Reverse cycle air conditioner system
US4384608A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 11, 1980 |
| Grant date | May 24, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 11, 2000 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86839
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A compression air conditioning system adapted to cool air within the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle can be reversed to function as a heat pump for heating the compartment. The system includes a first heat exchanger located within the compartment wherein the refrigerant is vaporized in the air conditioning mode and condensed during the heating mode. An electrical resistance heater is energized for a short period after starting the engine during which time the various heat sources may be inadequate to heat the passenger compartment air sufficiently. A diverter valve regulates flow through the refrigerant lines so that flow in either the heating or cooling mode is always in the same direction through the lines and the system components. A second heat exchanger located outside the compartment operates as a condenser during the cooling cycle and as an evaporator during the heating cycle. Three sources of heat energy can be used within the second exchanger to heat the refrigerant. The engine exhaust gas and primary engine coolant can be used to heat ambient air, which is carried to the second exchanger to heat the refrigerant when outside temperatures are so low that the refrig…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.