Magnetic heat pump and magnetic refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

The magnetic heat pump (100) includes a magnetic heat member (1), an impeller (2), a deformation member (3), a housing (4), an electric motor (5), and a magnetic field generating unit (6). The impeller (2) has a housing chamber (2C) formed by arranging and housing the magnetic heat member (1) in the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis (CA). The deformation member (3) faces the housing chamber and independently changes its shape. An internal space for housing the magnetic heat member, the impeller, and the deformation member and allowing a heat transfer medium to flow through is formed in the housing (4), a first inlet (P1), and a first outlet (P2) arranged at a circumferential interval from the first inlet. The electric motor (5) integrally rotates the magnetic heat member, the impeller, and the deformation member in a first direction (A) from the first inlet toward the first outlet in the circumferential direction. The magnetic field generating unit (6) generates a magnetic field that strengthens along the first direction in a first region in the internal space that reaches the first outlet from the first inlet in the first direction. The shape of the deformation member independently changes along with the rotation. The volume of the housing chamber independently increases and decreases along with the change in the shape of the deformation member. The volume of the housing chamber when it is located in the first region is larger than the volume of the housing chamber when it is located in the second region and the volume of the housing chamber when it is located in a third region that is located in a position ahead of the first outlet in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic heat pump and a magnetic refrigeration cycle device. Background Art

[0002] As an environmentally considerate refrigeration technology, magnetic refrigeration technology is known. In magnetic refrigeration technology, the following phenomenon (magnetocaloric effect) is utilized: when a magnetic field is applied to a substance called a magnetocaloric material while maintaining an insulated state, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material rises, and when the magnetic field is removed, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material decreases.

[0003] Conventionally, a magnetic refrigeration cycle device of an active magnetic regeneration (AMR) type has been known (for example, refer to International Publication No. 2016 / 018451). The magnetic refrigeration cycle device of the active magnetic regeneration (AMR) type includes: a magnetic heat pump that utilizes the magnetocaloric effect generated by exposing a magnetocaloric material to a changing magnetic field to perform heating and cooling of a heat transfer medium; and a pump that is disposed outside the magnetic heat pump and supplies the heat transfer medium to the magnetic heat pump.

[0004] Prior Art Documents

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2016 / 018451 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] The main object of the present disclosure is to provide a magnetic heat pump and a magnetic refrigeration cycle device that can save labor of a pump disposed outside the magnetic heat pump or can eliminate the need for the pump.

[0009] Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] The magnetic heat pump of the present disclosure includes at least one magnetocaloric member, an impeller, at least one deformable member, a housing, a motor, and a magnetic field generating unit. The at least one magnetocaloric member is made of a magnetocaloric material. The impeller has a central axis and at least one receiving chamber, and the at least one receiving chamber is arranged in a circumferential direction with respect to the central axis and houses the at least one magnetocaloric member. The at least one deformable member faces the at least one receiving chamber and independently changes in shape. The housing is formed with an internal space, a first inlet, and a first outlet. The internal space houses the at least one magnetocaloric member, the impeller, and the at least one deformable member and allows a heat transfer medium to flow through. The first inlet is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space, and the first outlet is arranged at a circumferential interval from the first inlet and is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space. The motor integrally rotates the impeller, the at least one magnetocaloric member, and the at least one deformable member in a first direction that is circumferential and from the first inlet toward the first outlet. The magnetic field generating unit generates a magnetic field that strengthens along the first direction in a first region in the internal space that extends from the first inlet to the first outlet in the first direction. The at least one receiving chamber opens toward the outer side in the radial direction with respect to the central axis. The shape of the at least one deformable member independently changes as it rotates. The volume of the at least one receiving chamber independently increases or decreases as the shape of the at least one deformable member changes. The volume of the at least one receiving chamber when it is located in the first region is larger than the volume of the at least one receiving chamber when it is located in a second region and the volume of the at least one receiving chamber when it is located in a third region. The second region is located behind the first inlet in the first direction, and the third region is located in front of the first outlet in the first direction.

[0011] Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a magnetic heat pump and a magnetic refrigeration cycle device that can save labor of a pump disposed outside the magnetic heat pump or can eliminate the need for the pump. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view showing the magnetic heat pump of Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the magnetic heat pump of Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 3 It is from Figure 1 The partial cross-sectional view observed from the arrow III-III in.

[0016] Figure 4 It is from Figure 1 The partial cross-sectional view observed from the arrow IV-IV in.

[0017] Figure 5 It is from Figure 3Partial sectional view observed along arrow V-V in [].

[0018] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 7 is a sectional view showing the magnetic heat pump of Embodiment 2.

[0020] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of Embodiment 2.

[0021] Figure 9 is a sectional view showing the magnetic heat pump of Embodiment 3.

[0022] Figure 10 is from Figure 9 Partial sectional view observed along arrow X-X in [].

[0023] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of Embodiment 4.

[0024] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing a part of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of Embodiment 5.

[0025] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing a part of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of Embodiment 6. Detailed Embodiments

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0027] Embodiment 1.

[0028] <Magnetic Heat Pump Structure>

[0029] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the magnetic heat pump 100 of Embodiment 1 mainly includes a plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, an impeller 2, a plurality of deformation members 3, a housing 4, a motor 5, and a magnetic field generating unit 6.

[0030] As Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, a part of the shafts 5A of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, the plurality of deformation members 3, and the motor 5 is housed inside the housing 4. As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the remaining part of the motor 5 and the magnetic field generating section 6 are arranged outside the housing 4. The plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 are respectively fixed to the shaft 5A of the motor 5. The motor 5 rotates the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 respectively in one direction along the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis CA (refer to Figure 1 ). Hereinafter, this one direction is referred to as the first direction A. The rotational speeds of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 are equal to each other. Through the above rotation, the relative positional relationship between the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 and the housing 4 changes. Figure 1 FIG. is a cross-sectional view showing one state in the above change. In addition, in Figure 1 , the first direction A is the counterclockwise direction.

[0031] The material constituting each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 contains a magnetocaloric material. The magnetocaloric material is a material that exhibits a magnetocaloric effect and contains, for example, gadolinium (Gd).

[0032] For example, at least one slit 1A is formed in each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1. The slits 1A are arranged in the above circumferential direction and extend along the radial direction B (hereinafter referred to as the radial direction B) with respect to the central axis CA and the extending direction C (hereinafter referred to as the extending direction C) of the central axis CA. In other words, the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 each have a set of surfaces facing each other in the above circumferential direction. The circumferential interval of the slits 1A is constant, for example, regardless of the position in the above radial direction B. In addition, in Figure 1 , the hatching of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 is marked to clarify each magnetocaloric member 1 and the slit 1A and for the sake of easy explanation.

[0033] For example, a plurality of slits 1A are formed in each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1. The plurality of slits 1A are respectively arranged in the above circumferential direction and extend along the above radial direction B and the above extending direction C. In other words, the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 each have a plurality of sets of surfaces facing each other in the above circumferential direction. The number of slits 1A formed in one magnetocaloric member 1 may be any number, for example, 4.

[0034] The surface area of each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 is, for example, larger than the surface area of each of the plurality of blades 2B of the impeller 2.

[0035] The impeller 2 has a central axis CA. The impeller 2 includes a root portion 2A and a plurality of blades 2B. The root portion 2A is fixed to the shaft 5A of the motor 5. The root portion 2A is formed in a ring shape and has an inner peripheral surface that fits onto the shaft 5A. The plurality of blades 2B are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction. The plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 are respectively disposed between two adjacent blades 2B among the plurality of blades 2B in the circumferential direction. In other words, a plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are formed in the impeller 2 and are arranged in the circumferential direction and respectively accommodate the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1. The plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The number of the accommodation chambers 2C may be any number, for example, 12.

[0036] The structures of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are, for example, the same as each other. The plurality of accommodation chambers 2C respectively have a bottom surface facing the outside in the radial direction B, a side surface facing the front side in the first direction A, and a side surface facing the rear side in the first direction A. The bottom surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are, for example, constituted by the outer peripheral surface of the root portion 2A. The end portions of each magnetocaloric member 1 located inside the radial direction B are fixed to the bottom surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C. The side surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are, for example, constituted by the side surfaces of the plurality of blades 2B. The side surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are, for example, respectively arranged at intervals from the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 in the circumferential direction.

[0037] The plurality of accommodation chambers 2C respectively open to the outside in the radial direction B. The intervals in the circumferential direction of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are, for example, constant regardless of the position in the radial direction B. The root portion 2A and the plurality of blades 2B are, for example, formed integrally.

[0038] The plurality of deformation members 3 respectively face the accommodation chambers 2C. The shapes of the plurality of deformation members 3 independently change. The plurality of deformation members 3 respectively include a fixing portion 3A, a moving portion 3B, and a plurality of first elastic portions 3C.

[0039] The fixing portion 3A is fixed so as not to be able to move relative to the magnetocaloric member 1. The fixing portion 3A rotates along the circumferential direction together with the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 and the impeller 2, but does not move in the radial direction. The fixing portion 3A is, for example, disposed outside each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C. The fixing portion 3A is, for example, fixed to the shaft 5A.

[0040] The moving portion 3B moves relative to the magnetocaloric member 1 along the radial direction B. The moving portion 3B rotates along the circumferential direction together with the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 and the impeller 2, and moves in the radial direction. The moving portion 3B is disposed inside each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C.

[0041] As Figure 5As shown, in a cross-section perpendicular to the above-mentioned extending direction C, the moving part 3B has, for example, a long-side direction orthogonal to the above-mentioned radial direction B and a short-side direction orthogonal to the long-side direction. The moving part 3B has a plurality of portions 3B1 inserted into the slit 1A and a plurality of portions 3B2 disposed outside the slit 1A. The plurality of portions 3B1 and the plurality of portions 3B2 are connected to each other, for example, at both ends in the above-mentioned extending direction C. In addition, the plurality of portions 3B1 and the plurality of portions 3B2 may also be connected to each other, for example, at one end in the above-mentioned extending direction C. In other words, when viewed from the above-mentioned radial direction B, the outer shape of the moving part 3B may also be comb-shaped.

[0042] The plurality of first elastic parts 3C rotate along the above-mentioned circumferential direction together with the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 and the impeller 2, and elastically deform along the above-mentioned radial direction B. The plurality of first elastic parts 3C are arranged so as to sandwich the moving part 3B in the above-mentioned extending direction C. In addition, each of the plurality of deformation members 3 may include at least one first elastic part 3C.

[0043] Each first elastic part 3C has a first end portion located inside in the above-mentioned radial direction B and a second end portion located outside in the above-mentioned radial direction B. The first end portion is connected to the fixed part 3A. The second end portion is connected to the moving part 3B.

[0044] The fixed parts 3A of the plurality of deformation members 3 are formed integrally. The moving parts 3B of the plurality of deformation members 3 move independently. The first elastic parts 3C of the plurality of deformation members 3 elastically deform independently.

[0045] Each of the plurality of deformation members 3 further includes, for example, a plurality of connecting parts 3D that connect the moving part 3B and the second end portion of the first elastic part 3C. The plurality of connecting parts 3D are arranged so as to sandwich the moving part 3B in the above-mentioned extending direction C.

[0046] In the circumferential direction of an axis extending along the above-mentioned extending direction C with respect to the center of the above-mentioned long-side direction and the above-mentioned short-side direction of the moving part 3B, each connecting part 3D can rotate relative to the moving part 3B. In a cross-section perpendicular to the above-mentioned extending direction C, the shape of the connecting part 3D is, for example, circular. The connecting part 3D has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting part 3D has a portion to which the second end portion of the first elastic part 3C is fixed and a portion that contacts the inner peripheral surface of a guiding member 7 described later.

[0047] An internal space for accommodating a part of the shaft 5A of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, the plurality of deformation members 3, and the motor 5 and allowing a heat transfer medium to flow is formed in the housing 4. The above-mentioned internal space has, for example, a cylindrical shape. In addition, the heat transfer medium is, for example, water or ethanol.

[0048] Moreover, a first fluid inlet P1 and a first fluid outlet P2 are formed in the housing 4. The first fluid inlet P1 is for allowing a heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space. The first fluid outlet P2 is arranged at an interval from the first fluid inlet P1 in the circumferential direction, and is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space. The first fluid outlet P2 is arranged on the front side in the first direction A compared with the first fluid inlet P1. For example, the first fluid inlet P1 faces the first fluid outlet P2 across the internal space. The first fluid inlet P1 and the first fluid outlet P2 are respectively arranged in such a manner as to sandwich only a space portion located outside the radial direction B compared with the shaft 5A, the root portion 2A, and the fixing portion 3A in the internal space.

[0049] Moreover, a second fluid inlet P3 and a second fluid outlet P4 are formed in the housing 4. The second fluid inlet P3 is for allowing a heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space. The second fluid outlet P4 is arranged at an interval from the second fluid inlet P3 in the circumferential direction, and is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space. The second fluid outlet P4 is arranged on the front side in the first direction A compared with the second fluid inlet P3. For example, the second fluid inlet P3 faces the second fluid outlet P4 across the internal space. The second fluid inlet P3 and the second fluid outlet P4 are respectively arranged in such a manner as to sandwich only a space portion located outside the radial direction B compared with the shaft 5A, the root portion 2A, and the fixing portion 3A in the internal space.

[0050] The second fluid inlet P3 is arranged on the front side in the first direction A compared with the first fluid outlet P2. The first fluid inlet P1 is arranged on the front side in the first direction A compared with the second fluid outlet P4. That is, the first fluid inlet P1, the first fluid outlet P2, the second fluid inlet P3, and the second fluid outlet P4 are arranged in the above-mentioned order from the rear side to the front side in the first direction A.

[0051] The housing 4 has a first inner peripheral surface 4A facing the internal space and facing the inside in the radial direction B. Openings connected to the first fluid inlet P1, the first fluid outlet P2, the second fluid inlet P3, and the second fluid outlet P4 are formed in the first inner peripheral surface 4A.

[0052] The internal space has a first region, a second region, a third region, and a fourth region. The first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region are connected to each other.

[0053] The first region reaches from the first fluid inlet P1 to the first fluid outlet P2 in the first direction A. Figure 1In this case, the first region is a fan-shaped space located between the imaginary line L1 and the imaginary line L2. The imaginary line L1 is an imaginary line connecting the central axis CA and the portion of the opening of the first inlet P1 that is on the rear side in the first direction A. The imaginary line L2 is an imaginary line connecting the central axis CA and the portion of the opening of the first outlet P2 that is on the front side in the first direction A.

[0054] The second region is located behind the first inlet P1 in the first direction A. The second region is a fan-shaped space located between the imaginary line L1 and the imaginary line L4. The imaginary line L4 is an imaginary line connecting the central axis CA and the portion of the opening of the second outlet P4 that is on the front side in the first direction A. The third region is located in front of the first outlet P2 in the first direction A. The third region is a fan-shaped space located between the imaginary line L2 and the imaginary line L3. The imaginary line L3 is an imaginary line connecting the central axis CA and the portion of the opening of the second inlet P3 that is on the rear side in the first direction A. The fourth region extends from the second inlet P3 to the second outlet P4 in the first direction A. The fourth region is a fan-shaped space located between the imaginary line L3 and the imaginary line L4. The imaginary line L1 is arranged, for example, on the same straight line as the imaginary line L3. The imaginary line L2 is arranged, for example, on the same straight line as the imaginary line L4.

[0055] In addition, Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view along the radial direction B of the first region. Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view along the radial direction of the second region.

[0056] At least one of the plurality of receiving chambers 2C is disposed in each of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region. Figure 1 In the state shown, four receiving chambers 2C are disposed in the first region and the fourth region respectively, and two receiving chambers 2C are disposed in the second region and the third region respectively. In a state different from the state shown in Figure 1 , for example, three receiving chambers 2C are disposed in the first region and the fourth region respectively, and three receiving chambers 2C are disposed in the second region and the third region respectively.

[0057] The distances in the radial direction B between the portions of the first inner peripheral surface 4A facing the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region respectively and the central axis CA are equal to each other.

[0058] The motor 5 has a shaft 5A and a drive unit that rotates the shaft 5A in the first direction A. A part of the shaft 5A is housed in the internal space of the housing 4. The remaining part of the shaft 5A in the motor 5 other than the above part is arranged outside the housing 4.

[0059] The magnetic field generating unit 6 is arranged outside the housing 4. The magnetic field generating unit 6 generates a magnetic field that strengthens along the first direction A in the first region. The magnetic field generating unit 6 generates a magnetic field that weakens along the first direction A in the third region. For example, the magnetic field generating unit 6 generates a stronger magnetic field in the region connected to the first outlet P2 in the first region than in the region connected to the first inlet P1 in the first region. The magnetic field in the first region strengthens along the first direction A. The magnetic field in the region connected to the first outlet P2 in the first region is stronger than the magnetic field in the region connected to the first inlet P1 in the first region. The magnetic field in the second region is constant along the first direction A. The magnetic field in the fourth region is constant along the first direction A. The magnetic field in the region connected to the second outlet P4 in the fourth region has the same intensity as the magnetic field in the region connected to the second inlet P3. The direction of each magnetic field is along the extending direction C.

[0060] The magnetic field generating unit 6 only needs to be able to generate the above magnetic field intensity distribution and can have any structure. For example, it includes at least any one of a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, and a superconducting magnet. In order to generate a stronger magnetic field, the magnetic field generating unit 6 may also include a magnetic yoke. In order to generate a stronger magnetic field, the magnetic field generating unit 6 may also include a plurality of permanent magnets arranged in a Halbach array.

[0061] The magnetic heat pump 100 further includes a guiding member 7. The relative position of the guiding member 7 with respect to the housing 4 is fixed. The guiding member 7 guides a moving part 3B that moves in the first direction A along with the rotation of the plurality of deformation members 3 in the radial direction B.

[0062] As Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the guiding member 7 has a second inner peripheral surface 7A facing the inside of the radial direction B. The moving part 3B is pressed against the second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guiding member 7 by a first elastic part 3C. The outer peripheral surface 3B1 of the moving part 3B contacts the second inner peripheral surface 7A. The second inner peripheral surface 7A is opposed to the outer peripheral surface of the fixed part 3A in the radial direction B.

[0063] The second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guiding member 7 has a first surface part 7A1 (first part) arranged in the first region, a second surface part 7A2 (second part) arranged in the second region, a third surface part 7A3 (third part) arranged in the third region, and a fourth surface part 7A4 arranged in the fourth region.

[0064] As shown Figure 1 In the first direction A, a front-side portion of the second face 7A2 is disposed, for example, in a rear-side area within the first region. In the first direction A, a front-side portion of the second face 7A2 faces, for example, the first inlet P1. In the first direction A, a rear-side portion of the third face 7A3 is disposed in a front-side area within the first region. In the first direction A, a rear-side portion of the third face 7A3 faces, for example, the first outlet P2.

[0065] In the first direction A, a front-side portion of the third face 7A3 is disposed in a rear-side area within the fourth region. In the first direction A, a front-side portion of the third face 7A3 faces, for example, the second inlet P3. In the first direction A, a rear-side portion of the second face 7A2 is disposed in a front-side area within the fourth region. In the first direction A, a rear-side portion of the second face 7A2 faces, for example, the second outlet P4.

[0066] In the radial direction B, the first face 7A1 and the fourth face 7A4 are disposed closer to the center than the centers of the respective magnetocaloric members 1. In the radial direction B, the second face 7A2 and the third face 7A3 are disposed closer to the center than the centers of the respective magnetocaloric members 1.

[0067] The distance in the radial direction B between the first face 7A1 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the first face 7A1 and the outer peripheral face of the root portion 2A. The distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is shorter than the distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the outer peripheral face of the root portion 2A. The distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is shorter than the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the outer peripheral face of the root portion 2A. The distance in the radial direction B between the fourth face 7A4 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the fourth face 7A4 and the outer peripheral face of the root portion 2A.

[0068] The distance in the radial direction B between the first face 7A1 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the first inner peripheral face 4A and the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the first inner peripheral face 4A. The distance in the radial direction B between the first face 7A1 of the second inner peripheral face 7A and the central axis CA is shorter than the distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the central axis CA and the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the central axis CA.

[0069] The distance in the radial direction B between the fourth face 7A4 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the first inner peripheral face 4A and the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the first inner peripheral face 4A. The distance in the radial direction B between the fourth face 7A4 of the second inner peripheral face 7A and the central axis CA is shorter than the distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the central axis CA and the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the central axis CA.

[0070] The distance in the above-mentioned radial direction between the first face 7A1 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is, for example, equal to the distance in the above-mentioned radial direction between the fourth face 7A4 and the first inner peripheral face 4A. The distance in the radial direction B between the second face 7A2 and the first inner peripheral face 4A is, for example, equal to the distance in the radial direction B between the third face 7A3 and the first inner peripheral face 4A.

[0071] The second inner peripheral face 7A of the guide member 7 further has: a fifth face that connects between the second face 7A2 and the first face 7A1; a sixth face that connects between the first face 7A1 and the third face 7A3; a seventh face that connects between the third face 7A3 and the fourth face 7A4; and an eighth face that connects between the fourth face 7A4 and the second face 7A2.

[0072] The above-mentioned fifth face inclines from the outside of the radial direction B toward the inside as it goes from the front side to the rear side in the first direction A. The above-mentioned sixth face inclines from the inside of the radial direction B toward the outside as it goes from the front side to the rear side in the first direction A. The above-mentioned seventh face inclines from the outside of the radial direction B toward the inside as it goes from the front side to the rear side in the first direction A. The above-mentioned eighth face inclines from the inside of the radial direction B toward the outside as it goes from the front side to the rear side in the first direction A.

[0073] The above-mentioned fifth face is, for example, arranged in the rear-side area within the above-mentioned first area in the first direction A. The above-mentioned sixth face is, for example, arranged in the front-side area within the above-mentioned first area in the first direction A. The above-mentioned seventh face is, for example, arranged in the rear-side area within the above-mentioned fourth area in the first direction A. The above-mentioned eighth face is, for example, arranged in the front-side area within the above-mentioned fourth area in the first direction A.

[0074] The central angle formed by one end and the other end in the above-mentioned circumferential direction of each of the above-mentioned fifth face, the above-mentioned sixth face, the above-mentioned seventh face, and the above-mentioned eighth face with respect to the central axis CA is, for example, smaller than the central angle formed by one end and the other end in the above-mentioned circumferential direction of the moving part 3B with respect to the central axis CA.

[0075] The length of the radial direction B between the first end portion and the second end portion of the first elastic portion 3C located in the first region is shorter than the length of the radial direction B between the first end portion and the second end portion of the first elastic portion 3C located in the second region and the length of the radial direction B between the first end portion and the second end portion of the first elastic portion 3C located in the third region.

[0076] In the magnetic heat pump 100 of Embodiment 1, the volume of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C is defined as the volume of the space located outside the moving portion 3B in the radial direction B within each accommodation chamber 3C. The volume of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C varies depending on which of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region each accommodation chamber 2C is located in.

[0077] The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the first region is larger than the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the second region and the volume when located in the third region. The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the fourth region is larger than the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the second region and the volume when located in the third region. That is, the volume of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C increases and decreases along with the rotation.

[0078] The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the first region is, for example, equal to the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the fourth region. The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the second region is, for example, equal to the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C are respectively located in the third region.

[0079] <Operation of the magnetic heat pump>

[0080] When the magnetic heat pump 100 operates, by rotating the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 in the first direction A, the relative positions of the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 with respect to the housing 4 and the guide member 7 change. Moreover, when the magnetic heat pump 100 operates, the magnetic field generating unit 6 generates the magnetic field.

[0081] When the accommodation chamber 2C is located in the second region of the housing 4, the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed by the first elastic portion 3C against the second surface 7A2 of the second inner peripheral surface 7A, and within this accommodation chamber 2C, the moving portion 3B is positioned at a position outside the center of the radial direction B of the magnetic heat member 1. The volume of the accommodation chamber 2C at this time is small.

[0082] With the above rotation, the accommodation chamber 2C disposed in the second region moves toward the first region. The outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the fifth surface portion of the second inner peripheral surface 7A to reach the first surface portion 7A1. When the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the fifth surface portion, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C gradually increases. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C increases in the region facing the first inlet P1 in the first region. Thus, the heat transfer medium HM (refer to Figure 1 ) flows into the accommodation chamber 2C from the first inlet P1.

[0083] When the accommodation chamber 2C is disposed in the first region of the housing 4, the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the first surface portion 7A1 by the first elastic portion 3C, and in this accommodation chamber 2C, the moving portion 3B is positioned at a position closer to the inside than the center of the radial direction B of the magnetocaloric member 1. The volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the first surface portion 7A1 is larger than the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the second surface portion 7A2.

[0084] During the period when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the first surface portion 7A1, the heat transfer medium HM flowing into the accommodation chamber 2C is held in the accommodation chamber 2C. In this state, the accommodation chamber 2C moves along the first direction A in the region where the magnetic field in the first region increases along the first direction A. Thus, the magnetocaloric member 1 accommodated in the accommodation chamber 2C generates heat, and the heat transfer medium HM held in the accommodation chamber 2C is heated by the magnetocaloric member 1.

[0085] With the above rotation, the accommodation chamber 2C disposed in the first region moves toward the third region. The outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the sixth surface portion of the second inner peripheral surface 7A to reach the third surface portion 7A3. When the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the sixth surface portion, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C gradually decreases. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C decreases in the region facing the first outlet P2 in the first region. Thus, the heat transfer medium HM (refer to Figure 1 ) heated as described above flows out of the accommodation chamber 2C toward the first outlet P2.

[0086] When the accommodation chamber 2C is disposed in the third region of the housing 4, the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the third surface portion 7A3 by the first elastic portion 3C, and in this accommodation chamber 2C, the moving portion 3B is positioned at a position closer to the outside than the center of the radial direction B of the magnetocaloric member 1. The volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the third surface portion 7A3 is smaller than the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the first surface portion 7A1.

[0087] By moving the accommodation chamber 2C in the third region along the first direction A, the magnetocaloric member 1 accommodated in the accommodation chamber 2C moves along the first direction A in a region where the magnetic field weakens along the first direction A. Thereby, the magnetocaloric member 1 absorbs heat.

[0088] Along with the above rotation, the accommodation chamber 2C disposed in the third region moves toward the fourth region. The outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the seventh surface portion of the second inner peripheral surface 7A to reach the fourth surface portion 7A4. When the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the seventh surface portion, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C gradually increases. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C increases in the region facing the second inlet P3 in the fourth region. Thereby, the heat transfer medium HM (refer to Figure 1 ) flows into the accommodation chamber 2C from the second inlet P3.

[0089] When the accommodation chamber 2C is disposed in the fourth region of the housing 4, the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the fourth surface portion 7A4 by the first elastic portion 3C, and in the accommodation chamber 2C, the moving portion 3B is positioned at a position closer to the inside than the center of the magnetocaloric member 1 in the radial direction B. The volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the fourth surface portion 7A4 is larger than the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the third surface portion 7A3.

[0090] During the period when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the fourth surface portion 7A4, the heat transfer medium HM flowing into the accommodation chamber 2C is held in the accommodation chamber 2C. In this state, since the accommodation chamber 2C moves along the first direction A in a region where the magnetic field weakens along the first direction A, the magnetocaloric member 1 accommodated in the accommodation chamber 2C absorbs heat, and the heat transfer medium HM held in the accommodation chamber 2C is cooled by the magnetocaloric member 1.

[0091] Along with the above rotation, the accommodation chamber 2C disposed in the fourth region moves toward the second region. The outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the eighth surface portion of the second inner peripheral surface 7A to reach the second surface portion 7A2. When the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is guided by the eighth surface portion, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C gradually decreases. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C decreases in the region facing the second outlet P4 in the fourth region. Thereby, the heat transfer medium HM (refer to Figure 1 ) cooled as described above flows out of the accommodation chamber 2C toward the second outlet P4.

[0092] As described above, when the accommodation chamber 2C is disposed in the second region of the housing 4, the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the second surface portion 7A2 by the first elastic portion 3C. In the accommodation chamber 2C, the moving portion 3B is positioned at a position outside the center of the magnetic heat generating member 1 in the radial direction B. The volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the second surface portion 7A2 is smaller than the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C when the outer peripheral surface 3D1 of the connecting portion 3D is pressed against the fourth surface portion 7A4.

[0093] During the continuation of the rotation, the above-described cycle of increasing and decreasing the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C is repeated. As a result, the magnetic heat pump 100 takes in the heat transfer medium from the first inlet P1 into the internal space, heats the taken-in heat transfer medium, and then sends the heated heat transfer medium out of the first outlet P2 to the outside. At the same time, the magnetic heat pump 100 takes in the heat transfer medium from the second inlet P3 into the internal space, cools the taken-in heat transfer medium, and then sends the cooled heat transfer medium out of the second outlet P4 to the outside.

[0094] <Structure and Operation of Magnetic Refrigeration Cycle Device>

[0095] As Figure 6 shown, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 of Embodiment 1 mainly includes a magnetic heat pump 100, a first flow path 21, and a second flow path 22. In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, a heat transfer medium is filled inside the magnetic heat pump 100, the first flow path 21, and the second flow path 22.

[0096] One end of the first flow path 21 is connected to the first inlet P1 of the magnetic heat pump 100, and the other end is connected to the first outlet P2 of the magnetic heat pump 100. The first flow path 21 includes, for example, a first heat exchanger 23. The heat transfer medium heated by the magnetic heat pump 100 is sent from the first outlet P2 of the magnetic heat pump 100 to the first flow path 21, and is cooled by exchanging heat with other heat transfer media such as air in the first heat exchanger 23. The heat transfer medium cooled in the first heat exchanger 23 is taken into the magnetic heat pump 100 from the first flow path 21 via the first inlet P1.

[0097] One end of the second flow path 22 is connected to the second inlet P3 of the magnetic heat pump 100, and the other end is connected to the second outlet P4 of the magnetic heat pump 100. The second flow path 22 includes, for example, a second heat exchanger 24. The heat transfer medium cooled by the magnetic heat pump 100 is sent from the second outlet P4 of the magnetic heat pump 100 to the second flow path 22, and is heated by exchanging heat with other heat transfer media such as air in the second heat exchanger 24. The heat transfer medium heated in the second heat exchanger 24 is taken into the magnetic heat pump 100 from the second flow path 22 via the second inlet P3.

[0098] <Effect>

[0099] The magnetic heat pump 100 includes a plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, an impeller 2, a plurality of deformation members 3, a housing 4, a motor 5, and a magnetic field generating unit 6. The plurality of magnetocaloric members 1 are each made of a magnetocaloric material. The impeller 2 has a central axis CA and a plurality of receiving chambers 2C that are arranged in a circumferential direction with respect to the central axis and each receive one of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1. The plurality of deformation members 3 each face one of the plurality of receiving chambers 2C and independently change in shape. In the housing 4, there are formed: an internal space that houses the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 and allows a heat transfer medium to flow through; a first inlet P1 that allows the heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space; and a first outlet P2 that is arranged at an interval from the first inlet P1 in the circumferential direction and allows the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space.

[0100] The motor 5 integrally rotates the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 in the first direction A. The magnetic field generating unit 6 generates a magnetic field that increases in the first direction A in the first region in the internal space.

[0101] The plurality of receiving chambers 2C open to the outside in the radial direction B. The shapes of the plurality of deformation members 3 independently change as they rotate. The volume of each of the plurality of receiving chambers 2C independently increases or decreases as the shape of each of the plurality of deformation members 3 changes. The volume of each receiving chamber 2C when it is located in the first region that reaches the first outlet P2 from the first inlet P1 in the first direction A is larger than the volume of each receiving chamber 2C when it is located in the second region that is behind the first inlet P1 in the first direction A and the volume of each receiving chamber 2C when it is located in the third region that is in front of the first outlet P2 in the first direction A.

[0102] In such a magnetic heat pump 100, the functions of a pump for sending out the heat transfer medium and a function of exhibiting a magnetocaloric effect by changing the intensity of the magnetic field to which the magnetocaloric member 1 is exposed are simultaneously achieved by the driving force of one motor 5.

[0103] Specifically, when each receiving chamber 2C moves from the second region to the first region as it rotates, the volume of the receiving chamber 2C increases. Therefore, the heat transfer medium flows into the receiving chamber 2C from the first inlet P1.

[0104] Moreover, in the magnetic heat pump 100, the magnetocaloric member 1 in the first region generates heat, and the heat transfer medium HM held in the receiving chamber 2C is heated by the magnetocaloric member 1.

[0105] Moreover, in the magnetic heat pump 100, when each accommodation chamber 2C moves from the first region to the third region along with the above rotation, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C decreases. Therefore, the heated heat transfer medium flows out from the accommodation chamber 2C to the first outlet P2.

[0106] As a result, the magnetic heat pump 100 can heat the heat transfer medium by the magnetocaloric effect and can send out the heated heat transfer medium. Therefore, in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 including the magnetic heat pump 100, it is possible to save labor of the pump disposed outside the magnetic heat pump in the conventional magnetic refrigeration cycle device or to eliminate the need for the pump.

[0107] In the magnetic heat pump 100, each of the plurality of deformation members 3 includes a moving portion 3B that moves relative to the magnetothermal member 1 along the radial direction B inside each accommodation chamber 2C. The magnetic heat pump 100 further includes a guiding member 7, the relative position of which with respect to the housing 4 is fixed, and which guides the moving portion 3B that moves circumferentially along with the above rotation in the radial direction B.

[0108] The housing 4 has a first inner peripheral surface 4A facing the above internal space and facing the inside in the radial direction B. The volume of each accommodation chamber 2C is the volume of the space in each accommodation chamber 2C located outside the moving portion 3B in the radial direction B. The distance in the radial direction B between the moving portion 3B and the first inner peripheral surface 4A when the moving portion 3B is located in the first region is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the moving portion 3B and the first inner peripheral surface 4A when the moving portion 3B is located in the second region or the third region.

[0109] In this way, by moving each moving portion 3B along the radial direction B along with the above rotation, the above increase and decrease of the volume of each accommodation chamber 2C can be achieved. The movement of each moving portion 3B in the radial direction B is achieved only by the driving force imparted to each moving portion 3B by the electric motor 5. Therefore, compared with the case where the moving portion 3B is moved along the radial direction B by a driving force provided by a driving source other than the electric motor 5, the magnetic heat pump 100 can be miniaturized.

[0110] In the magnetic heat pump 100, each of the plurality of deformable members 3 further includes: a fixing portion 3A that is relatively fixed with respect to each magnetic heat member 1; and a first elastic portion 3C that has a first end connected to the fixing portion 3A and a second end connected to the moving portion and located on the side opposite to the first end, and elastically deforms in the radial direction. The guide member 7 has a second inner peripheral surface 7A facing the inside in the radial direction B. The moving portion 3B is pressed against the second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guide member 7 by the first elastic portion 3C. The second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guide member has a first surface 7A1 disposed in the first region, a second surface 7A2 disposed in the second region, and a third surface 7A3 disposed in the third region.

[0111] The distance in the radial direction B between the first surface 7A1 and the first inner peripheral surface 4A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the second surface 7A2 and the first inner peripheral surface 4A and the distance in the radial direction B between the third surface 7A3 and the first inner peripheral surface 4A.

[0112] Thus, since the position of the moving portion 3B in the radial direction B is determined by the first elastic portion 3C, the increase and decrease of the volume associated with the rotation can be performed more reliably.

[0113] In the magnetic heat pump 100, at least one slit 1A extending along the extending direction C and the radial direction B is formed in each of the plurality of magnetic heat members 1. Each moving portion 3B has a portion inserted into the slit 1A.

[0114] In each magnetic heat member 1 in which at least one slit 1A is formed, the area of the heat transfer surface in contact with the heat transfer medium is larger than the area of the heat transfer surface in contact with the heat transfer medium in each magnetic heat member 1 in which no slit 1A is formed. The larger the number of slits 1A formed in each magnetic heat member 1, the larger the area of the heat transfer surface becomes. The larger the area of the heat transfer surface, the easier the heat transfer between each magnetic heat member 1 and the heat transfer medium.

[0115] In the magnetic heat pump 100, the housing 4 is further formed with a second fluid inlet P3 and a second fluid outlet P4. The second fluid inlet P3 is for allowing a heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space. The second fluid outlet P4 is arranged at an interval from the second fluid inlet P3 in the circumferential direction and is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space. The second fluid inlet P3 is arranged at a position forward of the first fluid outlet P2 in the first direction A. The second fluid outlet P4 is arranged at a position forward of the second fluid inlet P3 in the first direction A. The magnetic field generating unit 6 generates a magnetic field stronger than that in the fourth region in at least a part of the third region. The volume of each accommodation chamber 2C when it is in the fourth region where it reaches the second fluid outlet P4 from the second fluid inlet P3 in the first direction A is larger than the volume of each accommodation chamber 2C when it is in the second region at a position rearward of the first fluid inlet P1 in the first direction A and the volume of each accommodation chamber 2C when it is in the third region at a position forward of the first fluid outlet P2 in the first direction A.

[0116] Thus, in the magnetic heat pump 100, when each accommodation chamber 2C moves from the third region to the fourth region along with the rotation, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C increases. Therefore, the heat transfer medium flows into the accommodation chamber 2C from the second fluid inlet P3.

[0117] Moreover, in the magnetic heat pump 100, the magnetocaloric member 1 in the fourth region absorbs heat, and the heat transfer medium HM held in the accommodation chamber 2C is cooled by the magnetocaloric member 1.

[0118] Moreover, in the magnetic heat pump 100, when each accommodation chamber 2C moves from the fourth region to the second region along with the rotation, the volume of the accommodation chamber 2C decreases. Therefore, the cooled heat transfer medium flows out of the accommodation chamber 2C to the second fluid outlet P4.

[0119] As a result, the magnetic heat pump 100 can heat the heat transfer medium by the magnetocaloric effect and send out the heated heat transfer medium, and can also cool the heat transfer medium by the magnetocaloric effect and send out the cooled heat transfer medium. Therefore, in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 equipped with the magnetic heat pump 100, it is possible to save labor of the pump arranged outside the magnetic heat pump in the conventional magnetic refrigeration cycle device or to eliminate the need for the pump.

[0120] The magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 includes a magnetic heat pump 100, a first flow path 21, and a second flow path 22. One end of the first flow path 21 is connected to the first flow inlet P1 of the magnetic heat pump 100, and the other end is connected to the first flow outlet P2, allowing a heat transfer medium to flow. One end of the second flow path 22 is connected to the second flow inlet P3, and the other end is connected to the second flow outlet P4, allowing a heat transfer medium to flow. The first flow path 21 includes, for example, a first heat exchanger 23. The second flow path 22 includes, for example, a second heat exchanger 24.

[0121] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, the heat transfer medium heated by the magnetic heat pump 100 exchanges heat with other heat transfer media in the first heat exchanger 23 and is cooled. The heat transfer medium cooled in the first heat exchanger 23 is taken into the magnetic heat pump 100. Moreover, the heat transfer medium cooled by the magnetic heat pump 100 exchanges heat with other heat transfer media in the second heat exchanger 24 and is heated. The heat transfer medium heated in the second heat exchanger 24 is taken into the magnetic heat pump 100. During the operation of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, the above refrigeration cycle is repeated. In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, since the magnetic heat pump 100 also functions as a pump for transporting the heat transfer medium, the pump disposed outside the magnetic heat pump in the conventional magnetic refrigeration cycle device can be made labor-saving or the pump can be eliminated.

[0122] Embodiment 2.

[0123] As Figure 7 shown, the magnetic heat pump 101 of Embodiment 2 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic heat pump 100 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic heat pump 100 in that the second flow inlet P3 and the second flow outlet P4 are not formed in the housing 4.

[0124] It is sufficient that the second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guide member 7 has at least a first surface 7A1, a second surface 7A2, and a third surface 7A3. The second inner peripheral surface 7A does not have, for example, a fourth surface 7A4. In this case, the second surface 7A2 and the third surface 7A3 may also be formed integrally.

[0125] The electric motor 5 rotates the plurality of magnetocaloric members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 in the first direction A. The magnetic field generating unit 6 includes at least any one of a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, and a superconducting magnet whose relative position with respect to the housing 4 is variable.

[0126] As Figure 8 shown, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 201 of Embodiment 2 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 in that it includes a first flow path 31 and a second flow path 32 and a plurality of valves 33, 34, 35, 36 as switching units instead of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22.

[0127] The first flow path 31 and the second flow path 32 connect between the first flow inlet P1 and the first flow outlet P2 respectively. The first flow path 31 and the second flow path 32 are connected in parallel with respect to the first flow inlet P1 and the first flow outlet P2. The first flow path 31 includes the first heat exchanger 23. The second flow path 32 includes the second heat exchanger 24.

[0128] Specifically, the first opening of the branch pipe 29 having the first to third openings is connected to the first flow inlet P1. The first opening of the branch pipe 30 having the first to third openings is connected to the first flow outlet P2. The second opening of the branch pipe 29 is connected in series with the second opening of the branch pipe 30 via the first heat exchanger 23. The third opening of the branch pipe 29 is connected to the third opening of the branch pipe 30 via the second heat exchanger 24.

[0129] A plurality of valves 33, 34, 35, 36 switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the magnetic heat pump 101 is connected to the first flow path 31 and not connected to the second flow path 32. In the second state, the magnetic heat pump is connected to the second flow path 32 and not connected to the first flow path 31.

[0130] The first flow path 31 includes the valve 33 and the valve 34. The valve 33 is arranged in the first flow path 31 between the second opening of the branch pipe 29 and the first heat exchanger 23. The valve 34 is arranged in the first flow path 31 between the second opening of the branch pipe 30 and the first heat exchanger 23. The valve 33 and the valve 34 are opened or closed simultaneously.

[0131] The second flow path 32 includes the valve 35 and the valve 36. The valve 35 is arranged in the second flow path 32 between the third opening of the branch pipe 29 and the second heat exchanger 24. The valve 36 is arranged in the second flow path 32 between the third opening of the branch pipe 30 and the second heat exchanger 24. The valve 35 and the valve 36 are opened or closed simultaneously. The valve 33 and the valve 34 and the valve 35 and the valve 36 are opened or closed alternately. That is, the state where the valve 33 and the valve 34 are opened and the valve 35 and the valve 36 are closed and the state where the valve 33 and the valve 34 are closed and the valve 35 and the valve 36 are opened are alternately switched.

[0132] The magnetic heat pump 101 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 201 is driven in the same manner as the magnetic heat pump 100 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200.

[0133] In the state where the valve 33 and the valve 34 are opened and the valve 35 and the valve 36 are closed, the magnetic field generating unit 6 supplies the heat transfer medium heated in the magnetic heat pump 101 to the first heat exchanger 23 by forming a magnetic field that gradually becomes stronger along the first direction A in the first region.

[0134] Thereafter, a state is achieved in which valves 33 and 34 are closed and valves 35 and 36 are opened. In this state, the magnetic field generating unit 6 supplies the heat transfer medium cooled in the magnetic heat pump 101 to the second heat exchanger 24 by forming a magnetic field that gradually weakens along the first direction A in the first region.

[0135] The electric motor 5 can also alternately switch between a state in which the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 rotate along the first direction A and a state in which the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 rotate in the direction opposite to the first direction A. The above switching is performed when the number of revolutions in each state is at least 1 or more. In this case, the magnetic field generating unit 6 only needs to form a magnetic field that strengthens along the first direction A in the first region. The magnetic field generating unit 6 may also include a permanent magnet whose relative position with respect to the housing 4 is fixed. In this case, in the state where the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, and the plurality of deformation members 3 rotate in the direction opposite to the first direction A, the first outlet P2 functions as an inlet for the inflow of the heat transfer medium, and the first inlet P1 functions as an outlet for the outflow of the heat transfer medium.

[0136] Embodiment 3.

[0137] As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the magnetic heat pump 102 of Embodiment 3 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic heat pump 100 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic heat pump 100 in that: instead of the plurality of deformation members 3, it is provided with a plurality of deformation members 13 that divide each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 2C.

[0138] As Figure 9 shown, the magnetic heat pump 101 mainly includes a plurality of magnetic heat members 11, an impeller 12, a plurality of deformation members 13, a housing 14, an electric motor 15, and a magnetic field generating unit 16. The plurality of magnetic heat members 11, the impeller 12, the plurality of deformation members 13, the housing 14, the electric motor 15, and the magnetic field generating unit 16 each have substantially the same structure as the plurality of magnetic heat members 1, the impeller 2, the plurality of deformation members 3, the housing 4, the electric motor 5, and the magnetic field generating unit 6 of the magnetic heat pump 100, respectively.

[0139] As Figure 10 shown, for example, at least one slit 11A is formed in each of the plurality of magnetic heat members 11. The slits 11A are arranged, for example, in the above-mentioned extending direction C and extend along the above-mentioned radial direction B and the above-mentioned circumferential direction. In other words, the plurality of magnetic heat members 11 each have a pair of surfaces that face each other in the above-mentioned extending direction C. The interval of the slits 11A in the above-mentioned extending direction C is constant, for example, regardless of the position in the above-mentioned radial direction B. In addition, the slits 11A may be configured in the same manner as the slits 1A.

[0140] For example, a plurality of slits 11A are formed in each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 11. The plurality of slits 11A are arranged and disposed in the extending direction C as described above, for example, and extend along the radial direction B and the circumferential direction as described above. In other words, the plurality of magnetocaloric members 11 each have a plurality of pairs of surfaces that face each other in the extending direction C. The number of slits 11A formed in one magnetocaloric member 1 may be any number.

[0141] The impeller 12 has a central portion 12A and a plurality of accommodation chambers 12C that respectively accommodate the plurality of magnetocaloric members 11. The plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively partitioned by a plurality of deformation members 13. In other words, the plurality of deformation members 13 are each configured as a blade of the impeller 12.

[0142] The structures of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are, for example, the same as each other. The plurality of accommodation chambers 12C each have a bottom surface facing the outside in the radial direction B, a side surface facing the front side in the first direction A, and a side surface facing the rear side in the first direction A. The bottom surface of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C is constituted by the outer peripheral surface 12B of the central portion 12A, for example. The end portions of each magnetocaloric member 11 located inside the radial direction B are fixed to the bottom surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C. The side surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are constituted by the side surfaces of the plurality of deformation members 13. The side surfaces of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are in contact with each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 11 in the circumferential direction, for example.

[0143] The plurality of accommodation chambers 12C each open toward the outside in the radial direction B. The circumferential intervals of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C gradually expand, for example, as they go from the inside to the outside in the radial direction B.

[0144] The plurality of deformation members 13 include: an inner peripheral portion 13A disposed inside the radial direction B; and an outer peripheral portion 13B disposed at a position outside the inner peripheral portion 13A in the radial direction B and elastically deformed with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A.

[0145] The inner peripheral portions 13A of the plurality of deformation members 13 are disposed between two magnetocaloric members 11 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. Each inner peripheral portion 13A is in contact with two magnetocaloric members 11 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, for example. The outer peripheral portions 13B of the plurality of deformation members 13 are connected to the inner peripheral portions 13A. Each outer peripheral portion 13B is disposed at a position outside each magnetocaloric member 11 in the radial direction B.

[0146] When observing the state where no external force is applied to each deformation member 13 from the extending direction C, each deformation member 13 has, for example, a long side direction along the radial direction and a short side direction along the circumferential direction.

[0147] The housing 14 has a first inner peripheral surface 14A facing the inner space and facing the inner side in the radial direction B. In the magnetic heat pump 102, the first inner peripheral surface 14A of the housing 14 serves the same function as the second inner peripheral surface 7A of the guiding member 7 of the magnetic heat pump 100.

[0148] The first inner peripheral surface 14A of the housing 14 has a ninth surface portion 14A1 (fourth part) disposed in the first region, a tenth surface portion 14A2 (fifth part) disposed in the second region, an eleventh surface portion 14A3 (sixth part) disposed in the third region, and a twelfth surface portion 14A4 disposed in the fourth region.

[0149] The distance in the radial direction B between the ninth surface portion 14A1 and the inner peripheral portion 13A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the inner peripheral portion 13A and the distance in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the inner peripheral portion 13A. The distance in the radial direction B between the twelfth surface portion 14A4 and the inner peripheral portion 13A is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the inner peripheral portion 13A and the distance in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the inner peripheral portion 13A.

[0150] The distance in the radial direction B between the ninth surface portion 14A1 and the inner peripheral portion 13A is, for example, equal to the distance in the radial direction B between the twelfth surface portion 14A4 and the inner peripheral portion 13A. The distance in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the inner peripheral portion 13A is, for example, equal to the distance in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the inner peripheral portion 13A.

[0151] The distance LH1 in the radial direction B between the ninth surface portion 14A1 and the magnetocaloric member 11 is longer than the distance LH2 in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the magnetocaloric member 11 and the distance LH3 in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the magnetocaloric member 11. The distance in the radial direction B between the twelfth surface portion 14A4 and the magnetocaloric member 11 is longer than the distance in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the magnetocaloric member 11 and the distance in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the magnetocaloric member 11.

[0152] The distance in the radial direction B between the ninth surface portion 14A1 and the magnetocaloric member 11 is, for example, equal to the distance in the radial direction B between the twelfth surface portion 14A4 and the magnetocaloric member 11. The distance in the radial direction B between the tenth surface portion 14A2 and the magnetocaloric member 11 is, for example, equal to the distance in the radial direction B between the eleventh surface portion 14A3 and the magnetocaloric member 11.

[0153] The outer peripheral portions 13B of the plurality of deformation members 13 are each arranged to be in contact with at least the tenth face portion 14A2 and the eleventh face portion 14A3 respectively. For example, in a state where no external force is applied to each deformation member 13, the surfaces of the outer peripheral portions 13B facing the front side in the first direction A are in contact with the tenth face portion 14A2 and the eleventh face portion 14A3 respectively. Thus, the respective accommodation chambers 12C located in the second region and the third region are hermetically sealed by the impeller 12, the plurality of deformation members 13, and the housing 14.

[0154] Preferably, the outer peripheral portions 13B of the plurality of deformation members 13 are each arranged to be in contact with the ninth face portion 14A1 and the twelfth face portion 14A4 respectively. For example, in a state where no external force is applied to each deformation member 13, the surfaces of the outer peripheral portions 13B facing the outside in the radial direction B are in contact with the ninth face portion 14A1 and the twelfth face portion 14A4 respectively. Thus, the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are each hermetically sealed by the impeller 12, the plurality of deformation members 13, and the housing 14.

[0155] The length of the outer peripheral portion 13B of each deformation member 13 in the radial direction B when the plurality of deformation members 13 are located in the first region is longer than the length of the outer peripheral portion 13B of the deformation member 13 in the radial direction B when the deformation member 13 is located in the second region and the length of the outer peripheral portion 13B of the deformation member 13 in the radial direction B when the deformation member 13 is located in the third region.

[0156] When the plurality of deformation members 13 are located in the second region and the third region respectively, the outer peripheral portion 13B of each deformation member 3 is bent with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A. When the plurality of deformation members 13 are located in the first region and the fourth region respectively, the outer peripheral portion 13B of each deformation member 3 is not bent with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A, for example. In addition, when the plurality of deformation members 13 are located in the first region and the fourth region respectively, the outer peripheral portion 13B of each deformation member 3 may be bent with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A, for example.

[0157] When viewed from the extending direction C, the angle formed by the inner peripheral portion 13A and the outer peripheral portion 13B of each deformation member 13 is defined as the bending angle of the deformation member 13. The bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the first region is larger than the bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the second region and the bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the third region. The bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the first region is, for example, 150 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less. The bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the second region and the bending angle of each deformation member 13 arranged in the third region are, for example, 80 degrees or more and 110 degrees or less.

[0158] Each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C is defined as a space located between two deformable members 13 adjacent to each other in the above-mentioned circumferential direction and located on the inner side of the first inner peripheral surface 14A of the housing 14 in the above-mentioned radial direction B. The volume of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C varies depending on which of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region the accommodation chamber 12C is located in.

[0159] The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the first region is larger than the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the second region and the volume when located in the third region. The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the fourth region is larger than the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the second region and the volume when located in the third region. That is, the volume of each of the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C increases and decreases with the above-mentioned rotation.

[0160] The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the first region is, for example, equal to the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the fourth region. The volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the second region is, for example, equal to the volume when the plurality of accommodation chambers 12C are respectively located in the third region.

[0161] <Operation of the magnetic heat pump>

[0162] The operation of the magnetic heat pump 102 is basically the same as the operation of the magnetic heat pump 100. When the magnetic heat pump 102 operates, by rotating the plurality of magnetic heat members 11, the impeller 12, and the plurality of deformable members 13 in the first direction A, the relative positions of the plurality of magnetic heat members 11, the impeller 12, and the plurality of deformable members 13 with respect to the housing 14 are changed. Moreover, when the magnetic heat pump 102 operates, the magnetic field generating unit 16 generates the above-mentioned magnetic field.

[0163] When the accommodation chamber 12C is located in the second region of the housing 14, the outer peripheral portion 13B of the deformable member 13 facing the accommodation chamber 12C is applied with an external force due to contact with the tenth surface portion 14A2 of the first inner peripheral surface 14A of the housing 14, and thus bends with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A. The volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the tenth surface portion 14A2 is small.

[0164] With the above-described rotation, the accommodation chamber 12C disposed in the second region moves toward the first region. When the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side in the first direction A with respect to the accommodation chamber 12C reaches the region in the first region facing the first inflow port P1, the outer peripheral portion 13B no longer contacts the tenth face portion 14A2, and the external force applied to the outer peripheral portion 13B in the second region is removed. As a result, the outer peripheral portion 13B elastically deforms with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A, and the bent state is released.

[0165] As a result, when the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side in the first direction A with respect to the accommodation chamber 12C is disposed in the region in the first region facing the first inflow port P1, the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C is larger than the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the tenth face portion 14A2. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C increases in the region in the first region facing the first inflow port P1. Moreover, since the accommodation chamber 12C disposed in the second region is hermetically sealed, with the increase in the volume, a negative pressure is formed inside the accommodation chamber 12C. As a result, the heat transfer medium HM (refer to Figure 9 ) flows into the accommodation chamber 12C from the first inflow port P1.

[0166] After that, the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side in the first direction A with respect to the accommodation chamber 12C contacts the ninth face portion 14A1. The volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the ninth face portion 14A1 is larger than the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when two outer peripheral portions 13B disposed sandwiching the accommodation chamber 12C contact the tenth face portion 14A2.

[0167] During the period when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the ninth face portion 14A1, the heat transfer medium HM flowing into the accommodation chamber 12C is retained inside the accommodation chamber 12C. In this state, the accommodation chamber 12C moves in the first direction A in the region where the magnetic field in the first region increases along the first direction A. As a result, the magnetocaloric member 11 accommodated in the accommodation chamber 12C generates heat, and the heat transfer medium HM retained inside the accommodation chamber 12C is heated by the magnetocaloric member 11.

[0168] With the above-described rotation, the accommodation chamber 12C disposed in the first region moves toward the third region. When the outer peripheral portion 13B of the deformation member 13 disposed on the front side in the first direction A with respect to the accommodation chamber 12C reaches the third region, the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the eleventh face portion 14A3 and is bent again with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A.

[0169] Accordingly, when the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side of the housing chamber 12C in the first direction A contacts the eleventh surface portion 14A3, the volume of the housing chamber 12C is smaller than when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the ninth surface portion 14A1. That is, the volume of the housing chamber 12C decreases in the region facing the first outlet P2 in the first region. Further, since the housing chamber 12C disposed in the first region is hermetically sealed, a positive pressure is generated inside the housing chamber 12C as the volume decreases. As a result, the heat transfer medium HM (see Figure 8 ) flows out from the housing chamber 12C toward the first outlet P2.

[0170] By moving the housing chamber 12C in the first direction A in the third region, the magnetocaloric member 11 accommodated in the housing chamber 12C moves in the first direction A in a region where the magnetic field weakens along the first direction A. Thereby, the magnetocaloric member 11 absorbs heat.

[0171] Along with the above rotation, the housing chamber 12C disposed in the third region moves toward the fourth region. When the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side of the housing chamber 12C in the first direction A reaches the region facing the second inlet P3 in the fourth region, the outer peripheral portion 13B no longer contacts the eleventh surface portion 14A3, and the external force applied to the outer peripheral portion 13B in the third region is removed. As a result, the outer peripheral portion 13B elastically deforms with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A, and the bent state is released.

[0172] Accordingly, when the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side of the housing chamber 12C is disposed in the region facing the second inlet P3 in the fourth region, the volume of the housing chamber 12C is larger than when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the eleventh surface portion 14A3. That is, the volume of the housing chamber 12C increases in the region facing the second inlet P3 in the fourth region. Further, since the housing chamber 12C disposed in the third region is hermetically sealed, a negative pressure is generated inside the housing chamber 12C as the volume increases. As a result, the heat transfer medium HM (see Figure 8 ) flows into the housing chamber 12C from the second inlet P3.

[0173] Thereafter, the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side of the housing chamber 12C contacts the twelfth surface portion 14A4. The volume of the housing chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the twelfth surface portion 14A4 is larger than the volume of the housing chamber 12C when two outer peripheral portions 13B disposed sandwiching the housing chamber 12C contact the eleventh surface portion 14A3.

[0174] During the period when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the twelfth face 14A4, the heat transfer medium HM flowing into the accommodation chamber 12C is retained within the accommodation chamber 12C. In this state, since the accommodation chamber 12C moves in the first direction A in a region where the magnetic field weakens along the first direction A, the magnetocaloric member 11 accommodated in the accommodation chamber 12C absorbs heat, and the heat transfer medium HM retained in the accommodation chamber 12C is cooled by the magnetocaloric member 11.

[0175] With the above rotation, the accommodation chamber 12C disposed in the fourth region moves toward the second region. When the outer peripheral portion 13B of the deformation member 13 disposed on the front side of the accommodation chamber 12C in the first direction A reaches the second region, the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the tenth face 14A2 and bends again with respect to the inner peripheral portion 13A.

[0176] As a result, the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B disposed on the front side of the accommodation chamber 12C in the first direction A contacts the tenth face 14A2 is smaller than the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C when the outer peripheral portion 13B contacts the twelfth face 14A4. That is, the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C decreases in the region facing the second outlet P4 in the fourth region. Moreover, since the accommodation chamber 12C disposed in the fourth region is hermetically sealed, a positive pressure is generated inside the accommodation chamber 12C as the volume decreases. As a result, the heat transfer medium HM (see Figure 8 ) flows out from the accommodation chamber 12C to the second outlet P4.

[0177] During the continuation of the above rotation, the above cycle of increasing and decreasing the volume of the accommodation chamber 12C is repeated. As a result, the magnetic heat pump 102 takes in the heat transfer medium from the first inlet P1 into the internal space, heats the taken-in heat transfer medium, and then sends the heated heat transfer medium out to the outside from the first outlet P2. At the same time, the magnetic heat pump 102 takes in the heat transfer medium from the second inlet P3 into the internal space, cools the taken-in heat transfer medium, and then sends the cooled heat transfer medium out to the outside from the second outlet P4.

[0178] The magnetic refrigeration cycle device including the magnetic heat pump 102 has the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 including the magnetic heat pump 100.

[0179] <Effect>

[0180] Since the magnetic heat pump 102 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic heat pump 100, it can achieve the same effects as the magnetic heat pump 100. Moreover, in the magnetic heat pump 102, the plurality of deformable members 13 achieve the same effects as the plurality of vanes 2B and the plurality of deformable members 3 in the magnetic heat pump 100, and the housing 14 achieves the same effect as the guiding member 7 in the magnetic heat pump 100. Therefore, compared with the number of components of the magnetic heat pump 100, the number of components of the magnetic heat pump 102 can be reduced.

[0181] In addition, in the magnetic heat pump 102, similarly to the magnetic heat pump 101, the second inlet P3 and the second outlet P4 may not be formed in the housing 4. In this case, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device including the magnetic heat pump 102 only needs to have the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 201 including the magnetic heat pump 101.

[0182] Embodiment 4.

[0183] As Figure 11 shown, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 of Embodiment 4 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 in that the first flow path 21 further includes a heat storage tank 25.

[0184] The heat storage tank 25 is configured to store the thermal energy of the heat transfer medium. The heat storage tank 25 has, for example: a storage portion that stores the heat transfer medium; a heat insulation portion that is disposed around the storage portion and is used to insulate the storage portion; and four inlets and outlets that are used to allow the heat transfer medium to flow into or out of the storage portion.

[0185] The first flow path 21 includes a first heat exchanger 23, a heat storage tank 25, a first pipeline 21A, a second pipeline 21B, a pump 26, a first valve 27, and a second valve 28.

[0186] The first pipeline 21A connects between the first inlet P1 and the first outlet P2 of the magnetic heat pump 100 and two inlets and outlets of the heat storage tank 25. The second pipeline 21B connects between the other two inlets and outlets of the heat storage tank 25 and the first heat exchanger 23.

[0187] The pump 26 transports the heat transfer medium from the heat storage tank 25 to the first heat exchanger 23 in the second pipeline 21B.

[0188] The first valve 27 is disposed between the heat storage tank 25 and the first heat exchanger 23 in the second pipeline 21B, and opens or closes the flow of the heat transfer medium between the heat storage tank 25 and the first heat exchanger 23.

[0189] The second valve 28 is disposed on the opposite side of the heat storage tank 25 in the second pipeline 21B with respect to the first valve 27. The second valve 28 is disposed between the heat storage tank 25 and the pump 26 in the second pipeline 21B, and opens or closes the flow of the heat transfer medium between the heat storage tank 25 and the first heat exchanger 23. The first valve 27 and the second valve 28 are, for example, opened or closed simultaneously with each other.

[0190] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202, a heat transfer medium is filled inside the magnetic heat pump 100, the first flow path 21, and the second flow path 22.

[0191] The magnetic heat pump 100 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 is driven in the same manner as the magnetic heat pump 100 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200. In the second flow path 22 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202, similarly to the second flow path 22 of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, the heat transfer medium cooled by the magnetic heat pump 100 exchanges heat with other heat transfer media in the second heat exchanger 24.

[0192] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202, when the first valve 27 and the second valve 28 are closed while the magnetic heat pump 100 is being driven, the heat transfer medium heated in the magnetic heat pump 100 accumulates in the heat storage tank 25. The heat transfer medium accumulated in the heat storage tank 25 is maintained at a high temperature. Therefore, the more the amount of the heat transfer medium in the heat storage tank 25 accumulates, the more heat accumulates in the heat storage tank 25.

[0193] After that, when the first valve 27 and the second valve 28 are opened while the magnetic heat pump 100 is being driven, the heat transfer medium accumulated in the heat storage tank 25 flows to the first heat exchanger 23 and exchanges heat with other heat transfer media.

[0194] At this time, the heat transfer medium flowing to the first heat exchanger 23 is at a higher temperature than the heat transfer medium flowing to the first heat exchanger 23 in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 that does not have the heat storage tank 25. Therefore, compared with the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, the temperature difference between the two heat transfer media exchanging heat in the first heat exchanger 23 in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 is larger. For example, even when the heat exchange between the two heat transfer media in the first heat exchanger 23 in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 is not sufficiently performed because the temperature of the other heat transfer medium is relatively high, the heat exchange between the two heat transfer media exchanging heat in the first heat exchanger 23 can be performed in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202. Therefore, the performance of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 is higher than that of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200.

[0195] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202, the second flow path 22 may also include a heat storage tank 25, a pump 26, a first valve 27, and a second valve 28. In this case, when the first valve 27 and the second valve 28 are closed while the magnetic heat pump 100 is being driven, the heat transfer medium cooled in the magnetic heat pump 100 accumulates in the heat storage tank 25. The heat transfer medium accumulated in the heat storage tank 25 remains at a low temperature.

[0196] After that, when the first valve 27 and the second valve 28 are opened while the magnetic heat pump 100 is being driven, the heat transfer medium accumulated in the heat storage tank 25 flows to the second heat exchanger 24 and exchanges heat with other heat transfer media.

[0197] At this time, compared with the heat transfer medium flowing to the second heat exchanger 24 in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 that does not have the heat storage tank 25, the heat transfer medium flowing to the first heat exchanger 23 is at a low temperature. Therefore, compared with the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200, the temperature difference between the two heat transfer media that exchange heat in the second heat exchanger 24 in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 is larger.

[0198] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202, at least one of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 may include the heat storage tank 25, the pump 26, the first valve 27, and the second valve 28. Both the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 may also include the heat storage tank 25, the pump 26, the first valve 27, and the second valve 28.

[0199] In addition, instead of the magnetic heat pump 100, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 202 may also include a magnetic heat pump 102.

[0200] Embodiment 5.

[0201] As Figure 12 shown, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 203 of Embodiment 5 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 in that it includes a plurality of magnetic heat pumps 100 connected in series with each other and a control unit 8 that controls the rotation of the plurality of magnetic heat pumps 100.

[0202] Regarding Figure 12 the two magnetic heat pumps 100 shown, the magnetic heat pump 100 arranged on the right side is referred to as the first magnetic heat pump 100, and the magnetic heat pump 100 arranged on the left side is referred to as the second magnetic heat pump 100.

[0203] The first flow outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 is connected in series with the first flow inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100. The second flow outlet P4 of the second magnetic heat pump 100 is connected in series with the second flow inlet P3 of the first magnetic heat pump 100.

[0204] The control unit 8 controls the rotation speeds of the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the second magnetic heat pump 100 in the above-mentioned first direction A such that the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing out from the first outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 is equal to the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100. Thereby, the total amount of the heat transfer medium in the internal spaces of the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the second magnetic heat pump 100 respectively remains constant without changing over time. When the first magnetic heat pump 100 has the same structure as the second magnetic heat pump 100, the control unit 8 synchronizes the rotation of the first magnetic heat pump 100 in the above-mentioned first direction A with the rotation of the second magnetic heat pump 100 in the above-mentioned first direction A.

[0205] When the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing out from the first outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 is different from the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100, a pressure difference will be generated between the heat transfer medium in the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the heat transfer medium in the second magnetic heat pump 100, and the heat transfer medium with a relatively higher pressure may hinder the above-mentioned rotation. If the above-mentioned rotation is hindered, the performance of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device will be reduced.

[0206] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 203, the control unit 8 is used to maintain the state where the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing out from the first outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 is equal to the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100. Therefore, in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 203, the reduction in performance associated with the above-mentioned rotation being hindered is suppressed.

[0207] Embodiment 6.

[0208] As Figure 13 shown, the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 204 of Embodiment 6 has substantially the same structure as the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 of Embodiment 1, but is different from the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 200 in that: it includes a third flow path 37 and a fourth flow path 38 that connect multiple magnetic heat pumps 100 in series with each other, and accumulation parts 39, 40 included in the third flow path 37 and the fourth flow path 38.

[0209] The Figure 13 magnetic heat pump 100 arranged on the right side among the two magnetic heat pumps 100 shown is referred to as the first magnetic heat pump 100, and the magnetic heat pump 100 arranged on the left side is referred to as the second magnetic heat pump 100.

[0210] The third flow path 37 serially connects the first flow outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the first flow inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100. The fourth flow path 38 serially connects the second flow outlet P4 of the second magnetic heat pump 100 and the second flow inlet P3 of the first magnetic heat pump 100.

[0211] The accumulation part 39 is included in the third flow path 37. The accumulation part 39 accumulates a part of the heat transfer medium flowing in the third flow path 37. The accumulation part 40 is included in the fourth flow path 38. The accumulation part 40 accumulates a part of the heat transfer medium flowing in the fourth flow path 38. The amounts of the heat transfer medium accumulated in the accumulation part 39 and the accumulation part 40 may change with time.

[0212] When at least either the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing out from the first flow outlet P2 of the first magnetic heat pump 100 or the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first flow inlet P1 of the second magnetic heat pump 100 changes with time, a pressure difference is generated between the heat transfer medium in the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the heat transfer medium in the second magnetic heat pump 100, and the heat transfer medium with a relatively higher pressure may hinder the above rotation. If the above rotation is hindered, the performance of the magnetic refrigeration cycle device decreases.

[0213] In the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 204, since the above flow rate difference is reduced by the heat transfer medium flowing out from the accumulation part 39 and the accumulation part 40 respectively, it is difficult to generate a pressure difference between the heat transfer medium in the first magnetic heat pump 100 and the heat transfer medium in the second magnetic heat pump 100. Therefore, in the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 203, a decrease in performance associated with the above rotation being hindered is suppressed.

[0214] In addition, it may be that, similarly to the magnetic refrigeration cycle device 203, the refrigeration cycle device 204 further includes a control unit 8.

[0215] <Modification Example>

[0216] In the magnetic heat pumps 100 and 101, it is sufficient to form at least one accommodation chamber 2C or accommodation chamber 12C in the impeller 2. The magnetic heat pumps 100 and 101 only need to include at least one magnetic heat member 1 or magnetic heat member 11 and at least one deformation member 3 or deformation member 13.

[0217] In the magnetic heat pump 100, the slit 1A may not be formed in the magnetic heat member 1. Similarly, in the magnetic heat pump 102, the slit 11A may not be formed in the magnetic heat member 11. The magnetic heat member 1 and the magnetic heat member 11 may also include a plurality of particles made of a magnetic heat material. In the magnetic heat member 1 and the magnetic heat member 11, a plurality of minute gaps are formed between adjacent particles, and the plurality of minute gaps are connected to each other. The plurality of minute gaps connected to each other in this way constitute a plurality of flow paths for the heat transfer medium to flow. Therefore, compared with the case where the magnetic heat member 1 and the magnetic heat member 11 do not include a plurality of particles made of a magnetic heat material, the area of the heat transfer surface in contact with the heat transfer medium in the magnetic heat member 1 and the magnetic heat member 11 becomes larger.

[0218] It should be considered that each embodiment disclosed herein is illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is not represented by the above description, but is shown by the claims, and it is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0219] Description of Reference Numerals

[0220] 1, 11 Magnetic heat members, 1A, 11A Slits, 2C, 12C Receiving chambers, 2, 12 Impellers, 2A Roots, 2B Blades, 3, 13 Deformable members, 3A Fixed parts, 3B1, 3D1, 12B Outer peripheral surfaces, 3B Moving parts, 3C First elastic parts, 3D Connecting parts, 4, 14 Frames, 4A, 14A First inner peripheral surfaces, 5, 15 Motors, 5A Shafts, 6, 16 Magnetic field generating parts, 7 Guide members, 7A1 First faces, 7A2 Second faces, 7A3 Third faces, 7A4 Fourth faces, 7A Second inner peripheral surface, 8 Control parts, 12A Central parts, 13A Inner peripheral parts, 13B Outer peripheral parts, 14A1 Ninth faces, 14A2 Tenth faces, 14A3 Eleventh faces, 14A4 Twelfth faces, 21, 31 First flow paths, 22, 32 Second flow paths, 21A First pipelines, 21B Second pipelines, 23 First heat exchangers, 24 Second heat exchangers, 25 Heat storage tanks, 26 Pumps, 27 First valves, 28 Second valves, 29, 30 Branch pipelines, 33, 34, 35, 36 Valves, 37 Third flow paths, 38 Fourth flow paths, 39, 40 Accumulation parts, 100, 101, 102 Magnetic heat pumps, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204 Magnetic refrigeration cycle devices, P1 First flow inlets, P2 First flow outlets, P3 Second flow inlets, P4 Second flow outlets.

Claims

1. A magnetic heat pump, wherein, The magnetic heat pump includes: At least one magnetic heat member, which is composed of a magnetic heat material; An impeller having a central axis and at least one receiving chamber, the at least one receiving chamber being arranged circumferentially with respect to the central axis and receiving the at least one magnetic heat member; At least one deformable member facing the at least one receiving chamber and independently changing in shape; A housing forming an internal space, a first inlet and a first outlet, the internal space receiving the at least one magnetic heat member, the impeller and the at least one deformable member and allowing a heat transfer medium to flow through, the first inlet being for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space, and the first outlet being arranged at an interval from the first inlet in the circumferential direction and for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space; A motor for integrally rotating the impeller, the at least one magnetic heat member and the at least one deformable member in a first direction in the circumferential direction from the first inlet toward the first outlet; And A magnetic field generating unit for generating a magnetic field that increases along the first direction in a first region in the internal space that reaches the first outlet from the first inlet in the first direction; The at least one receiving chamber opens toward the outside in the radial direction with respect to the central axis; The shape of the at least one deformable member independently changes along with the rotation; The volume of the at least one receiving chamber independently increases or decreases along with the change in the shape of the at least one deformable member; The volume of the at least one receiving chamber when the at least one receiving chamber is located in the first region is larger than the volume of the at least one receiving chamber when the at least one receiving chamber is located in a second region and the volume of the at least one receiving chamber when the at least one receiving chamber is located in a third region, the second region being located behind the first inlet in the first direction, and the third region being located in front of the first outlet in the first direction.

2. The magnetic heat pump according to claim 1, wherein The at least one deformable member includes a moving portion that relatively moves radially with respect to the at least one magnetic heat member inside the at least one receiving chamber; The magnetic heat pump further includes a guiding member that is fixed in relative position with respect to the housing, and the guiding member guides the moving portion that moves circumferentially along with the rotation in the radial direction; The housing has a first inner circumferential surface facing the internal space and facing the inside in the radial direction; The volume of the at least one receiving chamber is the volume of the space in the at least one receiving chamber that is located outside the moving portion in the radial direction; The radial distance between the moving portion and the first inner circumferential surface when the moving portion is located in the first region is longer than the radial distance between the moving portion and the first inner circumferential surface when the moving portion is located in the second region or the third region.

3. The magnetic heat pump according to claim 2, wherein The at least one deformation member further includes: a fixing portion that is relatively fixed with respect to the at least one magnetocaloric member; and a first elastic portion having a first end connected to the fixing portion and a second end connected to the moving portion and located on a side opposite to the first end, and elastically deforming in the radial direction, The guiding member has a second inner peripheral surface facing the inner side in the radial direction, The moving portion is pressed by the first elastic portion against the second inner peripheral surface of the guiding member, The second inner peripheral surface of the guiding member has a first portion disposed in the first region, a second portion disposed in the second region, and a third portion disposed in the third region, The radial distance between the first portion and the first inner peripheral surface is longer than the radial distances between the second portion and the first inner peripheral surface and between the third portion and the first inner peripheral surface.

4. The magnetic heat pump according to claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one slit extending along the extending direction of the central axis of the impeller and in the radial direction is formed in the at least one magnetocaloric member, The moving portion has a part inserted into the at least one slit of the at least one magnetocaloric member.

5. The magnetic heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the at least one deformation member includes: an inner peripheral portion disposed on the inner side in the radial direction; and an outer peripheral portion disposed at a position radially outside the inner peripheral portion and elastically deforming with respect to the inner peripheral portion, the at least one accommodation chamber is partitioned by the at least one deformation member, The housing has an inner peripheral surface facing the internal space and facing the inner side in the radial direction, The inner peripheral surface of the housing has a fourth portion disposed in the first region, a fifth portion disposed in the second region, and a sixth portion disposed in the third region in the first direction, The outer peripheral portion is arranged to be in contact with the fifth portion and the sixth portion respectively, The radial length of the outer peripheral portion of the at least one deformation member when it is in the first region is longer than the radial length of the outer peripheral portion of the at least one deformation member when it is in the second region or the third region.

6. The magnetic heat pump according to claim 5, wherein the radial distance between the fourth portion and the inner peripheral portion is longer than the radial distances between the fifth portion and the inner peripheral portion and between the sixth portion and the inner peripheral portion.

7. The magnetic heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 6, wherein the magnetic field generating portion is arranged to vary the intensity of the magnetic field.

8. The magnetic heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 6, wherein The housing further forms a second inlet and a second outlet. The second inlet is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow into the internal space, and the second outlet is arranged at a circumferential interval from the second inlet and is for allowing the heat transfer medium to flow out of the internal space. The second inlet is arranged at a position ahead of the first outlet in the first direction, and the second outlet is arranged at a position ahead of the second inlet in the first direction. The magnetic field generating portion generates a magnetic field that weakens along the first direction in the third region. When the at least one accommodating chamber is located in a fourth region that reaches the second outlet from the second inlet in the first direction and is arranged at a position ahead of the third region in the first direction, the volume is larger than the volume when the at least one accommodating chamber is located in the second region and the volume when the at least one accommodating chamber is located in the third region.

9. A magnetic refrigeration cycle device, wherein, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device includes: The magnetic heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 7; A first flow path and a second flow path that respectively connect between the first inlet and the first outlet and are connected side by side with respect to the first inlet and the first outlet; and A switching portion that switches between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the magnetic heat pump is connected to the first flow path and not connected to the second flow path. In the second state, the magnetic heat pump is connected to the second flow path and not connected to the first flow path.

10. A magnetic refrigeration cycle device, wherein, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device includes: The magnetic heat pump according to claim 8; A first flow path having one end connected to the first inlet and the other end connected to the first outlet, through which the heat transfer medium flows; And A second flow path having one end connected to the second inlet and the other end connected to the second outlet, through which the heat transfer medium flows.

11. According to the magnetic refrigeration cycle device of claim 10, wherein The first flow path includes a heat storage tank that stores the heat transfer medium.

12. A magnetic refrigeration cycle device, wherein, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device includes: A first magnetic heat pump; and A second magnetic heat pump, The first magnetic heat pump and the second magnetic heat pump are respectively configured as the magnetic heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The first outlet of the first magnetic heat pump is connected in series with the first inlet of the second magnetic heat pump, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device further includes a control portion that controls the rotation speed of each of the first magnetic heat pump and the second magnetic heat pump so that the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing out of the first outlet of the first magnetic heat pump is equal to the flow rate per unit time of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first inlet of the second magnetic heat pump.

13. A magnetic refrigeration cycle device, wherein, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device includes: A first magnetic heat pump; and A second magnetic heat pump, The first magnetic heat pump and the second magnetic heat pump are respectively configured as the magnetic heat pump according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The magnetic refrigeration cycle device further includes: A third flow path that serially connects the first flow outlet of the first magnetic heat pump to the first flow inlet of the second magnetic heat pump; and A storage unit that is disposed within the third flow path and stores the heat transfer medium.

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