Bed structure and method of manufacturing a bed structure

Abstract

A bed structure (10) is a bed structure of a magnetic refrigeration system for a fluid to pass in a first direction. A plurality of particles having a magnetocaloric effect are arranged in the first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction. The plurality of particles are bonded to each other by a bonding agent to form flow passages (30) for the fluid to pass between the plurality of particles. The density of the particles in the first direction is greater than the density of the particles in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to bed structures and methods for manufacturing bed structures. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as an environmentally friendly cryogenic technology, active magnetic regenerator (AMR) magnetic cryogenic systems were known. As disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-46085), the AMR magnetic cryogenic system comprises a bed structure including multiple frames and multiple meshes. The multiple frames each contain a magnetic working substance and are stacked on top of each other. Multiple meshes are disposed between the multiple frames, facing the magnetic working substance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention

[0004] However, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, the type of magnetic working substance contained in one frame is different from the type of magnetic working substance contained in other frames. Therefore, in bed structures using multiple types of magnetic working substances, a mesh corresponding to each type is required.

[0005] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0006] The first-concept bed structure is for a magnetic refrigeration system that allows fluid to pass through in a first direction. Multiple particles with a magnetocaloric effect are arranged in the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction. These particles are bonded together with an adhesive to form flow channels between them for the fluid to pass through. The particle density in the first direction is greater than the particle density in the second direction.

[0007] By pressing a film with reduced thickness by pressing multiple particles arranged in the second direction along the first direction, a bed structure with a particle density greater in the first direction than in the second direction can be achieved, representing a first-viewpoint approach. Therefore, in this first-viewpoint bed structure, particle movement in the first direction can be suppressed even when fluid flows through the channel. Consequently, the mesh structure used to suppress particle movement in the first direction can be omitted from the first-viewpoint bed structure.

[0008] The second viewpoint's bed structure is based on the first viewpoint's bed structure, in which multiple particles have the same phase transition temperature.

[0009] It can also have multiple particles with the same phase transition temperature, like the bed structure in the second viewpoint.

[0010] The third viewpoint's bed structure is based on the first viewpoint's bed structure, with multiple particles having multiple phase transition temperatures.

[0011] It can also have multiple particles with multiple phase transition temperatures, like the bed structure in the third viewpoint.

[0012] The fourth viewpoint's bed structure is based on the third viewpoint's bed structure, where multiple particles have multiple phase transition temperatures in the first direction and the same phase transition temperature in the second direction.

[0013] In the bed structure of the fourth viewpoint, even with a cascaded structure, the network structure corresponding to different phase transition temperatures can be omitted.

[0014] The bed structure of the fifth viewpoint is based on the bed structure of any one of the first to fourth viewpoints, with the maximum diameter of multiple particles being greater than 50 μm and less than 250 μm.

[0015] It can also have multiple particles with a maximum diameter of more than 50 μm and less than 250 μm, like the bed structure in the fifth viewpoint.

[0016] The bed structure of the sixth viewpoint is based on the bed structure of any one of the first to fifth viewpoints, with an average porosity of over 40%.

[0017] In the bed structure of the sixth viewpoint, the average porosity is over 40%, thus ensuring ample fluid flow channels.

[0018] The seventh viewpoint's method for manufacturing a bed structure for a magnetic refrigeration system includes the following steps: forming a first film comprising a plurality of first particles and an adhesive. The plurality of first particles exhibit a magnetocaloric effect. Pressing the first film to thin its thickness. Forming a second film on the thinned first film, the second film comprising a plurality of second particles and an adhesive. The plurality of second particles exhibit a magnetocaloric effect.

[0019] In the method for manufacturing the bed structure according to the seventh viewpoint, by pressing a first film containing a plurality of first particles arranged in a second direction and an adhesive along a first direction, movement of the first particles in the first direction can be suppressed. Therefore, a first film with reduced thickness (hereinafter also referred to as a "film" or "first thin film") can be formed, eliminating the need for a mesh structure to suppress movement of the first particles in the first direction. By stacking a second film containing second particles on such a film, a plurality of particles can be stacked in the first direction, thus manufacturing a bed structure that eliminates the need for a mesh structure.

[0020] The method for manufacturing the bed structure in the eighth viewpoint, based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in the seventh viewpoint, includes the following steps in forming the first film: a step of configuring a plurality of first particles and a step of configuring an adhesive between the plurality of first particles.

[0021] In the manufacturing method of the bed structure in the eighth viewpoint, the particle filling rate can be improved by pressing a first mold containing an adhesive between a plurality of first particles arranged in a second direction.

[0022] The manufacturing method of the bed structure in the ninth viewpoint, based on the manufacturing method of the bed structure in the seventh viewpoint, includes the following steps in forming the first film: a step of configuring a plurality of first particles; a step of configuring an adhesive between the plurality of first particles; and a step of configuring a plurality of third particles on the plurality of first particles after the step of configuring the adhesive. The plurality of third particles have a magnetocaloric effect.

[0023] In the manufacturing method of the bed structure in the ninth viewpoint, a first membrane containing a third particle is pressed onto the first particle and the adhesive, thus making it easy to manufacture a thin film that maintains the interparticle voids.

[0024] The manufacturing method of the bed structure in the tenth viewpoint is based on the manufacturing method of the bed structure in the seventh or eighth viewpoint, wherein the thickness of the thinned first film is less than twice the maximum thickness of the first particle.

[0025] In the method for manufacturing the bed structure of the tenth viewpoint, a thin film that suppresses the overlap of the first particles in the first direction can be formed.

[0026] The method for manufacturing the bed structure in the eleventh viewpoint is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any of the seventh to tenth viewpoints, wherein the maximum diameter of the first particle is 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0027] Alternatively, a bed structure with a first particle having a maximum diameter of 50 μm or more but less than 250 μm can be manufactured, similar to the method described in viewpoint eleven.

[0028] The method for manufacturing the bed structure in the twelfth viewpoint is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any of the seventh to eleventh viewpoints, wherein the phase transition temperature of the first particle is the same as the phase transition temperature of the second particle.

[0029] Alternatively, a bed structure with multiple particles having the same phase transition temperature can be manufactured, similar to the method described in the twelfth viewpoint.

[0030] The method for manufacturing the bed structure in the thirteenth viewpoint is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any of the seventh to eleventh viewpoints, except that the phase transition temperature of the first particle is different from that of the second particle.

[0031] Alternatively, a bed structure with multiple particles having multiple phase transition temperatures can be manufactured, similar to the method described in point thirteen.

[0032] The fourteenth viewpoint's method for manufacturing the bed structure is based on any of the seven to thirteenth viewpoints' methods for manufacturing the bed structure, wherein the first membrane and the second membrane are formed inside the container during the steps of forming the first membrane and forming the second membrane.

[0033] Alternatively, as in the method of manufacturing the bed structure in viewpoint fourteen, containers can be used to form the first and second membranes.

[0034] The fifteenth viewpoint's method for manufacturing the bed structure, based on the fourteenth viewpoint's method, also includes a process of disassembling the container.

[0035] Alternatively, as in the manufacturing method of the bed structure in viewpoint fifteen, the container can be removed after the first and second membranes are formed using the container.

[0036] The method for manufacturing the bed structure of the sixteenth viewpoint, based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure of any one of the seventh to fifteenth viewpoints, further includes a step of confirming that a flow channel for fluid to pass through is formed.

[0037] In the method for manufacturing the bed structure of the sixteenth viewpoint, it is confirmed that flow channels for fluid to pass through are formed between the particles, thus enabling the manufacture of a bed structure with reliably formed flow channels. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a bed structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first layer that constitutes the bed structure.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of the bed structure.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of the container.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the state in which the first membrane has formed.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the process of configuring the first particle.

[0044] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the process of distributing adhesive.

[0045] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the pressing process.

[0046] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram showing the state in which the second membrane has formed.

[0047] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram showing the state in which the first layer has been formed.

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a heat source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a magnetic refrigeration system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of a bed structure manufacturing method.

[0051] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a bed structure of another variation.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing another variation of the state in which the first membrane has been formed.

[0053] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing another variation of the pressing process. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The following describes a bed structure, heat source, and magnetic refrigeration system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] (1) Bed structure

[0056] (1-1) Summary

[0057] Figure 1 The bed structure 10 shown is used in an active magnetic regenerator (AMR) magnetic refrigeration system. Bed structure 10 is a bed structure for a magnetic refrigeration system where fluid flows along a first direction. Such a bed structure 10 includes multiple particles and a binder. Multiple particles are arranged in the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this configuration, the first direction is the vertical direction, and the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. Here, the first direction is the stacking direction of layers L1 to L5, and the second direction is the direction in which the plane of the laid particles extends. Flow channels 30 are formed between the particles to allow fluid to pass through.

[0058] In this bed structure 10, at least two layers are arranged in a specific configuration. Furthermore, the shape and arrangement of the layers constituting the bed structure 10 are not particularly limited. In this embodiment, as... Figure 1As shown, the bed structure 10 has a first layer L1, a second layer L2, a third layer L3, a fourth layer L4, and a fifth layer L5. The multiple layers L1 to L5 extend in a first direction and a second direction, and are stacked in the first direction. There are no mesh structures separating the layers L1 to L5. The flow channels 30 of each layer L1 to L5 are interconnected.

[0059] Each layer L1 to L5 has multiple thin films F1 to F6. Thin films F1 to F6 are films extending in the second direction and stacked in the first direction. Thin films F1 to F6 contain multiple particles and an adhesive.

[0060] Reference Figure 2 The first layer L1 consists of films F1 to F6. First film F1 comprises multiple first particles 1 and adhesive 20. Second film F2 comprises multiple second particles 2 and adhesive 20. Third film F3 comprises multiple third particles 3 and adhesive 20. Fourth film F4 comprises multiple fourth particles 4 and adhesive 20. Fifth film F5 comprises multiple fifth particles 5 and adhesive 20. Sixth film F6 comprises multiple sixth particles 6 and adhesive 20.

[0061] Particles 1-6 achieve a magnetocaloric effect by altering their magnetic entropy, which can be used to cool or heat objects subject to temperature regulation. Particles 1-6 generate heat when a magnetic field is applied and absorb heat when the applied magnetic field is stopped and removed.

[0062] Particles 1 to 6 are not limited as long as they possess a magnetocaloric effect. Here, particles 1 to 6 are magnetic working materials having a Curie temperature, which is the phase transition temperature. Examples of such particles 1 to 6 include those containing NaZn. 13 Materials with structural features (La-Fe-Si type materials), MnAs 1-x Sb x wait.

[0063] Particles 1 to 6 are microparticles. In this embodiment, particles 1 to 6 are particles that are pulverized by applying mechanical energy. The maximum diameter of particles 1 to 6 is, for example, 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less. The maximum diameter is measured by laser diffraction or optical microscopy, etc.

[0064] The thickness of each of the first film F1 to the sixth film is less than twice the maximum diameter of particles 1 to 6. Therefore, the thickness of each of the first film F1 to the sixth film is more than 50 μm and less than 500 μm.

[0065] In this embodiment, the particles 1 to 6 constituting the first thin film F1 to the sixth thin film F6 are arranged so as not to overlap in the second direction. Therefore, the thickness of each of the first thin film F1 to the sixth thin film in this embodiment is 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0066] Furthermore, in the first film F1 to the sixth film F6, the particles 1 to 6 arranged in the second direction at one end in the first direction ( Figure 2 The top part of the middle part is aligned in the second direction.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first particle 1 to the sixth particle 6 have the same phase transition temperature. It should be noted that the same phase transition temperature includes manufacturing errors, for example, the phase transition temperature is within 0.5 degrees, and when further improving accuracy, the phase transition temperature is, for example, within 0.2 degrees.

[0068] The adhesive 20 bonds the plurality of particles 1 to 6 together by forming a flow channel 30 between them for fluid to pass through. Here, the adhesive 20 is in contact with a portion of the surface of the particles 1 to 6. In addition, the adhesive 20 includes cases in which adjacent particles in a second direction are bonded together and cases in which adjacent particles in a first direction are bonded together.

[0069] The thermal conductivity of adhesive 20 is less than that of particles 1 to 6. Adhesive 20 may be insulating, for example, and may be an inorganic or organic adhesive. Examples of adhesives 20 include epoxy resin and acrylic resin.

[0070] In addition, the adhesive 20 contained in each film F1 to F6 may be the same or different.

[0071] A gap is provided between the multiple particles 1 to 6 that are bonded together, and the gap forms a flow channel 30 for the fluid to pass through. Since part of the surface of the particles 1 to 6 is exposed, the fluid passing through the flow channel 30 exchanges heat with the particles 1 to 6.

[0072] In this embodiment, layers L2 to L5 have essentially the same structure as layer L1, but the magnetocaloric effects of the particles they contain are different. In other words, the particles constituting layers L1 to L5 are not the same. Furthermore, the bed structure 10 has a variety of particles.

[0073] Due to the above configuration, the multiple particles in the bed structure 10 have multiple phase transition temperatures in the first direction and the same phase transition temperature in the second direction. Specifically, the particles in the first layer L1, the second layer L2, the third layer L3, the fourth layer L4, and the fifth layer L5 are composed of materials whose phase transition temperatures decrease in that order. In other words, the particles in the first layer L1, the second layer L2, the third layer L3, the fourth layer L4, and the fifth layer L5 are arranged in order of decreasing phase transition temperature.

[0074] Furthermore, in the first layer L1, the density of particles 1 to 6 in the first direction is greater than the density of particles 1 to 6 in the second direction. In this embodiment, the density of particles 1 to 6 in the first direction is, for example, 1.1 times or more than the density of particles 1 to 6 in the second direction, preferably 1.3 times or more.

[0075] Similarly, in each of the second to fifth layers L2, the particle density in the first direction is greater than the particle density in the second direction. Therefore, in the bed structure 10, the particle density in the first direction is also greater than the particle density in the second direction, for example, by more than 1.1 times, preferably more than 1.3 times.

[0076] The particle density in the first direction is the density along a straight line in the first direction, and the particle density in the second direction is the density of particles along a straight line in the second direction. In other words, the particle density in the first direction is the occupancy density of particles in the first direction, and the particle density in the second direction is the occupancy of particles in the second direction. The density is obtained by observing cross-sections in the first and second directions using an optical microscope and expressing the ratio of their areas.

[0077] The average porosity of the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is 40% or more. The average porosity is obtained by microscopic observation and optical methods determined by the area of ​​the particles and adhesive and the area of ​​the visible voids. Alternatively, if the proportion of adhesive 20 is ignored or assumed, the average porosity can be calculated based on the volume and weight of the bed structure 10.

[0078] Such an average porosity can be adjusted in the manufacturing method of the bed structure 10 described later by controlling the force of pressing in the first direction in the pressing process (S3, S5), controlling the amount of particles laid in the preparation process (S22), and controlling the amount of adhesive.

[0079] Furthermore, the bed structure 10 does not have a mesh structure between the layers L1 to L5 to separate different types of particles. Therefore, in the first direction, particles of different compositions are connected by an adhesive 20. Specifically, at one end of the first layer L1 in the first direction ( Figure 1 The particles at the top (middle) and the particles at the other end of the first direction in the second layer L2 (middle is the top) Figure 1 Particles at the bottom (middle section) are connected via adhesive 20. Particles at one end of the second layer L2 and at the other end of the third layer L3 are connected via adhesive 20. Particles at one end of the third layer L3 and at the other end of the fourth layer L4 are connected via adhesive 20. Particles at one end of the fourth layer L4 and at the other end of the fifth layer L5 are connected via adhesive 20.

[0080] (1-2) Manufacturing method

[0081] The following is for reference Figures 1-10 Manufacturing instructions Figure 1 The method of bed structure 10 shown. In this specification, films F1 to F6 containing uncured adhesive 20 and films F1 to F6 containing cured adhesive 20 are described with the same names.

[0082] First, let me explain Figure 2 The manufacturing method of the first layer L1 is shown. First, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, container 40 is prepared (step S1). The container 40 used in step S1 is located on one side of a first direction (…). Figure 4 It is composed of an opening at the top (center). Figure 4 In this container 40, there is a bottom surface 41 and four side surfaces 42 extending upward from the bottom surface 41. The bottom surface 41 and the side surfaces 42 are, for example, mesh filters. The mesh filters are formed with multiple pores smaller than particles.

[0083] Next, as Figure 5 As shown, a first film F11 comprising a plurality of first particles 1 and an adhesive 20 is formed (step S2). The plurality of first particles 1 have the same phase transition temperature. The thickness of the first film F11 is not limited as long as it is film-shaped. Step S2 of forming the first film F11 in this embodiment includes, for example, the following steps.

[0084] Specifically, the first particle 1 is prepared (step S21). Here, a sieve is used to prepare the first particle 1, which is classified according to a maximum diameter of 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0085] Then, as Figure 6 As shown, multiple first particles 1 are arranged (step S22). Here, the multiple first particles 1 are arranged along the second direction on the bottom surface 41 of the container 40. Specifically, the multiple first particles 1 are scattered across the entire bottom surface 41 in a row along the second direction. In other words, the multiple first particles 1 are scattered across the entire bottom surface 41 in a manner that does not overlap in the first direction. To scatter the first particles 1 in the second direction, for example, a slit-shaped fixture moving at a certain speed is used. Additionally, in Figure 6 In this embodiment, for convenience, each particle 1 is shown in the same shape, but in this embodiment, broken particles are used as the first particle 1, so the heights in the first direction are not uniform.

[0086] Next, as Figure 7 As shown, adhesive 20 is disposed between a plurality of first particles 1 (step S23). Here, as Figure 7As shown, a distributing component 43 filled with adhesive 20 is arranged above the container 40, opposite to the bottom surface 41, and the adhesive 20 is distributed from the distributing component 43. The adhesive 20 may or may not contact the first particle 1. Here, at least a portion of the adhesive 20 makes partial contact with the outer surface of the first particle 1.

[0087] In step S23, an appropriate amount of adhesive 20 is prepared. "Appropriate amount" refers to the amount sufficient to ensure the flow path 30 through which the fluid passes when forming the bed structure 10. If more than an appropriate amount of adhesive 20 is prepared, a process to remove the excess adhesive 20 is performed. In this process, it is determined, for example, by visual inspection, whether excess adhesive 20 has been prepared. If it is determined that excess adhesive has been prepared, air is blown onto the adhesive 20 to remove the excess adhesive 20.

[0088] Next, the adhesive 20 is cured to a certain extent (step S24). Here, the adhesive 20 is cured (semi-cured) by heat treatment or the like to a state that retains the adhesive properties of the adhesive 20. As a result, the adhesive 20 and the first particle 1 can be connected to a certain extent.

[0089] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, the first membrane F11 is pressed to thin its thickness (step S3). More specifically, the first membrane F11, which extends in the second direction, is pressed along the first direction. Here, the pressing member 45 is used to press one end of the first particle 1 from above to below the first membrane F11 in the first direction. Figure 8 (The middle part is the upper end). The pressing member 45 has a flat plate portion 45a that presses against the first film F11. The flat plate portion 45a is in contact with one end of the first particle 1 in the first direction. By performing this step S3, a first thin film F1 with a thickness in the first direction that is thinner than the thickness of the first film F11 in the first direction in step S2 can be formed (refer to...). Figure 9 The first thin film F1 in Figure 2 The middle part shows the adhesive 20 in a semi-cured state.

[0090] Alternatively, the thickness of the first film F1 can also be reduced by deforming the first particle 1. However, here the first particle 1 is not deformed, but the orientation of the first particle 1 is aligned to reduce the gap between the particles 1, thereby reducing the thickness of the first film F11.

[0091] Furthermore, by performing the pressing process (S3), a first thin film F1 with increased density of the first particles 1 in the first film F11 can be formed. In addition, by aligning one end of the first particles 1 in the first direction in the first film F11, a first thin film F1 with improved flatness can be formed.

[0092] The thickness of the first thin film F1 is less than twice the maximum thickness of the first particle 1. Therefore, a first thin film F1 with a thickness of 50 μm or more and less than 500 μm is formed. Here, since the first particles 1 are configured not to overlap in the second direction, the thickness of the first thin film F1 formed by the pressing process (S3) is more than 50 μm and less than 250 μm.

[0093] Next, as Figure 9 As shown, a second film F12 comprising second particles 2 and adhesive 20 is formed on the first film F1 (step S4). In this step S4, similar to the pressing step (S3), a plurality of second particles 2 are disposed on the first film F1 along the second direction, and then adhesive 20 is disposed between the plurality of second particles 2.

[0094] Next, the second film F12 is pressed to thin it (step S5). This step S5 is the same as the process of pressing the first film F11 (S3). Through this step S5, the second film F2 can be formed.

[0095] Similarly, the third thin film F3 to the sixth thin film F6 are formed sequentially (steps S6 to S9). Thus, as... Figure 10 As shown, a first laminated structure in which multiple thin films F1 to F6 are stacked in a first direction can be formed. The first laminated structure is the first layer L1 of the adhesive 20 in a semi-cured state.

[0096] Next, using particles with phase transition temperatures higher than those of particles 1 to 6 constituting the first layer L1, a second layered structure as the second layer L2 is formed (step S10), similar to the steps for forming the first layered structure (steps S1 to S9). Next, using particles with phase transition temperatures higher than those of the particles constituting the second layer L2, a third layered structure as the third layer L3 is formed (step S11), similar to the steps for forming the first layered structure (steps S1 to S9). Next, using particles with phase transition temperatures higher than those of the particles constituting the third layer L3, a fourth layered structure as the fourth layer L4 is formed (step S12), similar to the steps for forming the first layered structure (steps S1 to S9). Next, using particles with phase transition temperatures higher than those of the particles constituting the fourth layer L4, a fifth layered structure as the fifth layer L5 is formed (step S13), similar to the steps for forming the first layered structure (steps S1 to S9).

[0097] Next, the adhesive 20 is cured (step S14). This allows multiple particles to be linked together using the adhesive 20. By performing the above steps (S1 to S14), the first layer L1 to the fifth layer L5 can be formed within the container 40.

[0098] Alternatively, the curing process (S14) can be performed in multiple steps. For example, the curing process (S14) can be performed after each pressing process, or it can be performed after a layered structure is formed.

[0099] Next, container 40 is removed (step S15). By performing the above steps (S1 to S15), it is possible to manufacture... Figure 1 The bed structure 10 is shown.

[0100] In this embodiment, the bed structure 10 after removing the container 40 is further subjected to a process (step S16) to confirm that a flow channel 30 for fluid passage has been formed. In this step S15, the flow channel 30 is confirmed to have been formed, for example, by visual inspection or by introducing air.

[0101] (1-3) Actions

[0102] In this embodiment, fluid flows through the flow channel 30 of the bed structure 10. The fluid flows while exchanging heat with the exposed particles. At this time, the fluid is heated or cooled by the particles when the particles heat up due to the applied magnetic field or when the applied magnetic field is stopped.

[0103] (2) Heat source

[0104] In this embodiment, the heat source utilizes heat released from the particles to exchange heat with the fluid. The heat source has the bed structure and application part described in (1) above. Therefore, the heat source has a variety of particles with different magnetocaloric effects.

[0105] The application section applies a magnetic field to the particles. Specifically, the application section is capable of changing the magnetic field applied to the particles. The application section has a magnetic circuit, etc., and has a portion located on one side and a portion located on the other side relative to various particles.

[0106] The application unit can switch between applying a magnetic field to the particles and not applying a magnetic field. In addition, the application unit can also strengthen the magnetic field applied to the particles and weaken the magnetic field without reducing it to zero.

[0107] Such a heat source, for example, can be like Figure 11 The heat source 11 shown is configured as described. The heat source 11 includes a bed structure 10 and an application section 31.

[0108] Bed structure 10 Figure 11 The structure shown is composed of multiple layers L1 to L5 arranged in a specific configuration. The application unit 31 has a portion located on one side relative to the bed structure 10 and a portion located on the other side, and is capable of applying a magnetic field to the bed structure 10 and removing the magnetic field by stopping the application of the magnetic field.

[0109] (3) Magnetic refrigeration system

[0110] The magnetic refrigeration system of this embodiment is an AMR system. The magnetic refrigeration system includes the heat source and moving part described in (2) above.

[0111] The moving part moves the fluid that exchanges heat with the particles. The fluid and particles come into thermal contact. The fluid is, for example, a heat medium such as a refrigerant or water.

[0112] Specifically, the moving part causes the fluid to move relative to the various particles present in the bed structure. The moving part is not particularly limited and can be composed of pistons located on both sides of the particles or a pump located in a closed loop.

[0113] Such a magnetic refrigeration system can be configured as follows: Figure 12 The magnetic refrigeration system 100 shown is a temperature control device. This magnetic refrigeration system 100 includes a heat source 11, a moving circuit 160, a high-temperature side circuit 140, and a low-temperature side circuit 150.

[0114] As described in (2) above, the heat source 11 has a bed structure 10 and an application part 31. As described in (1) above, the bed structure 10 has multiple layers L1 to L5. The application part 31 is capable of applying a magnetic field to all the particles in the bed structure 10, and can weaken or stop the applied magnetic field to remove the magnetic field.

[0115] The moving loop 160 includes a tank 162, a pump 163, and a flow channel 161 connecting them, and is internally filled with fluid. The bed structure 10 can be disposed inside the tank 162 or outside the tank 162 such that the fluid inside the tank 162 is in thermal contact with the particles. The tank 162 has a high-temperature storage section 162a relative to the high-temperature side of the bed structure 10 and a low-temperature storage section 162b relative to the low-temperature side of the bed structure 10. Furthermore, in the bed structure 10, particles of the fifth layer L5 with a high phase change temperature are located on the high-temperature storage section 162a side, and particles of the first layer L1 with a low phase change temperature are located on the low-temperature storage section 162b side. When a magnetic field is applied to the bed structure 10 from the application section 31, and the fluid is heated by heat released from the bed structure 10, the pump 163 is driven to move the fluid towards the high-temperature side of the bed structure 10. As a result, a high-temperature fluid volume is stored in the high-temperature storage section 162a. Furthermore, when the application unit 31 stops applying the magnetic field to the bed structure 10 and removes the magnetic field, the bed structure 10 absorbs heat from the fluid. As the fluid temperature drops, the pump 163 is driven to move the fluid towards the low-temperature side of the bed structure 10. As a result, the fluid volume that has become low-temperature exists in the low-temperature storage section 162b. By repeatedly moving the fluid and applying and removing the magnetic field, the high-temperature fluid accumulates in the high-temperature storage section 162a, and the low-temperature fluid accumulates in the low-temperature storage section 162b.

[0116] The high-temperature side circuit 140 includes a high-temperature side first heat exchanger 141, a high-temperature side pump 144, a high-temperature side second heat exchanger 142, and a high-temperature side flow channel 143 connecting them, with a high-temperature side heat medium such as refrigerant or water circulating inside. The high-temperature side first heat exchanger 141 is disposed within a high-temperature storage section 162a, and heat exchange occurs between the high-temperature side heat medium flowing inside the high-temperature side first heat exchanger 141 and the high-temperature fluid within the high-temperature storage section 162a. The high-temperature side second heat exchanger 142 utilizes the high temperature of the high-temperature side heat medium flowing inside it to heat the object to be heated. The object to be heated can be air, a fluid such as water, or a solid to be heated. The high-temperature side flow channel 143 connects the high-temperature side first heat exchanger 141, the high-temperature side pump 144, and the high-temperature side second heat exchanger 142, allowing the high-temperature side heat medium to circulate between them. The high-temperature side pump 144 is driven to circulate the high-temperature side heat medium within the high-temperature side circuit 140.

[0117] The cryogenic side circuit 150 includes a cryogenic side first heat exchanger 151, a cryogenic side pump 154, a cryogenic side second heat exchanger 152, and a cryogenic side flow channel 153 connecting them, with a cryogenic side heat medium such as refrigerant or water circulating inside. The cryogenic side first heat exchanger 151 is disposed within a cryogenic storage section 162b, and heat exchange occurs between the cryogenic side heat medium flowing inside the cryogenic side first heat exchanger 151 and the cryogenic fluid within the cryogenic storage section 162b. The cryogenic side second heat exchanger 152 utilizes the low temperature of the cryogenic side heat medium flowing inside it to cool the object to be cooled. The object to be cooled can be air, a fluid such as water, or a solid to be cooled. The cryogenic side flow channel 153 connects the cryogenic side first heat exchanger 151, the cryogenic side pump 154, and the cryogenic side second heat exchanger 152, allowing the cryogenic heat medium to circulate between them. The cryogenic side pump 154 ​​is driven to circulate the cryogenic side heat medium within the cryogenic side circuit 150.

[0118] (4) Characteristics

[0119] (4-1)

[0120] The bed structure 10 of this embodiment is a bed structure for a magnetic refrigeration system 100 through which fluid passes in a first direction. A plurality of particles with a magnetocaloric effect are arranged in the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The plurality of particles are bonded together with an adhesive to form a flow channel 30 between the particles for the fluid to pass through. The particle density in the first direction is greater than the particle density in the second direction.

[0121] By pressing multiple particles arranged in the second direction along the first direction (pressing steps (S3, S5)) to form a thinned film (films F1 to F6 in this embodiment), the bed structure 10 of this embodiment can achieve a particle density in the first direction that is greater than the particle density in the second direction. Therefore, in the bed structure 10 of this embodiment, even if fluid passes through the flow channel 30, particle movement in the first direction can be suppressed. Consequently, the mesh used to suppress particle movement in the first direction can be omitted from the bed structure 10 of this embodiment.

[0122] When using the bed structure 10, particles may develop cracks due to wear and other reasons. Even in this case, the bed structure 10 of this embodiment can omit the mesh, thus suppressing particle clogging of the mesh and the outflow of fine particles from the mesh. In addition, it can suppress adhesive clogging of the mesh, thereby reducing pressure loss. Furthermore, since it is easy to confirm that the particles are connected, reliability is improved.

[0123] (4-2)

[0124] The bed structure 10 of this embodiment is based on the bed structure described in (4-1) above, in which multiple particles have multiple phase transition temperatures.

[0125] As mentioned above, multiple particles with multiple phase transition temperatures can also be set.

[0126] (4-3)

[0127] The bed structure 10 of this embodiment is based on the bed structure described in (4-2) above, in which multiple particles have multiple phase transition temperatures in the first direction and the same phase transition temperature in the second direction.

[0128] Here, even with a cascaded structure, the network structure corresponding to different phase transition temperatures can be omitted.

[0129] (4-4)

[0130] In this embodiment, the bed structure 10 is based on any one of the bed structures in (4-1) to (4-3) above, and the multiple particles constituting the first layer L1 have the same phase transition temperature.

[0131] As mentioned above, a first layer L1 may also be provided, which contains multiple particles having the same phase transition temperature.

[0132] (4-5)

[0133] The bed structure 10 of this embodiment is based on any one of the bed structures in (4-1) to (4-4) above, wherein the maximum diameter of the plurality of particles is 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0134] As mentioned above, it is also possible to have multiple particles with a maximum diameter of 50 μm or more and less than 250 μm.

[0135] (4-6)

[0136] The bed structure 10 of this embodiment is based on any one of the bed structures in (4-1) to (4-5) above, and has an average porosity of 40% or more.

[0137] Here, since the average porosity is over 40%, the flow path 30 of the fluid can be adequately ensured.

[0138] (4-7)

[0139] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a bed structure for a magnetic refrigeration system 100, comprising the following steps: Forming a first film F11 comprising a plurality of first particles 1 and an adhesive 20 (step S2). The plurality of first particles 1 have a magnetocaloric effect. Pressing the first film F11 to thin its thickness (step S3). Forming a second film F12 on the thinned first film (first thin film F1), the second film F12 comprising a plurality of second particles 2 and an adhesive 20 (step S4). The plurality of second particles 2 have a magnetocaloric effect.

[0140] In the manufacturing method of the bed structure 10 of this embodiment, by pressing a first film F11 containing a plurality of first particles 1 arranged in a second direction and an adhesive 20 along a first direction, the movement of the first particles 1 in the first direction can be suppressed. Therefore, a first film (first thin film F1) with reduced thickness can be formed, eliminating the need for a mesh structure to suppress the movement of the first particles 1 in the first direction. By stacking a second film F12 containing second particles 2 on such a first thin film F1, and thus stacking a plurality of particles in the first direction, a bed structure 10 with an omitted mesh structure can be manufactured.

[0141] In addition, by performing a pressing process (S3) during the lamination process, the particles can be bonded more reliably, and the particle filling density can be increased.

[0142] (4-8)

[0143] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure described in (4-7) above. The step (S2) of forming the first film F11 includes: a step of arranging a plurality of first particles 1 (S22) and a step of arranging the adhesive 20 between the plurality of first particles 1 (S23).

[0144] Here, the particle filling rate can be improved by pressing (S3) the first film F11, in which adhesive 20 is disposed between a plurality of first particles 1 disposed in the second direction.

[0145] (4-9)

[0146] The manufacturing method of the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the manufacturing method of the bed structure described in (4-7) or (4-8) above, wherein the thickness of the thinned first film (first thin film F1) is less than twice the maximum thickness of the first particle 1.

[0147] Here, a first thin film F1 can be formed that suppresses the overlap of the first particles 1 in the first direction.

[0148] (4-10)

[0149] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any one of (4-7) to (4-9) above, wherein the maximum diameter of the first particle is 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0150] As described above, a bed structure 10 having a first particle 1 with a maximum diameter of 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less can also be manufactured.

[0151] In addition, in this embodiment, multiple thin films F1 to F6 are formed using particles with a maximum diameter of 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less, and multiple layers L1 to L5 are further formed by stacking multiple thin films F1 to F6. The multiple layers L1 to L5 are stacked to manufacture the bed structure 10.

[0152] (4-11)

[0153] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any one of (4-7) to (4-10) above, wherein the phase transition temperature of the first particle 1 is the same as the phase transition temperature of the second particle 2.

[0154] As described above, a bed structure 10 including thin films F1 and F2 can also be manufactured, wherein the thin films F1 and F2 have multiple particles 1 and 2 having the same phase transition temperature.

[0155] (4-12)

[0156] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any of the above-described (4-7) to (4-11) except that the phase transition temperature of the particles constituting the first layer L1 is different from the phase transition temperature of the particles constituting the second layer L2.

[0157] As described above, a bed structure 10 including layers L1 and L2 can also be manufactured, wherein layers L1 and L2 have multiple particles having multiple phase transition temperatures.

[0158] (4-13)

[0159] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any one of (4-7) to (4-12) above. In the step (S2) of forming the first membrane F11 and the step (S4) of forming the second membrane F12, the first membrane F11 and the second membrane F12 are formed inside the container 40.

[0160] As described above, container 40 can also be used to form the first membrane F11 and the second membrane F12.

[0161] (4-14)

[0162] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment, based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure described in (4-13) above, further includes a step (S15) of removing the container 40.

[0163] As described above, the container 40 can also be removed after the first membrane F11 and the second membrane F12 are formed using the container 40. This allows for the manufacture of a bed structure 10 that omits the container 40.

[0164] (4-15)

[0165] The method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 in this embodiment is based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure in any of the above-described (4-7) to (4-14) and further includes a step (S16) of confirming that a flow channel 30 for fluid to pass through is formed.

[0166] Here, since it is confirmed that flow channels 30 are formed between the particles for the fluid to pass through, it is possible to manufacture a bed structure 10 with reliable flow channels 30.

[0167] (5) Variations

[0168] (5-1) Variation Example 1

[0169] In the above embodiments, the pressing step of the first to sixth films is performed after the step of forming the first film F11 to the sixth film F16, but it is not limited to this. The method for manufacturing the bed structure of this disclosure can omit other pressing steps as long as at least one pressing step of the first to sixth films is performed. In other words, in the method for manufacturing the bed structure of this disclosure, the film formed by repeatedly configuring particles a predetermined number of times, configuring the adhesive, and curing the adhesive to a certain extent can also be pressed. In this modified example, the first layer L1 is formed, for example, in the following manner.

[0170] Specifically, such as Figure 13As shown, after the step of forming the second film F12 (S4), the step of pressing the second film F12 is not performed (S5), but instead the third film F13 is formed (step S61). Next, the steps of forming the fourth film F14 (S71), forming the fifth film F15 (S81), and forming the sixth film F16 (S91) are performed sequentially. Next, the stacked second film F12 to the sixth film F16 are pressed to form a thin film with the total thickness of the second film F12 to the sixth film F16 reduced (step S92). By performing this step (S92), a thin film can be formed with the first direction ends (upper ends) of multiple sixth particles aligned at one end (here, the upper end) of the sixth film F16. At this time, the thickness of the film formed on the first film F1 is greater than that of the first film F1.

[0171] In this way, by pressing the film formed by repeatedly configuring particles, configuring adhesive, and curing adhesive to a certain extent along the first direction to form a thin film, the interparticle porosity of the flow channel 30 can be increased.

[0172] (5-2) Variation Example 2

[0173] In the above embodiment, the step (S2) of forming the first film includes a step of configuring the first particles 1 (S22) and a step of configuring the adhesive (S23), but is not limited thereto. In the method for manufacturing the bed structure of this disclosure, the number of times the particle configuration step is performed may be more than the number of times the adhesive configuration step is performed. In other words, the particle configuration step may be performed multiple times, while the adhesive configuration step is performed simultaneously, to form a film. In this modified example, the first thin film F1 is formed, for example, in the following manner.

[0174] Specifically, such as Figure 14 As shown, implementation Figure 6 The process (S22) showing the configuration of multiple first particles 1 and Figure 7 The step (S23) shown is to prepare adhesive 20 to form Figure 5 The state shown. Next, as indicated. Figure 15 As shown, multiple seventh particles 7 are arranged on top of multiple first particles 1 (step S25). In this step (S25), similar to the step (S22) of arranging the first particles 1, the seventh particles 7 are arranged in a second direction. The seventh particles 7 have a magnetocaloric effect. The phase transition temperature of the seventh particles 7 may be different from that of the first particles 1, but here they are the same. In addition, the maximum diameter of the seventh particles 7 is the same as the maximum diameter of the first particles 1, which is 50 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0175] Next, similar to the above embodiment, the adhesive 20 is cured to a certain extent (step S24). Thus, a first film is formed.

[0176] Next, as Figure 16 As shown, the first film is pressed to thin its thickness (step S3). By performing this step S3, a first thin film can be formed. In this modified example, the first thin film preferably has a thickness of more than 50 μm and less than 500 μm because the first particle 1 and the seventh particle 7 are stacked.

[0177] As described above, the method for manufacturing the bed structure in this modified example, based on the method for manufacturing the bed structure described in (4-7), includes a step (S22) for forming the first film, which comprises a step (S22) for distributing a plurality of first particles 1, a step (S23) for distributing an adhesive 20 between the plurality of first particles 1, and a step (S25) for distributing a plurality of seventh particles 7 on the plurality of first particles 1 after the step (S23) for distributing the adhesive 20. The plurality of seventh particles 7 have a magnetocaloric effect.

[0178] Here, by pressing a first film on which a seventh particle 7 is disposed on the first particle 1 and the adhesive 2, it is possible to easily manufacture a thin film that maintains the interparticle gaps.

[0179] (5-3) Variation Example 3

[0180] In the above embodiment, a first film F1 is formed on the bottom surface 41 (step S2), but other films may also be formed under the first film F1.

[0181] (5-4) Variation Example 4

[0182] In the above embodiments, a bed structure having a layer of particles having a first phase transition temperature and a layer of particles having a second phase transition temperature different from the first phase transition temperature has been described as an example, but it is not limited to this.

[0183] The bed structure in this modified example is based on the bed structure described in (4-1) above, in which multiple particles have the same phase transition temperature. Alternatively, the bed structure in this modified example could also have multiple particles with the same phase transition temperature.

[0184] (5-5) Variation Example 5

[0185] In the above embodiments, a layer contains particles with the same phase transition temperature, but this is not a limitation. The bed structure of this disclosure may also have particles with multiple phase transition temperatures in a single layer. In this case, for example, multiple particles with different phase transition temperatures may be arranged in the bed structure such that the phase transition temperature of the particles gradually increases from one end in the first direction to the other.

[0186] The method for manufacturing the bed structure in this modified example is based on any of the methods for manufacturing the bed structure in (4-7) to (4-9) above, except that the phase transition temperature of the first particle 1 is different from that of the second particle 2.

[0187] As mentioned above, it is also possible to manufacture a bed structure with multiple particles having multiple phase transition temperatures.

[0188] (5-6) Variation Example 6

[0189] In the above embodiments, a bed structure having multiple layers L1 to L5 and its manufacturing method have been described as an example, but this disclosure may also describe a bed structure having a single layer and its manufacturing method. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the multiple layers L1 to L5 have the same thickness, but they may also have different thicknesses.

[0190] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a bed structure having multiple thin films F1 to F6 and its manufacturing method were described as an example, but this disclosure can also describe a bed structure having a single thin film and its manufacturing method. Additionally, in the above embodiments, the thicknesses of the multiple thin films F1 to F6 are the same, but they can also be different.

[0191] (5-7) Variation Example 7

[0192] In the above embodiments, a method for manufacturing the bed structure 10 using a container 40 having a bottom surface 41 and side surfaces 42 has been described, but the method is not limited thereto. In this modified example, the side surfaces 42 are omitted, and only the bottom surface 41 is used as the container.

[0193] (5-8) Variation Example 8

[0194] In the above embodiment, a bed structure 10 without container 40 was described as an example, but it is not limited to this. In this modified example, a container 40 is provided to house the layers L1 to L5.

[0195] In the manufacturing method of the bed structure in this modified example, the process of removing the container 40 (S15) is not performed; instead, the process of installing the top surface, which is opposite to the bottom surface 41, onto the side is performed. The top surface is a mesh filter with multiple pores smaller than particles.

[0196] (5-9) Variation Example 9

[0197] In the above embodiments, a bed structure with crushed particles and its manufacturing method were described as an example, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The shape of the particles can be spherical, granular, etc.

[0198] The embodiments and examples of this disclosure have been described above. However, it is understood that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as set forth in the claims.

[0199] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0200] 1: Particle (the first particle of the claim);

[0201] 2: Particle (the second particle in the claim); 7: Particle (the third particle in the claim); 10: Bed structure; 20: Adhesive; 30: Flow channel; 40: Container; 100: Magnetic refrigeration system; F11: Membrane (the first membrane of the claim); F12: Membrane (the second membrane of the claim); Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-46085

Claims

1. A bed structure (10) for a magnetic refrigeration system (100) through which fluid passes in a first direction, characterized in that, Multiple particles with magnetocaloric effect (1) are arranged in the first direction and in the second direction intersecting the first direction. The plurality of particles are bonded together with an adhesive (20) to form a flow channel (30) between the plurality of particles for fluid to pass through. The density of the particles in the first direction is greater than the density of the particles in the second direction.

2. The bed structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple particles have the same phase transition temperature.

3. The bed structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple particles have multiple phase transition temperatures.

4. The bed structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of particles have a plurality of phase transition temperatures in the first direction and the same phase transition temperature in the second direction.

5. The bed structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The maximum diameter of the plurality of particles is greater than 50 μm and less than 250 μm.

6. The bed structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The average porosity of the bed structure is over 40%.

7. A method for manufacturing a bed structure (10), said bed structure (10) for use in a magnetic refrigeration system (100), characterized in that, include: Step (S2) forms a first film (F11) comprising a plurality of first particles (1) having a magnetocaloric effect and an adhesive (20). Step (S3) involves pressing the first film to thin its thickness; and In step (S4), a second film (F12) is formed on the thinned first film. The second film contains a plurality of second particles (2) with magnetocaloric effect and an adhesive (20).

8. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The process of forming the first membrane includes: Step (S22), configuring a plurality of the first particles; and In step (S23), the adhesive is disposed between multiple first particles.

9. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The process of forming the first membrane includes: Step (S22): Configure multiple first particles; Step (S23) involves distributing the adhesive between a plurality of the first particles; and In step (S25), after the step of preparing the adhesive, a plurality of third particles (7) having a magnetocaloric effect are disposed on a plurality of first particles.

10. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The thickness of the first film after thinning is less than twice the maximum thickness of the first particle.

11. A method for manufacturing a bed structure according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that, The maximum diameter of the first particle is greater than 50 μm and less than 250 μm.

12. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that, The phase transition temperature of the first particle is the same as that of the second particle.

13. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that, The phase transition temperature of the first particle is different from that of the second particle.

14. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that, In the process of forming the first membrane and the process of forming the second membrane, the first membrane and the second membrane are formed inside the container.

15. The method for manufacturing the bed structure according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes the step of removing the container (S15).

16. A method for manufacturing a bed structure according to any one of claims 7 to 15, characterized in that, It also includes the process of confirming that a flow channel for fluid to pass through has been formed (S16).

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