AU2022357257B2

AU2022357257B2 - Method and device for controlling the temperature of a space to be temperature-controlled

Info

Publication number: AU2022357257B2
Application number: AU2022357257A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Jürgen SÜβ
Original assignee: Ecooltec Grosskopf GmbH
Current assignee: Ecooltec Grosskopf GmbH
Priority date: 2021-09-30
Filing date: 2022-09-22
Publication date: 2025-09-11
Anticipated expiration: 2042-09-22
Also published as: EP4314671B1; AU2025279722A1; AU2022357257A1; JP2024536336A; WO2023052244A1; EP4314671A1; US20240263851A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for controlling the temperature of a space (5) to be temperature-controlled, the space having a space boundary (20) that separates the space to be temperature-controlled from the surroundings (21), the device comprising: a primary heat pump circuit having an evaporator (4), a condenser (2), a compressor (1) and an expansion element (3), the primary heat pump circuit having a natural, e.g. flammable, primary working fluid, and the evaporator (4), the condenser (2), the compressor (1) and the expansion element (3) being located outside the space to be temperature-controlled; and a secondary circuit, which is thermally coupled to the evaporator (4) or to the condenser (2) via a heat exchanger (7) and is fluidically decoupled and has a temperature-control element (14), which is located in the space (5) to be temperature-controlled and is connected to the heat exchanger (7) via a line arrangement (15a, 15b) that has a secondary fluid differing from the primary working fluid, the line arrangement (15a, 15b) penetrating the space boundary (20).

Description

Method andapparatus Method and apparatusfor fortemperature-controlling temperature-controlling aa space to be space to be temperature- temperature-

controlled controlled

Description Description

Thepresent The presentinvention invention relates relates to to temperature-controlling temperature-controlling a space a space to be temperature- to be temperature-

controlledand controlled andin in particular particular to to refrigeration refrigeration or heat or heat generation generation and distribution and distribution in mobilein ormobile or stationaryrefrigeration stationary refrigerationapplications. applications.

In particular, the In particular, thepresent present invention invention relates relates to methods to methods and apparatuses and apparatuses for refrigeration for refrigeration or or heatgeneration heat generation or distribution or distribution in mobile in mobile refrigeration refrigeration applications applications orapplications or heating heating applications andcan and canbebe used used for for road-bound road-bound motor vehicles motor vehicles or trailers or trailers or semi-trailers or semi-trailers with a refrigeration with a refrigeration

structureorora aheating structure heating structure, structure, a rail-bound a rail-bound or sea-bound or sea-bound refrigerated refrigerated or heated or heated structure structure or container, or container, or or generally generally for for spaces spacestotobebe temperature-controlled temperature-controlled in ventilation in ventilation or air- or air-

conditioning applications, conditioning applications, which whichare arerefrigerated refrigerated ororheated heatedbyby means means of a of a compression compression

refrigeration refrigerationmachine for example. machine for example.

Furthermore, Furthermore, this this invention invention can can also also be in be used used the in theof field field of comfort comfort air conditioning air conditioning in mobilein mobile applications such applications suchasasbuses buses or or rail-bound rail-bound passenger passenger cars cars in in transport. rail rail transport. In principle, In principle,

however, however, from from a purely a purely technical technical point point of viewofisview is not necessary not necessary to restrictto restrict the thetoinvention invention to these fields, these fields, as as the the solutions solutions described described here canalso here can alsobe beused usedtotoadvantage advantage in stationary in stationary

applications. applications.

The compression The compressionrefrigeration refrigeration machine is the machine is the most mostcommon common design design of refrigeration of refrigeration

machines.This machines. Thisdesign design uses uses thethe physical physical effect effect of of evaporation evaporation heatheat whenwhen the aggregate the aggregate

state changes state from liquid changes from liquid to to gaseous or from gaseous or from gaseous gaseousto toliquid. liquid. In In aa compression compression refrigeration refrigerationmachine, machine, a a refrigerant refrigerantwith withsuitable suitablethermal thermaldynamic properties is dynamic properties is moved in aa moved in a closed cycle, closed cycle, as as shown shownin in Fig.2a. Fig. 2a.InInthis this case, case,itit undergoes undergoesthe thevarious variouschanges changes of the of the

aggregatestate aggregate stateone one afterthethe after other.TheThe other. gaseous gaseous refrigerant refrigerant is first is first compressed compressed by a by a

compressor1.1.InInthe compressor thefollowing followingheat heatexchanger exchanger(or(or heat heat transmitter) transmitter) 2 (condenser 2 (condenser or heat or heat

sink of sink of the process), it the process), it is is condensed (liquefied) while condensed (liquefied) while releasing releasing heat. heat. Subsequently, Subsequently,thethe

condensedrefrigerant condensed refrigerantisis expanded expandedto to the the evaporation evaporation pressure pressure via via an expansion an expansion element element

3, or, 3, or, in in the the simplest case,a a simplest case, diaphragm diaphragm or a capillary or a capillary tube, tube, so reduce so as to as to reduce the pressure. the pressure. In In this process, this process, ititcools coolsdown. down. In In the the downstream secondheat downstream second heatexchanger exchanger4 (or 4 (or heat heat

transmitter) (evaporator transmitter) or heat (evaporator or heat source sourceofofthe theprocess), process),the therefrigerant refrigerantevaporates evaporates while while

absorbingheat absorbing heatatata alowlow temperature temperature (evaporation (evaporation cooling). cooling). The absorbed The heat heat absorbed in this in this

2

processrepresents process representsthe thecoldness coldnessused used by by thethe refrigerationsystem. refrigeration system.The The heat heat flow flow absorbed absorbed

is referred is to as referred to asrefrigerating refrigeratingcapacity. capacity. TheThe evaporator evaporator is therefore is therefore advantageously advantageously located located directly in directly in the refrigerationstructure, the refrigeration structure,ininthe therefrigeration refrigeration container container or generally or generally in theinclosed the closed space55toto be space becooled cooledofofthe theapplication application so so as as to to keep keepheat heatexchange exchange losses losses to to a minimum a minimum

by bringing by bringing the the refrigerated refrigerated goods goodsinto intodirect directcontact contactwith withthe theheat heat source source as much as much as as possible. The possible. cycle can The cycle cannow nowstart startagain. again. The Theprocess process must must be be kept kept going going fromfrom the the outside outside

by supplying by supplying mechanical mechanicalwork work (drivepower) (drive power) via via thecompressor. the compressor. TheThe refrigerant refrigerant absorbs absorbs a a heat output heat output at at a a low temperaturelevel low temperature level and andusually usuallydissipates dissipatesit it to to the the surrounding area by surrounding area by suppling technical suppling technical work workatat aahigher highertemperature temperature level.The level. The identicalprocess identical process described described is is

referred to referred to as as aa heat heat pump process,asasshown pump process, shown in in Fig. Fig. 2b,ififthe 2b, thecondenser condenser heat heat emitted emitted by by

the condenser the condenserofofthe thesystem systemis is toto bebe used used instead instead of of thethe refrigeratingcapacity refrigerating capacity or or energy energy

supplied to supplied to the theevaporator. evaporator.InInthethe present present application, application, this this results results in in thethe possibilityofof possibility

supplyingenergy supplying energy in the in the formform of heat of heat for heating for heating purposes purposes to the described to the described structure, structure, or the or the closedinterior closed interiorspace, space,of of thethe application application withwith a suitable a suitable process process controlcontrol and an arrangement and an arrangement

of the of components the components of the of the system. system. One ofOne of the the ways toways to this achieve achieve is tothis is tothe connect connect the pressure- pressure-

side outlet side outlet of ofthe thecompressor to the compressor to the heat heat exchanger locatedininthe exchanger located theclosed closedstructure structure in in such such

a way a waythat that it it heats up during heats up during operation operationofofthe thestructure. structure. The Theremaining remaining components components then then

fulfill their fulfill function their functionaccording to the according to thedescribed described application application process process for refrigeration. for refrigeration. The The heat heat supply can supply canalso also be beused usedtotoachieve achieveefficient efficient defrosting defrosting of of the the heat heat exchanger in the exchanger in the closed closed

space, which space, whichcan canbebeeither eithertime-controlled time-controlled or or demand-controlled. demand-controlled.

Therefrigerant The refrigerant cycle cycle essentially essentially consists consists of ofthe thefollowing followingfour fourcomponents: compressor1,1, components: compressor

condenser2,2,expansion condenser expansion element element 3, evaporator 3, and and evaporator 4. In a4.single-stage In a single-stage or multi-stage or multi-stage

refrigeration system, refrigeration system, a distinction a distinction is is generally generally made made between between the high-pressure the high-pressure and the low- and the low-

pressureside. pressure side. The high-pressureside The high-pressure sideextends extendsfrom from thepressure the pressure side side ofofthe thecompressor compressorto to the inlet the inlet of of the refrigerantinto the refrigerant intothe theexpansion expansion element. element. The low-pressure The low-pressure side comprises side comprises the the part of part of the therefrigerant refrigerantcycle cycle from from the the outlet outlet of refrigerant of the the refrigerant out ofout the of the expansion expansion element element to the to compressor the compressor inlet. inlet. This This alsoalso applies applies if the if the refrigerant refrigerant cyclecycle is operated is operated as a as a heat heat pump, pump, i.e. the i.e. the heat outputprovided heat output provided by condenser by the the condenser is used is usedofinstead instead of the refrigerating the refrigerating capacity capacity

of the of the evaporator. evaporator. As described, the As described, the heat heat output outputcan canbebeused usedtoto heatupup heat the the applicationoror application

to defrost to defrostthe theevaporator. evaporator.

Regardless Regardless of of thethe application, application, the the refrigerant refrigerant used used in theincircular the circular process process in theshould in the cycle cycle should haveasaslittle have little impact onthe impact on theenvironment environmentas as possible, possible, be cost-effective be cost-effective and and particularly particularly

energy-efficient.A Akeykey energy-efficient. measure measure of theof the environmentally environmentally harmful harmful effect of a effect of a refrigerant refrigerant is its is its global warming global potential (GWP). warming potential (GWP). This This value value isisgiven givenfor forrefrigerants refrigerants in in relation relationtotothe theGWP GWP value of CO2 (carbon dioxide). By definition, CO2 has a GWP value of 1. For the F-gases (or 13 Aug 2025 fluorinates gases) frequently used as refrigerants, the global warming potential can have values of several thousand. This in turn means that one kilogram of F-gas released into the atmosphere during its production, use, or disposal can be equivalent to the greenhouse effect 5 of several tons of CO2.

The most important components of F-gases are carbon, hydrogen, and fluorine. F-gases often decompose very slowly and, once released, sometimes remain in our atmosphere for 2022357257

hundreds or several thousand years. Regardless of their residence time and the level of global 10 warming potential, decomposition products are formed when F-gases decompose. These substances, such as trifluoroacetic acid or hydrogen fluoride, often have long-term negative effects on humans and the environment. For these reasons, international legislation is increasingly restricting or even prohibiting the use of F-gases as refrigerants by means regulations and ordinances. The acceptance of the F-gases as refrigerants by consumers and 15 users of refrigeration technology, but also by society as a whole, is decreasing, and as a result, the refrigeration and heat pump manufacturing industry is increasingly demanding alternatives to the existing refrigeration technology based on the use of F-gases.

DE 202022100810 U1 shows a heat pump system with a heat pump, a consumer circuit and 20 a buffer storage configured as a gas separator in the consumer circuit. Propane is used in the heat pump, and the heat pump is arranged in a safety area outside a building.

DE 102007039195 A1 shows an arrangement for air-conditioning of a vehicle, wherein a first cycle can be switched between a refrigeration mode and heating mode. CO2 circulates as a 25 heat exchange fluid in the first super critically operable cycle. A coolant for a motor drive of the vehicle circulates in a second cycle.

Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general 30 knowledge in the field.

It is the object of the present invention to provide an improved concept for temperature- controlling a space to be temperature-controlled.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for 13 Aug 2025

temperature-controlling a space to be temperature-controlled with a space limitation separating the space to be temperature-controlled from a surrounding area, comprising: a primary heat pump circuit with an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion 5 element, wherein the primary heat pump circuit comprises a natural primary working fluid, wherein the evaporator, the liquefier, the compressor, and the expansion element are suitable to be arranged outside of the space to be temperature-controlled; a secondary circuit thermally coupled to and fluidically decoupled from the evaporator or the condenser via a heat 2022357257

exchanger and comprising a temperature-controlling element configured to be arranged in the 10 space to be temperature-controlled and configured to be connected to the heat exchanger via a line arrangement comprising a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein the line arrangement is suitable to penetrate the space limitation, wherein the secondary circuit is configured as a thermosiphon cycle, and wherein a controllable pump configured to reverse a conveying direction in the secondary circuit as a response to a control 15 signal is arranged in the secondary circuit; wherein the apparatus is configured to cool the space by means of the temperature-controlling element in a refrigeration mode; and a controller configured to cause, as a response to a control signal, a heat pump cycle reversal in the primary heat pump circuit so that, in the refrigeration mode, energy is dissipated from the heat exchanger through the primary heat pump circuit, and so that, in a defrosting mode, 20 energy is supplied to the heat exchanger) through the primary heat pump circuit in order to defrost the temperature-controlling element, and the conveying direction in the secondary circuit is reversed by the controllable pump.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a space to be 25 temperature-controlled, comprising: a space limitation separating a space from a surrounding area of the space; and an apparatus according to the above aspect.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method for temperature-controlling a space to be temperature-controlled with a space limitation 30 separating the space to be temperature-controlled from a surrounding area, with a primary heat pump circuit with an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion element, wherein the evaporator, the liquefier, the compressor, and the expansion element are arranged outside of the space to be temperature-controlled; and a secondary circuit thermally coupled to and fluidically decoupled from the evaporator or the condenser via a heat 35 exchanger and comprising a temperature-controlling element arranged in the space to be temperature-controlled and connected to the heat exchanger via a line arrangement comprising a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein the line

3a arrangement penetrates the space limitation, wherein the secondary circuit is configured as a 13 Aug 2025 thermosiphon cycle, and wherein a controllable pump configured to reverse a conveying direction in the secondary circuit as a response to a control signal is arranged in the secondary circuit, comprising: using, in the primary heat pump circuit, a natural primary working fluid; 5 using, in the line arrangement of the secondary circuit, a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein temperature-controlling in a refrigeration mode comprises cooling the space by means of the temperature-controlling element; and as a response to the control signal, causing a heat pump cycle reversal in the primary heat pump circuit so that, in 2022357257 the refrigeration mode, energy is dissipated from the heat exchanger through the primary heat 10 pump circuit, and so that, in a defrosting mode, energy is supplied to the heat exchanger) through the primary heat pump circuit, in order to defrost the temperature-controlling element, and the conveying direction in the secondary circuit is reversed by means of the controllable pump.

15 According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method for manufacturing an apparatus for temperature-controlling a space to be temperature-controlled with a space limitation separating the space to be temperature-controlled from a surrounding area, comprising: a primary heat pump circuit with an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion element, wherein the primary heat pump circuit comprises a natural primary 20 working fluid, wherein the evaporator, the liquefier, the compressor, and the expansion element are arranged outside of the space to be temperature-controlled; a secondary circuit thermally coupled to and fluidically decoupled from the evaporator or the condenser via a heat exchanger and comprising a temperature-controlling element arranged in the space to be temperature-controlled and connected to the heat exchanger via a line arrangement 25 comprising a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein the line arrangement penetrates the space limitation, wherein the secondary circuit is configured as a thermosiphon cycle, and wherein a controllable pump configured to reverse a conveying direction in the secondary circuit as a response to a control signal is arranged in the secondary circuit, wherein, in a refrigeration mode, the apparatus is configured to cool the space by 30 means of the temperature-controlling element, the method comprising: introducing a natural primary working fluid into the primary heat pump circuit; manufacturing a line arrangement that penetrates the space limitation; introducing, into the line arrangement, a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid; and manufacturing a controller configured to cause, as a response to the control signal, a heat pump cycle reversal in the primary heat pump circuit 35 so that, in the refrigeration mode, energy is dissipated from the heat exchanger through the primary heat pump circuit, and so that, in a defrosting mode, energy is supplied to the heat exchanger) through the primary heat pump circuit so as to defrost the temperature-controlling

3b element, and a conveying direction in the secondary circuit is reversed by means of the 13 Aug 2025 controllable pump. 2022357257

3c

4

Anapparatus An apparatusfor for temperature-controlling temperature-controllingaa space spacetotobe betemperature-controlled temperature-controlledwith withaaspace space limitation separating limitation the space separating the spacetotobe be temperature-controlled temperature-controlled from from a surrounding a surrounding area area includes aa primary includes primary heat heatpump pump circuitwith circuit withan anevaporator, evaporator,a acondenser, condenser, a compressor, a compressor, and and

an expansion an expansionelement, element, wherein wherein thethe primary primary heat heat pump pump circuit circuit comprises comprises a natural a natural primary primary

workingfluid, working fluid, wherein the evaporator, wherein the evaporator, the the condenser, condenser,the thecompressor, compressor,andand the the expansion expansion

elementare element arearranged arranged outside outside of of thethe space space to temperature-controlled. to be be temperature-controlled. This This apparatus apparatus

further includes further a circuit includes a circuit that that is isthermally thermally coupled to and coupled to andfluidically fluidically decoupled fromthe decoupled from the evaporatorand evaporator andthe thecondenser condenser via via a heat a heat exchanger, exchanger, and comprises and that that comprises one or one or several several

temperature-controlling elements temperature-controlling elementsarranged arranged in in the the space space to be to be temperature-controlled temperature-controlled and and connectedtotothe connected theheat heatexchanger exchangerviavia a a linearrangement line arrangement comprising comprising a secondary a secondary fluidfluid thatthat

differs from differs theprimary from the primary fluid,wherein fluid, wherein the the line line arrangement arrangement penetrates penetrates the space the space limitation. limitation.

Thepresent The present invention invention is based is based on theon the finding finding that inthat the in the primary primary heat heat pump pump circuit circuit arranged arranged

outsideofofthe outside thespace space to temperature-controlled, to be be temperature-controlled, i.e. in i.e. the in the surrounding surrounding area area of the of space the space to be to be temperature-controlled, temperature-controlled, aa natural natural primary primary working workingfluid fluid that that may haveproperties may have propertiesthat that are unfavorable are unfavorable for foraaclosed closedspace space when being breathed when being breathed in in by by an organism, such an organism, such as as flammability,isisused. flammability, used.OnOn thethe other other hand, hand, a different a different secondary secondary fluid fluid that isthat is typically typically harmless harmless

or has or lowrisks has low risks for for an an organism organism because because it non-flammable it is is non-flammable is used is used in theinsecondary the secondary

circuit. Thus, circuit. Thus, according according to to the the invention, invention, primary primary working fluids and working fluids secondaryfluids and secondary fluidsthat that havefavorable have favorableproperties properties for for aa compression or aa primary compression or primaryheat heat pump pump circuit on circuit on the the one onehand hand and for and for the the temperature temperaturecontrol controlinina a(closed) (closed)space space to to be be temperature-controlled temperature-controlled on on the the other hand other canbebecombined hand can combined with with each each other. other.

In particular, the In particular, the use of flammable use of flammableprimary primary working working fluids fluids as example as an an example of a natural of a natural

refrigerantenables refrigerant enables high high environmental environmental compatibility compatibility and goodand good energy-efficient energy-efficient properties properties in in a compressing a compressing refrigerating/heatingcycle. refrigerating/heating cycle.OnOn thethe other other hand, hand, such such refrigerants/heating refrigerants/heating

agents can agents cangenerally generallyonly onlybe beused usedininclosed closedspaces spaces with with considerable considerable additional additional effortdue effort due to their to theirflammability. Such flammability. Suchrefrigerants refrigerantsare, for for are, example, hydrocarbons example, hydrocarbons(HC) (HC) such such a a propane propane

(R290) or propene (R290) or propene(R1270). (R1270). Other Other primary primary working working fluids fluids without without F-gases F-gases include include NH3 NH3 or or NH or

NH 3/DME NH3/DME NH/DME (R723), (R723), (R723), which which which are are slightly are only only only slightly slightly flammable, flammable, flammable, but toxic but toxic but toxic to human to the to the the human human organism organism organism in in in closed spaces closed spacesand andareare therefore therefore undesirable. undesirable. This This group group of of working working fluids fluids forrefrigeration for refrigeration also includes also includesfluorinated fluorinatedhydrocarbons, hydrocarbons, which which are flammable are flammable due to due to their their molecular molecular

composition. composition.

5

Onthe On theother otherhand, hand,non-flammable non-flammable and and therefore therefore low-risk low-risk refrigerant/heat refrigerant/heat transfer transfer media media

canbebeused can used in the in the secondary secondary circuit, circuit, which which is not is notforused used for refrigeration refrigeration or heat generation, or heat generation,

but only but onlyfor forcold colddistribution distributionand and heat heat distribution, distribution, which which ideally ideally undergo undergo a changea of change phase of phase whentransporting when transportingcold coldororheat. heat.Preferably, Preferably,a asecondary secondary fluid fluid thatchanges that changes its its aggregate aggregate

state during state during aa heat transport isis used. heat transport used. Heat Heat is is absorbed or released absorbed or released at at aa constant constant temperatureand temperature andthe thethermosiphon thermosiphon principle principle is is driven driven byby the the differenceinindensity difference densitybetween between vaporand vapor and liquid. liquid.

Theline The line arrangement arrangement penetrating penetrating through through the the space space limitation limitation andelements and the the elements of the of the

primary heat primary heatpump pump circuit,including circuit, includingatat least least part part of of the the heat heat exchanger, exchanger,being being arranged arranged

outside of outside of the the space preventsa anatural, space prevents natural, such suchasasa aflammable, flammable, working working fluid fluid from from entering entering

the closed the closed space. space.Only Onlya anon-critical non-critical heating heating medium medium with with thethe heat/cold heat/cold to to bebe transported transported

enters the closed enters the closedspace spaceandand releases releases the transported the transported heat/cold heat/cold intospace into the the space via thevia the

temperature-controlling element. temperature-controlling element.The The temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element will will typically typically be be a a

secondary secondary fluid-airheat fluid-air heat exchanger, exchanger, while while theexchanger the heat heat exchanger will be a will be aworking primary primary working fluid- fluid- secondaryfluid secondary fluid heat heat exchanger. exchanger.The The heat heat exchanger exchanger is then is then coupled coupled to condenser to the the condenser of of the primary the primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit if ifheating heating is is to to be be achieved achieved as temperature as the the temperature control. control.

However, However, ifif cooling cooling is is to to be usedasasthe be used thetemperature temperature control,then control, then the the heat heat exchanger exchanger is is

thermally coupled thermally coupledto to thethe evaporator evaporator of primary of the the primary heat heat pump pump Incircuit. circuit. In preferred preferred

embodiments, embodiments, thethe evaporator evaporator and and the condenser the condenser are configured are configured so that so that corresponding corresponding

elementsofofthe elements theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit cancan perform perform bothboth functions functions depending depending on theon the operating direction operating direction of ofthe thecompressor. compressor.

Furthermore, animplementation Furthermore, an implementationof of thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger can can be be configured configured in asuch in such way a way

that the that the actual actual evaporator or condenser evaporator or condenserofofthetheprimary primary heat heat pump pump circuit circuit is connected is connected in in series to series to the the primary primaryworking working fluid-secondary fluid-secondary fluid fluid heatheat exchanger. exchanger. Alternatively, Alternatively, the the functionalitycan functionality canalso alsobebe integrated integrated in ainsingle a single element, element, which which on the on the one handone handthe achieves achieves the evaporation/condensation evaporation/condensation ininthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit,and circuit, andononthe theother otherhand handtransfers transfers the heat the heatororcold cold from from the the primary primary heatcircuit heat pump pumptocircuit to the secondary the secondary circuit. If circuit. If the the primary primary

workingfluid-secondary working fluid-secondaryfluid fluid heat heat exchanger is connected exchanger is in series connected in series to to the the actual actual condenser condenser

or evaporator or of the evaporator of the primary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit,the circuit, thearrangement arrangementof of thethe twotwo elements. elements. i.e.i.e.

whetherthe whether theactual actual condenser condenserororevaporator evaporatorofof theprimary the primaryheat heatpump pump circuitisisarranged circuit arrangedinin

front of front of or or behind behindthethe primary primary working working fluid-secondary fluid-secondary fluid fluid heat heat exchanger exchanger in the in the direction direction of flow of flow ofof the theprimary primary working working fluid, fluid, freely freely selectable selectable according according to theconditions. to the actual actual conditions. If If

the two the two functions functions of of evaporation or condensation evaporation or condensationofofthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuitand circuit and that that

of heat of transferfrom heat transfer from oneone fluid fluid to the to the other, other, whilewhile thefluids the two two fluids are strictly are strictly decoupled decoupled from from

6

each each other,are each other, other, are are integrated integrated integrated intointo into a a single a single single element, element, element, this this element this element element is also is is also also arranged arranged arranged outside ofoutside outside of the the of the spacetoto be space betemperature-controlled, temperature-controlled,i.e. i.e. in in the the surrounding area separated surrounding area separatedfrom fromthe thespace space to be to betemperature-controlled temperature-controlled byspace by the the space limitation. limitation.

In In preferred embodiments, preferred embodiments, thethe temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element is anisair-secondary an air-secondary fluid fluid

heat exchanger heat exchangerwith witha aphase phase transition. In transition. In this this case, case, the theline linearrangement arrangement of of the the secondary secondary

circuit comprises circuit a first comprises a first part partthrough throughwhich which the the liquid liquidsecondary secondary fluid fluidflows, flows,and and aa second second

part through part whichthe through which thevaporous vaporoussecondary secondary fluid fluid flows.Depending flows. Depending on implementation, on implementation, the the secondarycircuit secondary circuitcan can be be implemented implemented withoutwithout a drive,a i.e. drive, i.e. according solely solely according to the to the

thermosiphonconcept, thermosiphon concept, in such in such a wayathat waythe that the secondary secondary fluid is transported fluid is transported in the in the secondarycircuit secondary circuit solely solely due due to to gravity gravityand and the the difference differenceinindensity densitybetween between the the vapor vapor and and

liquid phases liquid of the phases of the secondary fluid. Depending secondary fluid. onthe Depending on theembodiment, embodiment, however, however, a pump a pump can can also be also bearranged arrangedin ainliquid-carrying a liquid-carrying part part of theofline the arrangement line arrangement to supporttothe support the circulation circulation

of the of secondaryfluid, the secondary fluid, oror aafan fancan can be be arranged arranged in vapor-carrying in the the vapor-carrying parttheof line part of the line

arrangement. arrangement.

Especially when Especially when using using such such a support a support in the secondary in the secondary circuit, itcircuit, it is preferable is preferable to provide to a provide a

controller that, controller that, depending depending on the on the direction direction of pumping of pumping or ventilation or ventilation in the secondary in the secondary circuit, circuit, causesdefrosting causes defrosting to be to be carried carried outcertain out at at certain timestimes duringduring a normal a normal refrigeration refrigeration application application

in the in spacetotobebe the space temperature-controlled temperature-controlled in order in order avoidoficing avoid icing of the temperature-controlling the temperature-controlling

element element and and thus thus a loss a loss of efficiency. of efficiency. In addition, In addition, the pump the pump or fan or fan controlled controlled by the controller by the controller

can also can also be be used usedtotoswitch switchtoto aa refrigeration refrigeration mode at selected mode at selected times timeswhen when thespace the space to to be be

temperature-controlledis temperature-controlled is actually actually to to be be heated, heated, for for example when example when a constant a constant temperature temperature

is to is to be be achieved, e.g. when achieved, e.g. whenair airconditioning conditioningisis to to be beachieved achieved over over a wide a wide temperature temperature

range. range.

Preferably, thecontroller Preferably, the controllerisisconfigured configuredto to change change the cycle the cycle reversal reversal in the in the primary primary heat pump heat pump

circuit as circuit aswell, well,which whichisisequivalent equivalenttotoreversing reversingthe theconveying conveying direction direction of ofthe thecompressor compressor

so that, so that, for for example, if the example, if the primary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit operates operates in such in such a waya that way the that the

evaporator evaporator is is coupled coupled to the to the heat heat exchanger, exchanger, i.e. a cooling i.e. a cooling application application is being is being carried carried out, out, the primary the primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit operates operates in such in such a waya that way the thatevaporator the evaporator becomesbecomes a a condenserbybyswitching condenser switching the the conveying conveying direction direction of of thethe compressor. compressor. This This supplies supplies heat heat to to the heat the heat exchanger, exchanger,which which means means thatthat heatheat is also is also supplied supplied to space to space to betotemperature- be temperature- controlled. Switching controlled. Switching the the conveying direction the conveying direction the compressor canbebeachieved compressor can achieved by by switching switching

the rotational the rotational direction directionofofa a compressor compressor wheel or by wheel or by switching switching aafour-way four-wayvalve valvecoupled coupledtoto

7

the pressure the side and pressure side andthe the suction suction side side of of the the evaporator and condenser evaporator and condenserofofthe theprimary primaryheat heat pump pump circuit. circuit.

If If the the secondary circuitdoes secondary circuit does not not havehave a or a pump pump or i.e. a fan, a fan, if i.e. if it purely it purely operates operates according according to to

a thermosiphon a thermosiphon principle,byby principle, switching switching thethe conveying conveying direction direction of the of the compressor compressor or by or by reversingthe reversing therefrigeration refrigeration cycle, cycle, e.g.e.g. by means by means of valves of valves in the heat in the primary primary heat pump pump circuit, circuit, it can it can also alsobe be achieved achieved that that a a switch switch is ismade from aa refrigeration made from refrigeration mode to aa heating mode to heating mode, mode, for short-term for defrosting, short-term defrosting, or or from from a “normal” a "normal" heating heating mode to mode to a refrigeration a refrigeration mode, e.g. mode, for e.g. for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling temperature-controlling purposes, purposes, purposes, etc., etc., etc., while while while also also suppling also suppling suppling cold or cold cold or heat or the heat to to heat the to theto element element element to be be to be

temperature-controlled. temperature-controlled.

Analternative An alternativetotothe the use use F-gases F-gases as refrigerants as refrigerants is the is the use of use of so-called so-called natural refrigerants. natural refrigerants.

Theuse The useofofhydrocarbons hydrocarbons (HC) (HC) is particularlyadvantageous is particularly advantageous here, here, as these as these substances, substances, in in contrast to contrast to F-gases, havea avery F-gases, have verylow loworornegligible negligibleglobal globalwarming warming potential potential andand enable enable a a

high energyefficiency high energy efficiency of of the the refrigerant refrigerant process processand andtherefore thereforeonly onlylittle little drive drive energy energyisis requiredper required perrefrigerating refrigerating or or heating heating capacity. capacity. A disadvantage A disadvantage of hydrocarbons of hydrocarbons is their highis their high flammability,which flammability, which restricts restricts the the use use in small in small closedclosed spaces,spaces, such such as with theas with the refrigeration refrigeration

structures and structures refrigeration containers and refrigeration containers considered here, but considered here, but also also other other closed closed spaces to be spaces to be cooledororair-conditioned, cooled air-conditioned, or virtually or virtually excludes excludes theirtheir safe safe use. use.

Tominimize To minimize risks, risks, thethe goal goal is therefore is therefore to as to use use as little little refrigerant refrigerant as possible as possible and to and to prevent prevent

the refrigerant the refrigerantfrom from entering entering the the closed closed refrigeration refrigeration structures structures and refrigeration and refrigeration containers containers

and other and other closed closedspaces spacesto to be be air-conditioned.This air-conditioned. This resultsininthe results theuse use of of components components for for refrigeration with refrigeration witha aminimum minimum refrigerant refrigerant volume volume in order in to order to the the keep thefilling keep the filling level level of the of the

refrigerant as refrigerant low possible. as low possible.Micro-channel Micro-channel technology technology and plate and plate heat exchangers heat exchangers are are particularly suitable particularly suitabletechnologies technologiesfor forthe theheat heatexchangers. exchangers. In In addition, addition,the thecompactness of compactness of

the overall the overall system system and the avoidance and the avoidance ofof storage storage volumes, volumes,such suchasasfrequently frequentlyused used refrigerant collectors, refrigerant collectors,must be taken must be takeninto intoaccount. account.TheThe compressor compressor should should have ahave low a low refrigerantvolume refrigerant volumeandand a low a low filling filling level level of oil of oil in in order order to to further further reduce reduce the refrigerant the refrigerant mass mass

requiredfor required forthe theprocess. process. This This approach approach of refrigerant of refrigerant reduction reduction or minimization or minimization also also applies applies to all to allother othercomponents to be components to be used usedinin the the process processand andshould shouldideally ideallybebetaken takeninto intoaccount account whenselecting when selectingand andpositioning positioningthem. them.

Preferred embodiments Preferred embodiments of of thepresent the presentinvention inventionare areexplained explainedinindetail detail below with reference below with reference

to the to the accompanying drawings, accompanying drawings, in in which: which:

8

Fig. 11 Fig. showsananapparatus shows apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling a space a space to be to be temperature- temperature-

controlled according controlled to preferred according to preferred embodiments embodiments of of thepresent the present invention; invention;

Fig. 2a Fig. 2a Fig. 2a showsa asimple shows simpleprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit toto coola aspace; cool space;

Fig. 2b Fig. 2b showsa asimple shows simpleprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit toto heata aspace; heat space;

Fig. 33 Fig. showsananapparatus shows apparatusforfor temperature-controlling temperature-controlling witha aheat with heatexchanger exchanger coupled coupled

to the to the evaporator or condenser evaporator or ofthe condenser of theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit; circuit;

Fig. 4 Fig. 4 showsanan shows apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling according according to a preferred to a preferred

embodiment embodiment with with a thermosiphon a thermosiphon concept; concept;

Fig. 55 Fig. showsa apreferred shows preferredembodiment embodiment of the of the present present invention invention withwith the the thermosiphon thermosiphon

conceptforforrefrigeration; concept refrigeration;

Fig. 66 Fig. showsa afurther shows furtherembodiment embodiment of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling withwith

the thermosiphon the concept thermosiphon concept forheating; for heating;

Fig. 7 Fig. 7 shows shows aa a shows pump-supported pump-supported pump-supported thermosiphon thermosiphon thermosiphon implementation implementation implementation forfor refrigeration refrigeration for refrigeration or or or

heating, depending heating, depending ononthe thepump pump direction; direction;

Fig. 8a Fig. 8a Fig. 8a shows shows a schematic a schematic illustration illustration of a of a pump pump with anwith inneran inner stator; stator;

Fib Fib 8b 8b shows shows a schematic a schematic illustration illustration of a of a pump pump with anwith outeran outer stator; stator;

Fig. 9 Fig. 9 showsa apreferred shows preferredembodiment embodiment for apparatus for the the apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

with a with a pump-supported thermosiphon pump-supported thermosiphon concept concept for heating; for heating;

Fig. 10 Fig. 10 Fig. 10 showsa apump-supported shows pump-supported thermosiphon thermosiphon concept concept for refrigeration; for refrigeration;

Fig. 11 Fig. 11 showsa apump-supported shows pump-supported thermosiphon thermosiphon concept concept for heating; for heating;

Fig. 12 Fig. 12 shows ananimplementation shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

according according to to thethe present present invention invention with a with a ventilator ventilator in a vapor-carrying in a vapor-carrying part of part of theline the line arrangement arrangement for refrigeration; for refrigeration;

9

Fig. 13 Fig. 13 shows shows a schematic a schematic illustration illustration of the of the fluidically fluidically decoupled decoupled and thermally and thermally coupled coupled heat exchanger. heat exchanger.

Fig. 14 Fig. 14 showsa aschematic shows schematic implementation implementation of a of a heat heat exchanger exchanger separated separated from the from the actualevaporator actual evaporator or condenser or condenser with awith a (variable) (variable) liquidoflevel liquid level of secondary liquid liquid secondary fluid; fluid;

Fig. 15 Fig. 15 showsa aschematic shows schematic illustration of illustration of an an obliquely obliquely arranged temperature-controlling arranged temperature-controlling

elementwith element withchannels channelsforfora asecondary secondary fluidconnected fluid connected via via fins fins through through which which

air driven air byaablower driven by blowercancan flow. flow.

Fig. Fig. 16a 16a shows ananimplementation shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

according according to to thethe present present invention invention for refrigeration for refrigeration with a with plateaheat plate heat exchanger exchanger

as an as an integrated integrated element elementand andananair airregister register arranged arrangedperpendicularly; perpendicularly;

Fig. Fig. 16b 16b shows ananimplementation shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

accordingto according to the the present present invention invention for for heating heating with with an an integrated integrated element and aa element and

temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling elementperpendicularly perpendicularlyarranged arranged on aonsimilar a similar height height

and a and a pump; pump;

Fig. Fig.16c Fig. 16c shows shows 16c shows ananan implementation implementation implementation of apparatus ofofthe the the apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling fortemperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

accordingto according to the the present present invention invention for for cooling cooling with with an an integrated integrated element and aa element and

temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling elementperpendicularly perpendicularly arranged arranged on aon a similar similar height height

and a and a pump; pump;

Fig. Fig.17a Fig. 17a shows showsananan 17a shows implementation implementation implementation of apparatus ofofthe the the apparatus apparatusfor for temperature-controlling fortemperature-controlling temperature-controlling

accordingtotothe according thepresent present invention invention and and for refrigeration for refrigeration with with a plate a plate heat heat exchanger as exchanger as ananintegrated integrated element element and andanan airair register arranged register arranged

perpendicularly and perpendicularly andconfigured configuredinin an analternative alternative way; way;

Fig. Fig. 17b 17b showsananimplementation shows implementation of of thethe integrated integrated element element configured configured as aas a plate plate heatheat

exchanger; and exchanger; and exchanger; and

Fig. Fig.17c Fig. 17c shows shows 17c shows ananan implementation implementation implementation of apparatus ofofthe the the apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling fortemperature-controlling for temperature-controlling

10

as an as anintegrated integrated element elementof of Fig. Fig. 17b 17b andairanregister and an air register arranged arranged

perpendicularly and perpendicularly andconfigured configuredinin an analternative alternative way. way.

Fig. 1 shows Fig. 1 showsan an apparatus apparatus for temperature-controlling for temperature-controlling a space a space 5 to be 5temperature- to be temperature-

controlled with controlled with a a space limitation 20 space limitation 20 separating the space separating the space5 5totobebetemperature-controlled temperature-controlled from aasurrounding from surroundingarea. area. TheThe apparatus apparatus includes includes a primary a primary heatcircuit heat pump pump 6circuit with a6 with a evaporator4, evaporator 4, aa condenser condenser2, 2, a a compressor compressor 1, and 1, and an expansion an expansion element element 3, wherein 3, wherein the the primary heat primary heat pump pumpcircuit circuit comprises comprisesa anatural naturalprimary primaryworking workingfluid, fluid, wherein whereinthe the compressor1,1,the compressor theevaporator evaporator 4, 4, thethe condenser condenser 2, compressor 2, the the compressor 1 and 1 and the the expansion expansion

element33are element arearranged arrangedoutside outsideofofthe the space space5 5totobe betemperature-controlled. temperature-controlled.The Theapparatus apparatus accordingtoto the according theinvention inventionfurther further includes includesaasecondary secondary circuitthermally circuit thermallycoupled coupled to to andand

fluidically decoupled fluidically decoupled from the evaporator from the evaporator 44and andthe thecondenser condenser 2 via 2 via a heat a heat exchanger exchanger 7, 7, and comprising and comprisinga atemperature-controlling temperature-controllingelement element 14. 14. The The temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element

14 is arranged 14 is in the arranged in the space space5 5totobebetemperature-controlled temperature-controlled andand is connected is connected to heat to the the heat

exchanger 77 via exchanger via aa line line arrangement 15a and arrangement 15a and 15b. 15b. The Theline line arrangement arrangementcomprises comprisesa a secondaryfluid secondary fluid that that differs differs from from the the primary primary fluid. fluid.Furthermore, Furthermore, the the line linearrangement 15a arrangement 15a

and1515isisconfigured and configured to penetrate to penetrate the space the space limitation. limitation.

When When the the secondary secondary circuit circuit is is coupled coupled to to thethe evaporator evaporator 4 via 4 via thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 7, 7, the the

arrangementisisininthe arrangement therefrigerating refrigerating(or (orcooling) cooling)mode modeforfor thethe space space totemperature- to be be temperature- controlled. Temperature-controlling controlled. Temperature-controlling isis Temperature-controllng is then then then refrigerationand refrigeration refrigeration and and the the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling temperature-controlling

element1414functions element functionsasasa arefrigerating refrigerating element. element.In In contrast, contrast, when thesecondary when the secondary circuitisis circuit

coupledto coupled to the the condenser condenser2 2ofofthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit viaviathe theheat heatexchanger exchanger 7, 7, thethe

apparatusfor apparatus for temperature-controlling temperature-controllingisisused usedasas a heating a heating apparatus, apparatus, and and temperature- temperature-

controllingthe controlling thespace space 5 is 5 is heating, heating, wherein wherein the temperature-controlling the temperature-controlling element element 14 14 functions functions as aa heating as heating element. element.

Thus, the Thus, the heat heatexchanger exchanger 7 may 7 may comprise comprise the evaporator the evaporator or liquefier or liquefier as well as well as heat as the the heat exchanger1010illustrated exchanger illustrated in in the the various various drawings. drawings.The Thetemperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element 14 14

may consistofof the may consist the heat heatexchanger exchanger11 11 illustratedinin the illustrated the various various drawings drawingsorormay may comprise comprise

one or one or several several additional additional elements, suchas elements, such assensors sensorsororthe theblower blowerofofFig. Fig. 15. 15.

In In the the preferred preferred embodiment, embodiment, a acontroller controller 30 30isis provided providedso soasastotoswitch switchthe thecompressor compressor1 1

of the of primaryheat the primary heat pump pump circuit circuit in conveying in its its conveying direction, direction, i.e.a via i.e. via a control control signal signal 31, 31, so as so as

to switch to the primary switch the primaryheat heatpump pump circuitwith circuit withrespect respect to to thethe flow flow direction direction of of the the primary primary

workingfluid. working fluid.With Withthe the same same coupling coupling of theofsecondary the secondary circuit,circuit, this achieves this achieves that the that the function function

11

of the of secondary the secondary circuit circuit is changed is changed as i.e. as well, well,the i.e.secondary the secondary circuit circuit is in theis in the refrigeration refrigeration

mode mode or or in in thethe heating heating mode. mode. If the Ifsecondary the secondary circuit circuit is is normally normally in the refrigeration in the refrigeration mode, mode, the heating the heating mode mode isis used usedsosoasasto to achieve achievedefrosting defrosting of of the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element

14. However, 14. However, if if thethe secondary secondary circuit circuit is mainly is mainly inheating in the the heating mode, intermittent mode, intermittent refrigeration refrigeration

canbebeused can usedto to keep keep a certain a certain set temperature set temperature bandwidth. bandwidth. The initiative The initiative to output to theoutput controlthe control

signal 31 signal or the 31 or the control control signal signal 32 32 from fromthe thecontroller controller 30 30to to aapump pumpor or ventilatorelement ventilator element possibly arranged possibly arrangedininthe thesecondary secondary circuit,such circuit, suchasas the the element element 8, may 8, may originate originate fromfrom a a sensor, aaclock sensor, clockgenerator, generator,ororanan external external signal, signal, as as illustratedbyby illustrated thethe control control input input 33.33.

However, However, ifif the thecontroller controller is is configured configuredtotobebecontrolled controlledviavia a sensor a sensor input input or aor a clock clock

generator, the clock generator, the clock generator generator or or the the sensor sensor input input would wouldbebeconnected connectedto to thethe controlinput control input 33, or 33, or the the control controlinput input3333would would not not exist exist and and the initiative the initiative for for the the output output of control of the the control signal signal

31/32isisgenerated 31/32 generatedfromfrom the controller the controller 30. 30.

Switching the conveying Switching the conveyingdirection directionofof the the compressor compressor may may be achieved be achieved in several in several ways.ways. In In

one embodiment, one embodiment,thethe compressor compressor 1 has 1 has a conveyor a conveyor wheel.wheel. In case, In this this case, the compressor the compressor is is configured to configured to reverse reversea arotational rotational direction direction of of the the conveyor conveyorwheel wheel as as a response a response to to the the control signal control signal3131forforreversing reversing the the conveying conveying direction. direction.

In another embodiment, In another embodiment,the the compressor compressor includes includes a four-way a four-way valve. Invalve. In this this case, for case, for

reversing the conveying reversing the conveyingdirection, direction, the the compressor compressoris is configured configured to,to, as as a response a response to the to the

control signal control signal31, 31,e.g. e.g.onon thethe basis basis of refrigeration of the the refrigeration mode, mode, fluidically fluidically decouple decouple a suction a suction side of side of the the compressor compressor from from the the evaporator evaporator 4 and4fluidically and fluidically connect connect the to the same same the to the condenser2 2ororto condenser to fluidically fluidically decouple decoupleaapressure pressureside sideofof the compressor the compressor from from the the condenser condenser

2 and 2 andtotofluidically fluidically connect connectthethe same same toevaporator to the the evaporator 4. In 4. In this thisthe case, case, the that element element was that was

in the in the refrigeration refrigerationmode takes over mode takes over the the function function of of the the condenser condenser ininthe theheating heatingmode modeor or defrosting mode. defrosting mode.

Onthe On thebasis basis of of thethe defrosting defrosting mode, mode, for reversing for reversing the conveying the conveying direction,direction, a suction a suction side of side of the compressor the compressorisisfluidically fluidically decoupled fromthe decoupled from thecondenser condenser (which (which was was the evaporator the evaporator in in

the defrosting the defrosting mode) andthe mode) and thesame sameis is fluidically connected fluidically connected totothe theevaporator evaporator4 4(which (which was was

the condenser the condenser ininthe thedefrosting defrosting mode), mode),and anda apressure pressure side side of of thecompressor the compressor is fluidically is fluidically

decoupledfrom decoupled fromthe theevaporator evaporator4 4 (which (which waswas the the condenser condenser in the in the defrosting defrosting mode) mode) and and is is fluidically connected fluidically connected to tothe thecondenser condenser 2 2 (which (which was the evaporator was the evaporatorin in the the defrosting defrosting mode). mode).

As shown As shownininFig. Fig.1, 1, the the secondary secondarycircuit circuit may beprovided may be providedwith witha apump pump 8 so 8 so as as to to circulate circulate

the secondary the secondaryfluid fluid in in the the secondary secondarycircuit circuit and andin in particular particular in in the the line linearrangement 15a, arrangement 15a,

12

15b. Thesecondary 15b. The secondary fluid fluid maymay be abe a secondary secondary liquid liquid when when the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling

element element 1414functions functionsasas a heat a heat exchanger exchanger without without a change a change of phase. of phase. However,However, if the if the temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling element1414functions functionsasasa aheat heatexchanger exchanger with with a change a change of phase, of phase,

as illustrated as illustrated ininFigs. Figs.44 to to 12, 12, 15, 15, for forexample, example, aa part, part, such suchasasthe thepart part15a 15aof ofthethe line line

arrangement, arrangement, is the is the liquid-carrying liquid-carrying partpart and and the other the other part, part, such such as the as the part part 15b, is 15b, is the vapor- the vapor-

carryingpart carrying partofofthe theline linearrangement arrangement insecondary in the the secondary circuit.circuit.

Therefrigeration The refrigeration process 6, as process 6, as illustrated illustrated ininFig. 3, 3, Fig. when whenusing usingthe thedescribed described components components

andrefrigerants, and refrigerants,isisperformed performed according according to theto theprinciple same same principle as initially as initially described, described, with the with the

only difference only differencethat that thethe fillingquantity filling quantity is now is now significantly significantly reduced, reduced, the refrigerant the refrigerant cannot cannot reach the reach theinterior interior of of the structure, or the structure, or container, container, allowing a flammable allowing a flammablerefrigerant refrigerantwith witha a stronglydecreased strongly decreasedriskrisk toused to be be used for refrigeration for refrigeration and and heat heat generation. generation.

Thegenerated The generated cold cold and and heat heat of theofrefrigerant the refrigerant process process is subsequently is subsequently transported transported

indirectly via indirectly viaaa suitable suitableheat heat exchanger, suchasasa aplate exchanger, such plateheat heat exchanger exchanger 7, with 7, with a non- a non-

flammablesecure flammable secure working working medium, medium, a so-called a so-called secondary secondary fluid, fluid, into the into the refrigeration refrigeration

structure, refrigeration structure, refrigeration container, or space container, or spaceto to be cooled be cooled in general. in general. Therefore, Therefore, the the refrigeration system refrigeration system consists consists of a of a primary primary cycle cycle for for refrigeration refrigeration and a secondary and a secondary cycle for cycle for the transport the transportofofcold coldoror heat. heat.

This secondary This secondarycycle cycleforfordistributing distributing the thegenerated generated cold cold andand heatheat can can be carried be carried out out in in different ways. different ways.There There is the is the possibility possibility to use to use a brine a brine that that is conveyed is conveyed from a suitable from a suitable pump pump 8 and 8 therefore removes and therefore removesthe theheat heatfrom from the the space space to to be be cooled cooled or or introduces introduces thethe same same intointo

the space the spacetotobebeheated heated and and transports transports the same the same to the to the refrigerant-carrying refrigerant-carrying part part of theof the

machine, i.e. the machine, i.e. the primary primary cycle, cycle, without without aa change of phase change of in the phase in the secondary secondarycycle cycle9.9.

A further A further variation variationisis the use the ofof use a substance a substancethat is is that also conveyed also conveyedby bymeans means of of aa pump with pump with

a change a changeofofphase phase and and flows flows through through the the heatheat exchanger exchanger ofclosed of the the closed space space and in and thisin this wayremoves way removesthethe heat heat from from the the samesame or introduces or introduces the heat. the heat. In this In this case, case, the secondary the secondary

cycletransports cycle transportsthethe heat heat to the to the refrigerant-filled refrigerant-filled partpart of machine, of the the machine, i.e. i.e. the the primary primary cycle. cycle. Advantageously,the Advantageously, thechange changeof of phase phase is is a liquid-gaseous a liquid-gaseous change change of phase of phase so assotoasensure to ensure the ability the ability to to pump the pump the secondary secondary fluid.fluid. A change A change of phaseoffrom phase from solid solid in to liquid to the liquid inof form the form of a slurry, a slurry, i.e. i.e. aa mixture ofwatery mixture of wateryiceice andand glycol, glycol, is generally is generally not ruled not ruled out. out.

Forced-driven secondary Forced-driven secondary cycles, cycles, i.e.with i.e. withthe theuse useofofa apump, pump, have have the the disadvantage disadvantage that that

the pump the pumppossibly possibly needs needs energy energy for necessarily for necessarily overcoming overcoming theresistances the flow flow resistances of the of the

13

secondary secondary system. secondary system. system. AnAn An alternativethat alternative alternative thatdoes that does does notrequire not not requirethe require theuse the use use ofof of aa a pump pump pump is is the is the the design design design of of of the secondary the secondarycycle cycleasasa a thermosiphon thermosiphon cycle, cycle, shown shown in Fig. in Fig. 4. In4.this In this case, case, the the working working

medium medium isiscondensed medium is condensed condensed with with with a a change a change change of of phase of phase phase of of the of the the secondary secondary secondary cyclecycle cycle (the (the (the secondary secondary secondary fluid)fluid) fluid)

in the in the evaporator 10 of evaporator 10 of the the refrigerating refrigerating part part of ofthe themachine by introducing machine by introducing the the same sameinina a

vaporousform vaporous vaporous forminto form intothe into theupper the upper upper part10b part part 10b10b of of of thethe the heat heat heat exchanger exchanger exchanger (evaporator (evaporator (evaporator of theofprimary of the the primary primary

cycle) cycle) andby cycle) and and byby the the the same same same exiting exiting exiting in in the in the the lower lower lower region region region as as a as a liquid a liquid liquid 10a. 10a.by 10a. Now, Now, byNow, means by means of means of suitable of suitable suitable pipelines, pipelines, the pipelines, the liquid the working liquid liquid workingmedium working medium is guided medium is is guided into the guided into into the closed the closed space closed space to be space to to becooled, be cooled,where cooled, whereit where itit

flowsinto flows flows intoaaacooler into cooler cooler 11 11 11 into into into which which which it it entered it has has has entered entered in the in in the thepart lower lower lower part in partliquid in its its in itsform liquid liquid form 11a form 11a and and 11a and whichit which which itit exists existsin exists inthe in theupper the upper upper part part part in in in itsits its gaseous gaseous gaseous form form form 11b so11b 11b so as sobe as to to assubsequently be to be subsequently subsequently again again led led again led

to the to the heat exchanger1010 heat exchanger of of the the refrigeratingpart refrigerating partofof the themachine machine 7 in 7 in which which thethe working working

medium medium is isthen thenagain again condensed condensed and flows and flows back back to theto the cooler cooler in theinrefrigerating the refrigerating spacespace

solely solely via gravity, solely via via gravity, which gravity, whichleads which leads leads to to to leveling. leveling. leveling. This This This self-circulation self-circulation self-circulation has has has the the advantage the advantage advantage that it that that it does it does does not not require require a a pump witha acorresponding pump with corresponding energy energy consumption consumption andofrisk and risk of failure, failure, but but onlyonly

requires requires aaminimum numberof minimum number of components componentstotobe beused. used. The Thesecondary secondarycycle cycle has hasto to be be

designed designed suchthat, designed such such that,when that, whenoperating when operating operating thesystem, the the system, system, a a drivingpressure a driving driving pressure pressure differenceis difference difference isiscreated createdby created byby

geodetic geodetic height geodetic height height differences differences differences and/or and/or and/or by theby by the the thermosiphon thermosiphon thermosiphon effect. Ineffect. effect. In this In this this case, case, it case, it is is it is particularly particularly particularly

preferable if preferable if the the cooler coolerisisflooded floodedininthe therefrigeration case refrigeration casesince sincethis ensures this ensuresaamaximum maximum

use ofthe use of theair airside sideofofthe thecooler. cooler.

In In the the use use case in which case in heathas which heat hastotobe betransported transportedtotothe theclosed closedspace spaceor or theevaporator the evaporator is is to is tobe to bedefrosted, be defrosted,the defrosted, theprocess the process is process isreversed is reversed by reversed by now by now supplyingenergy now supplying supplying energyto energy totothe theheat the heatexchanger heat exchanger exchanger

10 andby 10 and byevaporating evaporatingthe theliquid liquid phase phaseofofthe thesecondary secondary fluid10a fluid 10aand andbybythe thesame same exiting exiting

the heat the heat exchanger as aa gaseous exchanger as gaseousphase phase10b 10b andand by by supplying supplying thethe same same to the to the heat heat

exchanger exchanger 1111 ininthe theclosed closedspace space viavia a suitable a suitable pipeline.TheThe pipeline. refrigerantenters refrigerant enters thethe heat heat

exchanger exchanger ininthe exchanger in theclosed the closedspace closed space11 space 1111 asas as vapor vapor vapor 11,11, 11, is is is thencondensed, then then condensed, condensed, dissipates dissipates dissipates itsits its heat,and heat, heat, andand flows in flows in its its liquid liquid form form 11a backout 11a back outof ofthethe heat heat exchanger exchanger into into the refrigerating the refrigerating heat heat

exchanger 10 exchanger 10ofofthe themachine, machine,where where the the evaporation evaporation process process starts starts again. again. When When

transportingheat transporting heat into into thethe closed closed space, space, this process this process is also out is also carried carried out exclusively exclusively on the on the basis of the basis of the geodetic height difference geodetic height difference of of the the liquid liquid phase in the phase in the two heat exchangers two heat exchangersby by

alwayshaving always havingaalevel level equalization equalization in in both both components due components due to to gravity. gravity.

When When being being designed designed accordingly, accordingly, each each of of thethe described described methods methods alsoalso enables enables the the reversal reversal

of the of the cycle, cycle, so so that that the the heat heat exchanger 11ofof Fig. exchanger 11 Fig. 44 in in the the closed space5 5isisable closed space ableto to both both carry out carry out defrosting defrosting and andheating. heating.Depending Depending on the on the use use of space of the the space to be to be cooled, cooled, this this

processcan process canoccur occurseveral severaltimes timesa aday dayand and there there isisa arequirement requirementto to bebe abletotoquickly able quicklyand and reliably reliably carryout reliably carry carry outdefrosting. out defrosting. defrosting. TheThe The defrosting defrosting defrosting process process process is is realized is realized realized by by the by the refrigerating the refrigerating refrigerating part part of of part of

14

the machine, the machine, thethe primary primary cycle, cycle, no longer no longer operating operating as a refrigeration as a refrigeration system, system, but but switching switching into the into heat pump the heat pump mode mode or heating or the the heating gas as gas mode, mode, as illustrated illustrated in Fig. in 5. Fig. Thus,5.asThus, as described, in described, in the the heat heat pump mode,the pump mode, thecondenser condenserbecomes becomes the the evaporator evaporator and and the the evaporator becomes evaporator thecondenser. becomes the condenser.InInthe theheating heating gas gasmode, mode,thethe condenser condenser of of thethe

refrigerant cycle refrigerant cycledoes does no no longer longer experience experience aa flow flow through the same through the andthe same and theheat heatisis instead instead dissipatedininthethe dissipated evaporator. evaporator. Thus,Thus, there there is the is the possibility possibility that thethat the refrigerating refrigerating unit unit of the of the machinetransports machine transportsheat heattotothe thesecondary secondary cycle cycle and and that that the the same same transports transports the the heat heat into into

the refrigerating the refrigerating container, container, and andtherefore thereforemakes makes it possible it possible thatthat the the cooler cooler 11 in11 thein the refrigeration container refrigeration container isis also also heated heated and and makesmakes it possible it possible to quickly to quickly and efficiently and efficiently defrost defrost

the cooler the cooler in in the the container. container. The The same alsoapplies same also appliesfor for the the continuous continuousheating heatingoperation operationofof the container, the container,ififthe theexternal external temperature temperature is below is below the target the target temperature temperature in the container. in the container.

Thecondenser The condenser of refrigerating of the the refrigerating part part ofmachine, of the the machine, as well as wellheat as the as the heat exchanger exchanger in the in the closed space, closed space,ororof of the the container, container, are are usually usually operated operatedwith withaaforce force convection convectiongenerated generated

by an by anappropriate appropriate blower blower onair on the theside. air side. Similar Similar to theto the refrigerating refrigerating part ofpart the of the machine, machine, the the primarycycle, primary cycle,with with respect respect to the to the secondary secondary cycle cycle it it should should be also be also taken intotaken into account account that that the filling the filling quantities quantities of of the workingmedium the working medium are at are kept kept at a minimum a minimum and that aand thatthat cooler a cooler not that not only has only has aasmall smallinner innervolume volume butalso but also a a small small thermal thermal mass mass is used is used sotoasbetoable so as be able to to carry out carry outthe thedefrosting defrosting process process as quickly as quickly and therefore and therefore energy-efficient energy-efficient as possible. as possible. Thus, Thus,

all heat all exchangers heat exchangers withwith a low a low refrigerant refrigerant filling filling quantity quantity and aand a minimum minimum use ofcan use of material material can be used be usedfor for the the heat heatexchanger exchanger11 11 in in thethe closed closed space, space, e.g.e.g. micro-channel micro-channel technologies, technologies,

whichparticularly which particularly correspond tothe correspond to therequirements. requirements.Other Other structures,such structures, such as as finned finned heatheat

exchangerscancan exchangers be be also also usedused as anasalternative. an alternative. Both Both heat exchanger heat exchanger types types are are ideally ideally operatedin operated in aa flooded flooded manner. manner.

Due to the Due to the omission omissionofof pumps pumps through through thethe useuse of of thermosiphon thermosiphon solutions solutions and and the resulting the resulting

energetic advantages energetic advantagesasaswell wellasasthe thedecrease decrease of of complexity complexity of of thethe system, system, suchsuch solutions solutions

haveparticular have particular advantages advantagescompared compared to the to the initiallydescribed initially describedprior priorart art and andare aretherefore therefore preferredininthe preferred thefield fieldof of compact compact systems systems with spatial with spatial distances distances of preferably of preferably up to 10up to 10 meters meters

andrefrigerating and refrigeratingororheating heating capacities capacities of below of below 50 kW 50 kW and and particularly particularly preferablypreferably of up to 2 of up to 2 metersbetween meters between thetwo the two heat heat exchangers exchangers 10 and 10 and 11 with 11 and and with low refrigerating low refrigerating and and heating heating

capacities of capacities of below 10 kW. below 10 kW.

If, If,in inaa use caseconsidered, use case considered, it not it is is not necessary necessary that that the the refrigerating refrigerating machine machine can also becan also be

used to used to heat heat the theclosed closedspace, space,ififrequired, required, it it is is advantageous advantageous ininany anycase caseto to arrange arrange thethe

heat exchanger heat exchanger1111ininthe theclosed closedspace space 5 geodeticallybelow 5 geodetically below thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 10, 10, where where

15

the refrigerant the refrigerantflows flowsthrough through the the same, same, with reference with reference to Fig. to 5. Fig. 5. In In this thishowcase, case, much how the much the heat exchanger heat exchangerininthe theclosed closedspace space1111 is is positionedbelow positioned below thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 10 through 10 through

whichthe which the refrigerant refrigerant flows flows is irrelevant. is irrelevant. Arranging Arranging theexchangers the heat heat exchangers in relationin torelation each to each other ensures other ensuresthe theheat heatexchanger exchangerin in the the closed closed space space 11fully 11 is is fully filled with filled with the the secondary secondary

fluid 11a fluid in each 11a in eachoperating operating point, point, while while the the heatheat exchangers exchangers 10 through 10 through which the which the refrigerant refrigerant

flows is flows is available available for forcondensation of the condensation of the vaporous vaporousrefrigerant refrigerant10a 10awith withits itsentire entire surface surface area, with area, with said said refrigerant refrigerantbeing being conveyed to the conveyed to the same samefrom from thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 11the 11 in in the enclosedspace enclosed space5.5.

In In case that only case that only heat heathas hastotobebeintroduced introduced into into thethe closed closed space, space, withwith thisthis casecase being being

illustrated in illustrated in Fig. 6, it Fig. 6, it isisadvantageous if the advantageous if the heat heat exchanger exchanger 11 arranged 11 arranged in the in the space 5 isspace 5 is located located geodetically geodetically above the heat above the heat exchanger 10through exchanger 10 throughwhich which the the refrigerantflows. refrigerant flows. Here, Here, it isisrelevant it relevant how thedifference how the differencein in thethe geodetic geodetic height height is actually is actually selected selected in the in the application. application.

In In any any case, case, it itisis ensured ensuredthat thatthe energy the energysupplied suppliedtotothe heat the exchanger heat exchanger 10 10 evaporates the evaporates the

secondaryfluid, secondary fluid, the the vapor vapor 11b subsequentlyflows 11b subsequently flowsinto intothe the heat heat exchanger exchanger1111 inin theclosed the closed space5,5,and space and dissipates dissipates there there its previously its previously captured captured heat toheat to theduring the space spacecondensation. during condensation. After the After the heat heat dissipation, dissipation, driven driven by by gravity, gravity,the thecondense secondaryfluid condense secondary fluid 11a 11aflows flowsback back through the through theheat heatexchanger exchanger 10 through 10 through which which the refrigerant the refrigerant flows flows so that so that beit it can can be evaporatedthere evaporated thereagain againbybyheat heatsupply. supply.

In certain installation In certain installation situations situations and operatingconditions and operating conditions of of thethe arrangement arrangement of the of the

components,illustrated components, illustrated in in Fig. Fig. 4, 4, there there may possiblybebeananimpairment may possibly impairment of of thethe transferred transferred

powerinto power into the the closed closed space space5.5.For Forexample, example, thismay this maybe be duedue to the to the constructive constructive limitation limitation

of possibilities of possibilitiesofofthe thehorizontal horizontal arrangement in relation arrangement in relation to to each eachother, other,due due to to possible possible

limitations of the limitations of theinstallation installationheight heightof ofthethe heat heat exchangers exchangers 10 11, 10 and/or and/or 11, or due to or due to holistic holistic

constructive limitations constructive limitations which, which, e.g., e.g.,are arethe thereason reason that that the the connection lines between connection lines betweenthe the two heat two heat exchangers exchangers1010 and and 11 11 cannot cannot be be sufficientlydimensioned sufficiently dimensionedto to ensure ensure a flow a flow with with as as

little pressure little loss asaspossible. pressure loss possible.

Thesecases These cases use use thethe solution solution illustratedinin Fig. illustrated Fig. 7, 7, in in which which aa pump pump 8 isa aremedy 8 is remedy for for thethe

above-described above-described drawbacks. drawbacks. In thisIn this it case, case, it is essential is essential thatpump, that this thisin pump, in contrast contrast to pumps to pumps that are that are used conventionally,does used conventionally, doesnot nothave have to to have have a particular a particular conveying conveying stroke stroke in in the the senseofof aalarge sense largeconveying conveying height,butbutthat height, thatitit only only supports supportsthe theself-compensation self-compensationof of thethe

liquid levels liquid levelsin in thetheheat exchangers heat exchangers10 10 and and 11, 11, which is given which is given in in any case by any case by the the

thermosiphoneffect thermosiphon effectdescribed. described. Desirably, Desirably, support support of the of the autonomous autonomous flow isflow done is by done by reversalofofthe reversal therotational rotationaldirection directionofofthe therotor rotor1313 andand for for example example or particularly or particularly by switching by switching

16

the polarity the polarityofofthe thestator stator120120 in in both both flowflow directions directions of theofsecondary the secondary fluid so fluid so heat that the that the heat exchanger1111located exchanger locatedinin the the closed closed space spacecan canbebecooled cooledand and heated heated forfor theabove the above described described

reasons. reasons.

Fig. 8 illustrates Fig. 8 illustrates two conceptual two conceptual construction construction possibilities possibilities for such for such a pump a8.pump 8. shows Fig. 8a Fig. 8a shows the variation the variationininwhich whichthethe rotor rotor 13 and 13 and the stator the stator 120 of120 the of thedriving motor motor the driving the propeller propeller 140 140 are located are located in in the the pipeline pipeline and andtherefore thereforeininthe thesecondary secondary fluid.InInthis fluid. this construction, construction, the the electric energy electric driving the energy driving the motor maybebe motor may guided guided through through the the pipepipe leading leading the secondary the secondary

fluid, which fluid, which may be ensured may be ensuredbybya acomponent component 15 that 15 that simultaneously simultaneously positions positions the the motor motor in in

the pipe. the pipe.

Fig. 8bshows Fig. 8b showsthethe variation variation of the of the pumppump in which in which the 120 the stator stator 120pump of the of the pump motor motor is located is located

in the in the atmosphere outsideofofthe atmosphere outside thepipe pipethrough through which which the the secondary secondary fluidfluid flows, flows, while while the the

rotor 13 rotor 13driving drivingthe thepropeller propeller 140 140 via via a shaft a shaft is located is located in fluid in the the fluid flowflow within within the pipe. the pipe. In In this this

construction,ititisis not construction, notnecessary necessary to guide to guide the electric the electric energyenergy to generate to generate thefield the magnetic magnetic field through the through thestator stator 120. 120. This Thisconstruction constructionalso alsomakes makesit it possible possible toto reverse reverse thethe rotational rotational

direction of direction of the the propeller propeller 140 andtherefore 140 and thereforethe theflow flowdirection directionofofthe thesecondary secondary fluid fluid by by

reversingthe reversing thepolarity polarity at at the the stator stator or or by by any any otherother suitable suitable measure. measure.

In Fig. 7, In Fig. 7, in in the the arrangement arrangement of heat of the the heat exchangers exchangers 10 and 1110 as and 11 as in illustrated illustrated in Fig. 4, the Fig. 4, the

resulting height resulting heightdifference difference of of thethe liquid liquid levels levels 10a 10a andof11a and 11a the of the secondary secondary fluid fluid in the twoin the two heat exchangers heat exchangers1010and and 1111 is is illustrated when illustrated sucha apump when such pumpis is used. used. It Itcan canbebeseen seen thatthe that the heat exchanger heat exchanger11 11 in the in the closed closed space space 5 has 5a has a higher higher liquid 11a liquid level level 11a than thethan heatthe heat exchanger1010connected exchanger connected to the to the refrigerant.This refrigerant. Thismakes makesit it possibletotoapply possible applyrefrigerant refrigerantto to aa

larger surface larger surface area area of of the the heat heat exchanger 11inin the exchanger 11 the closed closedspace space5,5,while whileatat the the same sametime time having available having available aa larger larger surface surface area area10b 10bfor forcondensing condensingthethe secondary secondary fluid fluid in in thethe heat heat

exchanger10, exchanger 10,increasing increasingthe thetransferred transferredenergy energyofofthe thetwo twoheat heatexchangers. exchangers.

Thepossibility The possibility to to reverse reverse the the conveying direction of conveying direction of the the pump pump byby changing changing thethe pole pole of of itsits

motor results motor results in in the the use use case of heating case of heating the the heat heat exchanger 11totoheat exchanger 11 heatthe theclosed closedspace space5,5,

illustrated in illustrated in Fig. Fig. 9, 9, or ortotocarry carryoutout defrosting defrosting in the in the case case of theof theexchanger heat heat exchanger 11 being 11 being frozen.InInthis frozen. this case, case,the thepump pump sucks sucks the liquid the liquid secondary secondary fluid fluid 11a out11a outheat of the of the heat exchanger exchanger

11 in the 11 in the closed closed space space 5 5 and conveysthe and conveys thesame same intothe into therefrigerant-carrying refrigerant-carrying heat exchanger heat exchanger

11, whichisiswhy 11, which whythethe liquid liquid phase phase of the of the secondary secondary fluid fluid 10a in10a thisinheat thisexchanger heat exchanger

comprises comprises a higher a higher liquid liquid level level than than in the in the heatheat exchanger exchanger 11.there 11. Thus, Thus, is there is a a larger larger surface surface area available area available in in the the heat heat exchanger 10for exchanger 10 for evaporation evaporationofofthe thesecondary secondary fluid,while fluid, while there there

17

is aa larger is larger surface area 11b surface area 11bfor forcondensation condensationin in thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 11, increasing 11, increasing the the capacity of capacity of the the two two heat heat exchangers. exchangers.

Finally, Fig. 10 Finally, Fig. 10and andFig. Fig.1111 show show the uses the uses cases cases that thatifresult result if an orientation an orientation of heat of the two the two heat

exchangers1010 exchangers andand 11 the 11 on on same the same geodetic geodetic height height is not is not possible possible due to due to constructive constructive

circumstances. circumstances. Fig.Fig. 10 illustrates 10 illustrates the the case case in which in which the refrigerant-carrying the refrigerant-carrying heat exchanger heat exchanger

10 is located 10 is located below the heat below the heat exchanger exchanger1111located locatedininthe theclosed closedspace space5.5.The The pump pump is able is able

to lift to lift the theliquid liquidlevel level of of the the secondary fluid11a11a secondary fluid to such to such an extent an extent that itthat it is above is above the the liquid liquid level 10a level in the 10a in refrigerant-carrying heat the refrigerant-carrying heat exchanger. Thus,despite exchanger. Thus, despitethe thepossibilities possibilities being being

impaired due impaired due toto constructive constructive circumstances, circumstances, the the function function of of the the heat heat exchange exchangeisis maintained. maintained.

Fig. Fig. 11 showsthethe 11 shows case case in which in which the the refrigerant-carrying refrigerant-carrying heatheat exchanger exchanger 10 is located 10 is located

geodetically above geodetically the heat above the heat exchanger exchanger1111 ininthe theclosed closedspace space5.5.InInthis this use use case, case, the the pump pump

is also is responsible also responsible forfor thethe liquid liquid level level 10a 10a of secondary of the the secondary fluid influid in the refrigerant-carrying the refrigerant-carrying

heat exchanger heat exchanger1010being being above above thethe liquidlevel liquid level11a 11aofofthe theheat heatexchanger exchanger11 11 in in thethe closed closed

space5.5. space

Alternativelytotothe Alternatively thecases cases illustrated illustrated in Figs. in Figs. 7-11, 7-11, in which in which a pump a ispump used toissupport used tothesupport the

flow of flow of the the secondary secondary fluid, fluid, it itis isalso alsopossible possibletoto introduce introduce intointo thethe lineline a conveying a conveying apparatus apparatus

12 throughwhich 12 through which the the vapor vapor phasephase of the of the secondary secondary fluid fluid flows flows exclusively. exclusively. The configuration The configuration

of the of the component supporting component supporting thethe vaporous vaporous phase phase of secondary of the the secondary fluid fluid in its in its natural natural flow flow

directioncorresponds direction corresponds in principle in principle to configuration to the the configuration of the of the pump 8, pump 8, illustrated illustrated in in Figs. 7- Figs. 7- 11, with the 11, with the difference difference that that the the conveying conveyingmeans means 12 be 12 may may be optimized optimized for the for flowthe of flow of

vaporousfluids, vaporous fluids, e.g., e.g., by by the theconveying conveying element element having having a geometry a geometry that isthat is particularly particularly

suitable to suitable toconvey vapors. convey vapors.

In In the the case case illustrated illustratedin in Fig. 12,12, Fig. thethe conveying means conveying means12 12 conveys the vaporous conveys the phase vaporous phase 11b 11b

out of out of the the heat heat exchanger 11ininthe exchanger 11 theclosed closedspace space 5 towards 5 towards thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 10 where 10 where

the secondary the secondaryfluid fluidininits its vaporous vaporousform form 10b10b thenthen displaces displaces the liquid the liquid phasephase 10a 10a and and therefore is therefore is responsible for the responsible for the geodetic geodeticheight heightdifference differencebetween betweenthethe fluid fluid in in the the heat heat

exchanger1010 exchanger andand the the heatheat exchanger exchanger 11 illustrated 11 illustrated in 12. in Fig. Fig.The 12.application The application of the of the illustrated conveying illustrated conveying means means 12 illustrated 12 illustrated in Fig.in12Fig. 12 corresponds corresponds to the caseto the caseinillustrated illustrated in Fig. Fig. 7; 7; however, it can however, it also be can also befully fully applied to the applied to use cases the use casesillustrated illustrated in in Figs. Figs. 9-11 by 9-11 by

replacing the replacing the pump pump8 8with withthe theconveying conveying unit unit 12 12 andand by then by then supporting supporting the the circulation circulation of of the secondary the secondary fluid fluid in in thethe respectively respectively illustrated illustrated direction. direction.

18

Fig. Fig. 13 13 shows shows aaschematic schematic arrangement arrangement of the of the heat heat exchanger exchanger for coupling for coupling the secondary the secondary

circuit and circuit theprimary and the primary heat heat pumppump circuit. circuit. In particular, In particular, the channel the channel for the for the working primary primary working fluid arriving fluid arrivingfrom fromthe theexpansion expansion element element 33 and andindicated indicatedwith with14a 14aand andthe thechannel channel forfor the the the

primary heat primary heat pump pump fluidexiting fluid exiting the the heat heat exchanger exchanger7 7and and indicated indicated with with 14b 14b enter enter intothe into the heat exchanger, heat exchanger,wherein whereinthis thischannel channelisisconnected connectedto to thecompressor the compressor 1. 1.

Simultaneously, Simultaneously, the the first first part part 15a 15a of line of the the line arrangement arrangement is illustrated is illustrated as itinto as it enters enters the into the

heat exchanger7,7,wherein heat exchanger wherein thethe second second partpart of the of the line line arrangement arrangement 15b entering 15b entering into into the the

heatexchanger heat exchanger7 is 7illustrated is illustrated as well. as well. 22 in 22 Fig.in13 Fig. 13 indicates indicates the effective the effective zone zone in which in which the thermal the transfer from thermal transfer the primary from the heat pump primary heat pump circuit to circuit to the the secondary secondaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit

takesplace. takes place.InInparticular, particular,thethe twotwo cycles cycles are thermally are thermally coupledcoupled but fluidically but fluidically decoupleddecoupled so so so that aa highly that highly efficient efficientnatural naturalrefrigerant, e.g.e.g. refrigerant, made madeofof hydrocarbons, hydrocarbons, may beused may be usedininthe the primary heat primary heat pump pump circuit,while circuit, whilea asecondary secondary fluidhaving fluid having no no risk risk of of flammabilitymaymay flammability be be

usedwithin used withinthethe space space limitation limitation 20. 20.

Even thoughFig. Even though Fig.1 1exemplarily exemplarilyshows shows that that thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger is arranged is arranged fully fully outside outside of of

the space the space55and andthe theactual actuallines lines of of the the secondary secondarycircuit circuit penetrate penetratethe thespace spacelimitation limitation 20 20 outside of outside of the the heat heatexchanger, exchanger,thethe arrangement arrangement of heat of the the heat exchanger exchanger 7 may 7 may also be also be

configured to configured to be “embedded” be "embedded" intothe into thespace space limitation20 limitation 20sosothat that the the supply supply or or discharge dischargeto to the effective the effectiveregion region2222 already already arranged arranged within within thelimitation the outer outer limitation of the of the heat heat exchanger exchanger 7 7 functionsasasthethe functions line line arrangement arrangement penetrating penetrating the the space space limitation. limitation. This is in This is indicated indicated Fig. in Fig. Fig.

13 by the 13 by the dotted dotted line line 20a or 20b 20a or arrangedwithin 20b arranged withinthe theouter outer limitation limitation ofofthe theheat heatexchanger exchanger

7 and 7 and being beingpenetrated penetratedbybythe theline line arrangement arrangement 15a 15a andand 15b15b within within thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 7. 7.

Fig. Fig. 14 showsa preferred 14 shows a preferred embodiment embodiment of theofapparatus the apparatus for temperature-controlling, for temperature-controlling, in in particular with particular withrespect respectto to a special a special implementation implementation of the of the heat heat exchanger. exchanger. In particular, In particular, the the heat exchanger heat exchanger7,7,which whichmay may be be configured configured as aasplate a plate heat heat exchanger exchanger or braze or braze plateplate heat heat

exchanger, exchanger, is is configured configured by a by a mutual mutual element element illustrated illustrated at 10 and at 10 and uniting the uniting the functionality functionality

of the of the heat heat exchanger andthe exchanger and thecondenser condenser 2 or 2 or thethe evaporator evaporator 4. In 4. In an an implementation implementation thatthat

is an is an alternative alternativetotothe theone oneaccording according to to Fig. Fig.14, 14,heat heatexchangers 10 may exchangers 10 maybebeconnected connected in in front of front of the evaporatorororcondenser, the evaporator condenser, i.e.i.e. they they maymay be implemented be implemented by two by two separate separate elements.Alternatively, elements. Alternatively, the the sequence sequenceof of thethe two two elements elements of exchanger of heat heat exchanger 10 and 10 and evaporator/condenser evaporator/condenser 4 4 oror 2 2may maybe be reversed reversed so that so that thethe output output liquid liquid ofofthe theevaporator evaporatorisis

fed into fed into the theheat heat exchanger. exchanger.

19

However, However, itit is is preferred preferred to to integrate integrate both both functionalities functionalitiesinto one into oneelement element 10. 10. The primary The primary

workingfluid working fluid flows flows in in the the channels 40 illustrated channels 40 illustrated ininFig. Fig.14, 14,which whichare arefed fedby byan an expander expander

41and 41 andareare united united back back into into the line the line 14b 14b by by a collector a collector 42, and42, theand thefluid second second fluid flows via flows the via the connections15a connections 15aand and 15b. 15b. In In the the case case of of thethe heat heat exchanger exchanger functioning functioning as evaporator as an an evaporator

4, hot 4, hot vapor vaporisis fed fedinto into the theheat heatexchanger exchanger 10 the 10 via via line the line 15b the 15b from fromspace the to space be to be temperature-controlled. This temperature-controlled. Thisleads leadstotothe theprimary primaryworking working fluidbeing fluid beingevaporated evaporated after after itsits

entry into entry into the the channels channels 40 andthe 40 and thevapor vaporbeing beingcollected collectedbybythe thecollector collector 42 42and andthe thesame same being sucked being suckedinin by by the the compressor compressor1.1.The The secondary secondary vapor vapor supplied supplied by the by the connection connection 15b 15b condensesonon condenses the the outsideofofthe outside thechannels channels4040 due due to to the the evaporator, evaporator, and and drips drips intothe into thearea area

with the with the variable variable liquid liquid level. level. Refrigerated liquid is Refrigerated liquid is then broughtinto then brought intothe thetemperature- temperature- controllingelement controlling elementof of Fig. Fig. 15 15 via via the the connection connection 15a by15a byofmeans means of the the siphon siphonorprinciple principle by or by meansofofa apump, means pump,so so as as to to coolthe cool thespace spaceto to bebe temperature-controlled. temperature-controlled.

In In the reversecase, the reverse case,i.e. i.e. if if the the room roomtotobebe temperature-controlled temperature-controlled is be is to to heated, be heated, the the

exchangeracts exchanger actsasasa condenser a condenser for for the the primary primary working working fluid. fluid. In this In this case, case, vaporous vaporous and and compressed compressed warm warm primary primary working working fluids fluids flows flows intointo thethe channels channels 40, 40, which which are located are located as as far in far in the coolliquid the cool liquidsecondary secondary fluid fluid as possible, as possible, viaelement via the the element 42,nowwhich 42, which now acts as an acts as an expander.Through expander. Through this,the this, theprimary primaryworking workingfluid fluid condenses condenseson on thethe inside inside ofof thechannels the channels 40 and 40 andleaves leavesthe theheat heatexchanger exchanger10 10 as aasliquid a liquid viavia the the element element 41,41, which which now now acts acts as a as a

collector. Through collector. Through this, this,the thesecondary secondary fluid fluidevaporates evaporates in inthe theheat heatexchanger exchanger 10, 10, and vapor and vapor

flows across flows throughthe across through the connection connection15b 15binto intothe thetemperature-controlling temperature-controllingelement element11, 11,1414soso as to as to heat heat the thespace. space.Through Through this, this, thethe secondary secondary fluidfluid condenses condenses in theintemperature- the temperature- controlling element controlling andreturns element and returnsinto intothetheheat heat exchanger exchanger as a as a liquid liquid due due to thetosiphon the siphon principle or principle orvia viaa apump pump so so as as to to be be evaporated again. evaporated again.

Fig. Fig. 14 showsthe 14 shows theheat heatexchanger exchanger 10 such 10 such that that it comprises it comprises a variable a variable liquid liquid level level which which

covers part covers part of of the the effective effective heat exchangervolume heat exchanger volume andand leaves leaves blank blank another another partthein part in the embodiment embodiment shownshown in Fig.in14. Fig. 14.will This This will correspond correspond toof to the case the case Fig. of Fig. 4, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 5, Fig. 7, Fig. 7, Fig. 9, Fig. 9, 10, Fig. Fig. 10, Fig. 11, 11,Fig. Fig.12, 12,ininwhich whichthethe heat heat exchanger exchanger 10 fully 10 is not is notflooded. fully flooded. In particular, In particular,

the heat the heat exchanger exchangerisisconfigured configuredsuch such that,separate that, separate from from thethe liquidlevel, liquid level,the thelower lowerarea area 10a is full 10a is full of of secondary liquid,while secondary liquid, while thethe upper upper area area 10b 10b is is a vapor a vapor space space in which in which vaporous vaporous

secondary secondary fluid fluid is is arranged. arranged. At same At the the time, samethe time, the first first part 15apart 15aline of the of the line arrangement arrangement is is the liquid-carrying the liquid-carrying part, part,while while the the second part 15b second part 15bofofthe theline line arrangement arrangementis is thethe vapor- vapor-

carrying part. carrying part. Thus, it is Thus, it is preferred preferred that that the the diameter of the diameter of thesecond second linearrangement line arrangement is is

significantly larger significantly largerthan than the the diameter of the diameter of the first first part part so so that that the the vapor canflow vapor can flowout outasas efficiently asaspossible efficiently possibleand andhas has enough space. enough space.

20

In In addition, addition,the theheat heatexchanger 10 is exchanger 10 is shown asaavolumetric shown as volumetricmicro-channel micro-channel heat heat exchanger exchanger

in which in theexpansion which the expansion element element or collection or collection element element 41 couples 41 couples the linethe 14aline 14a to the to the individual channels individual of the channels of themicro-channel micro-channel heat heat exchanger, exchanger, whilewhile a collection a collection element element or or

expansionelement expansion element42 42 is is collectingorordistributing collecting distributingthe theliquid liquid (in (in the the case of two case of twoseparate separate elements) elements) or or vaporous vaporous (in the (in the case case of theofintegrated the integrated elementelement and the refrigerating and the refrigerating operation) operation)

primary fluid primary fluid on on the theoutput outputside, side,and andonly onlysupplies suppliesthe thesame same to tothe theevaporator evaporator or orcondenser condenser

in the in the case of the case of the separate implementation.Even separate implementation. Even though though this this is is notshown not shown in Fig. in Fig. 14,14, fins fins

maybebearranged may arranged between between the the micro-channels micro-channels so asso toas to provide provide for afor a better better heatheat exchange, exchange,

whichare which arepreferably preferablyperforated perforatedsosothat thatbubbles bubblesmay may rise rise in in theelement the element 10 10 or drops or drops may may

fall from fall top to from top to bottom bottomin in the the element element 10. 10.

In In the the apparatus accordingtotoanan apparatus according embodiment, embodiment, the evaporator the evaporator 4 orliquefier 4 or the the liquefier 2 of 2the of the primary heat primary heat pump pump circuitis circuit is configured configured so so as asto to be beintegrated integrated into into the the heat exchanger10. heat exchanger 10.

For example,with For example, withrespect respecttotoFig. Fig.14, 14,the theheat heatexchanger exchanger10 10 comprises comprises a first a first connection connection

portion, e.g. portion, e.g. the thecollector collectorororexpander expander 41 the 41 for for primary the primary working working fluid, afluid, a second second connection connection

portion, e.g. portion, e.g.the thecollector collectoror or expander expander 42 for42 thefor the primary primary working working fluid; fluid;connection a third a third connection portion15a portion 15aforforthe the secondary secondary fluid; fluid; a fourth a fourth connection connection portion portion 15b for 15b for the secondary the secondary fluid, fluid, and aa channel and channelportion portion40 40extending extendingbetween between thethe firstconnection first connection portion4141for portion forthe theprimary primary

workingfluid working fluidand andthethe second second connection connection portion portion 42primary 42 for the for theworking primary working fluid. fluid.

Furthermore, aninteraction Furthermore, an interaction region region 43 43extending extendingbetween between thethe third third connection connection portion portion 15a15a

for the for the secondary fluid and secondary fluid andthe thefourth fourthconnection connection portion portion 15b15b for for the the secondary secondary fluidfluid is is provided. The provided. Thechannel channel portion4040 portion isisarranged arrangedinin thesame, the same, wherein wherein thethe channel channel portion portion 40 40

is thermally is thermally coupled coupledto tothethe interaction interaction region region 43 fluidically 43 and and fluidically decoupled decoupled from from the the interactionregion interaction region43.43.

Condensationandand Condensation evaporation evaporation of the of the primary primary circuit circuit takes takes placeplace in channel in the the channel portion portion

within the within theinteraction interactionspace. space. Furthermore, Furthermore, due todue to condensation condensation or evaporation or evaporation in the primary in the primary

circuit in circuit in the the interaction region,there interaction region, thereisis evaporation evaporation or condensation or condensation of the primary of the primary fluid on fluid on the outside the outsideatatthethe channel channel portion. portion. Preferably, Preferably, the interaction the interaction region isregion is the the volume volume limited limited by aawall by wallhand hand having having the variable the variable liquidliquid level.level.

Fig. Fig. 15 15 shows shows aa preferred preferred implementation of the implementation of the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element elementconfigured configured

as aa secondary as secondaryfluid-air fluid-air heat exchanger,wherein heat exchanger, wherein thisheat this heatexchanger exchanger is again is again configured configured

as aa schematic as micro-channel schematic micro-channel heat heat exchanger. exchanger. Channels Channels for the for the secondary secondary fluidfluid connected connected

21 21

by fins by fins are are shown hereagain. shown here again. Furthermore, Furthermore,a ablower blower3535 arranged arranged in in the the space space andand blowing blowing

air present air present ininthe thespace space through through the temperature-controlling the temperature-controlling element element 14 14 is illustrated is illustrated above above the temperature-controlling the temperature-controllingelement. element. Furthermore, Furthermore, Fig.Fig. 15 shows 15 shows the optional the optional oblique oblique

arrangement,i.e. arrangement, i.e.with withananangle angle α with a with respect respect to horizontal to the the horizontal line,line, as illustrated as illustrated in in

thermosiphon thermosiphon applications applications andapplications and pump pump applications of Figs. 3of toFigs. 3 toleads 12. This 12. This leads to the fact to the that fact that if the if the temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling element is notis not flooded, fully fully flooded, as exemplarily as exemplarily shown shown in Fig. 9, in Fig. 9, only the only thelower lowerleft leftregion regionofofthe the channels channels in the in the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element is filled is filled with with secondary secondary fluid,while fluid, while thethe upper upper part part of channels of the the channels is filled is filled with vaporous with vaporous secondarysecondary fluid. fluid. However, However, as as illustrated illustrated in Fig. in Fig. 5, the 5, if if the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling elementelement is fully is fully flooded, flooded, the the

secondaryfluid secondary fluid in in the the channels channelsreaches reachesupup to to the the connection connection point point of of thethe vapor vapor line line 15b, 15b,

i.e. up i.e. up to tothe thetop, top,sosothat there that is is there only a small only vapor a small space vapor space11b 11b from from which the vapor which the vapor may may be dissipated be dissipated via via the the connection point of connection point of the the second part 15b second part of the 15b of the line linearrangement so as arrangement so as to be to befed fedinto intothe theheat heat exchanger exchanger 10 of14Fig. 10 of Fig. 14 via via the line the 15b.line 15b. In addition, In addition, the liquid the lineliquid line 15a of the 15a of the temperature controlling element temperature controlling in Fig. element in Fig. 15 15 is isconnected to the connected to the connection 15aat connection 15a at

the bottom the of the bottom of the heat exchanger10. heat exchanger 10.

Fig. Fig. 14 14 shows thefunctionality shows the functionality of of the the heat heat exchanger andthetheevaporator exchanger and evaporator or or condenser condenser in in

an integrated an integrated element asaa further element as further embodiment embodiment soso thatthe that thefunction function of of a a heat heat exchange from exchange from

the primary the primaryworking working fluid fluid to the to the secondary secondary fluid fluid takes takes place the place within within the evaporator evaporator and at the and at the

sametime same timethe thefunctionality functionality of of evaporation or condensation evaporation or takesplace condensation takes placeininthe theprimary primaryheat heat pump pump circuit. circuit.

Fig. Fig. 16a showsananimplementation 16a shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling according according

to the to the present presentinvention inventionfor forrefrigeration refrigeration with with aaplate plateheat heatexchanger exchanger as integrated as an an integrated

elementand element andan an airair registerarranged register arranged perpendicularly. perpendicularly. Furthermore, Furthermore, a pump a pump 8 pumping 8 pumping

refrigerated secondary refrigerated fluid into secondary fluid into the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element1111 in in which which thethe air air

register isisarranged register arranged perpendicularly perpendicularly is isprovided. provided. The The temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element does element does

not have not havetoto be bearranged arranged obliquelyororfully obliquely fullyperpendicularly. perpendicularly.ItIt may mayhave have any any arrangement arrangement

and configuration and configuration as aslong longasasananevaporation evaporation of of the the secondary secondary fluid fluid duedue to to thethe heat heat in in thethe

spacetoto be space betemperature-controlled temperature-controlledcancan take take place place andand the the evaporated evaporated secondary secondary fluid fluid is is able to able to reach reach the the vapor spaceofof the vapor space the heat heat exchanger exchanger1010 viathe via theconnection connection 15b. 15b.

Fig. Fig. 16b showsananimplementation 16b shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling according according

to the to presentinvention the present inventionforfor heating heating withwith an integrated an integrated element element and a temperature-controlling and a temperature-controlling

elementarranged element arranged perpendicularly perpendicularly on on a similar a similar height height and and a pump. a pump. A pumpA8 pump 8 achieving achieving

different liquid different liquidlevels in in levels thethe elements elements10 10and and 11 11 is isarranged arranged again. again. Without the pump Without the pump8 8oror

22

with an with anidle idlepump pump 8, the 8, the two two levels levels would would be on be the on the same same height height due to thedue to the siphon siphon principle. principle. Due to the Due to the pump pump8 8pumping pumping liquid liquid intothe into theheat heatexchanger exchanger10 10 andand the the primary primary circuit circuit being being

operated such operated such that that the the integrated integrated heat heat exchanger exchangersimultaneously simultaneouslyfunctions functions asasthe the condenser2,2,secondary condenser secondary fluid fluid in in the the heat heat exchanger exchanger is evaporated is evaporated atwarm at the the channel warm channel

region of region of the the condenser andisis pushed condenser and pushedinto intothe thetemperature-controlling temperature-controllingelement. element.There, There,the the warmvaporous warm vaporoussecondary secondary fluiddissipates fluid dissipates its its heat heat to to the the space to be space to be temperature- temperature- controlled, which controlled, is why which is whyititcondenses condenses in the in the air register air register and and is returned is returned back back to the to the exchanger1010through exchanger through the the pump. pump.

Fig. Fig. 16c showsananimplementation 16c shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling according according

to the to present invention the present invention for for refrigeration refrigeration with with an integrated element an integrated elementand and a temperature- a temperature-

controlling element controlling element arranged perpendicularlyon arranged perpendicularly onaasimilar similar height height and a pump. and a pump. AApump pump 8 that 8 that

achievesdifferent achieves different liquid liquid levels levelsininthe theelements elements 10 and1111isisarranged 10 and arrangedagain. again. Without Without thethe

pump8 8ororwith pump withanan idlepump idle pump 8, the 8, the two two levels levels would would be onbe onsame the the height same height due due to the to the

principleof principle of communicating communicating pipes. pipes. Due toDue the to thethat fact factthethat the pump pumpliquid 8 pumps 8 pumps into liquid into the heat the heat exchanger1010andand exchanger thethe primary primary circuitisisoperated circuit operatedsuch such thatthetheintegrated that integratedheat heatexchanger exchanger simultaneouslyfunctions simultaneously functionsasasthe theevaporator evaporator2 2ininthe theprimary primarycircuit, circuit, evaporated evaporatedsecondary secondary fluid isiscondensed fluid in the condensed in the heat heat exchanger exchanger atatthe thecold coldchannel channelregion regionofofthe theevaporator evaporator and and

is pushed is intothe pushed into thetemperature-controlling temperature-controllingelement element via via the the pumppump as refrigerated as refrigerated liquid. liquid.

There, the There, thecold coldliquid liquid secondary secondary fluidabsorbs fluid absorbs heat heat from from the the space space to be to be temperature- temperature-

controlled by controlled by the the same same evaporating evaporating in the in the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element. element. This This vapor vapor returns to returns to element 10 so element 10 so as as to to condense thereagain. condense there again.

Fig. Fig. 17a showsananimplementation 17a shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling according according

to the to the present presentinvention inventionfor forrefrigeration refrigeration with with aaplate plateheat heatexchanger exchanger asintegrated as an an integrated elementand element andan an airair registerarranged register arranged perpendicularly perpendicularly and configured and configured alternatively. alternatively. The The pump8 only pump 8 only supports supports the the fluid fluid circulation, circulation, since since thethe elements elements 10,have 10, 11 11 the have the same same pressurewith pressure with respect respect to the to the secondary secondary fluid. fluid.

Fig. Fig. 17b showsanan 17b shows implementation implementation of the of the integrated integrated element element configured configured as a heat as a plate plate heat exchanger.The exchanger. Thesame same includes includes thethe four four connection connection portions portions 41,41, 42,42,15a, 15a, 15b 15b forthe for theprimary primary workingfluid working fluid and andthe thesecondary secondary fluid, fluid, which which extend extend through through the plate the cover coverand plate are and are separatedbybythethe separated sealing sealing plates. plates. This This channel channel region region 40the 40 for forprimary the primary fluidthe fluid and and the interactionregion interaction region4242 areare realized realized by channel by the the channel plates.plates. Thus, Thus, the thefluid primary primary fluid is fluidically is fluidically

separatedfrom separated fromthe thesecondary secondary fluid,but fluid, but is is thermally thermally coupled to the coupled to the same. same.

23

Fig. Fig. 17c showsananimplementation 17c shows implementation of the of the apparatus apparatus for for temperature-controlling temperature-controlling according according

to the to present invention the present invention for for refrigeration refrigeration with with the the plate plate heat exchangerasas heat exchanger an an integrated integrated

element of element of Fig. Fig. 17b 17band andan an air air registerarranged register arranged perpendicularlyandand perpendicularly configured configured

alternatively. The alternatively. Thepump pump achieves achieves the different the different liquid liquid levels levels in theheat in the plate plate heat exchanger exchanger and and

the air the air register. register. In In case caseofofananidle idlepump, pump, the liquid the liquid levels levels wouldwould have have the samethe same height. height.

Subsequently, preferredimplementations Subsequently, preferred implementations of present of the the present invention invention are summarized are summarized as as examples. examples.

1. 1. Arefrigeration A refrigerationsystem systemfor for temperature-controlling, temperature-controlling, i.e.refrigerating i.e. for for refrigerating or heating or heating as as required,ofofpreferably required, preferably closed closed spaces spaces in preferably in preferably mobile mobile or stationary or stationary applications applications

onthe on theroad, road,rail, rail,water waterororland, land,

whereinaarefrigerating wherein refrigerating part part of of the the machine hasnonodirect machine has directcontact contacttotothe thepreferably preferably

closed space closed spacetotobe betemperature-controlled, temperature-controlled,and/or and/or

whereina secondary wherein a secondary circuit circuit prevents prevents that that the the refrigerant refrigerant from the from the refrigerating refrigerating part part of the of the system systemisisable ableto to reach reach intointo the the preferably preferably closed closed interior interior space space of of the the application,and/or application, and/or

whereinthe wherein theseparation separation between between the refrigeration the refrigeration anddistribution and cold cold distribution with a with a flammable flammable refrigerant refrigerant or working or working fluid fluid inrefrigerating in the the refrigerating part, part, and/orand/or

wherein,ininthe wherein, thecold-distributing cold-distributing part part of the of the system system preferably preferably arranged arranged in the in the space space

or in or in communication withthe communication with thespace, space,a anon-flammable non-flammable fluid fluid with with a change a change of phase of phase

betweenits between its liquid liquid and and gaseous aggregate gaseous aggregate stateisisused, state used,and/or and/or

whereinthe wherein therequired required electricdrive electric drivepower power for for the the cold cold distribution distribution through through the the secondaryfluid secondary fluid is is preferably preferably below ten percent below ten percentofof the the overall overall required required drive drive power power

of the of machine the machine forfor refrigeration refrigeration or heating. or heating.

2. 2. A machine A machineaccording according to to example example 1, wherein 1, wherein the the working working pressure pressure of the of the secondary secondary

cyclefluid cycle fluid for for cold cold distribution is above distribution is theworking above the working pressure pressure offluid of the the fluid of the of the system system

part for part for refrigeration. refrigeration.

24

3. 3. A machine A machineaccording accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingexamples, examples, wherein wherein thethe secondary secondary cycle cycle

is purely is purely configured as aa thermosiphon configured as thermosiphon solution solution so so that that no no electricdrive electric drivepower power is is

required. required.

4. 4. A machine A machineaccording accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingexamples, examples, wherein wherein thethe secondary secondary cycle cycle

comprises aa pump comprises pump means means for for the the secondary secondary fluid fluid andand effective effective in in both both flow flow

directions,supporting directions, supportingthethe natural natural circulation circulation by means by means of the of the thermosiphon thermosiphon principle principle andtherefore and therefore also also thethe refrigeration refrigeration or heating or heating operation. operation.

5. 5. Machineaccording Machine accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingexamples, examples, which which is only is only used used forfor cooling cooling

the interior the interior space space and in which and in whichthe theheat heatexchanger exchangerin in the the interiorspace interior spaceisislocated located geodetically lower geodetically than the lower than the heat heat exchanger exchangerbetween between the the refrigerating refrigerating and and thethe cold- cold-

distributing system distributing system part. part.

6. 6. A machine A machine according according to any to any of the of the preceding preceding examples, examples, which which is only is only used forused for heating the heating the interior interior space and in space and in which whichthe theheat heatexchanger exchangerin in the the interiorspace interior spaceisis located geodetically located geodetically higher higher than than the the heat heat exchanger exchanger between between the the refrigerating refrigerating andand

the cold-distributing the cold-distributingsystem system part. part.

7. 7. A pump A pumpmeans means that that is is abletotopump able pump the the secondary secondary fluidininits fluid its liquid liquidoror gaseous gaseous phase phase

by means by meansofofa achange changeof of rotationaldirection rotational direction of of the the drive drivemotor motor and and a a corresponding corresponding

suitablegeometry suitable geometry of the of the conveying conveying unitboth unit into intoconveying both conveying directions directions in a in a flow-wise flow-wise mannersosoasas manner toto support support thethe refrigerationand refrigeration andthethe heating heating operation operation of of thethe interior interior

space, alone space, aloneororinin connection connectionwith withthe themachine machine according according to any to any of the of the preceding preceding

examples. examples.

8. 8. 8. A conveying A conveyingmeans meansforfor supporting supporting thethe circulation circulation ofofthe thesecondary secondary fluidintroduced fluid introduced into the into cyclesuch the cycle such that that the the same same supports, supports, via a generation via a generation of a pressure of a pressure differencedifference

exclusivelyininthe exclusively thegaseous gaseous phasephase of the of the secondary secondary fluid, its fluid, its circulation circulation in in the cycle the cycle

alone or alone or in inconnection connection with with the themachine accordingto machine according to any of the any of the preceding preceding examples. examples.

9. 9. A pump A pump means means according according to example to example 7, wherein 7, wherein the current-carrying the current-carrying regionregion of theof the motorisislocated motor located outside outside of the of the pipepipe through through which which the the secondary secondary fluid fluid flows. flows.

10. 10. A pump A pump means means according according to example to example 7, wherein 7, wherein the current-carrying the current-carrying regionregion of theof the motorisislocated motor located within within thethe pipepipe through through which which the secondary the secondary fluid fluid flows. flows.

25

Even though Even though some some aspects aspects havedescribed have been been described within within the theofcontext context of ait device, a device, is it is understood that said understood that said aspects aspectsalso alsorepresent representa adescription descriptionof of the the corresponding correspondingmethod, method,so so

that aa block that block or or aa structural structural component of aa device component of device is is also also to to be be understood understood asasa a

correspondingmethod corresponding method step step or or asas a a featureofofaamethod feature method step.ByBy step. analogy analogy therewith, therewith, aspects aspects

that have that havebeen been described described within within the the context context ofasora as of or a method method step step also also represent represent a a description of description of a a corresponding blockorordetail corresponding block detail or or feature feature of of aa corresponding device.Some corresponding device. Some or all or all of ofthe themethod stepsmay method steps maybe be performed performed while while usingusing a hardware a hardware device, device, such assuch a as a microprocessor,aaprogrammable microprocessor, programmable computer computer or anorelectronic an electronic circuit. circuit. In In some some embodiments, embodiments,

someororseveral some severalofof the the most mostimportant importantmethod method steps steps maymay be performed be performed by such by such a device. a device.

Theabove-described The above-described embodiments embodiments merely merely represent represent an illustration an illustration of the of the principles principles of of thethe

present invention. present invention. It It is is understood thatother understood that otherpersons persons skilled skilled in in thethe artart willappreciate will appreciate modifications and modifications and variations variations of of the the arrangements anddetails arrangements and detailsdescribed describedherein. herein.This Thisisiswhy why

it isisintended it thatthe intended that theinvention invention be limited be limited only only byscope by the the of scope of the following the following claims claims rather rather than by than by the the specific specific details details that that have have been presentedherein been presented hereinbyby means means of the of the description description

and the and the discussion discussionof of the the embodiments. embodiments.

26 26 Mar 2024 26 Mar 2024

CLAIMS: CLAIMS:

1. 1. Apparatusfor Apparatus for temperature-controlling temperature-controllingaaspace spacetotobebetemperature-controlled temperature-controlled witha aspace with space limitation limitationseparating separating the the space to be space to betemperature-controlled temperature-controlled from from a surrounding a surrounding area,area,

comprising: comprising:

a primaryheat heatpump pump circuit with an an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an and an 2022357257

2022357257

a primary circuit with evaporator, a condenser, a compressor,

expansion element,wherein expansion element, wherein thethe primary primary heat heat pumppump circuit circuit comprises comprises a natural a natural primary primary

workingfluid, working fluid, wherein the evaporator, wherein the evaporator, the the liquefier, liquefier, the thecompressor, andthe compressor, and theexpansion expansion element aresuitable element are suitable to to be arrangedoutside be arranged outsideofof the the space spacetoto be betemperature-controlled; temperature-controlled;

a a secondary circuit thermally secondary circuit thermally coupled to and coupled to and fluidically fluidically decoupled decoupled from from the the evaporator or evaporator or

the condenser the condenservia viaa aheat heatexchanger exchanger and and comprising comprising a temperature-controlling a temperature-controlling element element

configured to be configured to be arranged in the arranged in the space to be space to temperature-controlledand be temperature-controlled andconfigured configuredtotobebe connected tothe connected to the heat heat exchanger exchangervia viaaaline line arrangement comprising arrangement comprising a a secondary secondary fluidthat fluid that differs differs from the primary from the primaryworking working fluid,wherein fluid, wherein the the line line arrangement arrangement is suitable is suitable to to penetrate thespace penetrate the space limitation,wherein limitation, wherein the secondary the secondary circuit circuit is configured is configured as a as a thermosiphoncycle, thermosiphon cycle,and andwherein wherein a controllablepump a controllable pump configured configured to reverse to reverse a conveying a conveying

direction direction in in the the secondary circuit as secondary circuit as aa response responsetotoa acontrol controlsignal signalisisarranged arrangedin in thethe

secondary circuit; secondary circuit;

whereinthe wherein theapparatus apparatusis is configured configured to to cool cool thethe space space by means by means of the of the temperature- temperature-

controlling element controlling element in in a refrigeration a refrigeration mode; mode; and and

a controller configured a controller configured to to cause, as aaresponse cause, as responseto to a a controlsignal, control signal,a aheat heatpump pump cycle cycle

reversal in the reversal in the primary heat pump primary heat pump circuitso so circuit that,ininthe that, therefrigeration refrigeration mode, mode,energy energy is is

dissipated dissipated from the heat from the heat exchanger throughthe exchanger through theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit,and circuit, andsosothat, that,in in a defrosting mode, a defrosting energyisissupplied mode, energy suppliedtotothe theheat heatexchanger) exchanger) through through the the primary primary heatheat

pump circuit inin order pump circuit order to to defrost defrost the the temperature-controlling element, and temperature-controlling element, andthe theconveying conveying direction in the direction in thesecondary secondary circuit circuit is reversed is reversed bycontrollable by the the controllable pump. pump.

2. 2. Apparatusaccording Apparatus accordingto to claim claim 1, 1, wherein wherein the the controller controller is is configured configured to to cause, cause, via via the the

control signal,the control signal, theheat heatpump pump cycle cycle reversal reversal of theofprimary the primary heat heat pump pumpsuch circuit circuit that such the that the primary heat pump primary heat pump circuit'selement circuit's elementthat thatisiscoupled coupledtotothe theheat heat exchanger exchanger changes changes its its

function from function from evaporation to condensation evaporation to condensationororvice viceversa. versa.

27 26 Mar 2024 26 Mar 2024

3. 3. Apparatusaccording Apparatus accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingclaims, claims,wherein wherein thecontrol the controlsignal signaloriginates originates from aa sensor from sensoratatthe thetemperature-controlling temperature-controllingelement, element,from from a sensor a sensor in in thethe space space to to be be temperature-controlled, or temperature-controlled, or from fromaaclock clockgenerator generatorsosothat thatthe theapparatus apparatus is is brought brought into into

the defrosting the defrostingmode mode at regular at regular or irregular or irregular points points in in time. time.

4. 4. Apparatusaccording Apparatus according to to anyany of the of the preceding preceding claims, claims, wherein wherein the evaporator the evaporator or the or the condenser condenser ofofthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuitare areconfigured configured toto bebe integratedinto intothe theheat heat 2022357257

2022357257

circuit integrated

exchanger. exchanger.

5. 5. Apparatusaccording Apparatus accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingclaims, claims,wherein wherein theheat the heatexchanger exchanger andand the the

temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling elementareare arranged arranged so toasbetospaced so as be spaced apart apart by by50up up to to 50 meters, andwherein meters, and whereinthethecontrollable controllablepump pump comprising comprising an internal an internal stator stator or an or an external external

stator is arranged stator is arranged in in the the linearrangement. line arrangement.

6. 6. Apparatus according Apparatus according to to any any of of the the preceding preceding claims, claims, wherein wherein the the heat heat exchanger exchanger comprises comprises a amicro-channel micro-channel heat heat exchanger, exchanger, a plate a plate heat heat exchanger, exchanger, or a finned or a finned heat heat exchanger. exchanger.

7. 7. Apparatusaccording Apparatus accordingtotoany anyofofthe thepreceding precedingclaims, claims,wherein wherein the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling

element comprises element comprises a a micro-channel micro-channel heat heat exchanger, exchanger, a plate a plate heatheat exchanger, exchanger, or a or a finned finned

heat exchanger. heat exchanger.

8. 8. Apparatus according Apparatus according to to any any of of the the preceding preceding claims, claims, wherein wherein the the heat heat exchanger exchanger comprises comprises aaheat heatexchanger exchanger liquidspace liquid spaceand anda a heatexchanger heat exchanger vapor vapor space, space, and and wherein wherein

the temperature-controlling the temperature-controlling element elementcomprises comprises a temperature-controlling a temperature-controlling vaporvapor space space

and and aa temperature-controlling temperature-controlling liquid liquidspace, space, wherein wherein the the heat exchanger and heat exchanger andthe the temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling elementareare arranged arranged with with respect respect to other to each each such other such that that vaporoussecondary vaporous secondary fluidmay fluid may flow flow in in a a first region first region of of the the line line arrangement between arrangement between thethe

heat exchanger heat exchanger vapor vapor space space andtemperature-controlling and the the temperature-controlling vapor and vapor space space and liquid liquid

secondary fluid may secondary fluid mayflow flowininaasecond second region region of of thethe linearrangement line arrangement between between the heat the heat

exchanger liquid space exchanger liquid spaceand andthe thetemperature-controlling temperature-controllingliquid liquid space. space.

9. 9. Apparatusaccording Apparatus according to to claim claim 1 8, 1 or or wherein 8, wherein the temperature-controlling the temperature-controlling element element is is arranged with arranged with respect respect to the to the heatheat exchanger exchanger such such that that it is it is flooded flooded by the secondary by the secondary fluid, fluid, wherein, inin the wherein, therefrigeration refrigeration mode, mode, temperature-controlling temperature-controlling is cooling is cooling andheat and the the heat exchanger exchanger isiscoupled coupledtotothe theevaporator evaporatorofofthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit. circuit.

28 26 Mar 2024 2022357257 26 2024

10. 10. Apparatus Apparatus according according to of to any anyclaims of claims 1 to 19, to wherein 9, wherein the the temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element element

is is elongated andcomprises elongated and comprises an oblique an oblique orientation orientation with with respect respect to a horizontal to a horizontal line, line, Mar whereinthethe wherein secondary secondary fluid fluid flowsflows from from top to top to bottom bottom in itsstate in its liquid liquidduestate due toorgravity to gravity a or a pump forceororaaventilator pump force ventilator force force or or due to aa heat due to exchangerarranged heat exchanger arranged accordingly accordingly in in thethe

temperature-controlling element. temperature-controlling element.

11. Apparatus according to to anyany of the preceding claims, wherein the the heatheat exchanger 2022357257

11. Apparatus according of the preceding claims, wherein exchanger comprises: comprises:

a first connection a first portion connection portion forfor the the primary primary working working fluid;fluid;

a second a second connection connection portion portion forprimary for the the primary working working fluid; fluid;

a third connection a third portion connection portion for for thethe secondary secondary fluid; fluid;

a fourth connection a fourth connection portion portion for for the the secondary secondary fluid; fluid;

a a channel portion extending channel portion extendingbetween betweenthethe first connection first connectionportion portionfor for the the primary primary working working fluid and fluid thesecond and the second connection connection portion portion for thefor the primary primary working working fluid; andfluid; and

an interaction region an interaction region extending between extending between thethe thirdconnection third connection portion portion forfor thesecondary the secondary fluid and fluid thefourth and the fourthconnection connection portion portion for for the the secondary secondary fluidhaving fluid and and having arranged arranged therein therein the channel the channelportion, portion, wherein whereinthe thechannel channel portionisisthermally portion thermallycoupled coupledto to theinteraction the interaction region and region and fluidicallydecoupled fluidically decoupledfrom from the interaction the interaction region.region.

12. Apparatus 12. Apparatus according according to any to any of the of the preceding preceding claims, claims, wherein wherein the compressor the compressor is is configured configured in in the the primary primary heatheat pump pump circuit circuit to be controllable to be controllable so as to so as to beinreversed be reversed its in its conveying direction by conveying direction by the the control control signal, signal,to tocause cause the theheat heat pump cycle reversal. pump cycle reversal.

13. 13. Apparatus Apparatus according according to claim to claim 12, wherein 12, wherein the compressor the compressor comprises comprises a conveyor a conveyor wheel, wheel, wherein, for wherein, for reversing reversing the the conveying direction, the conveying direction, the compressor is configured compressor is configured to to reverse reverse aa

rotational directionofofthe rotational direction theconveyor conveyor wheel wheel as a response as a response to thesignal, to the control controlorsignal, or

whereinthe wherein the compressor compressor comprises comprises a four-way a four-way valve, valve, wherein, wherein, forfor reversingthe reversing theconveying conveying direction, direction, the the compressor compressor isis configured configuredto, to, as asa aresponse responseto to thethe control control signal,onon signal, thethe

basis of the basis of therefrigeration refrigerationmode, mode, fluidically fluidically decouple decouple a suction a suction side side of the of the compressor compressor from from the evaporator the evaporator or or fluidically fluidically connect connect the same the same to the to the condenser, condenser, or fluidically or fluidically decouple adecouple a

29 26 Mar 2024 2022357257 26 Mar 2024

pressure side of pressure side of the the compressor fromthe compressor from thecondenser condenser and and fluidicallyconnect fluidically connect thethe same same to to

the evaporator, the or evaporator, or

whereinthe wherein the compressor compressor comprises comprises a four-way a four-way valve, valve, wherein, wherein, forfor reversingthe reversing theconveying conveying direction, direction, the the compressor is configured compressor is configuredto, to, as asaaresponse responseto to thethe control control signal,onon signal, thethe

basis of the basis of the defrosting defrosting mode, fluidically decouple mode, fluidically decouple a a suction suction side side of of the the compressor from compressor from

the condenser andfluidically fluidically connect the same sametotothe theevaporator, evaporator,ororfluidically fluidically decouple 2022357257

the condenser and connect the decouple

a a pressure side of pressure side of the the compressor compressorfrom from the the evaporator evaporator andand fluidicallyconnect fluidically connect thesame the same to the to the condenser. condenser.

14. 14. Apparatus Apparatus according according to of to any anythe of preceding the preceding claims, claims, further further comprising: comprising:

a blower arranged a blower arrangedininthe thespace spacetoto bebe temperature-controlled temperature-controlled within within thethe space space limitation limitation

so as to so as to move air past move air past the the temperature-controlling element, or temperature-controlling element, or

a a blower arrangedoutside blower arranged outsideofof the the space spacelimitation limitation so so as as to to move air past move air past the the condenser of condenser of

the primary the heat pump primary heat pumpcircuit. circuit.

15. Apparatus 15. Apparatus according according to to anyany of the of the preceding preceding claims, claims, wherein wherein the the heatheat exchanger exchanger comprises theevaporator comprises the evaporatorofofthe the primary primaryheat heat pump pumpcircuit circuit or or the the condenser of the condenser of the primary primary

heat pumpcircuit heat pump circuit and andthe theheat heatexchanger exchangerforfor thermallycoupling thermally coupling the the primary primary heat heat pump pump

circuit circuitand andthe thesecondary secondary heat heat pump circuit which pump circuit are separated which are fromeach separated from eachother otherbybyaaline line or or which are arranged which are arrangedinin one oneand andthe thesame same space. space.

16. 16. Space Space to betotemperature-controlled, be temperature-controlled, comprising: comprising:

a a space limitation separating space limitation separating a a space from aa surrounding space from surroundingarea areaofofthe thespace; space;and and

an apparatusaccording an apparatus accordingtotoany anyofofclaims claims1 1toto15. 15.

17. Space 17. Space to temperature-controlled to be be temperature-controlledaccording accordingto toclaim claim16, 16,configured configuredasasa amobile mobile transport container transport container or or as as a a space in aa vehicle space in vehicle for for being being conveyed onwater, conveyed on water,ononthe theroad, road, on therail, on the rail, in in the air, or the air, or in in space. space.

18. 18. Space Space to betotemperature-controlled be temperature-controlled according according to claim to claim 16 or16 or configured 17, 17, configured as a as a space space in in a stationarybuilding a stationary buildingoror as as a free-standing a free-standing stationary stationary space.space.

19. Method for temperature-controlling a space to be temperature-controlled with a space limitation separating the space to be temperature-controlled from a surrounding area, with a primary heat pump circuit with an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion element, wherein the evaporator, the liquefier, the compressor, and the expansion element are arranged outside of the space to be temperature-controlled; and a secondary circuit thermally coupled to and fluidically decoupled from the evaporator or 2022357257

the condenser via a heat exchanger and comprising a temperature-controlling element arranged in the space to be temperature-controlled and connected to the heat exchanger via a line arrangement comprising a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein the line arrangement penetrates the space limitation, wherein the secondary circuit is configured as a thermosiphon cycle, and wherein a controllable pump configured to reverse a conveying direction in the secondary circuit as a response to a control signal is arranged in the secondary circuit, comprising: using, in the primary heat pump circuit, a natural primary working fluid;

using, in the line arrangement of the secondary circuit, a secondary fluid that differs from the primary working fluid, wherein temperature-controlling in a refrigeration mode comprises cooling the space by means of the temperature-controlling element; and

as a response to the control signal, causing a heat pump cycle reversal in the primary heat pump circuit so that, in the refrigeration mode, energy is dissipated from the heat exchanger through the primary heat pump circuit, and so that, in a defrosting mode, energy is supplied to the heat exchanger) through the primary heat pump circuit, in order to defrost the temperature-controlling element, and the conveying direction in the secondary circuit is reversed by means of the controllable pump.

20. Method for manufacturing an apparatus for temperature-controlling a space to be temperature-controlled with a space limitation separating the space to be temperature- controlled from a surrounding area, comprising: a primary heat pump circuit with an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion element, wherein the primary heat pump circuit comprises a natural primary working fluid, wherein the evaporator, the liquefier, the compressor, and the expansion element are arranged outside of the space to be temperature-controlled; a secondary circuit thermally coupled to and fluidically decoupled from the evaporator or the condenser via a heat exchanger and comprising

31 26 Mar 2024 2022357257 26 Mar 2024

temperature-controlling element temperature-controlling elementarranged arrangedininthe thespace spaceto to bebe temperature-controlled temperature-controlled andand

connected tothe connected to the heat heat exchanger exchangervia viaaaline line arrangement comprising arrangement comprising a a secondary secondary fluidthat fluid that differs differsfrom fromthe theprimary primaryworking working fluid, fluid,wherein whereinthe theline arrangement line arrangement penetrates penetrates the the space space

limitation, limitation,wherein wherein the secondarycircuit the secondary circuit isis configured configuredasasa thermosiphon a thermosiphon cycle, cycle, and and

whereinaa controllable wherein controllable pump configuredtotoreverse pump configured reverseaaconveying conveyingdirection directioninin the the secondary secondary

circuit circuit as as a response a response to to a control a control signal signal is arranged is arranged in theinsecondary the secondary circuit, circuit, wherein,wherein, in a in a refrigeration refrigeration mode, theapparatus apparatusis is configured to cool the the spacespace by of means the of the 2022357257

mode, the configured to cool by means

temperature-controlling element,the temperature-controlling element, the method methodcomprising: comprising:

introducing introducing a a natural natural primary primary working working fluid fluid intoprimary into the the primary heat heat pump pump circuit; circuit;

manufacturing manufacturing a aline line arrangement arrangement thatpenetrates that penetrates thespace the space limitation; limitation;

introducing, introducing, into into the the line line arrangement, arrangement, aasecondary secondary fluidthat fluid thatdiffers differsfrom fromthe theprimary primary workingfluid; working fluid;and and

manufacturing a controller manufacturing a controller configured configured to cause, to cause, as a response as a response to thesignal, to the control controla signal, heat a heat pump cyclereversal pump cycle reversalininthe theprimary primaryheat heatpump pump circuit circuit soso that,ininthe that, therefrigeration refrigeration mode, mode, energy is dissipated energy is dissipated from the heat from the exchangerthrough heat exchanger throughthe theprimary primary heat heat pump pump circuit,and circuit, and so that, in so that, in a a defrosting defrosting mode, energy mode, energy is is supplied supplied to to thethe heat heat exchanger) exchanger) through through the the

primary heatpump primary heat pump circuitsosoasas circuit to to defrostthethe defrost temperature-controlling temperature-controlling element, element, and and a a conveying directioninin the conveying direction thesecondary secondary circuitisisreversed circuit reversedby by means means of controllable of the the controllable pump. pump.

Ecooltec Ecooltec Grosskopf GmbH Grosskopf GmbH Patent Attorneysfor Patent Attorneys forthe theApplicant/Nominated Applicant/Nominated Person Person

SPRUSON SPRUSON & & FERGUSON FERGUSON

1/15 1/15

2: evaporator 2: evaporator

4: 4: condenser condenser

heating heating heat heat exchanger/condenser exchanger/condenser 22

cooling cooling heat exchanger/evaporator heat exchanger/evaporator 4 4

mode mode 11 mode mode 22 21 21 cooling cooling defrosting defrosting 22 or or 44 66 heating heating cooling cooling primary heat primary heat

pump circuit pump circuit

with natural with natural 14a 14a 14b 14b 33 33

primary wor- primary wor- 11 1

king fluid king fluid 33 44 or or 22 controller controller

(free of (free of

F-gases) F-gases) 14a 14a 14a 31 31

14b 14b 30 30

20 20 32 32 77

secondary circuit secondary circuit

with secondary with secondaryfluid fluid 88 15a 15a 15b 15b

5 5

14 14

Fig. 1 Fig. 1

2/15 2/15 2/15

22

33 /\ 11 1 cooling cooling cooling

55

44

Fig. Fig. 2A Fig. 2A 2A

44

33 \/ 1 1 heating heating

55

22

Fig. Fig. 2B 2B

3/15 3/15 3/15

6 6

X 7 7 /\ \/

8 8

15a 15a 15b 15b 5 5

14 14

Fig. Fig. 3 3

cooling or heating cooling or heating

55 (if (ifpump in 15a pump in 15a 15b 15b or or ventilatorinin15b or ventilator ventilator in 15b 15b

is activated) is activated)

10b 10b 11b 11b

11, 11, 14 14 11,14 10a 10a 11a 11a

15a 15a

Fig. Fig. 4

4/15 4/15

cooling cooling cooling

10a 10a 15b 15b

55 11a 11a 11a 11, 11, 14 11,14 14 15a 15a

Fig. Fig. 5 5

heating heating

11b 11b 55 15b 15b

15a 15a 11, 11, 14 14 11,14 11a 11a

Fig. Fig. 6 6

cooling cooling cooling

(or (or heating) (or heating) heating)

11b 11b 5 5 10b 10b 15b 15b

11, 11, 14 14 11,14 10a 10a 11a 11a

15a 15a 88 Fig. Fig. 7

5/15 5/15 5/15

120 120 120

120 120 150 150 150

150 150

13 13 140 140 140 140

88 13 13 88

Fig. Fig. 8A 8A Fig. Fig. 8B 8B

(cooling) (cooling)

(or) (or) heating heating

10b 10b 10b 55 11b 11b 15b 15b

11, 11, 14 14 11,14 10a 10a 11a 11a

15a 15a 88 Fig. Fig. 9

6/15 6/15

cooling cooling cooling

11b 11b 11b 5 5 15b 15b

10b 10b

11a 11a 11, 11, 14 14 11,14

10a 10a

15a 15a 88 Fig. Fig. 10 10

cooling cooling cooling 10b 10b 10b 11b 11b 55

15b 15b 10a 10a

11, 11, 14 14 11,14 11a 11a

15a 15a 88 Fig. Fig. 11 11

15b 15b 12 12 8 cooling cooling cooling

11b 11b 11b 5 5 10b 10b 10b

11, 11, 14 14 11,14 10a 10a 11a 11a

15a 15a

Fig. Fig. 12

7/15 7/15

fluidically decoupled fluidically decoupled

thermally coupled thermally coupled

77 14a 14a 14b 14b

20b 20b 20a 20a

22 22

15a 15a 15b 15b 20 20

Fig. Fig. 13

22 or or 44 2 or 4

15b 15b cooling cooling

cooling

3 3 or

1 1

10b or heating heating

10b

10 10 or heating

14a 14a

43 14b

42

41 41 41 42 8/15 8/15

(variable) (variable) (variable)

liquid liquid level level liquid level

10a 10a

40 40

15a 15a heat heatexchanger exchanger7 7

heat exchanger 7 10 exchanger heat fluid fluid-secondary working primary 10 exchanger heat fluid fluid-secondary working primary primary working fluid-secondary fluid heat exchanger 10 outside outsideofofthe thespace space

outside of the space Fig. Fig. 14 14

Fig. 14

9/15 9/15

blower in the blower in the space space

35 35 35

chan- chan-

nels for nels for

secon- secon- dary dary dary

fluid fluid

15b 15b 15a 15a fins between fins between

the channels the channels

11, 11, 14 14 11,14

channels for channels for

a secondary fluid secondary fluid a a: a: oblique arrangement oblique arrangement : oblique arrangement

with respect with respect to to the the horizontal horizontal

air-secondary fluid heat exchanger in the space air-secondary fluid heat exchanger in the space

Fig. Fig. 15

1

/\ 10, 10. 44 10, 4

11 11

2 2 10/15 10/15

5

8 8 pressure, same the have register air and plate 3 pressure, same the have register air and plate 3 plate and air register have the same pressure, circulation the out carries only pump the circulation the out carries only pump the the pump only carries out the circulation COOLING COOLING

COOLING Fig. Fig. 16A

Fig. 16A 16A

11/15 11/15

5 5

Fig. 16B HEATING Fig. 16B Fig. 16B

HEATING HEATING 11b

11b 11b 11a

11a 11

11a 11 11

+ 8

8 10b

10b 10a

10b 10a 10a 10, 2

10,2 10,2

12/15 12/15

5 5

Fig. 16C

Fig. 16C COOLING

COOLING COOLING Fig. 16C 11b

11b 11b

11a 11a 11

11a 11 8

8 10b

10b 10a 10a

901 10a

10- 10

1

4, 10

/\ 4, 10

11 11

O

2 2 13/15 13/15

8 8 5

5

XXXXXXXXXXXXX 5

5

3 pressure, same the have register air and plate 3 pressure, same the have register air and plate plate and air register have the same pressure, circulation the out carries only pump the circulation the out carries only pump the the pump only carries out the circulation COOLING COOLING

COOLING Fig. Fig. 17A 17A

Fig. 17A

14/15 14/15

:: : CO

Co

Fig. 17B Fig. 17B Fig. 17B 14b

14b

14b 14b cover plate

coverplate cover plate sealing plate sealingplate sealing plate channel plates

channel plates channel plates 15b

15b 15a

15a sealing plate

sealingplate sealing plate cover plate

coverplate cover plate blind rings

blind rings blind rings

O connections

connections connections

1

liquid liquid level level liquid level

10,2 10,2 10, 2

11 11 liquid

liquid level

8 8 level

4 4 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 15/15 15/15

5

pressure, same the have register air and plate pressure, same the have register air and plate 3 3 plate and air register have the same pressure, circulation the out carries only pump the circulation the out carries only pump the the pump only carries out the circulation HEATING

HEATING Fig. 17C

Fig. 17C