Magnetic refrigeration device

Abstract

The magnetic refrigeration device (1) comprises a heat exchanger (7), a heat exchanger (8), a high temperature end (5), a low temperature end (6), a magnetic thermal container (11, 12) filled with a magnetic thermal material, a magnetic field applying device (21, 22) for applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal container, a pipe (51-55) capable of conveying a heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the magnetic thermal container, a pump (9) capable of conveying the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the pipe, a valve (31-33) for switching the pipe between an open state and a closed state, and a control device (100) for switching the conveying path of the heat transfer medium by controlling the valve. The control device (100) switches the conveying path between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the magnetic thermal container is connected in series between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to convey the heat transfer medium. In the second mode, the magnetic thermal container is connected in parallel between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to convey the heat transfer medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic refrigeration device. Background Art

[0002] In the past, as a refrigeration technology that takes the environment into consideration, a magnetic refrigeration device of the active magnetic regeneration (AMR) method is known. The magnetic refrigeration device of the AMR method has a heat pump system that utilizes the magnetocaloric effect of a magnetocaloric material. Specifically, the magnetic refrigeration device applies a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric container, causing the magnetocaloric material filled in the magnetocaloric container to generate heat or absorb heat, and pumps a heat transfer medium that contacts the magnetocaloric material, thereby generating a temperature difference between the high-temperature end and the low-temperature end. The magnetic refrigeration device functions as a heat pump system that transfers heat from the low-temperature end to the high-temperature end by transferring a heat transfer medium between the high-temperature end and the low-temperature end while changing the size of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material.

[0003] Regarding the magnetic refrigeration device as described above, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-522532 (Patent Document 1) discloses a magnetic cooling system in which a plurality of pipes are connected to an AMR bed serving as a magnetic heat container, and the flow path of a heat transfer medium flowing in the AMR bed is switched by controlling valves respectively arranged on the plurality of pipes.

[0004] Prior Art Literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-522532 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] The temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end as the heat pump performance of the magnetic refrigeration device and the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end to the high temperature end can depend on the shape of the magnetic thermal container. Qualitatively speaking, the temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end is proportional to the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container. In other words, the temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end is proportional to the size (length) of the magnetic thermal container in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. In addition, the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end to the high temperature end is proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container when the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container. In other words, the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end to the high temperature end is proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows.

[0009] Therefore, it is necessary to determine the shape of the magnetic thermal container according to the environment in which the magnetic refrigeration device is installed. However, in an actual environment, the target temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end, and the target heat transfer amount from the low temperature end to the high temperature end may change according to the external temperature, the user's settings, and the transient state of the magnetic refrigeration device. On the other hand, as in the magnetic cooling system disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the shape of the magnetic thermal container is predetermined, when the shape of the magnetic thermal container is not optimal according to the environment, the target temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end, and the target heat transfer amount from the low temperature end to the high temperature end cannot be achieved, which may cause problems such as poor power efficiency.

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic refrigeration device capable of improving power efficiency according to the environment.

[0011] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0012] The magnetic refrigeration device involved in the present disclosure comprises: a high temperature side heat exchanger; a low temperature side heat exchanger; a high temperature end, supplying heat of the high temperature side to the high temperature side heat exchanger; a low temperature end, supplying heat of the low temperature side to the low temperature side heat exchanger; a plurality of magnetic thermal containers, filled with magnetic thermal materials; a plurality of magnetic field applying devices, applying magnetic fields to the plurality of magnetic thermal containers respectively; at least one pipe, capable of transporting a heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the plurality of magnetic thermal containers; a pump, transporting the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the at least one pipe; at least one valve, switching the at least one pipe between an open state and a closed state; and a control device, controlling the at least one valve to switch the transport path of the heat transfer medium. The control device switches the transport path between a first mode and a second mode, in which the plurality of magnetic thermal containers can be connected in series between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to transport the heat transfer medium, and in which the plurality of magnetic thermal containers can be connected in parallel between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to transport the heat transfer medium.

[0013] Effects of the Invention

[0014] According to the present disclosure, the magnetic refrigeration device can change the cross-sectional area and length of the transport path of the heat transport medium flowing through multiple magnetic thermal containers by switching the transport path between the first mode and the second mode. Therefore, the power efficiency can be improved according to the environment. In the first mode, multiple magnetic thermal containers can be connected in series between the high-temperature end and the low-temperature end to transport the heat transport medium. In the second mode, multiple magnetic thermal containers can be connected in parallel between the high-temperature end and the low-temperature end to transport the heat transport medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the structure of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram for explaining a transport path of a heat transport medium in the first mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the second mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the third mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end in each mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to Embodiment 1 with respect to the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end to the high temperature end.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining mode switching in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the magnetic thermal container when the mode is switched in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to Embodiment 2.

[0023] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining a transport path of a heat transport medium in the first mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Fig.10 This is a diagram for explaining a transport path of a heat transport medium in the second mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining a transport path of a heat transport medium in the third mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0026] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing the temperature difference between the high temperature end and the low temperature end in each mode of the magnetic refrigeration device according to Embodiment 2 with respect to the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end to the high temperature end.

[0027] Fig.13 This is a diagram for explaining the stopping of the operation of the magnetic field applying device which is not used in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.14 This is a diagram for explaining the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Fig.15 This is a diagram showing the temperature characteristics of the magnetocaloric material of the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Fig.16 This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the magnetic thermal container when the transfer path of the heat transfer medium is switched in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Fig.17 This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the magnetic thermal container when the transfer path of the heat transfer medium is switched in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Fig.18 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to a third embodiment.

[0033] Fig.19 This is a diagram for explaining a magnetic thermal container to which a magnetic field is applied when a target magnetic thermal container is determined in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the third embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 20 This is a flowchart regarding a process for determining a target magnetic thermal container in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the third embodiment.

[0035] Fig.21 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 22 This is a diagram for explaining switching of the transport path of the heat transport medium in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0037] Fig.23 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0038] Fig.24 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to a sixth embodiment.

[0039] Fig.25 This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the thermal insulation material in the magnetic refrigeration device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0040] Fig.26 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to a seventh embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 27 It is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device according to the eighth embodiment.

[0042] Fig.28 This is a diagram for explaining switching of the heat transfer medium transfer path when the magnetic refrigeration device according to the eighth embodiment is controlled in the forward mode.

[0043] Fig.29This is a diagram for explaining switching of the heat transfer medium transfer path when the magnetic refrigeration device according to the eighth embodiment is controlled in the reverse mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments will be described, but it is intended from the beginning of the application that the structures described in each embodiment will be appropriately combined. In addition, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are marked with the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0045] Implementation Method 1

[0046] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 7 The magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 includes a magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 and a control device 100 .

[0047] The magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 includes a high temperature end 5, a low temperature end 6, a high temperature side heat exchanger 7, a low temperature side heat exchanger 8, a pump 9, magnetic heat containers 11, 12, magnetic field application devices 21, 22, piping 51-55, 60 and valves 31-33.

[0048] A high temperature side heat exchanger 7 is connected to the high temperature end 5, and heat of the high temperature side is supplied to the high temperature side heat exchanger 7. The high temperature side heat exchanger 7 performs heat exchange between the high temperature end 5 and an external medium located on the side of the high temperature end 5. The temperature of the external medium that performs heat exchange with the high temperature end 5 via the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 is lower than the temperature of the high temperature end 5. The high temperature side heat exchanger 7 can heat the external medium by performing heat exchange between the high temperature end 5 and the external medium.

[0049] A low temperature side heat exchanger 8 is connected to the low temperature end 6, and heat of the low temperature side is supplied to the low temperature side heat exchanger 8. The low temperature side heat exchanger 8 performs heat exchange between the low temperature end 6 and an external medium located on the side of the low temperature end 6. The temperature of the external medium that performs heat exchange with the low temperature end 6 via the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 is higher than the temperature of the low temperature end 6. The low temperature side heat exchanger 8 can cool the external medium by performing heat exchange between the low temperature end 6 and the external medium.

[0050] The pump 9 is a reciprocating pump that is arranged on the pipe 60 connecting the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 and the low temperature side heat exchanger 8, and reciprocates the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 via the pipes 51 to 55. The heat transfer medium is a liquid or a gas, for example, including water or an ethanol solution. From the perspective of the use environment of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 or preventing the deterioration of the magnetocaloric material, the heat transfer medium may also contain a metal rust inhibitor, an antifreeze solution, oil, ammonia, hydrogen or mercury.

[0051] In the magnetic refrigeration device 1, the pump 9 is connected to the high temperature end 5 via the high temperature side heat exchanger 7, and is connected to the low temperature end 6 via the low temperature side heat exchanger 8. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can generate flow in the heat transfer medium respectively existing in the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 and the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 through the pump 9, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency in the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 and the low temperature side heat exchanger 8. In addition, the pump 9 can also be connected to the high temperature end 5 without passing through the high temperature side heat exchanger 7, and connected to the low temperature end 6 without passing through the low temperature side heat exchanger 8.

[0052] In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is not limited to having one pump 9, and may also have multiple pumps 9. For example, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may also realize reciprocating transport of the heat transport medium by providing a reciprocating pump only at one of the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, and providing an elastic body such as a syringe that expands and contracts according to the pressure of the heat transport medium based on the pump at the other end. Alternatively, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may also realize reciprocating transport of the heat transport medium by providing multiple reciprocating pumps at the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, respectively, and synchronizing the actions of the multiple reciprocating pumps.

[0053] The magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 are filled with a magnetic thermal material. The magnetic thermal material has a magnetic thermal effect, generates heat when the applied magnetic field increases, and absorbs heat when the applied magnetic field decreases. The magnetic thermal material includes materials having a magnetic thermal effect, such as gadolinium, lanthanum alloys, or manganese alloys.

[0054] The magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 are respectively provided at the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12. The magnetic field applying device 21 applies a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal container 11 to apply a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 11. The magnetic field applying device 22 applies a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal container 12 to apply a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 12.

[0055] The magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 execute or stop applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12, and change the magnitude of the applied magnetic field, according to the control of the control device 100. For example, the magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 operate a motor to move the permanent magnet according to the control of the control device 100, thereby changing the magnitude of the applied magnetic field. Alternatively, the magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 change the magnetic force of the electromagnet according to the control of the control device 100, thereby changing the magnitude of the applied magnetic field. The magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 may have any structure as long as they can uniformly apply a change in the magnetic field to the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12.

[0056] The pipes 51 to 55 are arranged so as to be able to transport the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 via the magnetic thermal tanks 11 and 12. The pipe 51 connects the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal tank 11. The pipe 52 connects the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal tank 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal tank 12. The pipe 53 connects the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal tank 12 and the low temperature end 6. The pipe 54 branches from the pipe 52 and is connected to the low temperature end 6. That is, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal tank 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal tank 12 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the pipe 52 and the pipe 54. The pipe 55 branches from the pipe 52 and is connected to the high temperature end 5. That is, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal tank 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal tank 12 are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the pipe 52 and the pipe 55.

[0057] The valve 31 is provided on the piping 52, and the piping 52 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. When the valve 31 is controlled to be in an open state and the piping 52 is in an open state, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. The valve 32 is provided on the piping 54, and the piping 54 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 33 is provided on the piping 55, and the piping 55 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. When the valve 32 is controlled to be in an open state and the piping 54 is in an open state, and when the valve 33 is controlled to be in an open state and the piping 55 is in an open state, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. In addition, appropriate valves need to be selected as the valves 31 to 33 so that the flow path of the heat transfer medium can be opened and closed according to the type and state of the heat transfer medium and the transfer pressure of the heat transfer medium by the pump 9 .

[0058] Thus, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, and the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected via the valve 31. In addition, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the valve 32, and on the other hand, are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the valve 33.

[0059] The magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 and the pipes 51 to 55 are filled with a heat transfer medium so as to be transportable by the pump 9 .

[0060] The control device 100 includes a processor 101 and a memory 102. The processor 101 is a computing entity (computer) that executes various processes by executing various programs. The processor 101 is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). In addition, the processor 101 may also be composed of a computing circuit (processing circuit) such as an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). The memory 102 is composed of a volatile memory such as a DRAM (dynamic random access memory) or an SRAM (static random access memory) that temporarily stores program codes or working memory when the processor 101 executes various programs. In addition, the memory 102 may also be composed of a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a flash memory that stores various data required for the processor 101 to execute various programs. Furthermore, the control device 100 may include a storage device such as an SSD (solid state drive) or an HDD (hard disk drive).

[0061] In the magnetic refrigeration device 1 constructed as described above, the magnetic refrigeration action is performed as follows. First, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 increases the magnetic field applied to the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 by the magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22. When the applied magnetic field is large, the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 generates heat, and the heat of the magnetic thermal material is transferred to the heat transfer medium filled into the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 together with the magnetic thermal material, thereby the heat transfer medium becomes high temperature. Moreover, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 uses a pump 9 to transport the heat transfer medium from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5. As a result, the high-temperature heat transfer medium that absorbs heat from the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 is transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5. Then, a relatively low temperature heat transfer medium is refilled into the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 from the low temperature end 6 side.

[0062] Next, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 reduces the magnetic field applied to the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 by the magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22. When the applied magnetic field is small, the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 absorbs heat and takes away heat from the heat transfer medium filled in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 together with the magnetic thermal material, thereby the heat transfer medium becomes low temperature. Moreover, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 uses a pump 9 to transport the heat transfer medium from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6. As a result, the low temperature heat transfer medium that has been taken away by the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 is transported from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6. Then, a relatively low temperature heat transfer medium is refilled into the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 from the low temperature end 6 side. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 transports heat from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 by repeating the above-mentioned actions, thereby generating a temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0063] The temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 as the heat pump performance of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 and the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 can be determined by the shapes of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12. Since the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 are filled with the magnetic thermal material without any gap, pressure loss occurs when the heat transport medium is transported by the pump 9.

[0064] The pressure loss is proportional to the size of the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12. Therefore, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is proportional to the size (length) of the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. Specifically, the longer the size of the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows, the greater the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0065] In addition, the pressure loss is inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12 in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transfer medium flows. Therefore, the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transfer medium flows. Specifically, the larger the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transfer medium flows, the larger the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5.

[0066] Therefore, it is necessary to determine the shape of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 according to the environment in which the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is installed. However, in an actual environment, the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 and the target heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 may change according to the external temperature, the user's settings, and the transient state of the magnetic refrigeration device 1. On the other hand, since the shapes of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 are predetermined, if the shapes of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 are not optimal according to the environment, the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 and the target heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 cannot be achieved, which may cause problems such as poor power efficiency.

[0067] Therefore, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of Embodiment 1, the control device 100 is configured to switch the transport path of the heat transport medium between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Hereinafter, switching of the transport path by the control device 100 will be described in detail.

[0068] Figure 2 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the first mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the first mode, controls the valve 31 to be in an open state, and controls the valves 32 and 33 to be in a closed state. Thus, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected only in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0069] In the first mode of forming such a transport path, a transport path is formed in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the pipe 53 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, the heat transport medium flows through both the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the size of the magnetic thermal container 12 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​each of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12.

[0070] Figure 3 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the second mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the second mode, controls the valves 32 and 33 to be in the open state, and controls the valve 31 to be in the closed state. Thus, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected only in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0071] In the second mode of forming such a transport path, two transport paths are formed, namely, a transport path in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, and the pipe 54 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, and a transport path in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 55, the pipe 52, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the pipe 53 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the heat transport medium does not flow through both the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12, but flows independently through each of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the same as the size of each of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the sum of the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 11 and the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 12 in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows.

[0072] Figure 4 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the third mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the third mode, controls the valve 32 to be in an open state, and controls the valves 31 and 33 to be in a closed state. Thus, only the magnetic thermal container 11 is connected between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0073] In the third mode of forming such a transport path, a transport path is formed in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, and the pipe 54 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, the heat transport medium flows only through the magnetic thermal container 11 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the same as the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 11.

[0074] The second mode in which the two magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12 are connected in parallel and the third mode in which only one magnetic thermal capacitor 11 is connected between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 reduce the pressure loss when the heat transfer medium is transported, compared with the first mode in which the two magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, in the second mode or the third mode, the power required to operate the pump 9 can be reduced compared with the first mode, and the power efficiency of the entire system including the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can be improved.

[0075] Figure 5This is a diagram showing the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in each mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment with respect to the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 .

[0076] In the first mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the size of the magnetic thermal container 12. In contrast, in the second mode or the third mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the same as the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 or the magnetic thermal container 12. That is, in the first mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is longer than the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the second mode or the third mode. Therefore, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode is greater than the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode or the third mode.

[0077] In addition, when the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 is the same as the size of the magnetic thermal container 12, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the second mode is the same as the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the third mode. Therefore, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode is the same as the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the third mode.

[0078] For example, Figure 5 As shown, when the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode and the third mode is T1 [K], the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode is T2 [K] which is greater than T1 [K].

[0079] In the second mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the sum of the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 11 and the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 12, whereas in the first mode or the third mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 11 or the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 12. That is, in the second mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is larger than that in the first mode or the third mode. Therefore, the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the second mode is larger than the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode or the third mode.

[0080] In addition, when the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor 11 is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor 12, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the first mode is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the third mode. Therefore, the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode is the same as the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the third mode.

[0081] For example, Figure 5 As shown, when the heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode and the third mode is Q1 [W] respectively, the heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the second mode is Q2 [W] which is greater than Q1 [W].

[0082] Therefore, when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is large, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the first mode, and when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is small, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the second mode or the third mode. When the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is large, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the second mode, and when the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is small, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the first mode or the third mode. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can perform the best magnetic refrigeration action according to the environment.

[0083] As variables related to the magnetic refrigeration action for adjusting the performance of the magnetic refrigeration device 1, there are, for example, the magnitude of the magnetic field applied by the magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22, the delivery amount of the heat transfer medium by the pump 9, and the cycle of the magnetic refrigeration action. By adjusting these variables, even in the first mode, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 can be achieved as in the second mode and the third mode. However, even if the above variables are adjusted, it is impossible to achieve the same heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 as in the first mode through the second mode and the third mode. In addition, regardless of any of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode, in the case of an environment in which the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 and the target heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 can be achieved, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can reduce the power used to operate the pump 9 by controlling the delivery path to the second mode or the third mode, and can improve the power efficiency in the entire system including the magnetic refrigeration device 1.

[0084] In the third mode, the heat transfer amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is the same as that in the first mode, and the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is the same as that in the second mode. In addition, in the third mode, since the power for operating the pump 9 is half of that in the second mode, the power for operating the pump 9 is smaller than that in the second mode. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can further improve the power efficiency in the entire system including the magnetic refrigeration device 1 by controlling the transfer path to the third mode.

[0085] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining mode switching in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 when the mode is switched in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to the second mode and performs the magnetic refrigeration operation for a certain period of time. Figure 7 As shown, temperature differences are generated independently in the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12. Specifically, in the magnetic thermal container 11 on the high temperature end 5 side, when the temperature of the center of the magnetic thermal container 11 is set to the center temperature A0 of the temperature distribution, the temperature A1 of the high temperature side port 11A is higher than the center temperature A0, and the temperature A2 of the low temperature side port 11B is lower than the center temperature A0. In the magnetic thermal container 12 on the low temperature end 6 side, when the temperature of the center of the magnetic thermal container 12 is set to the center temperature B0 of the temperature distribution, the temperature B1 of the high temperature side port 12A is higher than the center temperature B0, and the temperature B2 of the low temperature side port 12B is lower than the center temperature B0.

[0087] Then, if Figure 6 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to the first mode and performs the magnetic refrigeration operation for a certain period of time. Figure 7 As shown, heat conduction occurs between the heat transfer medium at the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 on the high temperature end 5 side and the heat transfer medium at the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 on the low temperature end 6 side, and the heat transfer medium at the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 is slightly heated, and the heat transfer medium at the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 is slightly cooled. Here, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may also perform the operation of the pump 9 or the magnetic refrigeration operation in the first mode for heat conduction, but this is not necessary.

[0088] Then, if Figure 6 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to the second mode again and performs the magnetic refrigeration operation for a certain period of time. Figure 7 As shown, a temperature difference is again generated independently in the magnetic thermal capacitor 11 and the magnetic thermal capacitor 12 .

[0089] At this time, in the magnetic thermal container 11 on the high temperature end 5 side, the heat transfer medium at the low temperature side port 11B is slightly heated by heat conduction, so the temperature distribution moves to the high temperature side compared to the initial second mode. Specifically, in the magnetic thermal container 11, when the temperature of the center of the magnetic thermal container 11 is set to the center temperature A10 of the temperature distribution, the temperature A11 of the high temperature side port 11A is higher than the center temperature A10, and the temperature A12 of the low temperature side port 11B is lower than the center temperature A10. Moreover, the center temperature A10 of the magnetic thermal container 11 is higher than the center temperature A0 in the initial second mode. The temperature A11 of the high temperature side port 11A is higher than the temperature A1 of the high temperature side port 11A in the initial second mode. The temperature A12 of the low temperature side port 11B is higher than the temperature A2 of the low temperature side port 11B in the initial second mode.

[0090] In addition, in the magnetic thermal container 12 on the low temperature end 6 side, the heat transfer medium at the high temperature side port 12A is slightly cooled by heat conduction, so the temperature distribution moves to the low temperature side compared to the initial second mode. Specifically, in the magnetic thermal container 12, when the temperature of the center of the magnetic thermal container 12 is set to the center temperature B10 of the temperature distribution, the temperature B11 of the high temperature side port 12A is higher than the center temperature B10, and the temperature B12 of the low temperature side port 12B is lower than the center temperature B10. Moreover, the center temperature B10 of the magnetic thermal container 12 is lower than the center temperature B0 in the initial second mode. The temperature B11 of the high temperature side port 12A is lower than the temperature B1 of the high temperature side port 12A in the initial second mode. The temperature B12 of the low temperature side port 12B is lower than the temperature B2 of the low temperature side port 12B in the initial second mode.

[0091] Here, in the second mode for the second time, the temperature A12 of the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 is higher than the temperature B12 of the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12, that is, the temperature of the low temperature end 6. Therefore, in the second mode, the control device 100 controls the magnetic refrigeration operation using the pump 9 so that the one-way path when the heat transfer medium is reciprocated between the low temperature end 6 and the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 is shorter than the path between the low temperature end 6 and the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 (the path formed by a part of the pipe 52 and the pipe 54).

[0092] More specifically, the control device 100 performs magnetic refrigeration in such a manner that the reciprocating transport of the heat transport medium through the magnetic thermal container 11 is synchronized with the reciprocating transport of the heat transport medium through the magnetic thermal container 12. When the path between the low temperature end 6 and the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 (the path formed by a part of the piping 52 and the piping 54) is shorter than the path between the low temperature end 6 and the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12 (the path formed by the piping 53), the control device 100 only needs to perform magnetic refrigeration so that the heat transport medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 12 reaches the low temperature end 6, while the heat transport medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 11 does not reach the low temperature end 6.

[0093] Therefore, even when the heat transfer medium is transported back and forth between the high-temperature end 5 and the low-temperature end 6 via the magnetic thermal container 11 by magnetic refrigeration action, it is possible to avoid the temperature A12 of the low-temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 increasing by the temperature B12 of the low-temperature end 6 due to the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 11 reaching the low-temperature end 6, thereby reducing heat loss.

[0094] In addition, in the second mode for the second time, the temperature B11 of the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 is lower than the temperature A11 of the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11, that is, the temperature of the high temperature end 5. Therefore, in the second mode, the control device 100 controls the magnetic refrigeration operation using the pump 9 so that the one-way path when the heat transfer medium is reciprocated between the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 is shorter than the path between the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 (the path formed by a part of the pipe 52 and the pipe 55).

[0095] More specifically, when the path between the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 (the path formed by a portion of the piping 52 and the piping 55) is shorter than the path between the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11 (the path formed by the piping 51), the control device 100 only needs to perform magnetic refrigeration so that the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 11 reaches the high temperature end 5, and on the other hand, the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 12 does not reach the high temperature end 5.

[0096] Therefore, even when the heat transfer medium is transported back and forth between the high-temperature end 5 and the low-temperature end 6 via the magnetic thermal container 12 by magnetic refrigeration action, it is possible to avoid the temperature B11 of the high-temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 lowering the temperature A11 of the high-temperature end 5 due to the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 12 reaching the high-temperature end 5, thereby reducing heat loss.

[0097] In this way, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can further increase the temperature A11 of the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11, that is, the temperature of the high temperature end 5, and can further reduce the temperature B12 of the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12, that is, the temperature of the low temperature end 6, by switching the transport path in the order of the second mode, the first mode, and the second mode by the control device 100. Moreover, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can realize the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode by the pump power of the second mode. On the other hand, regarding the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5, since only the magnetic thermal container 11 participates in the heat transport on the high temperature end 5 side and only the magnetic thermal container 12 participates in the heat transport on the low temperature end 6 side, even in the second mode, the heat transport amount can be the same as that in the first mode. Therefore, since it is not necessary to perform the magnetic refrigeration action in a state where the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 are connected in series, the pump 9 can be labor-saving and miniaturized.

[0098] Implementation Method 2

[0099] Reference Figure 8 to Figure 17 A magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 2 that are different from the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0100] Figure 8 2 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 8 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 further includes a magnetic heat container 13 , a magnetic field applying device 23 , pipes 56 to 59 , and valves 34 to 36 in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 .

[0101] The magnetic thermal container 13 is filled with a magnetic thermal material similarly to the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12. The magnetic field applying device 23 is provided in the magnetic thermal container 13. The magnetic field applying device 23 applies a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 13 by applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal container 13. The magnetic field applying device 23 executes or stops applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal container 13 and changes the magnitude of the applied magnetic field according to the control of the control device 100.

[0102] The pipes 56 to 59 are arranged together with the pipes 51 to 55 so as to be able to transport the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 via the magnetic thermal tanks 11, 12, and 13. The pipe 56 connects the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal tank 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal tank 13. The pipe 57 connects the low temperature side port 13B of the magnetic thermal tank 13 and the low temperature end 6. The pipe 58 branches from the pipe 56 and is connected to the low temperature end 6. That is, the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal tank 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal tank 13 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the pipe 56 and the pipe 58. The pipe 59 branches from the pipe 56 and is connected to the high temperature end 5. That is, the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal tank 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal tank 13 are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the pipe 56 and the pipe 59.

[0103] The valve 34 is provided on the pipe 56, and the pipe 56 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 35 is provided on the pipe 58, and the pipe 58 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 36 is provided on the pipe 59, and the pipe 59 is switched between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. When the valve 31 is controlled to be in an open state and the pipe 52 is in an open state, and the valve 34 is controlled to be in an open state and the pipe 56 is in an open state, the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. When valve 32 is controlled to be in an open state and piping 54 is in an open state, valve 33 is controlled to be in an open state and piping 55 is in an open state, valve 35 is controlled to be in an open state and piping 58 is in an open state, and valve 36 is controlled to be in an open state and piping 59 is in an open state, the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0104] In this way, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1, the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected via the valve 31, and the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected via the valve 34. In addition, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the valve 32, and are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the valve 33. The low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the valve 35, and are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the valve 36.

[0105] In the magnetic refrigeration device 1 constructed as described above, the magnetic refrigeration action is performed as follows. First, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 increases the magnetic field applied to the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 by the magnetic field applying devices 21, 22, 23. When the applied magnetic field is large, the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 generates heat, and the heat of the magnetic thermal material is transferred to the heat transfer medium filled in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 together with the magnetic thermal material, thereby the heat transfer medium becomes high temperature. In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 uses a pump 9 to transport the heat transfer medium from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5. As a result, the high-temperature heat transfer medium that has absorbed heat from the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 is transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5. Then, the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 are refilled with a relatively low temperature heat transfer medium from the low temperature end 6 side.

[0106] Next, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 reduces the magnetic field applied to the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 by the magnetic field applying devices 21, 22, 23. When the applied magnetic field is small, the magnetic thermal materials in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 absorb heat and take away heat from the heat transfer medium filled in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 together with the magnetic thermal materials, thereby the heat transfer medium becomes low temperature. Moreover, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 uses the pump 9 to transport the heat transfer medium from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6. As a result, the low temperature heat transfer medium that has been taken away by the magnetic thermal materials in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 is transported from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6. Then, the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 are refilled with a relatively low temperature heat transfer medium from the low temperature end 6 side. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 transports heat from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 by repeating the above-mentioned actions, thereby generating a temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6.

[0107] In the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the second embodiment, as in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the first embodiment, the control device 100 is configured to switch the transport path of the heat transport medium between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. The switching of the transport path by the control device 100 will be described in detail below.

[0108] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the first mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 9 As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the first mode, controls the valves 31 and 34 to be in the open state, and controls the valves 32, 33, 35, and 36 to be in the closed state. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected only in series.

[0109] In the first mode of forming such a transport path, a transport path is formed in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, the magnetic thermal container 12, the pipe 56, the magnetic thermal container 13, and the pipe 57 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, the heat transport medium flows through the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11, the size of the magnetic thermal container 12, and the size of the magnetic thermal container 13 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​each of the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13.

[0110] Fig.10 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the second mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig.10 As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the second mode, controls the valves 32, 33, 35, and 36 to be in the open state, and controls the valves 31 and 34 to be in the closed state. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected only in parallel.

[0111] In the third mode of configuring such a transport path, three transport paths are configured: a transport path in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, and the pipe 54 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6; a transport path in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 55, the pipe 52, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the pipe 53 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6; and a transport path in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 59, the pipe 56, the magnetic thermal container 13, and the pipe 57 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the heat transport medium does not flow through all of the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13, but flows through each of the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 independently. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the same as the size of each of the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the heat transfer medium is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, and the magnetic thermal container 13 in the direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the heat transfer medium.

[0112] Fig.11 1 is a diagram for explaining the transport path of the heat transport medium in the third mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig.11As shown, the control device 100 controls the conveying path to the third mode, controls the valve 31 and the valve 35 to be in the open state, and controls the valve 32, the valve 33, the valve 34, and the valve 36 to be in the closed state. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, only the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected in series.

[0113] In the third mode of forming such a transport path, a transport path is formed in which the heat transport medium flows through the pipe 51, the magnetic thermal container 11, the pipe 52, the magnetic thermal container 12, the pipe 56, and the pipe 58 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Thus, the heat transport medium flows only through the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the size of the magnetic thermal container 12 in the direction parallel to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​each of the magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12.

[0114] The second mode in which the three magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, 13 are connected in parallel and the third mode in which only two magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, compared with the first mode in which the three magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, 13 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, the pressure loss when the heat transfer medium is transported becomes smaller. Therefore, in the second mode or the third mode, compared with the first mode, the power used to operate the pump 9 can be reduced, and the power efficiency of the entire system including the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can be improved.

[0115] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in each mode of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the second embodiment with respect to the amount of heat transported from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 .

[0116] In the first mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11, the size of the magnetic thermal container 12, and the size of the magnetic thermal container 13. In contrast, in the second mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the same as the size of the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12, or the magnetic thermal container 13. In the third mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is the sum of the size of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the size of the magnetic thermal container 12. That is, in the first mode, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container is longer than the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the second mode or the third mode. Therefore, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode is greater than the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode or the third mode.

[0117] In addition, the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the third mode is longer than the distance that the heat transport medium flows in the magnetic thermal container in the second mode. Therefore, the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the third mode is greater than the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode.

[0118] For example, Fig.12 As shown, when the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the second mode is T11 [K], the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the third mode is T12 [K] which is greater than T11 [K], and the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode is T13 [K] which is greater than T11 [K] and T12 [K]. When the characteristics of the magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, and 13 are uniform, the temperature difference T11 in the second mode is 1 / 3 of the temperature difference T13 in the first mode, and the temperature difference T12 in the third mode is 2 / 3 of the temperature difference T13 in the first mode.

[0119] In the second mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the magnetic thermal container 11, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 12, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 13. In contrast, in the first mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container 11. In the third mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the cross-sectional areas of the magnetic thermal container 12. That is, in the second mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal container in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the first mode or the third mode. Therefore, the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the second mode is larger than the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode or the third mode.

[0120] In addition, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the third mode is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic thermal capacitor in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transport medium flows in the first mode. Therefore, the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the third mode is larger than the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode.

[0121] For example, Fig.12As shown, when the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the first mode is Q11 [W], the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the third mode becomes Q12 [W] which is greater than Q11 [W], and the heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 in the second mode becomes Q13 [W] which is greater than Q12 [W]. When the characteristics of the magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, and 13 are uniform, the heat transport amount Q13 in the second mode is 1 / 3 of the heat transport amount Q11 in the first mode, and the heat transport amount Q12 in the third mode is 2 / 3 of the heat transport amount Q11 in the first mode.

[0122] Therefore, when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is large, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the first mode, and when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is small, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the second mode or the third mode. When the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is large, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the second mode, and when the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is small, the control device 100 controls the transport path to the first mode or the third mode. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can perform the best magnetic refrigeration action according to the environment.

[0123] In addition, in the third mode, it is not limited to the case where the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 are selected to be connected in series. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 can connect any multiple adjacent magnetic thermal containers in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. For example, a valve can be added to the piping 51 between the high temperature end 5 and the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11. In this case, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can also select the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 and connect them in series. In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can also constitute a third mode of connecting any multiple adjacent magnetic thermal containers in series and a second mode of connecting multiple magnetic thermal containers in parallel on the same system. For example, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can also select the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 and connect them in series. On the other hand, the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 connected in series are connected in series with the magnetic thermal container 13.

[0124] Fig.13This is a diagram for explaining the stopping of the operation of the unused magnetic field applying device in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the second embodiment. The magnetic thermal container separated from the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 does not perform magnetic refrigeration operation because the heat transfer medium does not flow through the pump 9. Therefore, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may also stop the operation of the unused magnetic field applying device to prevent power loss due to the magnetic field applying device applying the magnetic field. For example, in the case of the third mode, since the heat transfer medium does not flow in the magnetic thermal container 13, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may also stop the operation of the magnetic field applying device 23 to prevent power loss due to the magnetic field applying device 23 provided in the magnetic thermal container 13 applying the magnetic field. In addition, in Figure 4 In the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the embodiment 1 shown, the operation of the magnetic field applying device 22 can also be stopped to prevent power loss due to the application of the magnetic field by the magnetic field applying device 22 provided in the magnetic thermal container 12 in the third mode. In this way, by stopping the application and demagnetization of the magnetic field by the unused magnetic field applying device, power loss can be reduced.

[0125] As a method of stopping the application and demagnetization of the magnetic field of the magnetic field applying device, when the magnetic field applying device uses an electromagnet, it can be achieved by stopping the power supply of the electromagnet. When the magnetic field applying device uses a magnet, the change of the magnetic field is generally accompanied by the movement of the magnet or the yoke. By switching the movement of the magnet or the yoke using a gear or the like, the application and demagnetization of the magnetic field of the magnetic field applying device can also be stopped. In particular, when the magnetic field applying device is set in a manner of sandwiching a magnetic thermal container, if the moving position of the magnet or the yoke is switched in a manner of extending the length in the direction of sandwiching the magnetic thermal container, the change of the magnetic field can be reduced, and even when the application and demagnetization of the magnetic field are not completely stopped, the power loss can be sufficiently reduced.

[0126] Fig.14 1 is a diagram for explaining the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the second embodiment. Fig.14 As shown, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1, magnetic thermal materials are filled in sequence from the high temperature end 5 side to the low temperature end 6 side of multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 connected in series, so that the temperature characteristics inside each of the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 change from high temperature to low temperature.

[0127] For example, Fig.14As shown, the magnetic thermal material a, the magnetic thermal material b, and the magnetic thermal material c are sequentially filled from the high temperature side port 11A to the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11. The magnetic thermal material d, the magnetic thermal material e, and the magnetic thermal material f are sequentially filled from the high temperature side port 12A to the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12. The magnetic thermal material g, the magnetic thermal material h, and the magnetic thermal material i are sequentially filled from the high temperature side port 13A to the low temperature side port 13B of the magnetic thermal container 13. In addition, the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 may be filled with one type of magnetic thermal material respectively. For example, the magnetic thermal container 11 may be filled with the magnetic thermal material a, the magnetic thermal container 12 may be filled with the magnetic thermal material b, and the magnetic thermal container 13 may be filled with the magnetic thermal material c.

[0128] Fig.15 is a diagram showing the temperature characteristics of the magnetocaloric material of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig.15 In the temperature characteristics shown, the larger the value of the vertical axis, the greater the performance of the magnetocaloric material. Generally speaking, the temperature at which the performance of the magnetocaloric material is the highest and the operating temperature range of the expected performance are fixed. The combination of multiple magnetocaloric materials filled in the magnetocaloric container is preferably combined in a manner that the temperature characteristics of each magnetocaloric material overlap. This is because, since the temperature distribution in the magnetocaloric container is continuous, if the temperature characteristics of the multiple magnetocaloric materials filled in the magnetocaloric container do not overlap, an area where the magnetocaloric material does not function is generated in the magnetocaloric container, and the performance of the magnetic refrigeration action deteriorates.

[0129] Depending on the type of magnetocaloric material, the peak value and the operating temperature range of the performance in the temperature characteristics are different. For example, the peak value of the performance of the magnetocaloric material of lanthanum iron silicon is high, but the operating temperature range is narrow. The peak value of the performance of the magnetocaloric material of gadolinium metal is low, but the operating temperature range is wide. The magnetocaloric material can also combine multiple magnetocaloric materials of these different types. For example, in a magnetocaloric container corresponding to a temperature range with a high frequency of use, a magnetocaloric material with a high peak value and a narrow operating temperature range can also be used, and in a magnetocaloric container corresponding to a temperature range with a low frequency of use, a magnetocaloric material with a low peak value and a wide operating temperature range can also be used. Thus, for a magnetocaloric container corresponding to a temperature range with a high frequency of use, it is possible to fill it with multiple magnetocaloric materials with a high peak value even if the operating temperature range is narrow to make it high-performance, and for a magnetocaloric container corresponding to a temperature range with a low frequency of use, it is possible to fill it with only one magnetocaloric material with a low peak value and a wide operating temperature range to form a small magnetocaloric container.

[0130] Not limited to the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of embodiment 2, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of embodiment 1, multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 can also be filled with magnetic thermal materials in the order from the high working temperature type to the low working temperature type from the high temperature side to the low temperature side.

[0131] Fig.16 and Fig.17This is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and 13 when the transport path of the heat transport medium is switched in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 of the second embodiment. When the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material in the magnetic thermal container is inconsistent with the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container, even if a magnetic field is applied to the magnetic thermal container, heat generation or heat absorption due to the magnetocaloric effect will not occur, and thus power loss will occur. For example, in Fig.16 In the initial state shown in (A), when the actual temperature of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 13 is different from the working temperature of the filled magnetic thermal material, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 cuts off the flow path through the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 13 by controlling the valves 31, 32, 34, and 36 to be closed, and no magnetic refrigeration action is caused in the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 13, and no power loss is generated. Fig.16 As shown in (B), in each of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 13, the temperature of the magnetic thermal material is constant.

[0132] On the other hand, when the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 12 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 12, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 opens the flow path through the magnetic thermal container 12 by controlling the valves 33 and 35 to be in an open state, and performs magnetic refrigeration in the magnetic thermal container 12. When the magnetic refrigeration in the magnetic thermal container 12 is performed for a certain period of time, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 As shown in (B), in the magnetic thermal container 12, a temperature distribution is generated in which the high temperature side port 12A becomes high temperature and the low temperature side port 12B becomes low temperature.

[0133] Then, if Fig.17 As shown in (A), the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls valves 31 and 34 to be in an open state, and controls valves 32, 33, 35 and 36 to be in a closed state, so that the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, and the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 respectively perform magnetic refrigeration operations. When the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 respectively perform magnetic refrigeration operations for a certain period of time, heat conduction occurs between the heat transfer medium at the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the heat transfer medium at the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12. Therefore, since the temperature of the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 is higher than the initial state, the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 11 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 11. In addition, heat conduction occurs between the heat transfer medium at the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 and the heat transfer medium at the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12. As a result, since the temperature of the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 is lower than the initial state, the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 13 is consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 13.

[0134] like Fig.17 As shown in (B), since the working temperature of the magnetic thermal materials of the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 is consistent with the temperature of the heat transfer medium, all the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 can generate heat and absorb heat through magnetic refrigeration. As a result, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can generate a temperature distribution with a relatively large temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 on the magnetic thermal container 11, the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13.

[0135] Implementation 3

[0136] Reference Figure 18 to Figure 20 , the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the third embodiment will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the third embodiment that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to the first and second embodiments will be described.

[0137] Fig.18 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 3. Fig.18 As shown, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1, a plurality of (eight in this example) magnetic thermal containers 15 are arranged so as to be connectable in series and in parallel via a plurality of pipes.

[0138] The heat transfer amount Q[W] taken out from the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 to the external medium is generally determined by the characteristics of the high temperature side heat exchanger 7, the temperature of the high temperature end 5, and the external temperature on the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 side. The high temperature side heat exchanger 7 transfers heat proportional to the temperature difference between the temperature of the high temperature end 5 and the external temperature from the heat transfer medium of the high temperature end 5 to the outside. If the external temperature on the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 side is set to Thex[K] and the thermal resistance of the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 is set to θh[K / W], the target temperature Th[K] of the high temperature end 5 corresponding to the heat transfer amount Q[W] to the outside is expressed by the following formula (1).

[0139] [Mathematical formula 1]

[0140] Target temperature Th[K] = heat transfer amount Q[W]*thermal resistance θh[K / W]+external temperature Thex[K]…(1)

[0141] The heat transfer amount Q[W] taken out from the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 to the external medium is generally determined by the characteristics of the low temperature side heat exchanger 8, the temperature of the low temperature end 6, and the external temperature on the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 side. The low temperature side heat exchanger 8 transfers heat proportional to the temperature difference between the temperature of the low temperature end 6 and the external temperature from the heat transfer medium of the low temperature end 6 to the outside. If the external temperature on the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 side is set to Tcex[K] and the thermal resistance of the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 is set to θc[K / W], the target temperature Tc[K] of the low temperature end 6 corresponding to the heat transfer amount Q[W] to the outside is expressed by the following formula (2).

[0142] [Mathematical formula 2]

[0143] Target temperature Tc[K] = -(heat transport amount Q[W]*thermal resistance θc[K / W]) + external temperature Tcex[K]…(2)

[0144] The control device 100 of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 finds a target magnetic thermal container 15 filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the calculated target temperature Th of the high temperature end 5 and the target temperature Tc of the low temperature end 6 from among the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 15, and in order to bring out the performance of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15, the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is made close to the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15. The following is a description of the determination process of the target magnetic thermal container of the magnetic refrigeration device 1.

[0145] Fig.19 1 is a diagram for explaining a magnetic thermal container to which a magnetic field is applied when a target magnetic thermal container is determined in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the third embodiment. Fig.19 As shown in (A), in the initial state, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 determines at least one magnetic thermal container A, and the at least one magnetic thermal container A is filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the target temperature Th of the high temperature end 5 and the target temperature Tc of the low temperature end 6. At this moment, the actual temperature of the at least one magnetic thermal container A is inconsistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A.

[0146] Therefore, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 determines at least one magnetic thermal container B in at least one other magnetic thermal container 15 filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, and the actual temperature of the at least one magnetic thermal container B is consistent with the operating temperature of the filled magnetic thermal material. For example, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 determines a magnetic thermal container B in at least one other magnetic thermal container 15 filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, and the actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15. Fig.19As shown in (A), in the initial state, at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B is inconsistent with at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A.

[0147] The magnetic refrigeration device 1 switches the transport path so that the heat transport medium can be transported through the magnetic thermal container B determined in the initial state, and performs magnetic refrigeration operation in the magnetic thermal container B for a certain period of time. Fig.16 and Fig.17 As explained, the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the magnetic thermal container B is heat-conducted to the other adjacent magnetic thermal container 15 that has not been determined as the magnetic thermal container B. Therefore, the actual temperature in the other adjacent magnetic thermal container 15 that has not been determined as the magnetic thermal container B is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the other magnetic thermal container 15.

[0148] like Fig.19 As shown in (B), in the first process, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 re-determines the magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transfer medium through the magnetic thermal container B determined in the first process, and performs a magnetic refrigeration action in the magnetic thermal container B for a certain period of time. Therefore, since the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the magnetic thermal container B is heat-conducted to the other adjacent magnetic thermal container 15 that has not yet been determined as the magnetic thermal container B, the actual temperature in the other magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the other magnetic thermal container 15. As shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown in (B), in the first process, at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B is inconsistent with at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A.

[0149] like Fig.19 As shown in (C), in the second process, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 re-determines the magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transfer medium through the magnetic thermal container B determined in the second process, and performs a magnetic refrigeration action in the magnetic thermal container B for a certain period of time. Therefore, since the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the magnetic thermal container B conducts heat to other adjacent magnetic thermal containers 15 that have not yet been determined as magnetic thermal containers B, the actual temperature in the other magnetic thermal containers 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the other magnetic thermal containers 15. As shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown in (C), in the second process, a portion of at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B is aligned with at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A.

[0150] like Fig.19As shown in (D), in the third process, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 re-determines the magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transport medium through the magnetic thermal container B determined in the third process, and performs a magnetic refrigeration action in the magnetic thermal container B for a certain period of time. Therefore, since the temperature of the heat transport medium in the magnetic thermal container B conducts heat to other adjacent magnetic thermal containers 15 that have not yet been determined as magnetic thermal containers B, the actual temperature in the other magnetic thermal containers 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the other magnetic thermal containers 15. As shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown in (D), in the third process, a portion of at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B is consistent with at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A. In addition, in the third process, the number of magnetic thermal capacitors 15 that are consistent between at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B and at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A is greater than that in the second process.

[0151] like Fig.19 As shown in (E), the magnetic refrigeration device 1 re-determines the magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15 in the fourth process. The magnetic refrigeration device 1 switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transport medium through the magnetic thermal container B determined in the fourth process, and performs a magnetic refrigeration action in the magnetic thermal container B for a certain period of time. Therefore, since the temperature of the heat transport medium in the magnetic thermal container B conducts heat to other adjacent magnetic thermal containers 15 that have not yet been determined as magnetic thermal containers B, the actual temperature in the other magnetic thermal containers 15 is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the other magnetic thermal containers 15. As shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown in (E), in the fourth process, at least one magnetic thermal capacitor B is completely consistent with at least one magnetic thermal capacitor A.

[0152] In this way, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 first determines the target magnetic thermal container A filled with magnetic thermal materials having operating temperatures close to the target temperature Th of the high temperature end 5 and the target temperature Tc of the low temperature end 6, and then determines the magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature in the magnetic thermal container 15 is consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container 15, and switches the magnetic thermal container B until the determined magnetic thermal container B is completely consistent with the magnetic thermal container A. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can make the actual temperature in the target magnetic thermal container A consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, and thus can exert the performance of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A.

[0153] Fig. 20 This is a flowchart regarding the process for determining a target magnetic thermal container in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the third embodiment. Fig. 20The processing shown is executed by the control device 100. Fig. 20 In the text, "S" is used as an abbreviation for "STEP".

[0154] like Fig. 20 As shown, the control device 100 calculates the target temperature Th of the high temperature end 5 and the target temperature Tc of the low temperature end 6 (S1). The control device 100 determines at least one magnetic thermal container A filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature corresponding to the target temperature Th of the high temperature end 5 and the target temperature Tc of the low temperature end 6 (S2).

[0155] The control device 100 determines at least one magnetic thermal container B (S3) filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, and the actual temperature of which is consistent with the operating temperature of the filled magnetic thermal material. The control device 100 causes the magnetic thermal container B to perform a magnetic cooling operation (S4).

[0156] The control device 100 determines whether the magnetic thermal container B is completely consistent with the magnetic thermal container A (S5). When the magnetic thermal container B is completely consistent with the magnetic thermal container A ("Yes" in S5), the control device 100 can make the actual temperature in the target magnetic thermal container A consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, so that the magnetic thermal container A can be used to appropriately perform magnetic cooling while exerting the performance of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A.

[0157] On the other hand, when the magnetic thermal container B is not completely consistent with the magnetic thermal container A (No in S5), the control device 100 regards the end temperature of the magnetic thermal container B as the temperature of the other magnetic thermal container adjacent to the magnetic thermal container B (S6). Then, the control device 100 again determines at least one magnetic thermal container B whose actual temperature is consistent with the working temperature of the filled magnetic thermal material among at least one other magnetic thermal container 15 filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature close to the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A (S3). Thereafter, the control device 100 repeatedly performs this process until the magnetic thermal container B is completely consistent with the magnetic thermal container A in S5.

[0158] In addition, Fig.19 In the example shown, in the transition state such as "initial" and "first process" to "fourth process", when the temperature of the high temperature end side of the magnetic thermal container B is higher than the target temperature Th, the temperature relative to the outside of the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 may become too high. Therefore, in actual operation, it is necessary to maintain the temperature of the high temperature end side of the magnetic thermal container B within the temperature range allowed by the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 in the transition state. Therefore, the control device 100 can also Fig. 20In the processing shown, an upper limit value is set for the temperature on the high temperature end side of the magnetic thermal container B, and a process of comparing the temperature on the high temperature end side of the magnetic thermal container B with the upper limit value is added.

[0159] The heat transfer amount from the heat exchanger to the outside is increased by making the high temperature end 5 as high as possible and the low temperature end 6 as low as possible within the temperature allowable range of the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, so that the speed of reaching the target temperature becomes faster. The time until the magnetic thermal container B is consistent with the magnetic thermal container A is affected by the selection method of the magnetic thermal container B, but the magnetic thermal container B is consistent with the magnetic thermal container A in the end.

[0160] Implementation 4

[0161] Reference Fig.21 and Fig. 22 , the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the fourth embodiment that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to the first to third embodiments will be described.

[0162] Fig.21 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to a fourth embodiment. Fig.21 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 further includes a valve 37 and a valve 38 in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 .

[0163] The valve 37 is provided on the pipe 51 connecting the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature end 5, and the pipe 51 is switched between the open state and the closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 38 is provided on the pipe 57 connecting the low temperature side port 13B of the magnetic thermal container 13 and the low temperature end 6, and the pipe 57 is switched between the open state and the closed state according to the control of the control device 100.

[0164] Fig. 22 4 is a diagram for explaining the switching of the transport path of the heat transport medium in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 22 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to use Fig.11 In the case of the third mode described above, the pipe 51 is opened by the control valve 37. That is, when either the valve 31 or the valve 32 adjacent to the magnetic thermal container 11 connected to the pipe 51 switched between the open state and the closed state by the valve 37 is in an open state, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 opens the pipe 51 by the control valve 37 in order to perform a magnetic refrigeration operation using the magnetic thermal container 11. On the other hand, when the valves 31 and 32 are in a closed state, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 closes the pipe 51 by the control valve 37 because the magnetic thermal container 11 is not used for the magnetic refrigeration operation.

[0165] Regardless of the presence or absence of valve 37, the connection state between the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature end 5 can be controlled by valve 31 and valve 32, but when the magnetic thermal container 11 is not used for magnetic refrigeration, the magnetic thermal container 11 can be more reliably separated from the high temperature end 5 by controlling valve 37 to be closed. As a result, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent unnecessary heat mixing caused by the heat transfer medium from the magnetic thermal container 11 that does not perform magnetic refrigeration into the high temperature end 5. Moreover, when valves 31 and 32 are controlled to be closed, since the magnetic thermal container 11 is separated from the high temperature end 5, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the heat transfer medium filled in the high temperature end 5 from flowing out to the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 when the magnetic thermal container 11 is replaced by maintenance or the like.

[0166] In the case where either valve 34 or valve 36 adjacent to magnetic heat container 13 connected to pipe 57 switched between an open state and a closed state by valve 38 is in an open state, magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls pipe 57 to be in an open state in order to perform magnetic refrigeration operation using magnetic heat container 13. On the other hand, if Fig. 22 As shown, when the valves 34 and 36 are in the closed state, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 does not use the magnetic thermal container 13 to perform the magnetic refrigeration operation, so the pipe 57 is closed by the control valve 38 .

[0167] Regardless of the presence or absence of valve 38, the connection state between the magnetic thermal container 13 and the low temperature end 6 can be controlled by valve 34 and valve 36, but when the magnetic thermal container 13 is not used for magnetic refrigeration, the magnetic thermal container 13 can be more reliably separated from the low temperature end 6 by controlling valve 38 to be closed. As a result, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent unnecessary heat mixing caused by the heat transfer medium from the magnetic thermal container 13 that does not perform magnetic refrigeration action flowing into the low temperature end 6. Moreover, when valves 34 and 36 are controlled to be closed, since the magnetic thermal container 13 is separated from the low temperature end 6, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the heat transfer medium filled in the low temperature end 6 from flowing out to the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 when the magnetic thermal container 13 is replaced by maintenance or the like.

[0168] Implementation method 5

[0169] Reference Fig.23 A magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 5 will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 5 that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to Embodiments 1 to 4 will be described.

[0170] Fig.23 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 5. Fig.23As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is constructed such that, in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 , the pipe 55 connected to the high temperature end 5 is connected to the side of the magnetic thermal container 12 , and the pipe 54 connected to the low temperature end 6 is connected to the side of the magnetic thermal container 11 .

[0171] Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can make the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 a simple structure without branching the transport path from the pipe 52 to the pipe 54 or the pipe 55. In addition, since the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can shorten the pipe 52 between the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12, when the valve 31 provided on the pipe 52 is controlled to open the pipe 52, the portion of the magnetic thermal material flowing in the portion other than the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 can be reduced. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can improve the efficiency of heat transport between the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12.

[0172] Implementation 6

[0173] Reference Fig.24 and Fig.25 , the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the sixth embodiment will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the sixth embodiment that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to the first to fifth embodiments will be described.

[0174] Fig.24 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 6. Fig.24 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 further includes heat insulating materials 71 to 74 in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 .

[0175] The insulating material 71 is provided on the pipe 54 connecting the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 to the low temperature end 6. Specifically, the insulating material 71 is provided between the valve 32 provided on the pipe 54 and the low temperature end 6. The insulating material 72 is provided on the pipe 55 connecting the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12 to the high temperature end 5. Specifically, the insulating material 72 is provided between the valve 33 provided on the pipe 55 and the high temperature end 5. The insulating material 73 is provided on the pipe 58 connecting the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 to the low temperature end 6. Specifically, the insulating material 73 is provided between the valve 35 provided on the pipe 58 and the low temperature end 6. The insulating material 74 is provided on the pipe 59 connecting the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 to the high temperature end 5. Specifically, the insulating material 74 is provided between the valve 36 provided on the pipe 59 and the high temperature end 5.

[0176] Fig.25 1 is a diagram for explaining the temperature distribution in the heat insulating material 71 in the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.25 , the structure of the heat insulating material 71 is illustrated, but the other heat insulating materials 72 to 74 also have the same structure as the heat insulating material 71.

[0177] like Fig.25 As shown, the insulating materials 71 to 74 are composed of, for example, a microchannel structure. The insulating materials 71 to 74 absorb heat from the heat transfer medium, and a temperature gradient is generated between the connected magnetic thermal container side and the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6. The heat transfer medium reciprocates between the magnetic thermal container and the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6 through the microchannels of the insulating materials 71 to 74, but since the heat of the heat transfer medium is absorbed by the insulating materials 71 to 74, the heat transfer medium does not transfer heat between the magnetic thermal container and the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6. The insulating materials 71 to 74 are composed of, for example, a material such as paper or plastic having a large specific heat and a low thermal conductivity. In addition, the insulating materials 71 to 74 may not be a uniform material. For example, the magnetic thermal container side, the high temperature end 5 side or the low temperature end 6 side of the insulating materials 71 to 74 may be composed of a metal with a high thermal conductivity, and the middle part of the insulating material may be composed of a silicon material with a low thermal conductivity.

[0178] In this way, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the temperature of the magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 from mixing with the temperature of the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6 by setting insulating materials 71~74 between the magnetic thermal containers and the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6, thereby improving thermal efficiency.

[0179] Implementation 7

[0180] Reference Fig.26 A magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 7 will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 7 that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to Embodiments 1 to 6 will be described.

[0181] Fig.26 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to Embodiment 7. Fig.26 As shown, in the magnetic refrigeration device 1, in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10, the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 are respectively formed by storage tanks for storing heat transfer media.

[0182] Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can store a relatively large amount of heat transfer medium inside the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 formed by the storage tank, thereby improving the heat storage capacity of the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can slow down the temperature change of the high temperature end 5 caused by the heat exchange of the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 or the temperature change of the low temperature end 6 caused by the heat exchange of the low temperature side heat exchanger 8, and can stably perform magnetic refrigeration operation.

[0183] Implementation 8

[0184] Reference Figure 27 to Figure 29 , the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the eighth embodiment will be described. In the following, only the parts of the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the eighth embodiment that are different from the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 according to the first to seventh embodiments will be described.

[0185] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing the structure of a magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to an eighth embodiment. Fig. 27 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 further includes pipes 61 to 66 , valves 41 to 46 , and a pump 90 in the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 .

[0186] The pipe 61 connects the low temperature end 6 and the high temperature side port 11A of the magnetic thermal container 11. The pipe 62 is branched from the pipe 52 and connected to the high temperature end 5. That is, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the pipe 52 and the pipe 62. The pipe 63 is branched from the pipe 52 and connected to the low temperature end 6. That is, the low temperature side port 11B of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the high temperature side port 12A of the magnetic thermal container 12 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the pipe 52 and the pipe 63. The pipe 64 is branched from the pipe 56 and connected to the high temperature end 5. That is, the low temperature side port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12 and the high temperature side port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected to the high temperature end 5 via the pipe 56 and the pipe 64. The pipe 65 is branched from the pipe 56 and connected to the low temperature end 6. That is, the low temperature port 12B of the magnetic thermal container 12 and the high temperature port 13A of the magnetic thermal container 13 are connected to the low temperature end 6 via the pipe 56 and the pipe 65. The pipe 66 connects the low temperature port 13B of the magnetic thermal container 13 and the high temperature end 5.

[0187] The valve 41 is provided on the pipe 61, and switches the pipe 61 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 42 is provided on the pipe 62, and switches the pipe 62 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 43 is provided on the pipe 63, and switches the pipe 63 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 44 is provided on the pipe 64, and switches the pipe 64 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 45 is provided on the pipe 65, and switches the pipe 65 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100. The valve 46 is provided on the pipe 66, and switches the pipe 66 between an open state and a closed state according to the control of the control device 100.

[0188] The pump 90 is a one-way pump provided on the pipe 60 connecting the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 and the low temperature side heat exchanger 8 , and transports the heat transfer medium in one direction from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 .

[0189] Fig.28 1 is a diagram for explaining the switching of the heat transfer medium transfer path when the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the eighth embodiment is controlled in the forward mode. Fig.28As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the conveying path to the forward mode by the control device 100, controls the valve 31, valve 35 and valve 37 to the open state, and on the other hand, controls the valve 32, valve 33, valve 34, valve 36, valve 38, valve 41, valve 42, valve 43, valve 44, valve 45 and valve 46 to the closed state. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, a conveying path from the magnetic thermal container 11 on the high temperature side to the magnetic thermal container 12 on the low temperature side is formed.

[0190] Thus, the heat transfer medium flows from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6 in the order of the magnetic heat container 11 on the high temperature side and the magnetic heat container 12 on the low temperature side. After that, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the pump 90 by the control device 100 to return the heat transfer medium accumulated at the low temperature end 6 from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5.

[0191] Fig.29 1 is a diagram for explaining the switching of the heat transfer medium transfer path when the magnetic refrigeration device 1 according to the eighth embodiment is controlled in the reverse mode. Fig.29 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transfer path to the reverse mode by the control device 100, controls the valve 31, valve 41 and valve 44 to the open state, and on the other hand, controls the valve 32, valve 33, valve 34, valve 35, valve 36, valve 37, valve 38, valve 42, valve 43, valve 45 and valve 46 to the closed state. Thus, between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6, a transfer path from the magnetic thermal container 12 on the low temperature side to the magnetic thermal container 11 on the high temperature side is formed.

[0192] Thus, the heat transfer medium flows from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6 in the order of the magnetic heat container 12 on the low temperature side and the magnetic heat container 11 on the high temperature side. After that, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the pump 90 by the control device 100 to return the heat transfer medium accumulated at the low temperature end 6 from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5.

[0193] The magnetic refrigeration device 1 can transport the heat transfer medium back and forth in a plurality of adjacent magnetic thermal containers by having the control device 100 alternately switch the transport path between the forward mode and the reverse mode.

[0194] In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 is not limited to the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12. The magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 13 may be connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to control the heat transfer medium, and the transport path is alternately switched between the forward mode and the reverse mode. In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 may be connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to control the heat transfer medium, and the transport path is alternately switched between the forward mode and the reverse mode.

[0195] [Summarize]

[0196] like Figure 1 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 disclosed in the present invention comprises: a high-temperature side heat exchanger 7; a low-temperature side heat exchanger 8; a high-temperature end 5, supplying heat on the high-temperature side to the high-temperature side heat exchanger 7; a low-temperature end 6, supplying heat on the low-temperature side to the low-temperature side heat exchanger 8; a plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, filled with magnetic thermal materials; a plurality of magnetic field applying devices 21, 22, respectively applying magnetic fields to the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12; at least one piping 51~55, capable of transporting a heat transfer medium between the high-temperature end 5 and the low-temperature end 6 via the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12; a pump 9, transporting a heat transfer medium between the high-temperature end 5 and the low-temperature end 6 via at least one piping 51~55; at least one valve 31~33, switching at least one piping 51~55 between an open state and a closed state; and a control device 100, controlling at least one valve 31~33 to switch the transport path of the heat transfer medium. The control device 100 switches the transport path between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, a plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 can be connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to transport the heat transport medium. In the second mode, a plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 can be connected in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to transport the heat transport medium.

[0197] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can change the cross-sectional area and length of the transport path of the heat transport medium flowing through the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 by switching the transport path between the first mode and the second mode. In the first mode, the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 can be connected in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to transport the heat transport medium, and in the second mode, the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 can be connected in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 to transport the heat transport medium. That is, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to the first mode when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is large, and controls the transport path to the second mode through the control device 100 when the target temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 is small. In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 controls the transport path to the second mode when the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is large, and controls the transport path to the first mode when the target heat transport amount from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5 is small. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can perform the optimal magnetic refrigeration operation according to the environment, and thus can improve power efficiency.

[0198] like Figure 3As shown, at least one valve 31-33 includes: at least one valve 31, which connects the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12 in series between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6; and at least one valve 32, 33, which connects the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors 11 and 12 in parallel between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. The control device 100 controls at least one valve 31 to open at least one pipe 52 in the first mode, and controls at least one valve 32, 33 to close at least one pipe 54, 55. In the second mode, the control device 100 controls at least one valve 32, 33 to open at least one pipe 54, 55, and controls at least one valve 31 to close at least one pipe 52.

[0199] With such a configuration, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can switch the transport path between the first mode and the second mode by controlling at least one of the valves 31 to 33 .

[0200] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the control device 100 switches the conveying path in the order of the second mode, the first mode, and the second mode.

[0201] With such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can further increase the temperature of the high temperature end 5 and further decrease the temperature of the low temperature end 6, and can realize the temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode by the pump power in the second mode.

[0202] like Figure 4 As shown, the control device 100 switches the transport path to the third mode, in which the heat transport medium can be transported between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 via the magnetic thermal container 11 among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, and the heat transport medium can be transported via the magnetic thermal container 12 among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12.

[0203] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can control the transfer path to the third mode, so that the heat transfer amount from the low-temperature end 6 to the high-temperature end 5 is the same as that in the first mode, and the temperature difference between the high-temperature end 5 and the low-temperature end 6 is the same as that in the second mode. Therefore, the power efficiency can be further improved in the entire system including the magnetic refrigeration device 1.

[0204] The plurality of magnetic field applying devices 21 and 22 include: a magnetic field applying device 21 for applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal capacitor 11; and a magnetic field applying device 22 for applying a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal capacitor 12. In the third mode, the magnetic field applying device 21 applies a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal capacitor 11, and the magnetic field applying device 22 does not apply a magnetic field to the magnetic thermal capacitor 12.

[0205] With such a configuration, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can reduce power loss by stopping application of a magnetic field by the unused magnetic field application device 22 and demagnetization.

[0206] The plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 include the magnetic thermal container 11 located at the high temperature side in the first mode, and the magnetic thermal container 12 located at the low temperature side in the first mode. In the second mode, a one-way path when the heat transport medium is transported back and forth between the low temperature end 6 and the magnetic thermal container 11 is shorter than a path between the low temperature end 6 and the magnetic thermal container 11, and in the second mode, a one-way path when the heat transport medium is transported back and forth between the high temperature end 5 and the magnetic thermal container 12 is shorter than a path between the high temperature end 5 and the magnetic thermal container 12.

[0207] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can avoid the temperature of the magnetic thermal container 11 being higher than the temperature of the low temperature end 6 due to the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 11 reaching the low temperature end 6, even when the heat transfer medium is reciprocated between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 through the magnetic thermal container 11 by the magnetic refrigeration action, thereby reducing heat loss. In addition, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can avoid the temperature of the magnetic thermal container 12 being lower than the temperature of the high temperature end 5 due to the heat transfer medium flowing through the magnetic thermal container 12 reaching the high temperature end 5, even when the heat transfer medium is reciprocated between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 through the magnetic thermal container 12 by the magnetic refrigeration action, thereby reducing heat loss.

[0208] like Fig.15 As shown in Figure 1, there are many types of magnetocaloric materials, depending on the operating temperature at which they can exert their performance. Fig.14 As shown, the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors 11 , 12 , 13 are filled with magnetic thermal materials in order from the high temperature side to the low temperature side, from the type with the high operating temperature to the type with the low operating temperature.

[0209] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can obtain mutually different temperature distributions in the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 , 12 , and 13 in order from the high temperature side to the low temperature side.

[0210] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the control device 100 determines a magnetic thermal container 12 among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 that has a temperature corresponding to the working temperature of the filled magnetic thermal material, switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transport medium only through the magnetic thermal container 12, and when the temperature of the magnetic thermal container 11, 13 adjacent to the magnetic thermal container 12 among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 11, 12 reaches the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the adjacent magnetic thermal containers 11, 13, the transport path is switched to be able to transport the heat transport medium through the adjacent magnetic thermal containers 11, 13.

[0211] With such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can generate a temperature distribution having a relatively large temperature difference between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 in the magnetic thermal container 11 , the magnetic thermal container 12 , and the magnetic thermal container 13 .

[0212] like Figure 18 to Figure 20 As shown, the control device 100 determines at least one magnetic thermal container A among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 15, which is filled with a magnetic thermal material having an operating temperature corresponding to the target temperature of the high-temperature end 5 and the target temperature of the low-temperature end 6 (S2), determines at least one magnetic thermal container B among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 15, whose actual temperature is consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material (S3), switches the transport path to be able to transport the heat transport medium only through the at least one magnetic thermal container B (S4), determines whether the at least one magnetic thermal container B is the same as the at least one magnetic thermal container A (S5), and when the at least one magnetic thermal container B is not the same as the at least one magnetic thermal container A ("No" in S5), determines again at least one magnetic thermal container B among the multiple magnetic thermal containers 15, whose actual temperature is consistent with the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material (S3).

[0213] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can make the actual temperature inside the target magnetic thermal container A consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A, thereby being able to exert the performance of the magnetic thermal material filled in the magnetic thermal container A.

[0214] like Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, at least one valve includes a valve 38 provided on a path between the magnetic thermal capacitor 13 located on the lowest temperature side and the low temperature end 6 in the first mode among the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, 13, and valves 34, 36 adjacent to the magnetic thermal capacitor 13. The control device 100 controls the valve 38 to be in a closed state when the adjacent valves 34, 36 are in a closed state, and controls the valve 38 to be in an open state when the adjacent valves 34, 36 are in an open state.

[0215] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the heat transfer medium from the magnetic thermal container 13 that is not performing the magnetic refrigeration operation from flowing into the low temperature end 6 and thus causing unnecessary heat mixing.

[0216] like Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, at least one valve includes a valve 37 provided on a path between the magnetic thermal capacitor 11 located at the highest temperature side and the high temperature end 5 in the first mode among the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors 11, 12, 13, and valves 31, 32 adjacent to the magnetic thermal capacitor 11. The control device 100 controls the valve 37 to be in a closed state when the adjacent valves 31, 32 are in a closed state, and controls the valve 37 to be in an open state when the adjacent valves 31, 32 are in an open state.

[0217] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the heat transfer medium from the magnetic thermal container 11 that is not performing the magnetic refrigeration operation from flowing into the high temperature end 5 and causing unnecessary heat mixing.

[0218] like Fig.23 As shown, the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 are connected to the respective side surfaces of the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 and 12 via at least one pipe 54 and 55, respectively.

[0219] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can make the magnetic refrigeration circuit 10 have a simple structure, and can improve the efficiency of heat transfer between the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12.

[0220] like Fig.24 and Fig.25 As shown, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 further includes insulating materials 71 to 74 disposed between the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 and the plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11 , 12 , 13 for the heat transfer medium to pass through.

[0221] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can prevent the temperature of the magnetic thermal containers 11 , 12 , 13 from mixing with the temperature of the high temperature end 5 or the low temperature end 6 , thereby improving thermal efficiency.

[0222] like Fig.26 As shown, the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 are storage tanks for storing heat transfer medium.

[0223] By having such a structure, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can store a relatively large amount of heat transfer medium inside the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6 formed by the storage tank, thereby improving the heat storage capacity of the high temperature end 5 and the low temperature end 6. Therefore, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can slow down the temperature change of the high temperature end 5 caused by the heat exchange of the high temperature side heat exchanger 7 or the temperature change of the low temperature end 6 caused by the heat exchange of the low temperature side heat exchanger 8, and can stably perform magnetic refrigeration operation.

[0224] like Figure 27 to Figure 29 As shown, the pump 90 is a one-way pump that transports the heat transport medium from the low temperature end 6 to the high temperature end 5. The plurality of magnetic thermal containers 11, 12, 13 include the magnetic thermal container 11 located at the high temperature side in the first mode and the magnetic thermal container 12 located at the low temperature side in the first mode. The control device 100 switches the transport path so that the heat transport medium can be transported from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6 in the order of the magnetic thermal container 11 and the magnetic thermal container 12, and then switches the transport path so that the heat transport medium can be transported from the high temperature end 5 to the low temperature end 6 in the order of the magnetic thermal container 12 and the magnetic thermal container 11.

[0225] By having such a structure, even when a one-way pump is used, the magnetic refrigeration device 1 can switch the transport path by controlling the valve and reciprocate the heat transfer medium in a plurality of adjacent magnetic thermal containers.

[0226] Furthermore, the magnetic refrigeration devices 1 of the above-described first to eighth embodiments may have each other's structures and functions alone or in combination.

[0227] The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0228] Description of Reference Numerals

[0229] 1 magnetic refrigeration device, 5 high temperature end, 6 low temperature end, 7 high temperature side heat exchanger, 8 low temperature side heat exchanger, 9, 90 pump, 10 magnetic refrigeration circuit, 11, 12, 13, 15 magnetic heat container, 21, 22, 23 magnetic field application device, 11A, 12A, 13A high temperature side port, 11B, 12B, 13B low temperature side port, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 valve, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66 piping, 71, 72, 73, 74 insulation material, 100 control device, 101 processor, 102 memory.

Claims

1. A magnetic refrigeration device, wherein: The magnetic refrigeration device comprises: High temperature side heat exchanger; Low temperature side heat exchanger; A high temperature end, supplying high temperature side heat to the high temperature side heat exchanger; A low temperature end supplies heat of the low temperature side to the low temperature side heat exchanger; a plurality of magnetocaloric containers filled with magnetocaloric material; A plurality of magnetic field applying devices, respectively applying magnetic fields to the plurality of magnetic thermal containers; a plurality of pipes capable of transporting a heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the plurality of magnetic thermal containers; a pump that transports the heat transfer medium between the high temperature end and the low temperature end via the plurality of pipes; a plurality of valves for switching at least some of the plurality of pipes between an open state and a closed state; as well as a control device that controls the plurality of valves to switch a delivery path of the heat delivery medium, The control device switches the transport path between a first mode and a second mode, wherein the plurality of magnetic thermal containers can be connected in series between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to transport the heat transport medium in the first mode, and the plurality of magnetic thermal containers can be connected in parallel between the high temperature end and the low temperature end to transport the heat transport medium in the second mode, The plurality of magnetic thermal containers include a high temperature side magnetic thermal container located at a high temperature side in the first mode and a low temperature side magnetic thermal container located at a low temperature side in the first mode, In the second mode, a one-way path when the heat transfer medium is transported back and forth between the low temperature end and the high temperature side magnetic thermal container is shorter than a path between the low temperature end and the low temperature side magnetic thermal container. In the second mode, a one-way path when the heat transfer medium is reciprocated between the high temperature end and the low temperature side magnetic thermal container is shorter than a path between the high temperature end and the high temperature side magnetic thermal container.

2. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of valves include: a first valve that connects the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors in series between the high temperature end and the low temperature end; and a second valve that connects the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors in parallel between the high temperature end and the low temperature end. The control device In the first mode, the first valve is controlled to open some of the plurality of pipes, and the second valve is controlled to close another portion of the plurality of pipes. In the second mode, the second valve is controlled to open the other part of the plurality of pipes, and the first valve is controlled to close the part of the plurality of pipes.

3. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control device switches the conveying path in the order of the second mode, the first mode, and the second mode.

4. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control device switches the transport path to a third mode, in which the heat transport medium can be transported between the high-temperature end and the low-temperature end via a first magnetic thermal container among the multiple magnetic thermal containers, and the heat transport medium cannot be transported via a second magnetic thermal container among the multiple magnetic thermal containers.

5. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of magnetic field applying devices include: a first magnetic field applying device for applying a magnetic field to the first magnetic thermal container; and a second magnetic field applying device for applying a magnetic field to the second magnetic thermal container. In the third mode, the first magnetic field applying device applies a magnetic field to the first magnetic thermal capacitor, and the second magnetic field applying device does not apply a magnetic field to the second magnetic thermal capacitor.

6. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The magnetocaloric material has various working temperatures according to which its performance can be exerted. The plurality of magnetic thermal containers are filled with the magnetic thermal materials in order from a type having a high operating temperature to a type having a low operating temperature from a high temperature side to a low temperature side.

7. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 6, wherein: The control device determining a specific magnetocaloric capacitor of the plurality of magnetocaloric capacitors having a temperature corresponding to an operating temperature of the filled magnetocaloric material, switching the transport path so that the heat transport medium can be transported only through the specific magnetic thermal container, When the temperature of a magnetic thermal container adjacent to the specific magnetic thermal container among the plurality of magnetic thermal containers reaches the operating temperature of the magnetic thermal material filled in the adjacent magnetic thermal container, the transport path is switched so that the heat transport medium can be transported via the adjacent magnetic thermal container.

8. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 6, wherein: The control device determining at least one target magnetic thermal container among the plurality of magnetic thermal containers filled with the magnetic thermal material at an operating temperature corresponding to the target temperature of the high temperature end and the target temperature of the low temperature end, determining at least one temporary magnetic thermal capacitor among the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors whose actual temperature is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material, switching the transport path so that the heat transport medium can be transported only via the at least one temporary magnetic thermal container, determining whether the at least one temporary magnetic thermal capacitor is identical to the at least one target magnetic thermal capacitor, In the case that the at least one temporary magnetic thermal capacitor is not the same as the at least one target magnetic thermal capacitor, the at least one temporary magnetic thermal capacitor whose actual temperature among the plurality of magnetic thermal capacitors is consistent with the working temperature of the magnetic thermal material is determined again.

9. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of valves include: a low temperature side valve disposed on a path between a low temperature side magnetic thermal container located at the lowest temperature side in the first mode among the plurality of magnetic thermal containers and the low temperature end; and a valve adjacent to the low temperature side magnetic thermal container, The control device controls the low-temperature side valve to be in a closed state when the adjacent valve is in a closed state, and controls the low-temperature side valve to be in an open state when the adjacent valve is in an open state.

10. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of valves include: a high temperature side valve disposed on a path between a high temperature side magnetic thermal container located at the highest temperature side among the plurality of magnetic thermal containers in the first mode and the high temperature end; and a valve adjacent to the high temperature side magnetic thermal container, The control device controls the high temperature side valve to be in a closed state when the adjacent valve is in a closed state, and controls the high temperature side valve to be in an open state when the adjacent valve is in an open state.

11. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The high temperature end and the low temperature end are connected to the respective side surfaces of the plurality of magnetic thermal containers via the pipes.

12. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The magnetic refrigeration device further includes a heat insulating material, which is disposed between the high temperature end and the low temperature end and the plurality of magnetic thermal containers, and allows the heat transfer medium to pass through.

13. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The high temperature end and the low temperature end are storage tanks storing the heat transfer medium.

14. The magnetic refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pump is a one-way pump that transports the heat transfer medium from the low-temperature end to the high-temperature end. The plurality of magnetic thermal containers include a high temperature side magnetic thermal container located at a high temperature side in the first mode and a low temperature side magnetic thermal container located at a low temperature side in the first mode, The control device The transport path is switched so that the heat transport medium can be transported from the high temperature end to the low temperature end in the order of the high temperature side magnetic thermal container and the low temperature side magnetic thermal container, Then, the transport path is switched so that the heat transport medium can be transported from the high temperature end to the low temperature end in the order of the low temperature side magnetic thermal container and the high temperature side magnetic thermal container.

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