Cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant and cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant

Abstract

A cooling module (20) using a solid refrigerant includes an annular accommodating portion (21) having an accommodating portion (22), a low-temperature side inflow path (25), a high-temperature side inflow path (27), a low-temperature side outflow path (26), and a high-temperature side outflow path (28). A first space (29) is formed between one end of the flow path (23) and the low-temperature side inflow path (25), and a second space (30) is formed between the other end of the flow path (23) and the high-temperature side inflow path (27). The cooling module (20) using a solid refrigerant includes: a first intermediate flow path (31) that communicates with the low-temperature side inflow path (25) and the first space (29) and expands the heat medium flow from the low-temperature side inflow path (25) to the first space (29); and a second intermediate flow path (33) that communicates with the high-temperature side inflow path (27) and the second space (30) and expands the heat medium flow from the high-temperature side inflow path (27) to the second space (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooling module using a solid refrigerant and a cooling system using a solid refrigerant. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a magnetic refrigeration module for generating cold thermal energy and warm thermal energy by utilizing the magnetocaloric effect (for example, Patent Document 1). The magnetic refrigeration module in Patent Document 1 is configured to generate cold energy and thermal energy by applying a magnetic field to and removing the magnetic field from a housing portion that houses a magnetic working substance, and by flowing a heat medium into and out of the housing portion.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication Gazette No. 2016-530479 Summary of the Invention

[0004] -Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention-

[0005] However, in order to maximize the performance of the magnetic refrigeration module, the magnetic working substance in the housing portion should be utilized without remainder. For this purpose, it is necessary to flow the heat medium into a large range of the housing portion. In order to flow the heat medium into a large range of the housing portion, a space for expanding the flow of the heat medium is required between the flow path through which the heat medium flows and the housing portion. Since an amount of the heat medium corresponding to the volume of this space does not discharge to the outside of the magnetic refrigeration module, this space becomes a dead volume, thereby reducing the capacity of the magnetic refrigeration module. Therefore, it is preferable that this space be as small as possible.

[0006] However, if this space is reduced, it becomes difficult to flow the heat medium into a large range of the housing portion, so that the magnetic working substance in the housing portion cannot be effectively utilized, and as a result, the capacity of the magnetic refrigeration module is still reduced.

[0007] In addition, existing magnetic refrigeration modules are basically configured to have a rectangular parallelepiped shape, so that in the case of a magnet rotation type module, unnecessary space increases, resulting in a reduction in capacity.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to improve the capacity of a cooling module using a solid refrigerant, particularly a magnetic refrigeration module, by minimizing the dead volume and unnecessary space.

[0009] -Technical Solution for Solving the Technical Problem-

[0010] A first aspect of the invention of the present disclosure is a cooling module using a solid refrigerant, characterized in that it includes an annular housing portion 21, a low-temperature side inflow path 25, a high-temperature side inflow path 27, a low-temperature side outflow path 26, and a high-temperature side outflow path 28. The annular housing portion 21 has a housing portion 22 that houses a solid refrigerant substance 24 and forms a flow path 23 for a heat medium to flow. The low-temperature side inflow path 25 allows the heat medium to flow into one end of the flow path 23, the high-temperature side inflow path 27 allows the heat medium to flow into the other end of the flow path 23, the low-temperature side outflow path 26 allows the heat medium flowing out of the one end of the flow path 23 to flow, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 allows the heat medium flowing out of the other end of the flow path 23 to flow. A first space 29 is formed between the one end of the flow path 23 and the low-temperature side inflow path 25, and a second space 30 is formed between the other end of the flow path 23 and the high-temperature side inflow path 27. The cooling module using a solid refrigerant further includes a first intermediate flow path 31 and a second intermediate flow path 33. The first intermediate flow path 31 communicates with the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the first space 29, and the first intermediate flow path 31 expands the heat medium flow from the low-temperature side inflow path 25 to the first space 29. The second intermediate flow path 33 communicates with the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the second space 30, and the second intermediate flow path 33 expands the heat medium flow from the high-temperature side inflow path 27 to the second space 30.

[0011] In the first aspect of the invention, the first space 29 and the second space 30 that become dead volumes can be reduced by using the first intermediate flow path 31 and the second intermediate flow path 33. In addition, since the housing portion 22 and the like are arranged in the annular housing portion 21, even in the case of a module used for a force field generation portion such as a magnet in a magnet rotation type module to rotate, unnecessary space can be reduced. Therefore, the performance of the cooling module using a solid refrigerant can be improved.

[0012] A cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to a second aspect of the invention of the present disclosure is, based on the first aspect of the invention, characterized in that the annular housing portion 21 is composed of a plurality of housing portion pieces 21a to 21l, and the housing portion 22, the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side outflow path 28, the first space 29, the second space 30, the first intermediate flow path 31, and the second intermediate flow path 33 are respectively provided in the plurality of housing portion pieces 21a to 21l.

[0013] In the second aspect of the invention, compared with the case of integrally forming the annular housing portion 21, the structure of the annular housing portion 21 becomes easier.

[0014] The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to the third aspect of the present disclosure is, based on the second aspect of the invention, characterized in that: the plurality of accommodating pieces 21a to 21l are in an annular sector shape, a sector shape, or a trapezoidal shape.

[0015] In the third aspect of the invention, it is easy to form the annular accommodating part 21 from the plurality of accommodating pieces 21a to 21l.

[0016] The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure is, based on the second or third aspect of the invention, characterized in that: a plurality of divided modules 100 are respectively accommodated in the plurality of accommodating pieces 21a to 21l, and the cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant further includes a header 40 that connects the plurality of divided modules 100 in parallel and / or in series.

[0017] In the fourth aspect of the invention, compared with before division, the dead volume can be further reduced, and in the case of a magnetic refrigeration module in which the solid-state refrigerant material is a magnetic working material, the magnetic paths in the respective accommodating pieces 21a to 21l are slenderly divided by the divided modules 100, so that the loss caused by eddy currents can be reduced.

[0018] The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure is, based on any one of the first to fourth aspects of the invention, characterized in that: at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of the first space 29 and the second space 30 changes as approaching from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side of the annular accommodating part 21.

[0019] In the fifth aspect of the invention, in the case of a module in which a force field generating part such as a magnet in a magnet rotation type module rotates, unnecessary space can also be reduced and the dead volume can be set to the minimum necessary size, so that the performance of the cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant can be improved.

[0020] The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure is, based on any one of the first to fifth aspects of the invention, characterized in that: at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of the first intermediate flow path 31 and the second intermediate flow path 33 changes as approaching from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side of the annular accommodating part 21.

[0021] In the sixth aspect of the invention, in the case of a module in which a force field generating part such as a magnet in a magnet rotation type module rotates, unnecessary space can also be reduced, and the intermediate flow path (if the intermediate flow path is too large, it will itself become a dead volume) can be set to the minimum necessary size, so that the performance of the cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant can be improved.

[0022] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure is based on the invention of the sixth aspect, and is characterized in that: the first intermediate flow path 31 and the second intermediate flow path 33 are slits 31, 33 extending along the flow path 23, and at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of each of the slits 31, 33 changes as it approaches the outer peripheral side from the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21.

[0023] In the invention of the seventh aspect, it is easy to form the first intermediate flow path 31 and the second intermediate flow path 33 whose circumferential dimension and axial dimension change.

[0024] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the inventions of the first to seventh aspects, and is characterized in that: the annular housing portion 21 is configured to be applied with a force field such as a magnetic field in the axial direction, and the first space 29 and the second space 30 are arranged so as to sandwich the flow path 23 in the direction of the force field such as the magnetic field applied to the annular housing portion 21.

[0025] In the invention of the eighth aspect, both the flow direction of the heat medium from the first space 29 through the housing portion 22 to the second space 30 and the flow direction of the heat medium opposite thereto are substantially parallel to the direction of the force field such as the magnetic field applied to the annular housing portion 21.

[0026] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the inventions of the first to eighth aspects, and is characterized in that: the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27 is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26 is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28.

[0027] In the invention of the ninth aspect, it is possible to arrange all of the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 on the same side of the magnetic refrigeration module.

[0028] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present disclosure, and is characterized in that: the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are respectively provided on the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21.

[0029] In the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, it is easy to arrange the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28.

[0030] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the first to tenth aspects of the present disclosure, and is characterized in that: the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are sealed on the inner peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21.

[0031] In the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to arrange all of the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 on the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21.

[0032] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, and is characterized in that: it further includes a third intermediate flow path 35 and a fourth intermediate flow path 37, the third intermediate flow path 35 communicates with the first space 29 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the fourth intermediate flow path 37 communicates with the second space 30 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28.

[0033] In the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the first space 29 and the second space 30 that become dead volumes can be reduced by using the third intermediate flow path 35 and the fourth intermediate flow path 37.

[0034] The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the present disclosure, and is characterized in that: the solid refrigerant substance 24 is a magnetic working substance 24.

[0035] In the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to constitute a magnetic refrigeration module having excellent capabilities.

[0036] The fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a cooling system using a solid refrigerant, characterized in that it includes a cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the present invention, a magnetic field or other force field generating unit 15a such as a magnet, a low-temperature side heat exchanger 60, and a high-temperature side heat exchanger 70. The magnetic field or other force field generating unit 15a applies a magnetic field or other force field to the annular housing portion 21 along the axial direction of the annular housing portion 28. The low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 is provided between the low-temperature side outflow path 26 and the low-temperature side inflow path 25, and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 is provided between the high-temperature side outflow path 28 and the high-temperature side inflow path 27. A plurality of the low-temperature side inflow paths 25, the high-temperature side inflow paths 27, the low-temperature side outflow paths 26, and the high-temperature side outflow paths 28 are respectively provided. Flow path switching valves 91, 92, 93, and 94 are respectively provided between the plurality of low-temperature side outflow paths 26 and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60, between the plurality of low-temperature side inflow paths 25 and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60, between the plurality of high-temperature side outflow paths 28 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70, and between the plurality of high-temperature side inflow paths 27 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70.

[0037] In the fourteenth aspect of the invention, a cooling system using a solid refrigerant is provided. In the case of a module that rotates using a magnetic field or other force field generating unit such as a magnet rotation type module, the refrigeration capacity of the above cooling system using a solid refrigerant is still relatively high.

[0038] The cooling system using a solid refrigerant according to the fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is based on the fourteenth aspect of the invention, and is characterized in that the solid refrigerant substance 24 is a magnetic working substance 24.

[0039] In the fifteenth aspect of the invention, a magnetic refrigeration system with excellent capabilities can be formed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 is a circuit diagram briefly showing the structure of the magnetic refrigeration system of the first embodiment;

[0041] Figure 2 is a top view obtained by observing the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the axial direction of the annular housing portion;

[0042] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radial direction of the annular housing portion;

[0043] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the housing portion piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the axial direction of the annular housing portion;

[0044] Figure 5It is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially outer peripheral side of the annular housing part;

[0045] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially inner peripheral side of the annular housing part;

[0046] Figure 7 It is a top view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment from the axial direction of the annular housing part;

[0047] Figure 8 It is an end view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment from the radially outer peripheral side of the annular housing part;

[0048] Figure 9 It is an end view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment from the circumferential direction of the annular housing part;

[0049] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment from the radial direction of the annular housing part;

[0050] Figure 11 It is a view showing the case where four divided modules are connected in series in the housing part piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment;

[0051] Figure 12 It is a connection Figure 11 The top view of the outer surface side gasket of the header connecting the divided modules shown;

[0052] Figure 13 It is a connection Figure 11 The top view of the inner surface side gasket of the header connecting the divided modules shown;

[0053] Figure 14 It is a connection Figure 11 The outer surface view of the header structure body connecting the divided modules shown;

[0054] Figure 15 It is a connection Figure 11 The inner surface view of the header structure body connecting the divided modules shown;

[0055] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the header structure body connecting the divided modules shown from the circumferential direction of the annular housing part Figure 11 ;

[0056] Figure 17It is a diagram showing a case where in the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the second embodiment, every two of the four divided modules are connected in parallel to form a group, and a total of two groups are formed and the two groups are connected in series;

[0057] Figure 18 is a connection Figure 17 top view of the outer surface side gasket of the header of the divided module shown;

[0058] Figure 19 is a connection Figure 17 top view of the inner surface side gasket of the header of the divided module shown;

[0059] Figure 20 is a connection Figure 17 outer surface view of the header structure body of the divided module shown;

[0060] Figure 21 is a connection Figure 17 inner surface view of the header structure body of the divided module shown;

[0061] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the header structure body of the divided module shown from the circumferential direction of the annular housing; Figure 17 shown;

[0062] Figure 23 It is a diagram showing a first example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially outer peripheral side of the annular housing;

[0063] Figure 24 It is a diagram showing a first example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially inner peripheral side of the annular housing;

[0064] Figure 25 It is a diagram showing a second example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially outer peripheral side of the annular housing;

[0065] Figure 26 It is a diagram showing a second example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially inner peripheral side of the annular housing;

[0066] Figure 27 It is a diagram showing a third example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially outer peripheral side of the annular housing;

[0067] Figure 28 It is a diagram showing a third example of the cross-sectional structure obtained by observing the housing section piece of the magnetic refrigeration module of the first embodiment from the radially inner peripheral side of the annular housing. Detailed Implementation Modes

[0068] (First Embodiment)

[0069] The first embodiment will be described. The magnetic refrigeration module 20 of this embodiment utilizes the magnetocaloric effect to adjust the temperature of the heat medium, for example, is provided in a magnetic refrigeration system 10 configured as a cold air blower. The magnetic refrigeration module 20 is a cooling module using a solid refrigerant that utilizes the thermo effect to adjust the temperature of the heat medium, and the magnetic refrigeration system 10 is a cooling system using a solid refrigerant that utilizes the thermo effect to adjust the temperature of the heat medium. It should be noted that the use of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 is of course not limited to this. For example, the magnetic refrigeration module 20 can also be provided in an air conditioning device.

[0070] - Structure of the Magnetic Refrigeration System -

[0071] As Figure 1 shown, the magnetic refrigeration system 10 includes a heat medium circuit 11 provided with a magnetic refrigeration module 20, a low-temperature side heat exchanger 60, a high-temperature side heat exchanger 70, and a heat medium pump 80. Each component of the heat medium circuit 11 is connected to each other via a heat medium pipe.

[0072] The magnetic refrigeration module 20 includes an annular accommodation portion 21, and the annular accommodation portion 21 has an accommodation portion 22 that accommodates a magnetic working substance 24 as a solid refrigerant substance and forms a flow path 23 for the heat medium to flow. The magnetic refrigeration module 20 generates a magnetocaloric effect by applying or removing a magnetic field as a force field to the magnetic working substance 24, thereby heating or cooling the heat medium flowing through the flow path 23.

[0073] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the annular accommodation portion 21 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 is composed of, for example, 12 such multiple accommodation portion pieces 21a to 21l. That is, the magnetic refrigeration module 20 is composed of multiple unit modules 20a to 20l. In this embodiment, each accommodation portion piece 21a to 21l is, for example, an annular sector shape, but is not limited thereto, and may also be a sector shape or a trapezoidal shape, etc. The thickness of each accommodation portion piece 21a to 21l is set to a thickness that is not likely to cause magnetic flux leakage and can ensure the volume of the necessary accommodation portion. It should be noted that in the following description, when referring to the accommodation portion piece 21a, it means any one of the multiple accommodation portion pieces 21a to 21l. Similarly, when referring to the unit module 20a, it means any one of the multiple unit modules 20a to 20l.

[0074] In the axial direction of the annular storage portion 21, a magnetic field application mechanism 15 as a force field application mechanism is arranged so as to sandwich the magnetic refrigeration module 20. The magnetic field application mechanism 15 has an annular force field generation portion, i.e., a magnet 15a, arranged close to the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and a yoke 15b for supporting the annular magnet 15a and forming a magnetic circuit. A rotation mechanism 16 is arranged so as to penetrate the central portion opening of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and extend in the axial direction of the annular storage portion 21. The magnetic field application mechanism 15 rotates in the circumferential direction of the annular storage portion 21 by means of the rotation mechanism 16. Since the magnet 15a is arranged so as to overlap, for example, the area corresponding to six storage portion pieces 21a, the unit modules 20a that are excited change at all times as the magnetic field application mechanism 15 rotates. In this way, a magnet rotation type magnetic refrigeration module 20 can be constituted. It should be noted that Figure 1 and Figure 2 show a case where the unit modules 20a, 20b, 20c, 20g, 20h, 20i are excited and the unit modules 20d, 20e, 20f, 20j, 20k, 20l are demagnetized.

[0075] As Figure 1 shown, each unit module 20a to 20l constituting the magnetic refrigeration module 20 has a low-temperature side inflow path 25, a low-temperature side outflow path 26, a high-temperature side inflow path 27, and a high-temperature side outflow path 28. Each inflow path 25, 27 and each outflow path 26, 28 communicate with the internal space flow path 23 of the storage portion 22 of each unit module 20a to 20l. The heat medium flowing in from the low-temperature side inflow path 25 flows through the flow path 23 in the storage portion 22 and is discharged from the high-temperature side outflow path 28. The heat medium flowing in from the high-temperature side inflow path 27 flows through the flow path 23 in the storage portion 22 and is discharged from the low-temperature side outflow path 26. The structure of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit module 20a) will be described in detail later.

[0076] The low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat medium cooled by the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and a secondary refrigerant flowing in a utilization unit (for example, an air handling unit) not shown. The low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 has a first inflow portion 61 connected to the low-temperature side outflow path 26 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and a first outflow portion 62 connected to the low-temperature side inflow path 25 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20.

[0077] Here, a first flow path switching valve 91 constituted by a multi-way switching valve is provided in the heat medium pipe between the low-temperature side outflow path 26 of each unit module 20a to 20l and the first inflow portion 61. In addition, a second flow path switching valve 92 constituted by a multi-way switching valve is provided in the heat medium pipe between the low-temperature side inflow path 25 of each unit module 20a to 20l and the first outflow portion 62.

[0078] The high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 exchanges heat between the heat medium heated by the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and the secondary refrigerant flowing through a heat source unit (such as a cooling tower) whose illustration is omitted. The high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 has a second inflow portion 71 connected to the high-temperature side outflow path 28 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and a second outflow portion 72 connected to the high-temperature side inflow path 27 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20.

[0079] Here, a third flow path switching valve 93 constituted by a multi-way switching valve is provided in the heat medium pipe between the high-temperature side outflow path 28 of each unit module 20a to 20l and the second inflow portion 71. In addition, a fourth flow path switching valve 94 constituted by a multi-way switching valve is provided in the heat medium pipe between the high-temperature side inflow path 27 of each unit module 20a to 20l and the second outflow portion 72.

[0080] The heat medium pump 80 is used to make the heat medium flow between the magnetic refrigeration module 20 and each of the heat exchangers 60 and 70. The heat medium pump 80 is provided, for example, in the heat medium pipe between the third flow path switching valve 93 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70.

[0081] - Structure of the magnetic refrigeration module (unit module)-

[0082] As Figures 4 to 6 shown, the unit module 20a constituting the magnetic refrigeration module 20 includes a housing portion 22, a low-temperature side inflow path 25, a high-temperature side inflow path 27, a low-temperature side outflow path 26, a high-temperature side outflow path 28, and a housing piece 21a that houses them.

[0083] The housing portion 22 is formed in a ring-shaped sector shape in the same form as the housing piece 21a. The magnetic working substance 24 is housed in the housing portion 22. The housing portion 22 forms a flow path 23 for the heat medium to flow. One end of the flow path 23 corresponds to Figure 5 and Figure 6 the upper end of the housing portion 22 in Figure 5 and Figure 6 . The other end of the flow path 23 corresponds to Figure 5 and Figure 6 the lower end of the housing portion 22 in The direction of the magnetic field applied to the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (see Figure 3 ) is the same.

[0084] The low-temperature side inflow path 25 is a rectangular tube-shaped flow path extending along the radial direction of the ring-shaped housing portion 21 (housing piece 21a). As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the low-temperature side inflow path 25 has an inlet opening on the outer peripheral side of the housing piece 21a. As Figure 4 and Figure 6As shown, the low-temperature side inflow path 25 is sealed on the inner peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. The low-temperature side inflow path 25 is connected to the first outflow part 62 of the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 via a heat medium pipe. The low-temperature side inflow path 25 is used to allow the heat medium flowing from the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 to flow into one end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22. The heat medium flows from the front side to the inner side in the low-temperature side inflow path 25 from Figure 5 the front side to the inner side in

[0085] The high-temperature side inflow path 27 is a rectangular tube-shaped flow path extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the high-temperature side inflow path 27 has an inlet opening on the outer peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. As Figure 4 and Figure 6 shown, the high-temperature side inflow path 27 is sealed on the inner peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. The high-temperature side inflow path 27 is connected to the second outflow part 72 of the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 via a heat medium pipe. The high-temperature side inflow path 27 is used to allow the heat medium flowing from the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 to flow into the other end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22. The heat medium flows from the front side to the inner side in the high-temperature side inflow path 27 from Figure 5 the front side to the inner side in

[0086] The low-temperature side outflow path 26 is a rectangular tube-shaped flow path extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the low-temperature side outflow path 26 has an outlet opening on the outer peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. As Figure 4 and Figure 6 shown, the low-temperature side outflow path 26 is sealed on the inner peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. The low-temperature side outflow path 26 is connected to the first inflow part 61 of the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 via a heat medium pipe. The heat medium flowing out from one end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22 flows in the low-temperature side outflow path 26. The heat medium flows from the inner side to the front side in the low-temperature side outflow path 26 from Figure 5 the inner side to the front side in

[0087] The high-temperature side outflow path 28 is a rectangular tube-shaped flow path extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the high-temperature side outflow path 28 has an outlet opening on the outer peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. As Figure 4 and Figure 6 shown, the high-temperature side outflow path 28 is sealed on the inner peripheral side of the housing part piece 21a. The high-temperature side outflow path 28 is connected to the second inflow part 71 of the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 via a heat medium pipe. The heat medium flowing out from the other end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22 flows in the high-temperature side outflow path 28. The heat medium flows from Figure 5The inner flow direction is towards the front side.

[0088] In the unit module 20a, between the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and between the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28, they are separated by heat insulation members.

[0089] As described above, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit module 20a) of the present embodiment, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26 are opposite to each other. In addition, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are opposite to each other. In addition, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27 are the same as each other. In addition, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26 and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are the same as each other.

[0090] And, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit module 20a) of the present embodiment, the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are respectively provided on the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21 (accommodating portion piece 21a). In addition, the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are sealed on the inner peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21 (accommodating portion piece 21a).

[0091] As Figure 5 , Figure 6 shown, a first space 29 is formed between one end of the flow path 23 of the accommodating portion 22 and the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26. The first space 29 is a flat square tube-shaped space extending in the radial direction of the annular accommodating portion 21 (accommodating portion piece 21a). The first space 29 communicates with the whole of one end of the flow path 23 of the accommodating portion 22. The size (for example, width, height) of the first space 29 can vary in the radial direction. For example, it can also be that on the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21 (accommodating portion piece 21a), the size of the first space 29 is relatively increased, and on the inner peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21 (accommodating portion piece 21a), the size of the first space 29 is relatively reduced.

[0092] A first slit 31 communicating with both of them is formed between the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the first space 29. The first slit 31 is an elongated gap extending along the radial direction of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a). The first slit 31 expands the heat medium flow from the low-temperature side inflow path 25 to the first space 29. That is, because the first slit 31 exists, the heat medium flowing in the low-temperature side inflow path 25 substantially flows into the entire first space 29 in the radial direction of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a). The first slit 31 constitutes a first intermediate flow path. The size (for example, width, height) of the first slit 31 may vary in the radial direction. For example, it may also be that: on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a), the width of the first slit 31 is relatively increased ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 the length in the left-right direction in), and on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a), the width of the first slit 31 is relatively reduced.

[0093] A third slit 35 communicating with both of them is formed between the low-temperature side outflow path 26 and the first space 29. The third slit 35 is an elongated gap extending along the radial direction of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a). The third slit 35 is used to smoothly allow the heat medium to flow from the first space 29 to the low-temperature side outflow path 26. The third slit 35 constitutes a third intermediate flow path. The size (for example, width, height) of the third slit 35 may vary in the radial direction. For example, it may also be that: on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a), the width of the third slit 35 is relatively increased ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 the length in the left-right direction in), and on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a), the width of the third slit 35 is relatively reduced.

[0094] In a direction orthogonal to the general flow direction of the heat medium in the flow path 23 of the housing portion 22 (that is, Figure 5 and Figure 6 the left-right direction in), the first slit 31 and the third slit 35 are arranged near both ends of the housing portion 22. Specifically, the first slit 31 connects the lower end of the low-temperature side inflow path 25 arranged on the upper left side of the unit module 20a and a portion near the left end of the first space 29. In addition, the third slit 35 connects the lower end of the low-temperature side outflow path 26 arranged on the upper right side of the unit module 20a and a portion near the right end of the first space 29.

[0095] A second space 30 is formed between the other end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22 and the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28. The second space 30 is a flat square tube-shaped space extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). The second space 30 communicates with the entirety of the other end of the flow path 23 of the housing part 22. The dimensions (e.g., width, height) of the second space 30 may vary in the radial direction. For example, it may also be that: on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the dimensions of the second space 30 are relatively increased, and on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the dimensions of the second space 30 are relatively reduced.

[0096] A second slit 33 communicating with both of them is formed between the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the second space 30. The second slit 33 is an elongated gap extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). The second slit 33 expands the flow of the heat medium going from the high-temperature side inflow path 27 to the second space 30. That is, because the second slit 33 exists, the heat medium flowing in the high-temperature side inflow path 27 substantially flows into the entire second space 30 in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). The second slit 33 constitutes a second intermediate flow path. The dimensions (e.g., width, height) of the second slit 33 may vary in the radial direction. For example, it may also be that: on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the width of the second slit 33 ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 the length in the left-right direction in) is relatively increased, and on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the width of the second slit 33 is relatively reduced.

[0097] A fourth slit 37 communicating with both of them is formed between the high-temperature side outflow path 28 and the second space 30. The fourth slit 37 is an elongated gap extending in the radial direction of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a). The fourth slit 37 allows the heat medium to smoothly flow from the second space 30 to the high-temperature side outflow path 28. The fourth slit 37 constitutes a fourth intermediate flow path. The dimensions (e.g., width, height) of the fourth slit 37 may vary in the radial direction. For example, it may also be that: on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the width of the fourth slit 37 ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 the length in the left-right direction in) is relatively increased, and on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing part 21 (housing part piece 21a), the width of the fourth slit 37 is relatively reduced.

[0098] The second slit 33 and the fourth slit 37 are in a direction orthogonal to the general flow direction of the heat medium in the flow path 23 of the housing part 22 (i.e., Figure 5 and Figure 6In the left - right direction (in the figure), they are arranged near both ends of the housing part 22. Specifically, the second slit 33 connects the upper end of the high - temperature side inflow path 27 arranged on the lower left side of the unit module 20a with the vicinity of the left end of the second space 30. In addition, the fourth slit 37 connects the upper end of the high - temperature side outflow path 28 arranged on the lower right side of the unit module 20a with a part near the right end of the second space 30.

[0099] It should be noted that in the unit module 20a, the first space 29 and the second space 30 are arranged in the direction of the magnetic field applied to the housing part 22 (that is, Figure 5 and Figure 6 in the up - down direction in the figure) so as to sandwich the housing part 22. That is, the first space 29 is arranged above the housing part 22, and the second space 30 is arranged below the housing part 22.

[0100] The housing part piece 21a is a component that constitutes the outer part of the unit module 20a. The housing part piece 21a houses the housing part 22, the low - temperature side inflow path 25 and the high - temperature side inflow path 27, the low - temperature side outflow path 26 and the high - temperature side outflow path 28, the first space 29 and the second space 30, and the first to fourth slits 31, 33, 35, 37.

[0101] In the housing part piece 21a, the part surrounding the low - temperature side inflow path 25 and the low - temperature side outflow path 26 (that is, Figure 5 and Figure 6 the upper part in the figure), the part surrounding the high - temperature side inflow path 27 and the high - temperature side outflow path 28 (that is, Figure 5 and Figure 6 the lower part in the figure) are made of a magnetic material (such as an electromagnetic steel sheet). The part between these two parts in the housing part piece 21a is made of a non - magnetic material. The thermal conductivity of this non - magnetic material is lower than that of the magnetic material that constitutes the part surrounding the low - temperature side inflow path 25 and the low - temperature side outflow path 26 and the part surrounding the high - temperature side inflow path 27 and the high - temperature side outflow path 28. The part made of this non - magnetic material becomes a magnetic field short - circuit suppression part and prevents heat leakage from the high - temperature side to the low - temperature side.

[0102] -Flow of the heat medium in the magnetic refrigeration system-

[0103] In Figure 1 the magnetic refrigeration system 10 shown in the figure, by controlling the flow path switching valves 91, 92, 93, 94, and applying a magnetic field to the housing part 22 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit modules 20a - 20l) or removing the magnetic field from the housing part 22 of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit modules 20a - 20l) corresponding to this control action, cold energy is supplied.

[0104] Next, as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, taking the case where the unit modules 20a, 20b, 20c, 20g, 20h, 20i are excited and the unit modules 20d, 20e, 20f, 20j, 20k, 20l are demagnetized as an example, a specific description will be given. It should be noted that in Figure 1 the flow of the heat medium is shown by arrows.

[0105] First, the heat medium flowing out from the first outflow portion 62 of the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 selectively flows into the low-temperature side inflow paths 25 of the excited unit modules 20a, 20b, 20c, 20g, 20h, 20i through the control of the second flow path switching valve 92. In the unit modules 20a, 20b, 20c, 20g, 20h, 20i, this heat medium passes through the first slit 31 and the first space 29, and exchanges heat with the magnetic working substance 24 in the heat generating state in the flow path 23 of the housing portion 22 to be heated, and then flows out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28 through the second space 30 and the fourth slit 37.

[0106] The heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow paths 28 of the unit modules 20a, 20b, 20c, 20g, 20h, 20i flows into the second inflow portion 71 of the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 through the control of the third flow path switching valve 93 via the heat medium pump 80. This heat medium exchanges heat with, for example, a secondary refrigerant flowing in a heat source unit (not shown) such as a cooling tower and flows out from the second outflow portion 72 of the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70.

[0107] The heat medium flowing out from the second outflow portion 72 of the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 selectively flows into the high-temperature side inflow paths 27 of the demagnetized unit modules 20d, 20e, 20f, 20j, 20k, 20l through the control of the fourth flow path switching valve 94. In the unit modules 20d, 20e, 20f, 20j, 20k, 20l, this heat medium passes through the second slit 33 and the second space 30, and exchanges heat with the magnetic working substance 24 in the heat absorption state in the flow path 23 of the housing portion 22 to be cooled, and then flows out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26 through the first space 29 and the third slit 35.

[0108] The heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow paths 26 of the unit modules 20d, 20e, 20f, 20j, 20k, 20l flows into the first inflow portion 61 of the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 through the control of the first flow path switching valve 91. This heat medium exchanges heat with, for example, a secondary refrigerant flowing in a utilization unit (not shown) such as an air handling unit and flows out from the first outflow portion 61 of the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60.

[0109] In the present embodiment, while selectively changing the unit module 20a excited or demagnetized by the magnetic field applying mechanism 15, the above-described flow control of the heat medium is repeatedly performed.

[0110] - Effects of the First Embodiment -

[0111] As described above, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the heat medium flows from the low-temperature side to the high-temperature side, or from the high-temperature side to the low-temperature side. Specifically, in each unit module 20a to 20l constituting the magnetic refrigeration module 20, the heat medium sequentially flows through the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the first slit (first intermediate flow path) 31, the first space 29, the housing portion 22 (flow path 23), and the high-temperature side outflow path 28, or sequentially flows through the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the second slit (second intermediate flow path) 33, the second space 30, the housing portion 22 (flow path 23), and the low-temperature side outflow path 26.

[0112] Here, the heat medium flow from the low-temperature side inflow path 25 to the first space 29 via the first intermediate flow path 31 is expanded by the first intermediate flow path 31, so that the heat medium flows into a larger range of the first space 29. Therefore, even if the first space 29 that may form a dead volume is made smaller, the heat medium will uniformly flow into the flow path 23 of the housing portion 22 following the first space 29 over a wider range, so that the performance of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 can be improved.

[0113] In addition, the heat medium flow from the high-temperature side inflow path 27 to the second space 30 via the second intermediate flow path 33 is expanded by the second intermediate flow path 33, so that the heat medium flows into a larger range of the second space 30. Therefore, even if the second space 30 that may form a dead volume is made smaller, the heat medium will uniformly flow into the flow path 23 of the housing portion 22 following the second space 30 over a wider range, so that the performance of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 can be improved.

[0114] Moreover, the housing portion 22 and the like are provided in the annular housing portion 21 (housing piece 21a), so that in the case of a magnet rotation type module, unnecessary space can also be reduced, and as a result, the performance of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 can be improved.

[0115] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, in order to reduce the magnetic resistance, a magnetic circuit is arranged inside the module, and the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are located on the magnetic circuit. Here, by arranging the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 above and below the housing portion 22 (i.e., the magnetic working substance 24), the occupancy rate of the magnetic working substance 24 with respect to the magnetic field is thereby increased. In addition, in each unit module 20a, a low-temperature side inflow path 25, a low-temperature side outflow path 26, a high-temperature side inflow path 27, and a high-temperature side outflow path 28 are provided, and the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26 are mutually divided by sandwiching a heat insulating member therebetween, and the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are mutually divided by sandwiching a heat insulating member therebetween. Therefore, heat leakage between the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and heat leakage between the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 can be prevented. In addition, the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 independently extend in the radial direction in an elongated manner in each unit module 20a. Therefore, losses caused by eddy currents in the case of forming an integrated magnetic circuit can also be prevented. Moreover, the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are formed in a shape that does not cause magnetic saturation, such as a square tube shape, and the portions facing the housing portion 22 (i.e., the magnetic working substance 24) and the portions facing the magnetic field applying mechanism 15 are formed relatively large in order to reduce the magnetic resistance.

[0116] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the annular housing portion 21 is composed of a plurality of housing pieces 21a to 21l, and a housing portion 22, a low-temperature side inflow path 25, a high-temperature side inflow path 27, a low-temperature side outflow path 26, a high-temperature side outflow path 28, a first space 29, a second space 30, a first intermediate flow path 31, and a second intermediate flow path 33 are provided in each of the plurality of housing pieces 21a to 21l. Therefore, compared with the case where the annular housing portion 21 is integrally formed, the structure of the annular housing portion 21 becomes easier. In addition, in this case, if the plurality of housing pieces 21a to 21l are in an annular fan shape, a fan shape, or a trapezoidal shape, it is easy to form the annular housing portion 21 from the plurality of housing pieces 21a to 21l.

[0117] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the annular housing portion 21 is configured to be applied with a magnetic field in the axial direction, and the first space 29 and the second space 30 are arranged so as to sandwich the flow path 23 (housing portion 22) in the direction of the magnetic field applied to the annular housing portion 21. Therefore, both the flow direction of the heat medium from the first space 29 to the second space 30 via the housing portion 22 and the flow direction of the heat medium in the opposite direction are substantially parallel to the direction of the magnetic field applied to the annular housing portion 21.

[0118] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27 is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28, the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path 25 is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path 26 is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path 28. Therefore, it is possible to arrange all of the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 on the same side of the magnetic refrigeration module 20 (unit module 20a).

[0119] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are respectively provided on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a). Therefore, compared with the case where they are arranged on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21 (housing portion piece 21a), it is easier to arrange the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28.

[0120] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 are sealed on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21. Therefore, it is possible to arrange all of the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path 26, and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path 28 on the outer peripheral side of the annular housing portion 21.

[0121] In addition, in the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, it further includes: a third slit (third intermediate flow path) 35 communicating with the first space 29 and the low-temperature side outflow path 26; and a fourth slit (fourth intermediate flow path) 37 communicating with the second space 30 and the high-temperature side outflow path 28. Therefore, similar to the first intermediate flow path 31 and the second intermediate flow path 33, by using the third intermediate flow path 35 and the fourth intermediate flow path 37, it is possible to reduce the first space 29 and the second space 30 that become dead volumes.

[0122] In addition, the magnetic refrigeration system 10 of the present embodiment includes a magnetic refrigeration module 20, a magnetic field applying mechanism 15, a low-temperature side heat exchanger 60, and a high-temperature side heat exchanger 70. Flow path switching valves 91, 92, 93, and 94 are respectively provided between the low-temperature side outflow path 26 and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 of each unit module 20a to 20l, between the low-temperature side inflow path 25 and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 of each unit module 20a to 20l, between the high-temperature side outflow path 28 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 of each unit module 20a to 20l, and between the high-temperature side inflow path 27 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 of each unit module 20a to 20l. Therefore, even in the case of a magnet rotation type module, a magnetic refrigeration system 10 with strong magnetic refrigeration ability can be provided.

[0123] (Second Embodiment)

[0124] The second embodiment will be described. In the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment, a plurality of divided modules 100 are accommodated in the accommodation part piece 21a, and the magnetic refrigeration module 20 further includes a header 40 that connects the plurality of divided modules 100 in parallel and / or in series. In this regard, the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0125] As Figures 7 to 9 shown, the unit module 20a constituting the magnetic refrigeration module 20 of the present embodiment has a plurality of (for example, four) divided modules 100, and a header 40 that connects the plurality of divided modules 100 in parallel or in series is provided on the outer peripheral side of the unit module 20a. The header 40 has: an inner surface side gasket 46 that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the unit module 20a; a header structure body 47 that contacts the outer peripheral side of the inner surface side gasket 46 and forms a parallel flow path and / or a series flow path; and an outer surface side gasket 48 that contacts the outer peripheral side of the header structure body 47. The inner surface side gasket 46, the header structure body 47, and the outer surface side gasket 48 are accommodated in the header box 41.

[0126] On the outer peripheral side of the header box 41, the end portions of a low-temperature side inflow pipe 42, a low-temperature side outflow pipe 43, a high-temperature side inflow pipe 44, and a high-temperature side outflow pipe 45 that respectively extend from the outer surface side gasket 48 in the outer peripheral direction protrude. In the present embodiment, instead of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, and the high-temperature side outflow path 28 of the first embodiment, the low-temperature side inflow pipe 42, the low-temperature side outflow pipe 43, the high-temperature side inflow pipe 44, and the high-temperature side outflow pipe 45 are connected to Figure 1 the low-temperature side heat exchanger 60 and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 70 of the magnetic refrigeration system 10 shown.

[0127] In addition, as Figure 10As shown, each divided module 100 constituting the unit module 20a of the present embodiment has the same structure as Figures 4 to 6 the unit module 20a of the first embodiment shown. That is, each divided module 100 has a storage part 102 that is the same as the storage part 22 of the first embodiment. The storage part 102 stores the magnetic working substance 104, which forms a flow path 103 for the heat medium to flow through. In addition, above and below the storage part 102 of each divided module 100, there are respectively: a pair of inflow / outflow paths 105 corresponding to any one of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, high-temperature side inflow path 27, low-temperature side outflow path 26, and high-temperature side outflow path 28 of the first embodiment; a pair of intermediate flow paths 106 corresponding to any one of the first slit (first intermediate flow path) 31, second slit (second intermediate flow path) 33, third slit (third intermediate flow path) 35, and fourth slit (fourth intermediate flow path) 37 of the first embodiment; and a distribution space 107 corresponding to any one of the first space 29 and the second space 30 of the first embodiment. It should be noted that the pair of inflow / outflow paths 105 are separated by the magnetic material 108 and the heat insulator 109.

[0128] In the present embodiment, by changing the structure of the header 40, the connection state of the plurality of divided modules 100 can be changed.

[0129] For example, as Figure 11 shown, when four divided modules 100 are connected in series, in a state where a magnetic field is applied to the divided modules 100, the heat medium flowing in from the high-temperature side in the first (high-temperature side) divided module 100 successively flows through the inflow / outflow path 105, intermediate flow path 106, distribution space 107, storage part 102 (magnetic working substance 104), distribution space 107, intermediate flow path 106, and inflow / outflow path 105. Since the inside of Figure 11 in the inflow / outflow path 105 is sealed, the heat medium flows out from the front side of Figure 11 . The outflowing heat medium flows into the front side of Figure 11 in the inflow / outflow path 105 of the next divided module 100, and the same as the first (high-temperature side) divided module 100, successively flows through the inflow / outflow path 105, intermediate flow path 106, distribution space 107, storage part 102 (magnetic working substance 104), distribution space 107, intermediate flow path 106, and inflow / outflow path 105. Since the inside of Figure 11 in the inflow / outflow path 105 is sealed, it flows out from the front side of Figure 11 . The flow of the heat medium as described above is also repeated in the remaining divided modules 100, and finally is discharged from the low-temperature side divided module 100 to the low-temperature side.

[0130] Next, in a state where the magnetic field has been removed from the splitting module 100, the heat medium flowing into the splitting module 100 from the low-temperature side is discharged to the high-temperature side after passing through the same path as described above.

[0131] As Figure 12 shown, on the outer surface side gasket 48 of the header 40 connecting the four splitting modules 100 as Figure 11 shown, a first opening 51 is provided for connecting to the low-temperature side inflow pipe 42, the low-temperature side outflow pipe 43, the high-temperature side inflow pipe 44, and the high-temperature side outflow pipe 45 as Figures 7 to 9 shown.

[0132] As Figure 13 shown, on the inner surface side gasket 46 of the header 40 connecting the four splitting modules 100 as Figure 11 shown, a second opening 52 is provided for connecting to the openings of the inflow / outflow paths 105 of each splitting module 100. The second opening 52 is arranged to enable the Figure 11 connection state as shown.

[0133] As Figures 14 to 16 shown, on the header structure 47 of the header 40 connecting the splitting modules 100 as Figure 11 shown, a third opening 53 for connecting to the first opening 51 is provided on the contact surface side in contact with the outer surface side gasket 48, and a fourth opening 54 for connecting to the second opening 52 is provided on the contact surface side in contact with the inner surface side gasket 46. The third opening 53 and the fourth opening 54 communicate in a manner that enables the Figure 11 connection state as shown.

[0134] In addition, for example, as Figure 17 shown, when the splitting modules 100 are connected in parallel in groups of two each to form a total of two groups and these two groups are connected in series, in a state where a magnetic field is applied to the splitting modules 100, the heat medium flowing in from the high-temperature side is divided into two branches. In the two (high-temperature side) splitting modules 100, it successively flows through the inflow / outflow path 105, the intermediate flow path 106, the distribution space 107, the storage part 102 (magnetic working substance 104), the distribution space 107, the intermediate flow path 106, and the inflow / outflow path 105. Since the Figure 17 inside of the inflow / outflow path 105 is sealed, this heat medium flows out from the Figure 17 front side. After the two outflowing heat media temporarily converge, in order to flow into the inflow / outflow paths 105 of the next two (low-temperature side) splitting modules 100 ( Figure 17and is again divided into two branches in the front side thereof. In each of the dividing modules 100, similar to the dividing module 100 on the high-temperature side, the heat medium flows successively through the inflow / outflow path 105, the intermediate flow path 106, the distribution space 107, the storage part 102 (magnetic working substance 104), the distribution space 107, the intermediate flow path 106, and the inflow / outflow path 105. Since the Figure 17 inside thereof is sealed, the heat medium flows out from the Figure 17 front side thereof, converges, and is discharged to the low-temperature side.

[0135] Next, in a state where the magnetic field is removed from the dividing module 100, the heat medium flowing into the dividing module 100 from the low-temperature side is discharged to the high-temperature side after passing through the same path as described above.

[0136] As Figure 18 shown, on the outer surface side gasket 48 of the header 40 connecting the four dividing modules 100 as Figure 17 shown, a first opening 51 is provided for connecting to the low-temperature side inflow pipe 42, the low-temperature side outflow pipe 43, the high-temperature side inflow pipe 44, and the high-temperature side outflow pipe 45 as Figures 7 to 9 shown.

[0137] As Figure 19 shown, on the inner surface side gasket 46 of the header 40 connecting the four dividing modules 100 as Figure 17 shown, a second opening 52 is provided for connecting to the opening of the inflow / outflow path 105 of each dividing module 100. The second opening 52 is arranged to enable the Figure 17 connection state as

[0138] shown. Figures 20 to 22 As Figure 17 shown, in the header structure 47 of the header 40 connecting the dividing modules 100 as Figure 11 shown, a third opening 53 connected to the first opening 51 is provided on the contact surface side contacting the outer surface side gasket 48, and a fourth opening 54 connected to the second opening 52 is provided on the contact surface side contacting the inner surface side gasket 46. The third opening 53 and the fourth opening 54 communicate in a manner that enables the

[0139] - Effects of the Second Embodiment -

[0140] According to the present embodiment described above, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, the following effects can also be obtained. That is, a plurality of divided modules 100 are accommodated in the accommodation part piece 21a, and the cooling module further includes a header 40 that connects the plurality of divided modules 100 in parallel and / or in series to each other. Therefore, compared with before division, the dead volume can be further reduced, and since the magnetic path in the accommodation part piece 21a is slenderly divided by the divided module 100, the loss caused by eddy current can be reduced.

[0141] (Other embodiments)

[0142] In each of the above embodiments, the magnetic refrigeration module 20 is used for the magnet rotation type module, but alternatively, the magnetic refrigeration module 20 can be rotated.

[0143] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, a magnetic field is applied to the magnetic refrigeration module 20 in the axial direction of the annular accommodation part 21, but alternatively, a magnetic field can be applied from other directions, for example, in the radial direction of the annular accommodation part 21.

[0144] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the flow direction of the heat medium in the magnetic refrigeration module 20, the positions and shapes of the respective slits (intermediate flow paths) 31, 33, 35, 37, 106 and the spaces 29, 30, 107, the direction of the magnetic field applied to the accommodation parts 22, 102, the structure of the annular accommodation part 21, etc. are not particularly limited. For example, a tube body can be used instead of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37, 106. In addition, the positions, shapes, opening positions, sealing positions, etc. of the low-temperature side inflow path 25, the low-temperature side outflow path 26, the high-temperature side inflow path 27, the high-temperature side outflow path 28, and the inflow / outflow path 105 are not particularly limited.

[0145] In addition, in the first embodiment, on the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodation part 21 (accommodation part piece 21a), the widths (circumferential dimensions) of the spaces 29, 30 and the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 are relatively increased, and on the inner peripheral side of the annular accommodation part 21 (accommodation part piece 21a), the circumferential dimension is relatively reduced. However, it is not limited thereto, and at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of the spaces 29, 30 and / or the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 can be changed as approaching from the inner peripheral side to the outer peripheral side of the annular accommodation part 21.

[0146] For example, as Figure 23 and Figure 24As in the first example shown, it can also be that: the circumferential dimensions a of the spaces 29, 30 and the circumferential dimensions c of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 increase as approaching the outer periphery, and the axial (i.e., magnetic field direction) dimensions b of the spaces 29, 30 and the axial dimensions d of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 are constant. In this way, the ratio of the volumes of the spaces 29, 30 to the volume of the accommodating portion 22 (magnetic working substance 24) is constant in the radial direction, and the flow rate of the heat medium through the slits (intermediate flow paths) 31, 33, 35, 37 is also almost constant. Therefore, the flow rate of the heat medium through the magnetic working substance 24 is almost constant in the radial direction, and the deviation of the flow can be prevented.

[0147] In addition, for example, as Figure 25 and Figure 26 shown in the second example, it can also be that: the circumferential dimensions a of the spaces 29, 30, the circumferential dimensions c of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37, and the axial dimensions b of the spaces 29, 30 increase as approaching the outer periphery, and the axial dimensions d of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 are constant. Compared with the outer peripheral side, on the inner peripheral side, the flow rate of the heat medium through the spaces 29, 30 is small and the pressure loss is small. Therefore, on the inner peripheral side, the flow rate of the heat medium through the magnetic working substance 24 may increase more. However, by making the axial dimensions b of the spaces 29, 30 increase as approaching the outer periphery, the flow rate of the heat medium through the spaces 29, 30 is almost constant in the radial direction, and the flow rate of the heat medium through the magnetic working substance 24 is also almost constant in the radial direction. Therefore, the deviation of the flow can be prevented.

[0148] In addition, for example, as Figure 27 and Figure 28 shown in the third example, it can also be that: the circumferential dimensions a of the spaces 29, 30, the circumferential dimensions c of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37, and the axial dimensions b of the spaces 29, 30 increase as approaching the outer periphery, and the axial dimensions d of the slits 31, 33, 35, 37 decrease as approaching the outer periphery. In this way, since the pressure loss of the slits (intermediate flow paths) 31, 33, 35, 37 on the inner peripheral side increases, the increase in the flow rate of the heat medium through the magnetic working substance 24 on the inner peripheral side can be further suppressed compared with the second example, so the deviation of the flow can be prevented.

[0149] It should be noted that the actual dimensions are determined by also including the dimensions, pressure losses, etc. of each inflow and outflow path. Therefore, there are sometimes dimensions other than the first to third examples. In addition, in the second embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of each space 107 and / or each intermediate flow path 106 can be changed as approaching the outer peripheral side from the inner peripheral side of the annular accommodating portion 21.

[0150] In the above-described embodiment, a magnetic refrigeration module and a magnetic refrigeration system are illustrated. However, a cooling module and a cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant can also use other methods other than magnetic refrigeration that induce a magnetocaloric effect in the magnetic working substance 24. It should be noted that in the present disclosure, the solid-state refrigerant substance also includes substances having intermediate properties between liquids and solids, such as plastic crystals.

[0151] As the cooling module and the cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant as other methods, for example, 1) a method of inducing an electrothermal effect in the solid-state refrigerant substance, 2) a method of inducing a pressure thermal effect in the solid-state refrigerant substance, and 3) a method of inducing an elastocaloric effect in the solid-state refrigerant substance can be cited.

[0152] In the cooling module and the cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant of the 1) method, the force field generating unit (hereinafter also referred to as the inducing unit) applies an electric field change to the solid-state refrigerant substance. As a result, the solid-state refrigerant substance undergoes a phase change from a ferroelectric body to a paraelectric body, etc., so that the solid-state refrigerant substance generates heat or absorbs heat.

[0153] In the cooling module and the cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant of the 2) method, by applying a pressure change to the solid-state refrigerant substance by the inducing unit, the solid-state refrigerant substance undergoes a phase change and generates heat or absorbs heat.

[0154] In the cooling module and the cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant of the 3) method, by applying a stress change to the solid-state refrigerant substance by the inducing unit, the solid-state refrigerant substance undergoes a phase change and generates heat or absorbs heat.

[0155] As described above, the embodiment and the modification examples have been described. However, it should be understood that various changes can be made to the solutions and specific situations without departing from the gist and scope of the claims. In addition, as long as the functions of the objects of the present disclosure are not affected, the above-described embodiment and modification examples can be appropriately combined or replaced.

[0156] -Industrial Applicability-

[0157] In summary, the present disclosure is useful for a cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant, particularly a magnetic refrigeration module, and a cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant, particularly a magnetic refrigeration system.

[0158] -Symbol Explanation-

[0159] 10 Magnetic refrigeration system (cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant)

[0160] 15a Magnet (force field generating unit)

[0161] 20 Magnetic refrigeration module (cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant)

[0162] 21 Ring-shaped storage part

[0163] 21a to 21l Storage part pieces

[0164] 22 Receiving part

[0165] 23 Flow path

[0166] 24 Magnetic working substance (solid refrigerant substance)

[0167] 25 Low-temperature side inflow path

[0168] 26 Low-temperature side outflow path

[0169] 27 High-temperature side inflow path

[0170] 28 High-temperature side outflow path

[0171] 29 First space

[0172] 30 Second space

[0173] 31 First slit (first intermediate flow path)

[0174] 33 Second slit (second intermediate flow path)

[0175] 35 Third slit (third intermediate flow path)

[0176] 37 Fourth slit (fourth intermediate flow path)

[0177] 40 Manifold

[0178] 60 Low-temperature side heat exchanger

[0179] 70 High-temperature side heat exchanger

[0180] 91, 92, 93, 94 Flow path switching valves

[0181] 100 Partition module

Claims

1. A cooling module using a solid refrigerant, characterized in that: it includes an annular accommodating portion (21), a low-temperature side inflow path (25), a high-temperature side inflow path (27), a low-temperature side outflow path (26), and a high-temperature side outflow path (28), the annular accommodating portion (21) has an accommodating portion (22) that accommodates a solid refrigerant substance (24) and forms a flow path (23) for a heat medium to flow, the low-temperature side inflow path (25) allows the heat medium to flow into one end of the flow path (23), the high-temperature side inflow path (27) allows the heat medium to flow into the other end of the flow path (23), the low-temperature side outflow path (26) allows the heat medium flowing out from the one end of the flow path (23) to flow, the high-temperature side outflow path (28) allows the heat medium flowing out from the other end of the flow path (23) to flow, a first space (29) is formed between the one end of the flow path (23) and the low-temperature side inflow path (25), a second space (30) is formed between the other end of the flow path (23) and the high-temperature side inflow path (27), the cooling module using a solid refrigerant further includes a first intermediate flow path (31) and a second intermediate flow path (33), the first intermediate flow path (31) communicates with the low-temperature side inflow path (25) and the first space (29), and the first intermediate flow path (31) expands the heat medium flow from the low-temperature side inflow path (25) to the first space (29), the second intermediate flow path (33) communicates with the high-temperature side inflow path (27) and the second space (30), and the second intermediate flow path (33) expands the heat medium flow from the high-temperature side inflow path (27) to the second space (30), the low-temperature side inflow path (25) and the first space (29) extend along the radial direction of the annular accommodating portion (21), and the first intermediate flow path (31) is formed between the low-temperature side inflow path (25) and the first space (29), the high-temperature side inflow path (27) and the second space (30) extend along the radial direction of the annular accommodating portion (21), and the second intermediate flow path (33) is formed between the high-temperature side inflow path (27) and the second space (30).

2. The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to claim 1, characterized in that: the annular accommodating portion (21) is composed of a plurality of accommodating portion pieces (21a to 21l), the accommodating portion (22), the low-temperature side inflow path (25), the high-temperature side inflow path (27), the low-temperature side outflow path (26), the high-temperature side outflow path (28), the first space (29), the second space (30), the first intermediate flow path (31), and the second intermediate flow path (33) are respectively provided on the plurality of accommodating portion pieces (21a to 21l).

3. The cooling module using a solid refrigerant according to claim 2, characterized in that: the plurality of accommodating portion pieces (21a to 21l) are in a fan shape or a trapezoidal shape.

4. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: a plurality of divided modules (100) are respectively received in the plurality of receiving part pieces (21a to 21l), the cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant further includes a header (40) that connects the plurality of divided modules (100) in parallel and / or in series with each other.

5. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of the first space (29) and the second space (30) changes as approaching from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side of the annular receiving part (21).

6. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of the first intermediate flow path (31) and the second intermediate flow path (33) changes as approaching from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side of the annular receiving part (21).

7. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to claim 6, characterized in that: the first intermediate flow path (31) and the second intermediate flow path (33) are slits (31, 33) extending along the flow path (23), at least one of the circumferential dimension and the axial dimension of each of the slits (31, 33) changes as approaching from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side of the annular receiving part (21).

8. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the annular receiving part (21) is configured to be applied with a force field such as a magnetic field in the axial direction, the first space (29) and the second space (30) are arranged in a manner of sandwiching the flow path (23) in the direction of the magnetic field or other force field applied to the annular receiving part (21).

9. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path (25) is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path (26), the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path (27) is opposite to the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path (28), the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature side inflow path (25) is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature side inflow path (27), the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the low-temperature side outflow path (26) is the same as the flow direction of the heat medium flowing out from the high-temperature side outflow path (28).

10. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the inlet of the low-temperature side inflow path (25), the inlet of the high-temperature side inflow path (27), the outlet of the low-temperature side outflow path (26), and the outlet of the high-temperature side outflow path (28) are respectively provided on the outer circumferential side of the annular receiving part (21).

11. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the low-temperature side inflow path (25), the high-temperature side inflow path (27), the low-temperature side outflow path (26), and the high-temperature side outflow path (28) are sealed on the inner peripheral side of the annular housing portion (21).

12. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: it further includes a third intermediate flow path (35) and a fourth intermediate flow path (37), the third intermediate flow path (35) communicates with the first space (29) and the low-temperature side outflow path (26), the fourth intermediate flow path (37) communicates with the second space (30) and the high-temperature side outflow path (28).

13. The cooling module using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the solid-state refrigerant substance (24) is a magnetic working substance (24).

14. A cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant, characterized in that: it includes the cooling module (20) using a solid-state refrigerant according to any one of claims 1 to 12, a magnetic field equivalent force generating portion (15a), a low-temperature side heat exchanger (60), and a high-temperature side heat exchanger (70), the magnetic field equivalent force generating portion (15a) applies a magnetic field equivalent force to the annular housing portion (21) along the axial direction of the annular housing portion (28), the low-temperature side heat exchanger (60) is provided between the low-temperature side outflow path (26) and the low-temperature side inflow path (25), the high-temperature side heat exchanger (70) is provided between the high-temperature side outflow path (28) and the high-temperature side inflow path (27), a plurality of the low-temperature side inflow paths (25), the high-temperature side inflow paths (27), the low-temperature side outflow paths (26), and the high-temperature side outflow paths (28) are respectively provided, flow path switching valves (91, 92, 93, 94) are respectively provided between the plurality of low-temperature side outflow paths (26) and the low-temperature side heat exchanger (60), between the plurality of low-temperature side inflow paths (25) and the low-temperature side heat exchanger (60), between the plurality of high-temperature side outflow paths (28) and the high-temperature side heat exchanger (70), and between the plurality of high-temperature side inflow paths (27) and the high-temperature side heat exchanger (70).

15. The cooling system using a solid-state refrigerant according to claim 14, characterized in that: the solid-state refrigerant substance (24) is a magnetic working substance (24).

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