a front side of an engine room of the vehicle. The exterior heat exchanger140and the radiator231are disposed in a straight line in a flow direction of air blown by a blower fan. In addition, the exterior heat exchanger140may exchange heat with the low-temperature coolant discharged from the radiator231.

In addition, in the cooling mode, the exterior heat exchanger140serves as the condenser120identical to the water-cooled condenser120. In the heating mode, the exterior heat exchanger140serves as the evaporator150that performs a different function from the water-cooled condenser120.

The third expansion means151may be disposed at a side adjacent to an inlet of the evaporator150and perform functions of expanding the refrigerant, controlling the flow rate, and controlling the opening and closing operations.

The evaporator150is installed in the air conditioning casing190and disposed in the refrigerant circulation line100. During a process in which the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the third expansion means151is supplied to the evaporator150and air flowing in the air conditioning casing190by the blower passes through the evaporator150, the air exchanges heat with the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant in the evaporator140and is converted into cold air. Then, the cold air is discharged into the vehicle interior and cools an occupant compartment. That is, the evaporator150serves as the evaporator150in the refrigerant circulation line100.

The accumulator180is installed in the refrigerant circulation line100at a side adjacent to an inlet of the compressor110. The refrigerant having passed through the evaporator150and/or the chiller160merges in the accumulator180. The accumulator180may separate the refrigerant into a liquid refrigerant and a gaseous refrigerant, supply only the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor110, and store the surplus refrigerant. A suction port of the compressor may be connected to a gaseous refrigerant outlet of the accumulator180. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid refrigerant from being sucked into the compressor110.

The fourth expansion means161may be connected to the third expansion means151in parallel and perform functions of expanding the circulating refrigerant, controlling the flow rate, and controlling the opening and closing operations.

The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the fourth expansion means161is supplied to the chiller160and exchanges heat with the coolant discharged from a second direction switching valve232. Meanwhile, the cold coolant made by heat exchange in the chiller160may circulate through the coolant circulation line200and exchange heat with the high-temperature battery235. That is, the battery235exchanges heat with the coolant instead of exchanging heat with the refrigerant.

The vapor injection module130may include the first expansion means131, the gas-liquid separator133, and the second expansion means135.

The first expansion means131may determine the flow direction of the refrigerant introduced from the condenser120. The operation of opening or closing the first expansion means131may be controlled by output voltage outputted from the control unit.

In one embodiment, a 3/2-way expansion means may be used as the first expansion means131. The 3/2-way expansion means may determine the flow direction of the introduced refrigerant, determine whether to expand the refrigerant, and control the flow rate.

The 3/2-way expansion means may be connected to the first line131aconnected to the exterior heat exchanger140and the second line131bconnected to the gas-liquid separator133.

The gas-liquid separator133may separate the refrigerant having passed through the 3/2-way expansion means into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant, move the separated liquid refrigerant to the exterior heat exchanger140, and move the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor110again.

Like the accumulator180disposed before the refrigerant circulates through the refrigerant line and flows into the compressor110, the gas-liquid separator133may serve to separate the refrigerant into the gaseous refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant. However, there is a difference in that the accumulator180supplies the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor110, whereas the gas-liquid separator133allows the separated liquid refrigerant to flow as it is.

The liquid refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator133passes through the second expansion means135disposed in the second line131b. In this case, the second expansion means135may additionally decompress the liquid refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator133.

An orifice integrated check valve, an electronic expansion means, or an orifice integrated shut-off valve may be used as the second expansion means135illustrated inFIGS.16to18.

In the first embodiment of the present invention, the first expansion means131, the second expansion means135, the third expansion means151, and the fourth expansion means161may perform expansion, communication, and blocking functions according to the respective modes. In other words, the respective expansion means may three functions of expanding the refrigerant, allowing the refrigerant to pass without being expanded, and blocking the refrigerant.

An operation of the vapor injection module130in the refrigerant line of the heat pump system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The refrigerant having passed through the condenser120is decompressed and expanded in the first expansion means131and converted into the low-pressure refrigerant, and the refrigerant flows along the second line131band is injected into the gas-liquid separator133. The refrigerant injected into the gas-liquid separator133is separated into the gaseous refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant may be injected in a direction toward the compressor110. The liquid refrigerant may be additionally decompressed and expanded while passing through the second expansion means135and injected into the exterior heat exchanger140.

According to the refrigerant circulation line100using the vapor injection module130, the gaseous refrigerant with a relatively higher temperature than the refrigerant introduced through the accumulator180is introduced into the compressor110again, such that the heating performance may be improved. Further, only the liquid refrigerant flows to the exterior heat exchanger, such that an evaporation temperature may be increased in the exterior heat exchanger, and the heat exchange efficiency may be improved.

FIG.19is a structural view of a vapor injection heat pump system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG.19, the vapor injection heat pump system according to the embodiment of the present invention may include the refrigerant circulation line and the coolant circulation line.

The refrigerant circulation line described with reference toFIGS.16to18may be applied to the refrigerant circulation line described with reference toFIG.19. In addition,FIGS.16to18illustrate that the condenser120performs the heat exchange in the air conditioning casing190, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The heat exchange may be performed by using the interior heat exchanger that performs the heat exchange using the coolant.

The coolant circulation line200may include a heating line210configured to heat the vehicle interior, and a cooling line230configured to cool an electrical component239and the battery235.

The heating line210may include the water-cooled condenser120, a first pump211, a coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger213, and a first direction switching valve214.

As described above, the refrigerant and the coolant may exchange heat with each other while passing through the water-cooled condenser120.

The first pump211is a means for pumping the coolant so that the coolant circulates along the heating line210. The first pump211may be installed in the coolant line and disposed rearward of the water-cooled condenser120based on the flow direction of the coolant.

The coolant heater212refers to a device for heating the coolant. The coolant heater212may be connected and disposed rearward of the first pump211and forward of the interior heat exchanger213based on the flow direction of the coolant. Further, the coolant heater212may operate when a temperature of the coolant is equal to or lower than a particular temperature. Various components such as an induction heater, a sheath heater, a PTC heater, or a film heater capable of generating heat using electric power may be used as the coolant heater.

The interior heat exchanger213may be disposed in the air conditioning casing190of the vehicle. The air flowing by the air blower may be heated while passing through the interior heat exchanger213, supplied to the vehicle interior, and used to heat the vehicle interior. Further, the interior heat exchanger213may be connected and disposed rearward of the coolant heater212based on the flow direction of the coolant.

The first direction switching valve214may be installed between the interior heat exchanger213and the water-cooled condenser120and configured to selectively connect or disconnect the heating line210and the cooling line230to be described below. More specifically, the first direction switching valve214may be installed in the heating line210. Two coolant line pipes may be connected to the first direction switching valve214. The single first connection line230abranching off from one side of the cooling line230may be connected to the first direction switching valve214. The single second connection line230bbranching off from the other side of the cooling line230may be connected to the first direction switching valve214. That is, four coolant lines may be connected to the first direction switching valve214so as to meet together. The first direction switching valve214may be a 4-way direction switching valve capable of adjusting states in which the four coolant lines are connected to or disconnected from one another.

The cooling line230may include the radiator231for the electrical component, the second direction switching valve232, a second pump238, the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, a first coolant joint233, a second coolant joint237, a third pump234, the battery235, the chiller160, and a third direction switching valve236.

The radiator231for the electrical component cools the coolant having exchanged heat with the electrical component239or the battery235. The radiator231for the electrical component may be cooled by a cooling fan in an air-cooled manner.

The second direction switching valve232may be installed in the cooling line230. Two coolant pipes may be connected to the second direction switching valve232. The first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may be connected by the first connection line230aso that the heating line210and the cooling line230are connected. That is, three coolant lines may be connected to the second direction switching valve232so as to meet together. The second direction switching valve232may be a 3-way direction switching valve capable of adjusting states in which the three coolant lines are connected to or disconnected from one another.

The second pump238is a means for pumping the coolant so that the coolant circulates along the cooling line230. Further, the second pump238is installed in the first connection line230aand disposed between the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232. The operation of the second pump238may allow the coolant to flow from the second direction switching valve232to the first direction switching valve214.

The first direction switching valve214is as described above with reference to the heating line210.

The electrical component239is disposed in the second connection line230bthat connects the first direction switching valve214and the second coolant joint. The electrical component239may be cooled by the coolant. In one embodiment, various components such as a drive motor, an inverter, and a charger (onboard charger (OBC)), which generate heat, may be used as the electrical component239.

The third pump234is a means for pumping the coolant so that the coolant circulates along the cooling line230. Further, the third pump234is installed in the coolant line and disposed between the first coolant joint and the battery235, such that the coolant may flow from the third pump234to the battery235.

The battery235serves as a power source for the vehicle. The battery235may serve as a driving source for various types of electrical components239in the vehicle. Alternatively, the battery235may be connected to a fuel cell and serve to store electricity. Alternatively, the battery235may serve to store electricity supplied from the outside. Further, the battery235may be disposed in the coolant line and provided between the third pump234and the third direction switching valve236. Therefore, the battery235may be cooled or heated by exchanging heat with the flowing coolant.

The first coolant joint233is installed in the coolant line and disposed rearward of the second direction switching valve232based on the flow direction of the coolant. Three coolant lines are connected to the first coolant joint233so as to meet together. That is, the first coolant joint233may be installed such that two opposite sides thereof are connected to the cooling line230, and a third connection line230cmay be connected to a lower side of the first coolant joint233. In this case, the third connection line230cmay be connected to pass through the chiller160.

The second coolant joint237may be installed at a point at which a rear end of the second connection line230bmeets the cooling line230. Three coolant lines are connected to the second coolant joint237so as to meet together. That is, the second coolant joint237may be installed such that two opposite sides thereof are connected to the cooling line230, and a second connection line230bmay be connected to an upper side of the second coolant joint237.

The chiller160is as described above with reference to the heating line210.

The third direction switching valve236may be installed in the coolant line and disposed between the battery235and the second coolant joint237. Two coolant pipes may be connected to the third direction switching valve236. The third connection line230cmay be connected to an upper side of the third direction switching valve236, such that the battery235and the third connection line230cmay be connected in parallel. In this case, the third direction switching valve236may be a 3-way direction switching valve capable of adjusting states in which the three coolant lines are connected to or disconnected from one another.

Further, the air blower (not illustrated) may be installed at one side of the air conditioning casing190to blow air. A temperature adjustment door (not illustrated) may be installed in the air conditioning casing190. In addition, the evaporator150and the interior heat exchanger213disposed in the air conditioning casing190may be disposed and configured such that on the basis of the operation of the temperature adjustment door (not illustrated), the air discharged from the air blower (not illustrated) may flow into the vehicle interior while passing only through the evaporator150or flow into the vehicle interior while passing through the evaporator150and the interior heat exchanger213. The configuration of the air conditioning casing190is not limited to the configuration illustrated in the drawings, and the air conditioning casing190may be modified to have various structures.

Hereinafter, the operating modes of the heat pump system will be described with reference toFIGS.20to24.

FIG.20is a view illustrating an operating state of the system in a maximum cooling mode inFIG.19.

Referring toFIG.20, in the refrigerant circulation line100, the compressor110operates, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor110. Further, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor110is cooled while exchanging heat with the coolant in the water-cooled condenser120.

Next, the refrigerant cooled in the water-cooled condenser120passes through the first expansion means131, which is fully opened toward the exterior heat exchanger140, and flows into the exterior heat exchanger140. The refrigerant is cooled by exchanging heat with outside air in the exterior heat exchanger140. That is, both the water-cooled condenser120and the exterior heat exchanger140serve as the condenser120and condense the refrigerant.

Thereafter, the condensed refrigerant is throttled and expanded while passing through the third expansion means151. Thereafter, the expanded refrigerant passes through the evaporator150while exchanging heat with the air blown by the air blower (not illustrated) of the air conditioning casing190, such that the refrigerant is evaporated, and the air is cooled. The cooled air is supplied to the vehicle interior and used to cool the vehicle interior. Further, the refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator150flows into the compressor110again via the accumulator180.

In addition, the remaining part of the refrigerant divided in a refrigerant branch part170is throttled and expanded while passing through the third expansion means161. Thereafter, the expanded refrigerant is evaporated by exchanging heat with the coolant while passing through the chiller160, such that the coolant may be cooled. Further, the refrigerant evaporated in the chiller160flows into the compressor110again via the accumulator180. As described above, the refrigerant having passed through the evaporator150and the refrigerant having passed through the chiller160merge with each other in the accumulator180and flow into the compressor110. The refrigerant circulates as the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Meanwhile, the coolant in the coolant circulation line200is circulated by the operations of the first pump211, the second pump238, and the third pump234. Further, the battery235and the electrical component239may be cooled by the coolant and the refrigerant passing through the water-cooled condenser120. The heated coolant may be cooled while exchanging heat with the outside air by the operation of the cooling fan (not illustrated) of the radiator231for the electrical component. In this case, the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may adjust the directions thereof so that the heating line210and the cooling line230are connected. More specifically, the coolant may flow as the upper side and the left side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other, and the coolant may flow as the lower side and the right side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other. Further, when the left side and the lower side of the second direction switching valve232are connected to each other, the coolant may flow, and the right side of the second direction switching valve232may be disconnected. In addition, the upper side and the right side of the third direction switching valve236may be connected to each other, and the left side of the third direction switching valve236may be closed.

Therefore, the coolant flows from the radiator231for the electrical component sequentially to the second direction switching valve232, the second pump238, the first direction switching valve, the water-cooled condenser120, the first pump211, the coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger213, the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, and the second coolant joint, flows into the radiator231for the electrical component again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. In this case, the second direction switching valve232may prevent the coolant from flowing from the second direction switching valve232to the first coolant joint, and the third direction switching valve236may prevent the coolant from flowing from the third direction switching valve236to the second coolant joint237. In addition, the coolant flows from the chiller160sequentially to the first coolant joint, third pump234, the battery235, and the third direction switching valve236, flows into the chiller160, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. That is, the battery235and the chiller160may define a separate closed loop, in which the coolant circulates, in the cooling line230by the second direction switching valve232and the third direction switching valve236, such that the battery235may be separately cooled.

In this case, the maximum cooling mode may operate when a temperature of the outside air is within a range of 30 to 45 degrees Celsius. In this case, the compressor110may operate at a maximum rotational speed. Further, when the battery235needs not to be cooled, the fourth expansion means161may be closed, such that the refrigerant may not flow to the chiller160. In this case, the third pump234may not operate.

FIG.21is a view illustrating an operating state of the system in a mild cooling mode inFIG.19.

Referring toFIG.21, in the refrigerant circulation line100, the compressor110operates, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor110. Further, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor110is cooled while exchanging heat with the coolant in the water-cooled condenser120. Next, the refrigerant cooled in the water-cooled condenser120passes through the first expansion means131, which is fully opened toward the exterior heat exchanger140, and flows into the exterior heat exchanger140. The refrigerant is cooled by exchanging heat with outside air in the exterior heat exchanger140. That is, both the water-cooled condenser120and the exterior heat exchanger140serve as the condenser120and condense the refrigerant. Thereafter, the condensed refrigerant passes through the refrigerant branch part170and is throttled and expanded while passing through the third expansion means151. Thereafter, the expanded refrigerant passes through the evaporator150while exchanging heat with the air blown by the air blower (not illustrated) of the air conditioning casing190, such that the refrigerant is evaporated, and the air is cooled. The cooled air is supplied to the vehicle interior and used to cool the vehicle interior. Further, the refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator150flows into the compressor110again via the accumulator180. In this case, the fourth expansion valve161is closed, such that the refrigerant may not flow to the chiller160.

The refrigerant having passed through the evaporator150flows into the compressor110via the accumulator180. The refrigerant circulates as the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Meanwhile, the coolant in the coolant circulation line200is circulated by the operations of the first pump211, the second pump238, and the third pump234. Further, the battery235and the electrical component239may be cooled by the coolant and the refrigerant passing through the water-cooled condenser120. The heated coolant may be cooled while exchanging heat with the outside air by the operation of the cooling fan (not illustrated) of the radiator231for the electrical component. In this case, the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may adjust the directions thereof so that the heating line210and the cooling line230are connected. More specifically, the coolant may flow as the upper side and the left side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other, and the coolant may flow as the lower side and the right side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other. Further, all the three directions, i.e., the left side, the lower side, and the right side of the second direction switching valve232are connected, such that the coolant may flow. In addition, the left side and the right side of the third direction switching valve236may be connected to each other, and the upper side of the third direction switching valve236may be closed.

Therefore, the coolant flows from the radiator231for the electrical component sequentially to the second direction switching valve232, the second pump238, the first direction switching valve, the water-cooled condenser120, the first pump211, the coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger213, the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, and the second coolant joint237, flows into the radiator231for the electrical component again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. In this case, by the second direction switching valve232, a part of the coolant flows to the right side, sequentially passes through the first coolant joint233, the third pump234, the battery235, the third direction switching valve236, and the second coolant joint237, flows into the radiator231for the electrical component, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. In this case, the coolant having passed through the electrical component239and the coolant having passed through the battery235may merge with each other in the second coolant joint237and flow into the radiator231for the electrical component.

In this case, the mild cooling mode may operate when a temperature of the outside air is within a range of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. In this case, the battery235may be cooled by the radiator231for the electrical component, such that the refrigerant needs not to circulate toward the chiller160. Therefore, it is possible to reduce power required to operate the compressor110.

FIG.22is a view illustrating an operating state of the system in a non-vapor injection heating mode inFIG.19.

Referring toFIG.16, in the refrigerant circulation line100, the compressor110operates, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor110. Further, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor110is cooled while exchanging heat with the coolant in the water-cooled condenser120. Next, the refrigerant cooled in the water-cooled condenser120is throttled and expanded while passing through the first expansion means131, and the expanded refrigerant is evaporated by exchanging heat with the outside air while passing through the exterior heat exchanger140and absorbs heat of the outside air. Thereafter, the refrigerant passes through the refrigerant branch part170and the fully opened fourth expansion means161and flows into the chiller160. In the chiller160, the refrigerant may be heated by exchanging heat with the coolant. Next, the refrigerant having passed through the chiller160flows into the compressor110again via the accumulator180. In this case, the third expansion means151is closed, such that the refrigerant may not flow to the evaporator150. Therefore, the refrigerant circulates as the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Meanwhile, the coolant in the coolant circulation line200is circulated by the operations of the first pump211and the second pump238. Further, the coolant may be heated while passing through the water-cooled condenser120, heated by the coolant heater212, and heated by waste heat of the electrical component239. The coolant may be cooled while passing through the chiller160. In this case, the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may adjust the directions so that the heating line210and the cooling line230are separated.

More specifically, the coolant may flow as the upper side and the right side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other, and the coolant may flow as the lower side and the left side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other. Further, when the right side and the lower side of the second direction switching valve232are connected to each other, the coolant may flow, and the left side of the second direction switching valve232may be disconnected. In addition, the upper side and the left side of the third direction switching valve236may be connected to each other, and the right side of the third direction switching valve236may be closed.

Therefore, the coolant in the heating line210sequentially passes through the first pump211, the coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger, the first direction switching valve, and the water-cooled condenser120, flows into the first pump211again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. Further, the coolant in the cooling line230separated from the heating line210flows from the second pump238sequentially to the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, the second coolant joint237, the third direction switching valve236, the chiller160, the first coolant joint233, and the second direction switching valve232, flows into the second pump238again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated.

In this case, the second direction switching valve232may prevent the coolant from flowing from the second direction switching valve232to the second coolant joint237via the radiator231for the electrical component, and the third direction switching valve236may prevent the coolant from flowing from the third direction switching valve236to the first coolant joint233via the battery235and the third pump234. Further, the coolant passes through the heater core while exchanging heat with the air blown by the air blower (not illustrated) of the air conditioning casing190, such that the air is heated. The heated air is supplied to the vehicle interior and used to heat the vehicle interior.

FIG.23is a view illustrating an operating state of the system in an injection heating mode inFIG.19.

Referring toFIG.23, in the refrigerant circulation line100, the compressor110operates, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor110. Further, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor110is cooled while exchanging heat with the coolant in the water-cooled condenser120. Next, the refrigerant cooled in the water-cooled condenser120is throttled and expanded while passing through the first expansion means131, the expanded refrigerant flows to the gas-liquid separator133along the second line131bconnected to the first expansion means131. The liquid refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133may flow to the second expansion means135so as to be additionally decompressed and then be supplied to the exterior heat exchanger140. The liquid refrigerant supplied to the exterior heat exchanger140increases the evaporation temperature and delays the frost, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

In addition, the gaseous refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133may flow into the compressor110again. Therefore, since the refrigerant with a higher temperature than the refrigerant introduced from the accumulator180may flow into the compressor110again, thereby improving the heating efficiency.

Thereafter, the refrigerant is evaporated by exchanging heat with the outside air while passing through the exterior heat exchanger140and absorbs heat of the outside air. Thereafter, the refrigerant passes through the refrigerant branch part170and the fully opened fourth expansion means161and flows into the chiller160. In the chiller160, the refrigerant may be heated by exchanging heat with the coolant. Next, the refrigerant having passed through the chiller160flows into the compressor110again via the accumulator180. In this case, the third expansion means151is closed, such that the refrigerant may not flow to the evaporator150. Therefore, the refrigerant circulates as the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Meanwhile, the coolant in the coolant circulation line200is circulated by the operations of the first pump211and the second pump238. Further, the coolant may be heated while passing through the water-cooled condenser120, heated by the coolant heater212, and heated by waste heat of the electrical component239. The coolant may be cooled while passing through the chiller160. In this case, the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may adjust the directions so that the heating line210and the cooling line230are separated.

More specifically, the coolant may flow as the upper side and the right side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other, and the coolant may flow as the lower side and the left side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other. Further, when the right side and the lower side of the second direction switching valve232are connected to each other, the coolant may flow, and the left side of the second direction switching valve232may be disconnected. In addition, the upper side and the left side of the third direction switching valve236may be connected to each other, and the right side of the third direction switching valve236may be closed.

Therefore, the coolant in the heating line210sequentially passes through the first pump211, the coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger, the first direction switching valve, and the water-cooled condenser120, flows into the first pump211again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. Further, the coolant in the cooling line230separated from the heating line210flows from the second pump238sequentially to the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, the second coolant joint237, the third direction switching valve236, the chiller160, the first coolant joint233, and the second direction switching valve232, flows into the second pump238again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated.

In this case, the second direction switching valve232may prevent the coolant from flowing from the second direction switching valve232to the second coolant joint237via the radiator231for the electrical component, and the third direction switching valve236may prevent the coolant from flowing from the third direction switching valve236to the first coolant joint233via the battery235and the third pump234. Further, the coolant passes through the heater core while exchanging heat with the air blown by the air blower (not illustrated) of the air conditioning casing190, such that the air is heated. The heated air is supplied to the vehicle interior and used to heat the vehicle interior.

The injection heating mode may be set to operate under a low-temperature condition in comparison with the general heating mode. The temperature may be set to vary depending on the state of the vehicle or the environment.

FIG.24is a view illustrating an operating state of the system in a dehumidifying heating mode inFIG.19.

Referring toFIG.24, in the refrigerant circulation line100, the compressor110operates, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor110. Further, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor110is cooled while exchanging heat with the coolant in the water-cooled condenser120. Next, the refrigerant cooled in the water-cooled condenser120is throttled and expanded while passing through the first expansion means131, the expanded refrigerant flows to the gas-liquid separator133along the second line131bconnected to the first expansion means131. The liquid refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133may flow to the second expansion means135so as to be additionally decompressed and then be supplied to the exterior heat exchanger140. The liquid refrigerant supplied to the exterior heat exchanger140increases the evaporation temperature and delays the frost, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

In addition, the gaseous refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator133may flow into the compressor110again. Therefore, since the refrigerant with a higher temperature than the refrigerant introduced from the accumulator180may flow into the compressor110again, thereby improving the heating efficiency.

Thereafter, a part of the refrigerant, which passes through the interior heat exchanger213and divided in the refrigerant branch part170, bypasses the third expansion means151and passes through the evaporator150while exchanging heat with the air blown by the air blower (not illustrated) of the air conditioning casing190, such that moisture is removed from the air. Further, the refrigerant having passed through the evaporator150flows into the compressor110or210again via the accumulator180. In addition, the remaining part of the refrigerant divided in the refrigerant branch part170bypasses the fourth expansion means161. Thereafter, the refrigerant passes through the chiller160, merges in the accumulator180, and flows into the compressor110. The refrigerant circulates as the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Meanwhile, the coolant in the coolant circulation line200is circulated by the operations of the first pump211and the second pump238. Further, the coolant may be heated only by waste heat of the electrical component239. In this case, the first direction switching valve214and the second direction switching valve232may adjust the directions so that the heating line210and the cooling line230are separated. More specifically, the coolant may flow as the upper side and the right side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other, and the coolant may flow as the lower side and the left side of the first direction switching valve214are connected to each other. Further, when the right side and the upper side of the second direction switching valve are connected to each other, the coolant may flow, and the lower side of the second direction switching valve may be closed. In addition, the left side and the upper side of the third direction switching valve236may be connected to each other, and the right of the third direction switching valve236may be closed.

Therefore, the coolant in the heating line210sequentially passes through the first pump211, the coolant heater212, the interior heat exchanger213, the first direction switching valve, and the water-cooled condenser120, flows into the first pump211again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. Further, the coolant in the cooling line230separated from the heating line210flows from the second pump238sequentially to the first direction switching valve214, the electrical component239, the second coolant joint237, the third direction switching valve236, the chiller160, the first coolant joint233, and the second direction switching valve232, flows into the second pump238again, and circulates. This cycle is repeated. In this case, the third direction switching valve236may prevent the coolant from flowing from the third direction switching valve236to the battery235, the third pump234, and the first coolant joint233, and the second direction switching valve232may prevent the coolant from flowing from the second direction switching valve232to the second coolant joint237via the radiator231for the electrical component. In this case, the air dehumidified while passing through the evaporator150may be heated while passing through the interior heat exchanger213and used to heat the vehicle interior.

In this case, the dehumidifying heating mode may operate when a temperature of the outside air is within a range of 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.

The embodiment of the present invention has been specifically described above with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The above description is simply given for illustratively describing the technical spirit of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will appreciate that various modifications, changes, and substitutions are possible without departing from the essential characteristic of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention and the accompanying drawings are intended not to limit but to describe the technical spirit of the present invention, and the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The protective scope of the present invention should be construed based on the following claims, and all the technical spirit in the equivalent scope thereto should be construed as falling within the scope of the present invention.