U.S. patent application number 12/609499 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-24 for hvac system for a hybrid vehicle.
Invention is credited to Lon Edward Bell, Lakhi Nandlal Goenka.
Application Number | 20100155018 12/609499 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42264362 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100155018 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Goenka; Lakhi Nandlal ; et
al. |
June 24, 2010 |
HVAC SYSTEM FOR A HYBRID VEHICLE
Abstract
A heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system for a
hybrid vehicle is disclosed, the HVAC system including at least one
thermoelectric device for providing supplemental heating and
cooling for air supplied to a passenger compartment of the vehicle
to maximize an efficiency of operation of the hybrid vehicle during
operation of the HVAC system.
Inventors: |
Goenka; Lakhi Nandlal; (Ann
Arbor, MI) ; Bell; Lon Edward; (Altadena,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET, FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
42264362 |
Appl. No.: |
12/609499 |
Filed: |
October 30, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61139494 |
Dec 19, 2008 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
165/59 ;
62/3.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25B 21/04 20130101;
B60H 1/00278 20130101; B60H 2001/00307 20130101; B60H 1/00478
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
165/59 ;
62/3.3 |
International
Class: |
B60H 1/00 20060101
B60H001/00; F25B 21/02 20060101 F25B021/02 |
Claims
1. A heating, ventilating, and air conditional system for a hybrid
vehicle comprising: a first fluid circuit including a first conduit
for conveying a first fluid therein, said first circuit in thermal
communication with an electric side of the hybrid vehicle; a second
fluid circuit including a second conduit for conveying the first
fluid therein, said second circuit in thermal communication with a
fuel fed side of the hybrid vehicle; a first thermoelectric device
having a first heat transfer surface and a second heat transfer
surface, the first heat transfer surface in thermal communication
with at least one of said first circuit and said second circuit,
the second heat transfer surface adapted to be in thermal
communication with an air stream; and a first heat exchanger
disposed in the air stream and in thermal communication with said
second fluid circuit, wherein said first circuit, said second
circuit, said first thermoelectric device, and said first heat
exchanger cooperate to heat, cool, and demist the air stream.
2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a second
heat exchanger disposed in the air stream, said second heat
exchanger in thermal communication with a third conduit for
conveying a second fluid therein, wherein the second heat transfer
surface of said first thermoelectric device is in thermal
communication with the third conduit.
3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising a third heat
exchanger disposed in the air stream, said third heat exchanger in
thermal communication with said second fluid circuit.
4. The system according to claim 2, further comprising a second
thermoelectric device having a first heat transfer surface and a
second heat transfer surface, the first heat transfer surface in
thermal communication with at least one of said first circuit and
said second circuit, the second heat transfer surface adapted to be
in thermal communication with the air stream.
5. The system according to claim 4, further comprising a third heat
exchanger disposed in the air stream, said third heat exchanger in
thermal communication with a fourth conduit for conveying a third
fluid therein, wherein the second heat transfer surface of said
second thermoelectric device is in thermal communication with the
fourth conduit.
6. The system according to claim 4, further comprising a third heat
exchanger disposed in the air stream, said third heat exchanger in
thermal communication with the third conduit.
7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the second heat
transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device is in thermal
communication with the third conduit.
8. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an air
conduit in communication with a passenger compartment of the
vehicle and a source of air for supplying the air stream.
9. The system according to claim 8, wherein said first
thermoelectric device is in direct thermal communication with said
air conduit.
10. A heating, ventilating, and air conditional system for a hybrid
vehicle comprising: a first conduit forming a first circuit for
conveying a first fluid therein; a second conduit forming a second
circuit for conveying the first fluid therein; a third conduit for
conveying a second fluid therein; a first thermoelectric device
having a first heat transfer surface and a second heat transfer
surface, the first heat transfer surface in thermal communication
with one of said first conduit and said second conduit, the second
heat transfer surface in thermal communication with said third
conduit; a first heat exchanger disposed in an air stream and in
thermal communication with said second conduit, said first heat
exchanger providing a selective heating of the air stream; a second
heat exchanger disposed in the air stream downstream of said first
heat exchanger and in thermal communication with said third
conduit, said second heat exchanger providing selective heating and
cooling of the air stream; and a third heat exchanger disposed in
the air stream downstream of said second heat exchanger and in
thermal communication with a source of heat to provide selective
heating of the air stream, wherein said first conduit, said second
conduit, said third conduit, said first thermoelectric device, said
first heat exchanger, said second heat exchanger, and said third
heat exchanger cooperate to heat, cool, and demist the air
stream.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the source of heat is
said second conduit.
12. The system according to claim 10, wherein said source of heat
is said third conduit.
13. The system according to claim 10, further comprising a second
thermoelectric device having a first heat transfer surface and a
second heat transfer surface, the first heat transfer surface in
thermal communication with at least one of said first conduit and
said second conduit, the second heat transfer surface adapted to be
in thermal communication with the air stream.
14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the second heat
transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device is in thermal
communication with said third conduit.
15. The system according to claim 13, further comprising a fourth
conduit for conveying a third fluid therein.
16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the second heat
transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device is in thermal
communication with said fourth conduit.
17. The system according to claim 16, wherein said source of heat
is said fourth conduit.
18. A heating, ventilating, and air conditional system for a hybrid
vehicle comprising: a first conduit for conveying a first fluid; a
second conduit for conveying the first fluid; a third conduit for
conveying a second fluid; a first thermoelectric device having a
first heat transfer surface and a second heat transfer surface, the
first heat transfer surface of said first thermoelectric device in
thermal communication with one of said first conduit and said
second conduit, the second heat transfer surface of said first
thermoelectric device in thermal communication with said third
conduit; a second thermoelectric device having a first heat
transfer surface and a second heat transfer surface, the first heat
transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device in thermal
communication with at least one of said first conduit and said
second conduit; a first heat exchanger disposed in an air stream
and in thermal communication with said second conduit, said first
heat exchanger providing a selective heating of the air stream; a
second heat exchanger disposed in the air stream downstream of said
first heat exchanger and in thermal communication with said third
conduit, said second heat exchanger providing selective heating and
cooling of the air stream; and a third heat exchanger disposed in
the air stream downstream of said second heat exchanger adapted to
be in thermal communication with the second heat transfer surface
of said second thermoelectric device to provide selective heating
of the air stream, wherein said first conduit, said second conduit,
said third conduit, said first thermoelectric device, said second
thermoelectric device, said first heat exchanger, said second heat
exchanger, and said third heat exchanger cooperate to heat, cool,
and demist the air stream.
19. The system according to claim 18, wherein the second heat
transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device and said
third heat exchanger are in thermal communication with said third
conduit.
20. The system according to claim 18, further comprising a fourth
conduit for conveying a third fluid therein, wherein the second
heat transfer surface of said second thermoelectric device and said
third heat exchanger are in thermal communication with said fourth
conduit.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field
[0002] This disclosure relates to a heating, ventilating and air
conditioning (HVAC) system for a vehicle and more particularly to a
HVAC system for a hybrid vehicle, the HVAC system including at
least one thermoelectric device for providing supplemental heating
and cooling for air supplied to a passenger compartment of the
vehicle.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] A passenger compartment of a vehicle is typically heated and
cooled by a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC)
system. The HVAC system directs a flow of air through a heat
exchanger to heat or cool the air prior to flowing into the
passenger compartment. In the heat exchanger, energy is transferred
between the air and a coolant such as a water-glycol coolant, for
example. The air is normally supplied from ambient air or a mixture
of air re-circulated from the passenger compartment and ambient
air. Energy for heating and cooling of the passenger compartment of
the vehicle is typically supplied from a fuel fed engine such as an
internal combustion engine, for example.
[0005] In a hybrid vehicle, both a fuel fed engine and an electric
motor are used to power a drive system for the vehicle. Thus, at
times the fuel fed engine may be operating, the electric motor may
be operating, and both the fuel fed engine and the electric motor
may be operating. Therefore, the HVAC system in the hybrid vehicle
must be capable of heating and cooling air during each of these
operating modes. Examples of such systems are shown and described
in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/101,871 filed
Apr. 8, 2005, hereby incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/184,447 filed
Jul. 19, 2005, hereby incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety. If the fuel fed engine must be operating in order to
operate the HVAC system in the hybrid vehicle, an efficiency
thereof is reduced.
[0006] It would be desirable to produce a heating, ventilating, and
air conditioning system for a hybrid vehicle, wherein an efficiency
of operation of the hybrid vehicle during operation of the HVAC
system is maximized.
SUMMARY
[0007] Consistent and consonant with the present invention, a
heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system for a hybrid
vehicle, wherein an efficiency of operation of the hybrid vehicle
during operation of the HVAC system is maximized, has surprisingly
been discovered.
[0008] In one embodiment, the heating, ventilating, and air
conditioning system for a hybrid vehicle comprises a first fluid
circuit including a first conduit for conveying a first fluid
therein, the first circuit in thermal communication with an
electric side of the hybrid vehicle; a second fluid circuit
including a second conduit for conveying the first fluid therein,
the second circuit in thermal communication with a fuel fed side of
the hybrid vehicle; a first thermoelectric device having a first
heat transfer surface and a second heat transfer surface, the first
heat transfer surface in thermal communication with at least one of
the first circuit and the second circuit, the second heat transfer
surface adapted to be in thermal communication with an air stream;
and a first heat exchanger disposed in the air stream and in
thermal communication with the second fluid circuit, wherein the
first circuit, the second circuit, the first thermoelectric device,
and the first heat exchanger cooperate to heat, cool, and demist
the air stream.
[0009] In another embodiment, the heating, ventilating, and air
conditioning system for a hybrid vehicle comprises a first conduit
forming a first circuit for conveying a first fluid therein; a
second conduit forming a second circuit for conveying the first
fluid therein; a third conduit for conveying a second fluid
therein; a first thermoelectric device having a first heat transfer
surface and a second heat transfer surface, the first heat transfer
surface in thermal communication with one of the first conduit and
the second conduit, the second heat transfer surface in thermal
communication with the third conduit; a first heat exchanger
disposed in an air stream and in thermal communication with the
second conduit, the first heat exchanger providing a selective
heating of the air stream; a second heat exchanger disposed in the
air stream downstream of the first heat exchanger and in thermal
communication with the third conduit, the second heat exchanger
providing selective heating and cooling of the air stream; and a
third heat exchanger disposed in the air stream downstream of the
second heat exchanger and in thermal communication with a source of
heat to provide selective heating of the air stream, wherein the
first conduit, the second conduit, the third conduit, the first
thermoelectric device, the first heat exchanger, the second heat
exchanger, and the third heat exchanger cooperate to heat, cool,
and demist the air stream.
[0010] In another embodiment, the heating, ventilating, and air
conditioning system for a hybrid vehicle comprises a first conduit
for conveying a first fluid; a second conduit for conveying the
first fluid; a third conduit for conveying a second fluid; a first
thermoelectric device having a first heat transfer surface and a
second heat transfer surface, the first heat transfer surface of
the first thermoelectric device in thermal communication with one
of the first conduit and the second conduit, the second heat
transfer surface of the first thermoelectric device in thermal
communication with the third conduit; a second thermoelectric
device having a first heat transfer surface and a second heat
transfer surface, the first heat transfer surface of the second
thermoelectric device in thermal communication with at least one of
the first conduit and the second conduit; a first heat exchanger
disposed in an air stream and in thermal communication with the
second conduit, the first heat exchanger providing a selective
heating of the air stream; a second heat exchanger disposed in the
air stream downstream of the first heat exchanger and in thermal
communication with the third conduit, the second heat exchanger
providing selective heating and cooling of the air stream; and a
third heat exchanger disposed in the air stream downstream of the
second heat exchanger adapted to be in thermal communication with
the second heat transfer surface of the second thermoelectric
device to provide selective heating of the air stream, wherein the
first conduit, the second conduit, the third conduit, the first
thermoelectric device, the second thermoelectric device, the first
heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat
exchanger cooperate to heat, cool, and demist the air stream.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The above, as well as other advantages of the present
invention, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art
from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment
when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic flow diagram of a heating,
ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a: schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention; and
[0019] FIG. 8 is a schematic flow diagram of a HVAC system
according to another embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0020] The following detailed description and appended drawings
describe and illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the
invention. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled
in the art to make and use the invention, and are not intended to
limit the scope of the invention in any manner. In respect of the
methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and
thus, the order of the steps is not necessary or critical.
[0021] FIG. 1 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 10 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the
invention. The system 10 includes a first fluid circuit 12 and a
second fluid circuit 14. In the embodiment shown, the first circuit
12 communicates with components of an electric side of a hybrid
vehicle (not shown) and the second circuit 14 communicates with
components of a fuel fed side of the hybrid vehicle. As used
herein, electric side is meant to include components relating to an
electric motor for powering the hybrid vehicle such as a battery
compartment, for example. Fuel fed side is meant to include
components relating to a fuel fed engine for powering the hybrid
vehicle such as an internal combustion engine, for example. A first
fluid (not shown) is circulated in the first circuit 12 and the
second circuit 14 and can be any conventional fluid such as air or
a coolant such as a water-glycol coolant, for example.
[0022] The first circuit 12 includes a first conduit 16 for
conveying the first fluid through the first circuit 12. A pump 18
is disposed in the first conduit 16 to circulate the first fluid
therethrough. A pump as used herein is meant to include any
conventional pump such as a centrifugal pump, for example, a fan,
and the like. The first conduit 16 includes a heat exchanger 20
disposed therein. The heat exchanger 20 can be any conventional
heat exchanger such as a low temperature core, for example. The
first fluid is also circulated through a battery compartment or
other source of heat 22 from the electric side of the hybrid
vehicle to remove heat therefrom. In the embodiment shown, the
battery compartment 22 is disposed in parallel with the heat
exchanger 20. However, it is understood that other configurations
can be used as desired such as in series or a separate conduit, for
example. A flow valve 24 and a diverter valve 26 are also disposed
in the first conduit 16. It is understood that more or fewer valves
may be used as desired to control flow of the first fluid through
the first conduit 16. The flow valve 24 can be any conventional
type such as a gate valve, a ball valve, a flap type valve, and the
like, for example. The diverter valve 26 can be any conventional
diverter valve such as a three way valve used to selectively permit
flow between conduit branches, for example.
[0023] Crossover conduits 28, 30 are provided between the first
circuit 12 and the second circuit 14. Flow valves 32, 34 are
provided in respective crossover conduits 28, 30 to selectively
permit flow of the first fluid therethrough. A pump 36 is also
provided in the crossover conduit 28 to assist with circulation of
the first fluid, if necessary.
[0024] A second conduit 38 is included in the second circuit 14.
The second conduit 38 is in fluid communication with an engine 40
of the hybrid vehicle to circulate the first fluid therethrough and
remove heat therefrom. A heat exchanger 42 is disposed in the
second conduit 38 downstream of the engine 40. The heat exchanger
42 can be any conventional heat exchanger such as a radiator for
the vehicle, for example. A first bypass conduit 44 is provided to
permit bypassing of the heat exchanger 42 and a second bypass
conduit 46 is provided to create a recirculation circuit. A
diverter valve 48 selectively permits flow between the heat
exchanger 42 and the first bypass conduit 44. Selective flow for
the second bypass conduit 46 is facilitated by a diverter valve 50.
It is understood that more or fewer valves may be used as desired
to control flow of the first fluid through the second conduit 38. A
pump 52 is disposed in the second conduit 38 to circulate the first
fluid therethrough.
[0025] A first thermoelectric device (TED) 54 is disposed adjacent
the first conduit 16 and between the crossover conduits 28, 30. The
first TED 54 includes a first heat transfer surface 55 and a second
heat transfer surface 56. The first heat transfer surface 55 is in
thermal communication with the first conduit 16 of the first
circuit 12. The first TED 54 is in electrical communication with a
control system (not shown). The control system controls an electric
current sent to the first TED 54. When the current is delivered in
one direction, one of the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
second heat transfer surface 56 generates thermal energy or heat
and the other of the first heat transfer surface 55 and the second
heat transfer surface 56 absorbs thermal energy or heat. When the
current is reversed, the one of the first heat transfer surface 55
and the second heat transfer surface 56 which was generating heat
now absorbs heat and the other of the first heat transfer surface
55 and the second heat transfer surface 56 now generates heat.
Additionally, when the current is increased, a heating and cooling
capacity of the TED is increased. Likewise, when the current is
decreased, the heating and cooling capacity of the TED is
decreased.
[0026] The TED 54 may be any conventional device such as: those
produced by Marlow Industries, Inc. of Dallas, Tex.; the
thermoelectric systems described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,539,725 to
Bell; a quantum tunneling converter; a Peltier device; a
thermoionic module; a magneto caloric module; an acoustic heating
mechanism; a solid state heat pumping device; and the like; for
example; or any combination of the devices listed above. Although a
single thermoelectric device is shown, it is understood that
additional thermoelectric devices can be used, as desired.
[0027] A third conduit 57 is in thermal communication with the
second heat transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54. The third
conduit 57 conveys a second fluid (not shown). The second fluid can
be any conventional fluid such as air or a coolant such as a
water-glycol coolant, for example. A pump 58 is disposed in the
third conduit 57 to circulate the second fluid therethrough.
[0028] An air conduit 60 in fluid communication with a source of
air (not shown) is provided to supply the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. The air conduit 60 includes a
first heat exchanger 62, a second heat exchanger 64, and a third
heat exchanger 66 disposed therein. The heat exchangers 62, 64, 66
can be any conventional type of heat exchanger.
[0029] The first heat exchanger 62 and the third heat exchanger 66
are in fluid communication with the second circuit 14. A diverter
valve 68 is disposed in a supply side of the second conduit 38 to
selectively control flow of the first fluid to the first heat
exchanger 62 and the third heat exchanger 66. A diverter valve 70
is disposed in the second conduit 38 on a return side thereof to
selectively control flow of the first fluid from the first heat
exchanger 62 and the third heat exchanger 66.
[0030] The second heat exchanger 64 is in fluid communication with
the third conduit 57. The third conduit 57 circulates the second
fluid between the first TED 54 and the second heat exchanger
64.
[0031] In operation, the system 10 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
60. The system 10 can operate in a heating mode, a demisting mode,
and a cooling mode.
[0032] In a first heating mode where the engine 40 is operating and
the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger 62
and the second heat exchanger 64 transfer heat into the air stream,
and the third heat exchanger 66 is idle. Thus, the diverter valves
68, 70 are positioned to militate against flow of the first fluid
to the third heat exchanger 66 and permit flow to the first heat
exchanger 62. The pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is
transferred into the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0033] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0034] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is not operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16. In order to
supply the first fluid to the first TED 54, the pump 36 is
operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover conduits 28, 30
are open to permit flow therethrough. A portion of the flow of the
first fluid in the second conduit 38 is directed through the
crossover conduit 28 and into thermal communication with the first
heat transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54. The controller causes
the current to the first TED 54 to flow to cause the first heat
transfer surface 55 to absorb heat and remove heat from the first
fluid. The first fluid then flows through the crossover conduit 30
to re-enter the second conduit 38 and flow to the first heat
exchanger 62.
[0035] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to
the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the
second fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60. Therefore,
heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle
from the first heat exchanger 62 and the second heat exchanger 64.
It is understood that this mode can be used with only the first
heat exchanger 62 transferring heat into the air stream and the
second heat exchanger 64 idle.
[0036] In a second heating mode where the engine 40 is operating
and the electric motor is operating, the first heat exchanger 62
and the second heat exchanger 64 transfer heat into the air stream,
and the third heat exchanger 66 is idle. Thus, the diverter valves
68, 70 are positioned to militate against flow of the first fluid
to the third heat exchanger 66 and permit flow to the first heat
exchanger 62. The pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is
transferred into the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0037] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0038] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54. The pump 36 is not operating
and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover conduits 28, 30 are closed
to militate against flow therethrough. The first fluid flows
through the battery compartment 22 where heat is transferred into
the first fluid, then through the first conduit 16, and into
thermal communication with the first heat transfer surface 55 of
the first TED 54. The diverter valve 26 is positioned to militate
against flow through the heat exchanger 20 and permit flow to the
battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is not removed from the first
fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 54 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 55 to absorb heat and remove heat from the first fluid. The
first fluid then returns to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0039] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to
the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the
second fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60. Therefore,
heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle
from the first heat exchanger 62 and the second heat exchanger
64.
[0040] In a third heating mode where the engine 40 is not operating
and the electric motor is operating, the second heat exchanger 64
transfers heat into the air stream, and the first heat exchanger 62
and the third heat exchanger 66 are idle. Initially, it is presumed
that the engine 40 was previously running and requires cooling. The
pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to circulate the
first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into
the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0041] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the first bypass conduit 44 and permit flow through the
heat exchanger 42. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in
the heat exchanger 42. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
permit flow of the first fluid through the second bypass conduit 46
and militate against flow through the second conduit 38 to the
first heat exchanger 62 and the third heat exchanger 66. Once the
engine 40 has sufficiently cooled, the pump 52 can be switched to
the off position until the engine 40 requires additional
cooling.
[0042] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54. The pump 36 is not operating
and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover conduits 28, 30 are closed
to militate against flow therethrough. The first fluid flows
through the battery compartment 22 where heat is transferred into
the first fluid, then through the first conduit 16, and into
thermal communication with the first heat transfer surface 55 of
the first TED 54. The diverter valve 26 is positioned to militate
against flow through the heat exchanger 20 and permit flow to the
battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is not removed from the first
fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 54 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 55 to absorb heat and remove heat from the first fluid. The
first fluid then returns to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0043] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to
the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the
second fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60. Therefore,
heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle
from the second heat exchanger 64. It is also understood that this
mode can be used when both the engine 40 and the electric motor are
operating, but where the amount heat required to be delivered to
the passenger compartment of the vehicle is low.
[0044] In a demisting mode, the engine 40 is operating and the
electric motor is operating. The first heat exchanger 62 is idle,
the second heat exchanger 64 removes heat from the air stream, and
the third heat exchanger 66 transfers heat into the air stream. It
is understood that the engine 40 may have also been previously
running and has residual heat stored therein. The diverter valves
68, 70 are positioned to militate against flow of the first fluid
to the first heat exchanger 62 and permit flow to the third heat
exchanger 66. The pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is
transferred into the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0045] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0046] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54. The pump 36 is not operating
and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover conduits 28, 30 are closed
to militate against flow therethrough. The diverter valve 26 is
positioned to permit flow through the heat exchanger 20 and
militate against flow to the battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is
removed from the first fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 to flow to cause
the first heat transfer surface 55 to generate heat which is
absorbed by the first fluid. The first fluid then returns to the
pump 18 for recirculation.
[0047] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 removes heat from the
second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in the
air conduit 60 to the second fluid. Therefore, air is cooled in the
second heat exchanger 64, heated by the third heat exchanger 66,
and delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle for
demisting. By initially cooling the air, moisture is caused to be
removed from the air by condensation.
[0048] In a cooling mode, where the engine 40 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the second heat exchanger 64
removes heat from the air stream, and the first heat exchanger 62
and the third heat exchanger 66 are idle. Initially, it is presumed
that the engine 40 was previously running and requires cooling. The
pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to circulate the
first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into
the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0049] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the first bypass conduit 44 and permit flow through the
heat exchanger 42. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in
the heat exchanger 42. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
permit flow of the first fluid through the second bypass conduit 46
and militate against flow through the second conduit 38 to the
first heat exchanger 62 and the third heat exchanger 66. Once the
engine 40 has sufficiently cooled, the pump 52 can be switched to
the off position until the engine 40 requires additional
cooling.
[0050] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54. The pump 36 is not operating
and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover conduits 28, 30 are closed
to militate against flow therethrough. The diverter valve 26 is
positioned to permit flow through the heat exchanger 20 and
militate against flow to the battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is
removed from the first fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 to flow to cause
the first heat transfer surface 55 to generate heat which is
absorbed by the first fluid. The first fluid then returns to the
pump 18 for recirculation.
[0051] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 removes heat from the
second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in the
air conduit 60 to the second fluid. Therefore, air is cooled in the
second heat exchanger 64 and delivered to the passenger compartment
of the vehicle.
[0052] FIG. 2 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 100 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIG. 1 has the same reference
numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not repeated.
[0053] In the embodiment shown, a second thermoelectric device
(TED) 102 is disposed adjacent the first conduit 16 and the first
TED 54, and between the crossover conduits 28, 30. The second TED
102 includes a first heat transfer surface 104 and a second heat
transfer surface 106. The first heat transfer surface 104 is in
thermal communication with the first conduit 16 of the first
circuit 12. The second TED 102 is in electrical communication with
a control system (not shown). The control system controls an
electric current sent to the second TED 102 in the same way as
described for the first TED 54. The second thermoelectric device
102 may be any conventional device such as those listed for the
first TED 54. Although a single thermoelectric device is shown, it
is understood that additional thermoelectric devices can be used,
as desired.
[0054] A fourth conduit 108 is in thermal communication with the
second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The fourth
conduit 108 conveys a third fluid (not shown). The third fluid can
be any conventional fluid such as air or a coolant such as a
water-glycol coolant, for example. A pump 110 is disposed in the
fourth conduit 108 to circulate the third fluid therethrough.
[0055] The first heat exchanger 62 is in fluid communication with
the second circuit 14 and the third heat exchanger 66 is in fluid
communication with the fourth conduit 108. The fourth conduit 108
circulates the third fluid between the second TED 102 and the third
heat exchanger 66.
[0056] In operation, the system 100 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
60. Similar to the operation described for the system 10, the
system 100 can operate in a heating mode, a demisting mode, and a
cooling mode.
[0057] In a first heating mode where the engine 40 is operating and
the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger 62,
the second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66
transfer heat into the air stream. The pump 52 of the second
circuit 14 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into the first fluid by the
engine 40.
[0058] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0059] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is not operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16. In order to
supply the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102,
the pump 36 is operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are open to permit flow therethrough. A portion of
the flow of the first fluid in the second conduit 38 is directed
through the crossover conduit 28 and into thermal communication
with the first heat transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 of the second TED 102. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 and the second
TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb heat and remove heat from
the first fluid. The first fluid then flows through the crossover
conduit 30 to re-enter the second conduit 38 and flow to the first
heat exchanger 62.
[0060] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to
the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the
second fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0061] The pump 110 is operating to circulate the third fluid
through the fourth conduit 108. The third fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 106 of the
second TED 102. The second heat transfer surface 106 generates heat
which is transferred to the third fluid. Thus, the third fluid
flows to the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred from
the third fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of
the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62, the second heat
exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66. It is understood
that this mode can be used with the first heat exchanger 62 and the
second heat exchanger 64 transferring heat into the air stream, and
the third heat exchanger 66 idle. It is also understood that this
mode can be used with only the first heat exchanger 62 transferring
heat into the air stream, and the second heat exchanger 64 and the
third heat exchanger 66 idle.
[0062] In a second heating mode where the engine 40 is operating
and the electric motor is operating, the first heat exchanger 62,
the second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66
transfer heat into the air stream. The pump 52 of the second
circuit 14 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into the first fluid by the
engine 40.
[0063] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0064] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The first fluid flows through the battery compartment 22 where heat
is transferred into the first fluid, then through the first conduit
16, and into thermal communication with the first heat transfer
surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the first heat transfer surface
104 of the second TED 102. The diverter valve 26 is positioned to
militate against flow through the heat exchanger 20 and permit flow
to the battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is not removed from the
first fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The controller causes the
current to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102 to flow to cause
the first heat transfer surface 55 and the first heat transfer
surface 104 to absorb heat to and remove heat from the first fluid.
The first fluid then returns to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0065] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to
the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the
second fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0066] The pump 110 is operating to circulate the third fluid
through the fourth conduit 108. The third fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 106 of the
second TED 102. The second heat transfer surface 106 generates heat
which is transferred to the third fluid. Thus, the third fluid
flows to the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred from
the third fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of
the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62, the second heat
exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66. It is understood
that this mode can be used with the first heat exchanger 62 and the
second heat exchanger 64 transferring heat into the air stream, and
the third heat exchanger 66 idle. It is also understood that this
mode can be used with only the first heat exchanger 62 transferring
heat into the air stream, and the second heat exchanger 64 and the
third heat exchanger 66 idle. It is understood that a third heating
mode as described above for FIG. 1 can be used with the first TED
54 and the second heat exchanger 64, or the first TED 54 and the
second heat exchanger 64 and the second TED 102 and the third heat
exchanger 66 with the first heat exchanger 62 being idle.
[0067] In a demisting mode, the engine 40 is not operating and the
electric motor is operating. The first heat exchanger 62 is idle,
the second heat exchanger 64 removes heat from the air stream, and
the third heat exchanger 66 transfers heat into the air stream. It
is understood that the engine 40 may have also been previously
running and has residual heat stored therein, and that the second
circuit 14 is operated as described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from
the engine 40. Additionally, it, is understood that the engine 40
could be operating, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as
described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
[0068] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The diverter valve 26 is positioned to permit flow through the heat
exchanger 20 and militate against flow to the battery compartment
22. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in the heat
exchanger 20. The controller causes the current in the second TED
102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb
heat and remove heat from the first fluid. The controller causes
the current to the first TED 54 to flow to cause the first heat
transfer surface 55 to generate heat which is absorbed by the first
fluid. The first fluid then returns to the pump 18 for
recirculation.
[0069] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 removes heat from the
second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in the
air conduit 60 to the second fluid.
[0070] The pump 110 is operating to circulate the third fluid
through the fourth conduit 108. The third fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 106 of the
second TED 102. The second heat transfer surface 106 generates heat
which is absorbed by the third fluid. Thus, the third fluid flows
to the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred to the air
flowing in the air conduit 60 from the third fluid.
[0071] Therefore, air is cooled in the second heat exchanger 64,
heated by the third heat exchanger 66, and delivered to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle for demisting. By initially
cooling the air, moisture is caused to be removed from the air by
condensation.
[0072] In a cooling mode, where the engine 40 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the second heat exchanger 64 and
the third heat exchanger 66 remove heat from the air stream, and
the first heat exchanger 62 is idle. It is understood that the
engine 40 may have also been previously running and has residual
heat stored therein, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as
described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
Additionally, it is understood that the engine 40 could be
operating, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as described
for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
[0073] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The diverter valve 26 is positioned to permit flow through the heat
exchanger 20 and militate against flow to the battery compartment
22. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in the heat
exchanger 20. The controller causes the current to the first TED 54
and the second TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 55 and the first heat transfer surface 104 to generate heat
which is absorbed by the first fluid. The first fluid then returns
to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0074] The pump 58 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 57. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 removes heat from the
first fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in the
air conduit 60 to the second fluid.
[0075] The pump 110 is operating to circulate the third fluid
through the fourth conduit 108. The third fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 106 of the
second TED 102. The second heat transfer surface 106 removes heat
from the third fluid. Thus, the third fluid flows to the third heat
exchanger 66 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in the
air conduit 60 to the third fluid. Therefore, air is cooled in the
second heat exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66, and
delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. It is
understood that this mode can be used with one of the second heat
exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66 transferring heat from
the air stream, and the other of the second heat exchanger 64 and
the third heat exchanger 66 idle.
[0076] FIG. 3 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 120 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIGS. 1 and 2 has the same
reference numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not
repeated.
[0077] In the embodiment shown, the first TED 54 and the second TED
102 include a third conduit 122 in thermal communication with both
the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54 and the
second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The third
conduit 122 conveys a second fluid (not shown). The second fluid
can be any conventional fluid such as air or a coolant such as a
water-glycol coolant, for example. A pump 124 is disposed in the
third conduit 122 to circulate the second fluid therethrough.
[0078] The first heat exchanger 62 is in fluid communication "with
the second circuit 14. The second heat exchanger 64 has an outlet
126 in fluid communication with the first TED 54 and an inlet 128
in fluid communication with the second TED 102. The third heat
exchanger 66 has an outlet 130 in fluid communication with the
second TED 102 and an inlet 132 in fluid communication with the
first TED 54. The third conduit 122 circulates the second fluid
between the first TED 54, the third heat exchanger 66, the second
TED 102 and the second heat exchanger 64.
[0079] In operation, the system 120 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
60. Similar to the operation described for the systems 10, 100, the
system 120 can operate in a heating mode, a demisting mode, and a
cooling mode.
[0080] In a first heating mode where the engine 40 is operating and
the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger 62,
the second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66
transfer heat into the air stream. The pump 52 of the second
circuit 14 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into the first fluid by the
engine 40.
[0081] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0082] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is not operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16. In order to
supply the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102,
the pump 36 is operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are open to permit flow therethrough. A portion of
the flow of the first fluid in the second conduit 38 is directed
through the crossover conduit 28 and into thermal communication
with the first heat transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 of the second TED 102. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 and the second
TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb heat and remove heat from
the first fluid. The first fluid then flows through the crossover
conduit 30 to re-enter the second conduit 38 and flow to the first
heat exchanger 62.
[0083] The pump 124 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 122. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54 and the second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED
102. The second heat transfer surface 56 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 generate heat which is transferred to the
second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is
transferred from the second fluid to the air flowing in the air
conduit 60. Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger
compartment of the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62, the
second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66. It is
understood that this mode can be used with only the first heat
exchanger 62 transferring heat into the air stream, and the second
heat exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66 idle.
[0084] In a second heating mode where the engine 40 is operating
and the electric motor is operating, the first heat exchanger 62,
the second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66
transfer heat into the air stream. The pump 52 of the second
circuit 14 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into the first fluid by the
engine 40.
[0085] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0086] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The first fluid flows through the battery compartment 22 where heat
is transferred into the first fluid, flows through the first
conduit 16, and into thermal communication with the first heat
transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the first heat transfer
surface 104 of the second TED 102. The diverter valve 26 is
positioned to militate against flow through the heat exchanger 20
and permit flow to the battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is not
removed from the first fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 and the second
TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb heat to and remove heat
from the first fluid. The first fluid then returns to the pump 18
for recirculation.
[0087] The pump 124 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 122. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54 and the second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED
102. The second heat transfer surface 56 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 generate heat which is transferred to the
second fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the second heat
exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66 where heat is
transferred from the second fluid to the air flowing in the air
conduit 60.
[0088] Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger
compartment of the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62, the
second heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66. It is
understood that this mode can be used with only the first heat
exchanger 62 transferring heat into the air stream, and the second
heat exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66 idle. It is
understood that a third heating mode as described above for FIG. 1
can be used with the first TED 54, the second TED 102, the second
heat exchanger 64, and the third heat exchanger 66 with the first
heat exchanger 62 being idle.
[0089] In a demisting mode, the engine 40 is not operating and the
electric motor is operating. The first heat exchanger 62 is idle,
the second heat exchanger 64 removes heat from the air stream, and
the third heat exchanger 66 transfers heat into the air stream. It
is understood that the engine 40 may have also been previously
running and has residual heat stored therein, and that the second
circuit 14 is operated as described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from
the engine 40. Additionally, it is understood that the engine 40
could be operating, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as
described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
[0090] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The diverter valve 26 is positioned to permit flow through the heat
exchanger 20 and militate against flow to the battery compartment
22. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in the heat
exchanger 20. The controller causes the current in the second TED
102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 104 to
generate heat which is absorbed by the first fluid. The controller
causes the current to the first TED 54 to flow to cause the first
heat transfer surface 55 to absorb heat which removes heat from the
first fluid. The first fluid then returns to the pump 18 for
recirculation.
[0091] The pump 124 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 122. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54. The second heat transfer surface 56 generates heat which is
transferred to the second fluid. The second fluid flows to the
third heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred to the air
flowing in the air conduit 60 to the second fluid. The second fluid
flows to the second heat transfer surface 106 and is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 106. The second
heat transfer surface 106 absorbs heat and removes heat from the
second fluid. The second fluid flows to the second heat exchanger
64 where heat is removed from the air flowing in the air conduit 60
to the second fluid.
[0092] Therefore, air is cooled in the second heat exchanger 64,
heated by the third heat exchanger 66, and delivered to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle for demisting. By initially
cooling the air, moisture is caused to be removed from the air by
condensation.
[0093] In a cooling mode, where the engine 40 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the second heat exchanger 64 and
the third heat exchanger 66 remove heat from the air stream, and
the first heat exchanger 62 is idle. It is understood that the
engine 40 may have also been previously running and has residual
heat stored therein, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as
described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
Additionally, it is understood that the engine 40 could be
operating, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as described
for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
[0094] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The diverter valve 26 is positioned to permit flow through the heat
exchanger 20 and militate against flow to the battery compartment
22. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in the heat
exchanger 20. The controller causes the current to the first TED 54
and the second TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 55 and the first heat transfer surface 104 to generate heat
which is absorbed by the first fluid. The first fluid then returns
to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0095] The pump 124 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 122. The second fluid is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first
TED 54 and the second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED
102. The second heat transfer surface 56 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 remove heat from the first fluid. Thus, the
second fluid flows to the second heat exchanger 64 and the third
heat exchanger 66 where heat is transferred from the air flowing in
the air conduit 60 to the second fluid. Therefore, air is cooled in
the second heat exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66, and
delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
[0096] FIG. 4 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 140 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIGS. 1 and 2 has the same
reference numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not
repeated.
[0097] In the embodiment shown, the first TED 54 and the second TED
102 include a third conduit 142 in thermal communication with both
the second heat transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54 and the
second heat transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The third
conduit 142 conveys a second fluid (not shown). The second fluid
can be any conventional fluid such as air or a coolant such as a
water-glycol coolant, for example. A pump 144 is disposed in the
third conduit 142 to circulate the second fluid therethrough.
[0098] The first heat exchanger 62 is in fluid communication with
the second circuit 14. The second heat exchanger 64 has an outlet
146 in fluid communication with the first TED 54 and an inlet 148
in fluid communication with the second TED 102. The third heat
exchanger 66 has an outlet 150 in fluid communication with the
second TED 102 and an inlet 152 in fluid communication with the
first TED 54. The third conduit 142 circulates the second fluid
between the first TED 54; the third heat exchanger 66, the second
TED 102 and the second heat exchanger 64. However, a diverter valve
154 is disposed in the third conduit 142 to selectively control
flow of the second fluid from the first TED 54. In a first
position, the diverter valve 154 directs flow as described for FIG.
3. In a second position, the diverter valve 154 directs flow from
the first TED 54, to the second TED 102, and back to the second
heat exchanger 64. Therefore, the third heat exchanger 66 is
bypassed and the flow is similar to the flow of the second fluid
described for FIG. 1.
[0099] In operation, the system 140 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated, by the arrow in the air
conduit 60. Similar to the operation described for the systems 10,
100, 120 the system 140 can operate in a heating mode, a demisting
mode, and a cooling mode.
[0100] In a first heating mode where the engine 40 is operating and
the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger 62
and the second heat exchanger 64, transfer heat into the air
stream. The third heat exchanger 66 is idle. The pump 52 of the
second circuit 14 is operating to circulate the first fluid through
the second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into the first fluid by
the engine 40.
[0101] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0102] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is not operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16. In order to
supply the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102,
the pump 36 is operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are open to permit flow therethrough. A portion of
the flow of the first fluid in the second conduit 38 is directed
through the crossover conduit 28 and into thermal communication
with the first heat transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 of the second TED 102. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 and the second
TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb heat and remove heat from
the first fluid. The first fluid then flows through the crossover
conduit 30 to re-enter the second conduit 38 and flow to the first
heat exchanger 62.
[0103] The pump 144 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 142 and bypassing the third heat
exchanger 66. The diverter valve 154 is in a position to militate
against flow of the second fluid to the third heat exchanger 66.
The second fluid is in thermal communication with the second heat
transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The second heat
transfer surface 56 and the second heat transfer surface 106
generate heat which is transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the
second fluid flows to the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is
transferred from the second fluid to the air flowing in the air
conduit 60. Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger
compartment of the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62 and the
second heat exchanger 64. It is understood that this mode can be
used with only the first heat exchanger 62 transferring heat into
the air stream, and the second heat exchanger 64 and the third heat
exchanger 66 idle. It is further understood that this mode can be
used as described above for FIG. 3 to transfer heat into the air
stream using the first heat exchanger 62, the second heat exchanger
64 and the third heat exchanger 66.
[0104] In a second heating mode where the engine 40 is operating
and the electric motor is operating, the first heat exchanger 62
and the second heat exchanger 64 transfer heat into the air stream.
The pump 52 of the second circuit 14 is operating to circulate the
first fluid through the second conduit 38. Heat is transferred into
the first fluid by the engine 40.
[0105] The diverter valve 48 is positioned to militate against flow
through the heat exchanger 42 and permit flow through the first
bypass conduit 44. Thus, heat is not removed from the first fluid
in the heat exchanger 42 and the first fluid flows through the
first bypass conduit 44. The diverter valve 50 is in a position to
militate against flow of the first fluid through the second bypass
conduit 46. Therefore, the first fluid flows through the second
conduit 38 to the first heat exchanger 62 where heat is transferred
from the first fluid to the air flowing in the air conduit 60.
[0106] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The first fluid flows through the battery compartment 22 where heat
is transferred into the first fluid, flows through the first
conduit 16, and into thermal communication with the first heat
transfer surface 55 of the first TED 54 and the first heat transfer
surface 104 of the second TED 102. The diverter valve 26 is
positioned to militate against flow through the heat exchanger 20
and permit flow to the battery compartment 22. Thus, heat is not
removed from the first fluid in the heat exchanger 20. The
controller causes the current to the first TED 54 and the second
TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer surface 55 and the
first heat transfer surface 104 to absorb heat to and remove heat
from the first fluid. The first fluid then returns to the pump 18
for recirculation.
[0107] The pump 144 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 142 and bypassing the third heat
exchanger 66. The diverter valve 154 is in a position to militate
against flow of the second fluid to the third heat exchanger 66.
The second fluid is in thermal communication with the second heat
transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The second heat
transfer surface 56 and the second heat transfer surface 106
generate heat which is transferred to the second fluid. Thus, the
second fluid flows to the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is
transferred from the second fluid to the air flowing in the air
conduit 60. Therefore, heated air is delivered to the passenger
compartment of the vehicle from the first heat exchanger 62 and the
second heat exchanger 64. It is understood that this mode can be
used with only the first heat exchanger 62 transferring heat into
the air stream, and the second heat exchanger 64 and the third heat
exchanger 66 idle. It is further understood that this mode can be
used as described above for FIG. 3 to transfer heat into the air
stream using the first heat exchanger 62, the second heat exchanger
64 and the third heat exchanger 66.
[0108] In a demisting mode, the system 140 is used as described
above for FIG. 3.
[0109] In a cooling mode, where the engine 40 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the second heat exchanger 64
removes heat from the air stream, and the first heat exchanger 62'
and the third heat exchanger 66 are idle. It is understood that the
engine 40 may have also been previously running and has residual
heat stored therein, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as
described for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
Additionally, it is understood that the engine 40 could be
operating, and that the second circuit 14 is operated as described
for FIG. 1 to remove heat from the engine 40.
[0110] The pump 18 of the first circuit 12 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 16 to supply
the first fluid to the first TED 54 and the second TED 102. The
pump 36 is not operating and the valves 32, 34 of the crossover
conduits 28, 30 are closed to militate against flow therethrough.
The diverter valve 26 is positioned to permit flow through the heat
exchanger 20 and militate against flow to the battery compartment
22. Thus, heat is removed from the first fluid in the heat
exchanger 20. The controller causes the current to the first TED 54
and the second TED 102 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 55 and the first heat transfer surface 104 to generate heat
which is absorbed by the first fluid. The first fluid then returns
to the pump 18 for recirculation.
[0111] The pump 144 is operating to circulate the second fluid
through the third conduit 142 and bypassing the third heat
exchanger 66. The diverter valve 154 is in a position to militate
against flow of the second fluid to the third heat exchanger 66.
The second fluid is in thermal communication with the second heat
transfer surface 56 of the first TED 54 and the second heat
transfer surface 106 of the second TED 102. The second heat
transfer surface 56 and the second heat transfer surface 106 remove
heat from the first fluid. Thus, the second fluid flows to the
second heat exchanger 64 where heat is transferred from the air
flowing in the air conduit 60 to the second fluid. Thus, the second
fluid flows to the second heat exchanger 64 where heat is
transferred from the second fluid to the air flowing in the air
conduit 60. Therefore, air is cooled in the second heat exchanger
64 and delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. It is
understood that this mode can be used as described above for FIG. 3
to transfer heat from the air stream using the second heat
exchanger 64 and the third heat exchanger 66.
[0112] FIG. 5 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 160 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. The system 160 includes a first fluid circuit 162 and a
second fluid circuit 164. In the embodiment shown, the first
circuit 162 communicates with components of an electric side of a
hybrid vehicle (not shown) and the second circuit 164 communicates
with components of a fuel fed side of the hybrid vehicle. A first
fluid (not shown) is circulated in the first circuit 162 and the
second circuit 164 and can be any conventional fluid such as air or
a coolant such as a water-glycol coolant, for example.
[0113] The first circuit 162 includes a first conduit 166 for
conveying the first fluid through the first circuit 162. A pump 168
is disposed in the first conduit 166 to circulate the first fluid
therethrough. The first conduit 166 includes a heat exchanger 170
disposed therein. The heat exchanger 170 can be any conventional
heat exchanger such as a low temperature core, for example. The
first fluid is also circulated through a battery compartment or
other source of heat 172 from the electric side of the hybrid
vehicle to remove heat therefrom. In the embodiment shown, the
battery compartment 172 is disposed in parallel with the heat
exchanger 170. However, it is understood that other configurations
can be used as desired such as in series or a separate conduit, for
example. A flow valve 174 and a diverter valve 176 are also
disposed in the first conduit 166. It is understood that more or
fewer valves may be used as desired to control flow of the first
fluid through the first conduit 166.
[0114] Crossover conduits 178, 180 are provided between the first
circuit 162 and the second circuit 164. Flow valves 182, 184 are
provided in respective crossover conduits 178, 180 to selectively
permit flow of the first fluid therethrough.
[0115] A second conduit 186 is included in the second circuit 164.
The second conduit 186 is in fluid communication with an engine 188
of the hybrid vehicle to circulate the first fluid therethrough and
remove heat therefrom. A heat exchanger 190 is disposed in the
second conduit 186 downstream of the engine 188. The heat exchanger
190 can be any conventional heat exchanger such as a radiator for
the vehicle, for example. A first bypass conduit 192 is provided to
permit bypassing of the heat exchanger 190 and a second bypass
conduit 194 is provided to create a recirculation circuit. Flow
through the second bypass conduit 194 is controlled by a flow valve
196. It is understood that more or fewer valves may be used as
desired to control flow of the first fluid through the second
conduit 186. A pump 198 is disposed in the second conduit 186 to
circulate the first fluid therethrough. An expansion tank 200 is
provided to account for expansion of the first fluid during
operation of the system 160. An exhaust gas heat recovery device
202 is provided to permit heat recovery from exhaust gases.
[0116] A first thermoelectric device (TED) 204 is disposed adjacent
the first conduit 166. The first TED 204 includes a first heat
transfer surface 206 and a second heat transfer surface 208. The
first heat transfer surface 206 is in thermal communication with
the first conduit 166 of the first circuit 162. The first TED 204
is in electrical communication with a control system (not shown).
The control system controls an electric current sent to the first
TED 204. When the current is delivered in one direction, one of the
first heat transfer surface 206 and the second heat transfer
surface 208 generates thermal energy or heat, and the other of the
first heat transfer surface 206 and the second heat transfer
surface 208 absorbs thermal energy or heat. When the current is
reversed, the one of the first heat transfer surface 206 and the
second heat transfer surface 208 which was generating heat now
absorbs heat and the other of the first heat transfer surface 206
and the second heat transfer surface 208 now generates heat.
Additionally, when the current is increased, a heating and cooling
capacity of the TED is increased. Likewise, when the current is
decreased, the heating and cooling capacity of the TED is
decreased. Although a single thermoelectric device is shown, it is
understood that additional thermoelectric devices can be used, as
desired.
[0117] An air conduit 210 in fluid communication with a source of
air (not shown) is provided to supply the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. The air conduit 210 includes
a first heat exchanger 212 disposed therein. The heat exchanger 212
can be any conventional type of heat exchanger. The air conduit 210
is in thermal communication with the second heat transfer surface
208 of the first TED 204.
[0118] In operation, the system 160 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
210. The system 160 can operate in a heating mode and a cooling
mode. Additionally, if a second TED is added as discussed for FIGS.
2-4, or if the first TED 204 is disposed upstream of the first heat
exchanger 190, the system 160 can operate in a demisting mode.
[0119] In a first heating mode where the engine 188 is operating
and the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger
212 and the first TED 204 transfer heat into the air stream. The
pump 168 of the first circuit 162 is not operating to circulate the
first fluid through the first conduit 166. The pump 198 of the
second circuit 164 is operating to circulate the first fluid
through the second conduit 186. A portion of the flow of the first
fluid may be permitted to flow through the heat exchanger 190, or
if additional valves are use, flow through the heat exchanger 190
can be militated against. Heat is transferred into the first fluid
by the engine 188.
[0120] The valve 182 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the engine 188 into thermal communication with the first
heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller
causes the current to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first
heat transfer surface 206 to absorb heat and remove some heat from
the first fluid. The first fluid then flows to the first heat
exchanger 212. The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the
first TED 204. The second heat transfer surface 208 generates heat
which is transferred to the air flowing in the air conduit 210.
[0121] The valve 184 is positioned to permit flow through the first
heat exchanger 212. In the first fluid flowing through the first
heat exchanger 212, heat is removed therefrom and transferred to
the air flowing in the air conduit 210. Therefore, heated air is
delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle from the
first heat exchanger 212 and the first TED 204.
[0122] In a second heating mode, where the engine 188 is not
operating and the electric motor is operating, the first TED 204
transfers heat into the air stream. The pump 168 of the first
circuit 162 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
first conduit 166. The diverter valve 176 is positioned to militate
against flow of the first fluid to the heat exchanger 170 and
permit flow to the battery compartment 172. Heat is transferred
into the first fluid by the battery compartment 172. The pump 198
of the second circuit 164 is not operating to circulate the first
fluid through the second conduit 186. It is understood that if the
engine 188 is operating, or if there is residual heat in the engine
188 requiring removal, the pump 198 can be operated to cause the
first fluid to flow through the heat exchanger 190 and recirculate
back to the pump 198. If this is necessary, the valve 196 is
positioned to permit flow therethrough to recirculate the flow of
the first fluid back to the pump 198.
[0123] The valve 182 is positioned to militate against flow of the
first fluid from the engine 188 into thermal communication with the
first heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The valve 184
is positioned to militate against flow through the first heat
exchanger 212.
[0124] The valve 174 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the battery compartment 172 to the first heat transfer
surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 206 to absorb heat and remove heat from the first fluid.
The first fluid then flows back to the pump 168 for recirculation.
The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal communication
with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the first TED 204. The
second heat transfer surface 208 generates heat which is
transferred to the air flowing in the air conduit 210. Therefore,
heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle
from the first TED 204.
[0125] In a cooling mode, where the engine 188 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the first TED 204 removes heat
from the air stream. The pump 168 of the first circuit 162 is
operating to circulate the first fluid through the first conduit
166. The diverter valve 176 is positioned to militate against flow
of the first fluid to the battery compartment 172 and permit flow
to the heat exchanger 170. Heat is removed from the first fluid by
the heat exchanger 170. The pump 198 of the second circuit 164 is
not operating to circulate the first fluid through the second
conduit 186. It is understood that if the engine 188 is operating,
or if there is residual heat in the engine 188 requiring removal,
the pump 198 can be operated to cause the first fluid to flow
through the heat exchanger 190 and recirculate back to the pump
198. If this is necessary, the valve 196 is positioned to permit
flow therethrough to recirculate the flow of the first fluid back
to the pump 198.
[0126] The valve 182 is positioned to militate against flow of the
first fluid from the engine 188 into thermal communication with the
first heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The valve 184
is positioned to militate against flow through the first heat
exchanger 212.
[0127] The valve 174 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the heat exchanger 170 to the first heat transfer
surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 206 to generate heat which is absorbed by the first fluid.
The first fluid then flows back to the pump 168 for recirculation.
The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal communication
with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the first TED 204. The
second heat transfer surface 208 absorbs heat from the air flowing
in the air conduit 210. Therefore, cooled air is delivered to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle from the first TED 204.
[0128] FIG. 6 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 220 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIG. 5 has the same reference
numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not repeated.
[0129] In the embodiment shown, a pump 222 is provided to
selectively circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 166
and a crossover conduit 224. A flow valve 226 is disposed in the
crossover conduit 224 to selectively permit flow of the first fluid
therethrough. It is understood that more or fewer valves may be
used as desired.
[0130] In operation, the system 220 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
210. The system 220 can operate in a heating mode and a cooling
mode. Additionally, if a second TED is added as discussed for FIGS.
2-4, or if the first TED 204 is disposed upstream of the first heat
exchanger 190, the system 220 can operate in a demisting mode.
[0131] In a first heating mode where the engine 188 is operating
and the electric motor is not operating, the first heat exchanger
212 and the first TED 204 transfer heat into the air stream. The
pump 222 is operating to circulate the first fluid through the
crossover conduit 224. The pump 198 of the second circuit 164 is
operating to circulate the first fluid through the second conduit
186. A portion of the flow of the first fluid may be permitted to
flow through the heat exchanger 190, or if additional valves are
use, flow through the heat exchanger 190 can be militated against.
Heat is transferred into the first fluid by the engine 188.
[0132] The valve 182 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the engine 188 into thermal communication with the first
heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller
causes the current to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first
heat transfer surface 206 to absorb heat and remove some heat from
the first fluid. The first fluid then flows through to the pump
222. The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal
communication with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the
first TED 204. The second heat transfer surface 208 generates heat
which is transferred to the air flowing in the air conduit 210.
[0133] The valve 226 is positioned to permit flow through the first
heat exchanger 212. In the first fluid flowing through the first
heat exchanger 212, heat is removed therefrom and transferred to
the air flowing in the air conduit 210. Therefore, heated air is
delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle from the
first heat exchanger 212 and the first TED 204.
[0134] In a second heating mode, where the engine 188 is not
operating and the electric motor is operating, the first TED 204
transfers heat into the air stream. The pump 222 is operating to
circulate the first fluid through the first conduit 166. The
diverter valve 176 is positioned to militate against flow of the
first fluid to the heat exchanger 170 and permit flow to the
battery compartment 172. Heat is transferred into the first fluid
by the battery compartment 172. The pump 198 of the second circuit
164 is not operating to circulate the first fluid through the
second conduit 186. It is understood that if the engine 188 is
operating, or if there is residual heat in the engine 188 requiring
removal, the pump 198 can be operated to cause the first fluid to
flow through the heat exchanger 190 and recirculate back to the
pump 198. If this is necessary, the valve 196 is positioned to
permit flow therethrough to recirculate the flow of the first fluid
back to the pump 198.
[0135] The valve 182 is positioned to militate against flow of the
first fluid from the engine 188 into thermal communication with the
first heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The valve 226
is positioned to militate against flow through the first heat
exchanger 212.
[0136] The valve 174 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the battery compartment 172 to the first heat transfer
surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 206 to absorb heat and remove heat from the first fluid.
The first fluid then flows back to the pump 222 for recirculation.
The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal communication
with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the first TED 204. The
second heat transfer surface 208 generates heat which is
transferred to the air flowing in the air conduit 210. Therefore,
heated air is delivered to the passenger compartment of the vehicle
from the first TED 204.
[0137] In a cooling mode, where the engine 188 is not operating and
the electric motor is operating, the first TED 204 removes heat
from the air stream. The pump 222 is operating to circulate the
first fluid through the first conduit 166. The diverter valve 176
is positioned to militate against flow of the first fluid to the
battery compartment 172 and permit flow to the heat exchanger 170.
Heat is removed from the first fluid by the heat exchanger 170. The
pump 198 of the second circuit 164 is not operating to circulate
the first fluid through the second conduit 186. It is understood
that if the engine 188 is operating, or if there is residual heat
in the engine 188 requiring removal, the pump 198 can be operated
to cause the first fluid to flow through the heat exchanger 190 and
recirculate back to the pump 198. If this is necessary, the valve
196 is positioned to permit flow therethrough to recirculate the
flow of the first fluid back to the pump 198.
[0138] The valve 182 is positioned to militate against flow of the
first fluid from the engine 188 into thermal'communication with the
first heat transfer surface 206 of the first TED 204. The valve 226
is positioned to militate against flow through the first heat
exchanger 212.
[0139] The valve 174 is positioned to permit flow of the first
fluid from the heat exchanger 170 to the first heat transfer
surface 206 of the first TED 204. The controller causes the current
to the first TED 204 to flow to cause the first heat transfer
surface 206 to generate heat which is absorbed by the first fluid.
The first fluid then flows back to the pump 222 for recirculation.
The air flowing in the air conduit 210 is in thermal communication
with the second heat transfer surface 208 of the first TED 204. The
second heat transfer surface 208 absorbs heat from the air flowing
in the air conduit 210. Therefore, cooled air is delivered to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle from the first TED 204.
[0140] FIG. 7 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 230 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIGS. 5 and 6 has the same
reference numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not
repeated.
[0141] In the embodiment shown, the valve 196 has been removed from
the system. It is understood that more or fewer valves may be used
as desired.
[0142] In operation, the system 230 conditions the air flowing from
the source of air for supply of the conditioned air to the
passenger compartment of the vehicle. A flow direction of the air
from the source of air is indicated by the arrow in the air conduit
210. The system 230 can operate in a heating mode and a cooling
mode. Additionally, if a second TED is added as discussed for FIGS.
2-4, or if the first TED 204 is disposed upstream of the first heat
exchanger 190, the system 230 can operate in a demisting mode.
[0143] The operation of the system 230 is the same as described
above for FIG. 6, except for the valve 196. The valve 196 has been
removed in the system 230. Thus, it is not necessary to open a
valve to permit recirculation of the flow of the first fluid
through the second circuit 164.
[0144] FIG. 8 shows a heating ventilating, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system 240 for supplying conditioned air to a passenger
compartment of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the
invention. Structure included from FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 has the same
reference numeral for clarity and a description thereof is not
repeated.
[0145] In the embodiment shown, a point at which a return conduit
242 connects to the second conduit 186 has been changed. The return
conduit 242 connects directly into the second conduit 186, where
the previous connection was made upstream of the exhaust gas heat
recovery device 202. The operation of the system 240 is the same as
described above for FIG. 7.
[0146] From the foregoing description, one ordinarily skilled in
the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of this
invention and, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof,
can make various changes and modifications to the invention to
adapt it to various usages and conditions.
* * * * *