Continuous refrigerating system based on ionic heat effect

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of solid-state refrigeration, and provides a continuous refrigeration system based on an ionic heat effect, which comprises an electrodialysis device and a secondary refrigerant circulation loop, the electrodialysis device comprises a dialysis tank, a direct-current power supply, an electrode, a cation exchange membrane and an anion exchange membrane, the output polarity of the direct-current power supply is adjustable, and the secondary refrigerant circulation loop is connected with the electrode. A solvent and a salt working substance pair are arranged in the dialysis tank; the secondary refrigerant circulation loop comprises a heat exchange coil pipe, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger and a valve group, the heat exchange coil pipe is arranged between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane, the two ends of the heat exchange coil pipe are connected with a first connector and a fourth connector of the valve group, and the first heat exchanger is connected with a second connector and a fifth connector of the valve group; the second heat exchanger is connected with a third interface and a sixth interface of the valve group; and the valve group controls the communication condition of each interface. Thus, the secondary refrigerant is used for heat transfer so as to refrigerate at the first heat exchanger or the second heat exchanger, circulating conveying of the solvent and the salt working medium pair is avoided, and solid-phase conveying of the solvent is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of solid-state refrigeration technology, and in particular to a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect. Background Technology

[0002] Developing safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly new refrigeration technologies is a crucial measure in addressing global warming. Solid-state cooling technology based on the thermal effect is considered one of the promising refrigeration methods, potentially fundamentally solving the environmental hazards and low energy efficiency of traditional refrigeration methods. Among these, novel refrigeration methods based on the ionothermic effect mainly change the ionic environment surrounding the solvent by mixing or separating the solvent and salt, thereby altering the solvent's melting point. This causes a solid-liquid phase transition, utilizing the endothermic effect of melting for cooling.

[0003] Currently, refrigeration systems based on the ionothermal effect use the solvent as the circulating working fluid, allowing the solvent to participate in the entire cycle. During the solvent circulation process, a phase change occurs, thus involving both solid-phase and liquid-phase transport of the solvent. That is, solid transport pipelines and liquid transport pipelines need to be set up in the system. The transport of solids is relatively difficult, resulting in a long ionothermal cycle time.

[0004] Therefore, how to solve the problem of difficult solid-phase solvent transport in refrigeration systems based on ionothermal effects has become an important technical problem to be solved by those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0005] This invention provides a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect, which solves the problem of difficulty in solid-phase solvent transport in related refrigeration systems based on the ionothermal effect.

[0006] This invention provides a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermic effect, comprising:

[0007] An electrodialysis device includes a dialysis cell, a DC power supply, and a pair of electrodes, a cation exchange membrane, and an anion exchange membrane disposed inside the dialysis cell. The pair of electrodes are disposed at both ends of the dialysis cell and respectively connected to the two poles of the DC power supply. The output polarity of the DC power supply is adjustable. The cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane are disposed between the pair of electrodes. The dialysis cell is filled with a solvent and a salt working medium pair.

[0008] A refrigerant circulation loop includes a heat exchange coil, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a valve group, and a power pump. The heat exchange coil is disposed between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane. The valve group has at least a first port, a second port, a third port, a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port. The first port is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange coil, and the fourth port is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange coil. The two ends of the refrigerant channel of the first heat exchanger are respectively connected to the second port and the fifth port. The two ends of the refrigerant channel of the second heat exchanger are respectively connected to the third port and the sixth port. The power pump is adapted to provide power for the flow of the refrigerant.

[0009] The valve assembly is adapted to switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first interface is connected to the second interface and the fourth interface is connected to the fifth interface. In the second state, the first interface is connected to the third interface and the fourth interface is connected to the sixth interface.

[0010] According to the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermic effect provided by this utility model, the valve assembly includes:

[0011] The first three-way valve has three ports, which are respectively designated as the first port, the second port, and the third port.

[0012] The second three-way valve has three ports, which are respectively referred to as the fourth port, the fifth port, and the sixth port.

[0013] According to the present invention, a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect is provided, wherein two electrodialysis devices are provided, and a heat exchange coil is provided between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane of each electrodialysis device.

[0014] According to the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermic effect provided by this utility model, the valve assembly further includes:

[0015] The third three-way valve has three ports, which are respectively designated as the first port, the second port, and the third port.

[0016] The fourth three-way valve has three ports, which are respectively referred to as the fourth port, the fifth port, and the sixth port.

[0017] According to the continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect provided by this utility model, at least two of the first of the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane are provided, and a second one is provided between any two adjacent first ones;

[0018] At least two heat exchange coils are provided, and a heat exchange coil is provided between any two adjacent cation exchange membranes and anion exchange membranes.

[0019] According to the present invention, a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect is provided, wherein the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane are arranged in pairs, and each of the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane is arranged alternately.

[0020] At least two heat exchange coils are provided, and a heat exchange coil is provided between any two adjacent cation exchange membranes and anion exchange membranes.

[0021] According to the present invention, a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect is provided, wherein the valve group is an eight-way valve, and the valve group also has a seventh port and an eighth port. In the first state, the seventh port is connected to the third port and the eighth port is connected to the sixth port. In the second state, the seventh port is connected to the second port and the eighth port is connected to the fifth port.

[0022] The inlet and outlet of one of any two adjacent heat exchange coils are respectively connected to the first interface and the fourth interface, and the inlet and outlet of the other of any two adjacent heat exchange coils are respectively connected to the seventh interface and the eighth interface.

[0023] According to the present invention, a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect is provided, wherein the output polarity of the DC power supply switches simultaneously with the state of the valve group, the first heat exchanger is adapted to be installed in a first target space, the second heat exchanger is adapted to be installed in a second target space, and the cooling and heating requirements of the first target space are different from the cooling and heating requirements of the second target space.

[0024] According to the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermic effect provided by this utility model, it further includes:

[0025] A first fan, corresponding to the first heat exchanger, is adapted to promote heat exchange between the medium surrounding the first heat exchanger and the first heat exchanger.

[0026] A second fan, corresponding to the second heat exchanger, is adapted to facilitate heat exchange between the medium surrounding the second heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0027] According to the present invention, a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect is provided, wherein the electrode is a graphite electrode.

[0028] This invention provides a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect, comprising an electrodialysis device and a refrigerant circulation loop. The electrodialysis device includes a dialysis cell, a DC power supply, a pair of electrodes, a cation exchange membrane, and an anion exchange membrane, all disposed inside the dialysis cell. The pair of electrodes are located at both ends of the dialysis cell and connected to the two poles of the DC power supply, the output polarity of which is adjustable. Adjusting the output polarity of the DC power supply changes the polarity of the electrodes. The cation exchange membrane and anion exchange membrane are positioned between the pair of electrodes. The dialysis cell is filled with a solvent and salt working fluid pair; the salt mixed in the solvent can separate cations and anions. When the output polarity of the DC power supply is set to its first polarity, one electrode is positive and the other negative. Cations between the cation and anion exchange membranes move through the cation exchange membrane towards the negative electrode, while anions move through the anion exchange membrane towards the positive electrode. As the salt concentration between the anion and cation exchange membranes decreases, the melting point of the solvent increases, causing the solvent to solidify into a solid phase. This solidification process absorbs heat. When the DC power supply output polarity is the second output polarity, the polarities of the two electrodes change. Cations near the original negative electrode move through the cation exchange membrane to the space between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane, while anions near the original positive electrode move through the anion exchange membrane to the space between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane. The salt concentration between the anion exchange membrane and the cation exchange membrane increases, the melting point of the solvent decreases, and the solid-phase solvent melts, releasing heat during the melting process. The refrigerant circulation loop includes a heat exchange coil, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a valve group, and a power pump. The heat exchange coil is positioned between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane. The refrigerant circulation loop is filled with refrigerant, and the power pump provides the power to drive the refrigerant circulation within the loop. During the refrigerant circulation process, the latent heat of phase change of the solvent is removed. The valve assembly has at least a first port, a second port, a third port, a fourth port, a fifth port, and a sixth port. The first port is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange coil, and the fourth port is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange coil. The two ends of the refrigerant passage in the first heat exchanger are connected to the second port and the fifth port, respectively. The two ends of the refrigerant passage in the second heat exchanger are connected to the third port and the sixth port, respectively. The valve assembly can switch between a first state and a second state. When the valve assembly is switched to the first state, the first port is connected to the second port, and the fourth port is connected to the fifth port. At this time, the refrigerant circulates between the heat exchange coil and the first heat exchanger. When the valve assembly is switched to the second state, the first port is connected to the third port, and the fourth port is connected to the sixth port. At this time, the refrigerant circulates between the heat exchange coil and the second heat exchanger.If the first heat exchanger is used to cool the target object or space, the DC power supply output polarity is switched to the first output polarity, and the valve group is switched to the first state. When the solvent melts, it absorbs heat from the refrigerant in the heat exchange coil, lowering the refrigerant's temperature. As the refrigerant flows through the first heat exchanger, it exchanges heat with the gas in the target object or space, thus cooling the target object or space. After the solvent has completely melted, the DC power supply output polarity can be switched to the second output polarity, and the valve group is switched to the second state. When the solvent solidifies, it releases heat, and the refrigerant in the heat exchange coil absorbs this heat, increasing its temperature. As the refrigerant flows through the second heat exchanger, it releases this heat. The process of the refrigerant releasing heat in the second heat exchanger does not affect the temperature of the target object or space. After the solvent has completely solidified, the DC power supply output polarity is switched back to the first output polarity, and the valve group is switched to the first state, and this cycle repeats. By cyclically switching the DC power supply output polarity and the valve group state, cooling can be achieved using either the first or second heat exchanger. The solvent and salt remain within the dialysis tank, avoiding the circulation and transport of the solvent and salt working fluid pair, and preventing solid-phase transport of the solvent. Furthermore, the refrigerant does not undergo a phase change in the refrigerant circulation loop, remaining in the liquid phase throughout, thus eliminating solid-phase transport and resolving the difficulty of solid-phase solvent transport in refrigeration systems based on the ionothermal effect in related technologies. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect provided by this utility model when it has two electrodialysis devices.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electrodialysis device provided by this utility model.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect operating with the DC power supply of the first electrodialysis device having the second output polarity, the DC power supply of the second electrodialysis device having the first output polarity, and the valve group in the second state.

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1The diagram shows a continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect operating with the DC power supply of the first electrodialysis device having the first output polarity, the DC power supply of the second electrodialysis device having the second output polarity, and the valve group in the first state.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect provided by this utility model, which has a single electrodialysis device and two cation exchange membranes inside the electrodialysis device.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single electrodialysis device provided by this utility model when it has two cation exchange membranes.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the eight-way valve provided by this utility model.

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic of a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect operating with the DC power supply output polarity being the first output polarity and the valve group being in the first state.

[0038] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic of a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect operating with the DC power supply output polarity being the second output polarity and the valve group being in the second state.

[0039] Figure label:

[0040] 1. Electrodialysis device; 2. Dialysis cell; 3. DC power supply; 4. Electrode; 5. Cation exchange membrane; 6. Anion exchange membrane; 7. Heat exchange coil; 8. First heat exchanger; 9. Second heat exchanger; 10. First port; 11. Second port; 12. Third port; 13. Fourth port; 14. Fifth port; 15. Sixth port; 16. First three-way valve; 17. Second three-way valve; 18. Third three-way valve; 19. Fourth three-way valve; 20. Eight-way valve; 21. Seventh port; 22. Eighth port; 23. First fan; 24. Second fan. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0042] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 9 This invention describes a continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect provided in this embodiment of the present invention includes an electrodialysis device 1 and a refrigerant circulation loop.

[0044] Specifically, the electrodialysis device 1 includes a dialysis tank 2, a DC power supply 3, a pair of electrodes 4, a cation exchange membrane 5, and an anion exchange membrane 6, with the pair of electrodes 4, the cation exchange membrane 5, and the anion exchange membrane 6 disposed inside the dialysis tank 2.

[0045] A pair of electrodes 4 are positioned at both ends of the dialysis cell 2. Each electrode 4 is connected to one of the two poles of a DC power supply 3, creating an electric field of a certain strength between the electrodes 4. The output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is adjustable, providing an adjustable electric field strength and direction. Adjusting the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 changes the polarity of the electrodes 4. The DC power supply 3 has a first output polarity and a second output polarity. When the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is the first output polarity, the electrode 4 on the left side of the dialysis cell 2 is the positive pole, and the electrode 4 on the right side is the negative pole. When the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is the second output polarity, the electrode 4 on the left side of the dialysis cell 2 is the negative pole, and the electrode 4 on the right side is the positive pole.

[0046] The pair of electrodes 4 can be graphite electrodes 4.

[0047] A cation exchange membrane 5 and an anion exchange membrane 6 are disposed between a pair of electrodes 4. The dialysis cell 2 is filled with a solvent and a salt working medium pair. The salt mixed in the solvent can separate cations and anions. The cation exchange membrane 5 allows only cations to pass through, and the anion exchange membrane 6 allows only anions to pass through.

[0048] When the output polarity of DC power supply 3 is the first output polarity, one electrode 4 is the positive electrode and the other electrode 4 is the negative electrode. Cations between cation exchange membrane 5 and anion exchange membrane 6 move through cation exchange membrane 5 towards the negative electrode, and anions move through anion exchange membrane 6 towards the positive electrode. The salt concentration between anion exchange membrane 6 and cation exchange membrane 5 decreases, the melting point of the solvent increases, and the solvent will solidify into a solid phase. The solidification process of the solvent absorbs heat.

[0049] When the output polarity of DC power supply 3 is the second output polarity, the polarity of the two electrodes 4 changes. Cations near the original negative electrode move through cation exchange membrane 5 to the space between cation exchange membrane 5 and anion exchange membrane 6, while anions near the original positive electrode move through anion exchange membrane 6 to the space between cation exchange membrane 5 and anion exchange membrane 6. The salt concentration between anion exchange membrane 6 and cation exchange membrane 5 increases, the melting point of the solvent decreases, and the solid-phase solvent melts, releasing heat during the melting process.

[0050] The refrigerant circulation loop includes a heat exchange coil 7, a first heat exchanger 8, a second heat exchanger 9, a valve assembly, and a power pump. The heat exchange coil 7 is positioned between the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6. The refrigerant circulation loop is filled with refrigerant, and the power pump provides the power to drive the refrigerant circulation within the loop. During the refrigerant circulation process, the latent heat of phase change of the solvent is removed.

[0051] The valve assembly has at least a first port 10, a second port 11, a third port 12, a fourth port 13, a fifth port 14, and a sixth port 15. The first port 10 is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange coil 7, the fourth port 13 is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange coil 7, the two ends of the refrigerant passage of the first heat exchanger 8 are connected to the second port 11 and the fifth port 14 respectively, and the two ends of the refrigerant passage of the second heat exchanger 9 are connected to the third port 12 and the sixth port 15 respectively.

[0052] The valve assembly can switch between the first state and the second state. When the valve assembly is switched to the first state, the first port 10 is connected to the second port 11, and the fourth port 13 is connected to the fifth port 14. At this time, the refrigerant circulates between the heat exchange coil 7 and the first heat exchanger 8.

[0053] When the valve group switches to the second state, the first port 10 is connected to the third port 12, and the fourth port 13 is connected to the sixth port 15. At this time, the refrigerant circulates between the heat exchange coil 7 and the second heat exchanger 9.

[0054] If the first heat exchanger 8 is used to cool the target object or target space, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is switched to the first output polarity, and the valve group is switched to the first state. When the solvent melts, it absorbs the heat of the refrigerant in the heat exchange coil 7, and the temperature of the refrigerant decreases. When the refrigerant flows through the first heat exchanger 8, it exchanges heat with the gas in the target object or target space, thereby achieving the cooling of the target object or target space.

[0055] After the solvent has completely melted, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 can be switched to the second output polarity, and the valve group can be switched to the second state. When the solvent solidifies, it releases heat. The refrigerant in the heat exchange coil 7 absorbs heat and its temperature rises. The refrigerant releases heat as it flows through the second heat exchanger 9. The process of the refrigerant releasing heat in the second heat exchanger 9 does not affect the temperature of the target object or the target space.

[0056] After the solvent has completely solidified, the output polarity of DC power supply 3 is switched to the first output polarity, and the valve group is switched to the first state, and this cycle is repeated.

[0057] With this configuration, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 and the state of the valve group are switched cyclically, allowing refrigeration to be achieved using either the first heat exchanger 8 or the second heat exchanger 9. The solvent and salt remain within the dialysis tank 2, avoiding the cyclic transport of the solvent and salt working fluid pair and preventing solid-phase transport of the solvent. Furthermore, the refrigerant does not undergo a phase change in the refrigerant circulation loop, remaining in the liquid phase throughout, thus eliminating solid-phase transport and resolving the difficulty of solid-phase solvent transport in refrigeration systems based on the ionothermal effect in related technologies.

[0058] In some embodiments, a six-way directional valve can be selected as the valve assembly described above. The use of a six-way directional valve reduces the number of valves required, which helps to simplify the piping design of the refrigerant circulation loop.

[0059] In other embodiments, the valve assembly is configured as a structure with two three-way valves working together, which helps to reduce costs.

[0060] Specifically, the valve assembly includes a first three-way valve 16 and a second three-way valve 17.

[0061] The first three-way valve 16 has three ports, designated as port 10, port 11, and port 12, respectively, for connecting the inlet of the heat exchange coil 7, the refrigerant passage of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant passage of the second heat exchanger 9. The second three-way valve 17 also has three ports, designated as port 13, port 14, and port 15, respectively, for connecting the outlet of the heat exchange coil 7, the refrigerant passage of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant passage of the second heat exchanger 9.

[0062] The connection structure between heat exchange coil 7, first heat exchanger 8, second heat exchanger 9, first three-way valve 16, and second three-way valve 17 is as follows: Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown.

[0063] In some embodiments of this invention, two electrodialysis devices 1 are provided. The two electrodialysis devices 1 have the same structure, each including a dialysis cell 2, a DC power supply 3, a pair of electrodes 4, a cation exchange membrane 5, and an anion exchange membrane 6. The output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the two electrodialysis devices 1 can be adjusted independently.

[0064] At this time, the refrigerant circulation loop includes two heat exchange coils 7. Each electrodialysis device 1 has a heat exchange coil 7 between the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6. Both heat exchange coils 7 are connected to the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9.

[0065] In actual operation, the phase change processes of the solvents in the two dialysis tanks 2 can be made different, causing the solvent in one dialysis tank 2 to solidify and the solvent in the other dialysis tank 2 to melt. Thus, when using the first heat exchanger 8 to cool the target object or target space, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the two dialysis tanks 2 is switched cyclically, ensuring that the output polarities of the DC power supply 3 of the two dialysis tanks 2 are different at any given time. While switching the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the two dialysis tanks 2, the valve group state is also switched to ensure that the first heat exchanger 8 is only connected to the heat exchange coil 7 in the dialysis tank 2 where the solvent has melted. In this way, the solvents in the two dialysis tanks 2 alternately absorb heat from the refrigerant in the heat exchange coil 7, continuously cooling the refrigerant and achieving continuous cooling of the target object or target space.

[0066] In this embodiment, the valve assembly also includes a third three-way valve 18 and a fourth three-way valve 19.

[0067] The third three-way valve 18 has three ports, which are designated as the first port 10, the second port 11, and the third port 12. The first three-way valve 16 is used to connect the inlet of one of the heat exchange coils 7, the refrigerant channel of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant channel of the second heat exchanger 9. The third three-way valve 18 is used to connect the inlet of the other heat exchange coil 7, the refrigerant channel of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant channel of the second heat exchanger 9.

[0068] The fourth three-way valve 19 has three ports, which are designated as the fourth port 13, the fifth port 14, and the sixth port 15, respectively. The second three-way valve 17 is used to connect the outlet of the heat exchange coil 7, the refrigerant passage of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant passage of the second heat exchanger 9. The fourth three-way valve 19 is used to connect the outlet of the other heat exchange coil 7, the refrigerant passage of the first heat exchanger 8, and the refrigerant passage of the second heat exchanger 9.

[0069] When two electrodialysis devices 1 work together to cool the target object or target space using the first heat exchanger 8, it is necessary to control the first three-way valve 16, the second three-way valve 17, the third three-way valve 18 and the fourth three-way valve 19 respectively.

[0070] Specifically, the two electrodialysis devices 1 are referred to as the first electrodialysis device and the second electrodialysis device, respectively. Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The electrodialysis device located at the top is the first electrodialysis device, and the electrodialysis device located at the bottom is the second electrodialysis device.

[0071] First, control the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the first electrodialysis device to the first output polarity, and the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the second electrodialysis device to the second output polarity. Then, control the first port 10 of the first three-way valve 16 to connect with the second port 11, the fourth port 13 of the second three-way valve 17 to connect with the fifth port 14, the first port 10 of the third three-way valve 18 to connect with the third port 12, and the fourth port 13 of the fourth three-way valve 19 to connect with the sixth port 15. (Refer to...) Figure 4 At this time, the solvent in the first electrodialysis device melts and absorbs heat, lowering the temperature of the refrigerant, thereby cooling the target object or target space at the location of the first heat exchanger 8. At this time, the solvent in the second electrodialysis device solidifies and releases heat, and the refrigerant conducts the heat to the second heat exchanger 9.

[0072] When the solvent in the first electrodialysis unit is completely melted and the solvent in the second electrodialysis unit is completely solidified, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the first electrodialysis unit is controlled to the second output polarity, and the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the second electrodialysis unit is controlled to the first output polarity. Simultaneously, the first port 10 of the first three-way valve 16 is connected to the third port 12, the fourth port 13 of the second three-way valve 17 is connected to the sixth port 15, the first port 10 of the third three-way valve 18 is connected to the second port 11, and the fourth port 13 of the fourth three-way valve 19 is connected to the fifth port 14. (Refer to...) Figure 3 At this point, the solvent in the first electrodialysis device solidifies and releases heat, and the refrigerant conducts the heat to the second heat exchanger 9. The solvent in the second electrodialysis device melts and absorbs the heat, lowering the temperature of the refrigerant, thereby cooling the target object or target space at the location of the first heat exchanger 8.

[0073] When the solvent in the first electrodialysis device is completely solidified and the solvent in the second electrodialysis device is completely melted, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 of the first electrodialysis device and the DC power supply 3 of the second electrodialysis device, as well as the connection status of the first three-way valve 16, the second three-way valve 17, the third three-way valve 18 and the fourth three-way valve 19, are switched again.

[0074] In this way, the two electrodialysis devices 1 can alternately absorb the heat of the refrigerant, achieving continuous cooling at the location of the first heat exchanger 8.

[0075] In some other embodiments of this utility model, the continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect includes an electrodialysis device 1, wherein at least two of the first of the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6 are provided in the dialysis cell 2 of the electrodialysis device 1, and a second of the first is provided between any two adjacent first membranes.

[0076] The first of the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6 can be either the cation exchange membrane 5 or the anion exchange membrane 6. Similarly, the second can be either the anion exchange membrane 6 or the cation exchange membrane 5. If the first of the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6 is the cation exchange membrane 5, then the second is the anion exchange membrane 6; if the first of the cation exchange membrane 5 and the anion exchange membrane 6 is the anion exchange membrane 6, then the second is the cation exchange membrane 5.

[0077] In each of the cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6, the one adjacent to the electrode 4 can be either a cation exchange membrane 5 or anion exchange membrane 6; no specific limitation is made here.

[0078] In some other embodiments of this invention, the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermic effect includes an electrodialysis device 1, in which cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6 are arranged in pairs, with each pair of cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6 arranged alternately. That is, one cation exchange membrane 5 and one anion exchange membrane 6 form a pair, and at least two pairs of cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6 are provided in the dialysis tank 2, with each pair of cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6 distributed alternately.

[0079] The space between adjacent cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6 is called a compartment. When at least two cation exchange membranes 5 or at least two anion exchange membranes 6 are installed in the dialysis tank 2, at least two compartments will be formed in the dialysis tank 2. A heat exchange coil 7 is installed between any two adjacent cation exchange membranes 5 and anion exchange membranes 6, that is, a heat exchange coil 7 is installed in each compartment.

[0080] Since the phase change processes of the solvents in any two adjacent compartments are different, the heat exchange coils 7 in compartments with the same phase change process can be connected in parallel. The inlet of each heat exchange coil 7 in the first group of parallel configurations is connected to the first port 10 of the valve group, and the outlet of each heat exchange coil 7 in the first group of parallel configurations is connected to the fourth port 13 of the valve group.

[0081] To connect the heat exchange coils 7 in the second group of parallel configurations to the valve assembly, the valve assembly needs to have a seventh port 21 and an eighth port 22; that is, the valve assembly can be an eight-way valve 20. The inlet of each heat exchange coil 7 in the second group of parallel configurations is connected to the seventh port 21 of the valve assembly, and the outlet of each heat exchange coil 7 in the second group of parallel configurations is connected to the eighth port 22 of the valve assembly.

[0082] When the valve assembly switches to the first state, the seventh port 21 needs to be connected to the third port 12, and the eighth port 22 needs to be connected to the sixth port 15. When the valve assembly switches to the second state, the seventh port 21 needs to be connected to the second port 11, and the eighth port 22 needs to be connected to the fifth port 14.

[0083] When using the first heat exchanger 8 to cool the target object or target space, first switch the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 to the first output polarity, and switch the valve group to the first state, referring to... Figure 8 At this time, the solvent in the compartment containing the first set of parallel heat exchange coils 7 melts. As the solvent melts, it absorbs heat from the refrigerant in the corresponding heat exchange coil 7. The refrigerant can then flow through the first heat exchanger 8 simultaneously, thus cooling the target object or space. Meanwhile, the solvent in the compartment containing the second set of parallel heat exchange coils 7 easily solidifies. As the solvent solidifies, it releases heat, which is then transferred to the second heat exchanger 9 by the refrigerant.

[0084] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The electrodialysis device 1 has two cation exchange membranes 5 and one anion exchange membrane 6 installed in the dialysis tank 2. The cation exchange membranes 5 are installed adjacent to the electrode 4, and the anion exchange membrane 6 is located between the two cation exchange membranes 5.

[0085] When cooling the first target space using the first heat exchanger 8, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is first controlled to the first output polarity, so that the valve group is switched to the first state. Then, the solvent in the left compartment melts and absorbs heat, and the solvent in the right compartment solidifies and releases heat, so that cooling can be achieved at the first heat exchanger 8 and heating can be achieved at the second heat exchanger 9.

[0086] After the solvent in the left compartment has completely melted and the solvent in the right compartment has completely solidified, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is controlled to the second output polarity, so that the valve group is switched to the second state. Then the solvent in the left compartment solidifies and releases heat, and the solvent in the right compartment melts and absorbs heat, so that cooling continues at the first heat exchanger 8 and heating is generated at the second heat exchanger 9.

[0087] After the solvent in the left compartment has completely solidified and the solvent in the right compartment has completely melted, the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 is controlled again to the first output polarity, so that the valve group is switched to the first state. By repeating this cycle, continuous cooling at the first heat exchanger 8 and continuous heating at the second heat exchanger 9 can be achieved.

[0088] In this embodiment of the present invention, the continuous refrigeration system based on the ion thermal effect needs to simultaneously switch the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 and the state of the valve group during operation to ensure that the output polarity of the DC power supply 3 corresponds to the state of the valve group, so that the refrigerant with a relatively low temperature continues to flow through the same one of the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9, and the refrigerant with a relatively high temperature continues to flow through the same one of the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9.

[0089] The temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger 8 is different from the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger 9. One of the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9 can be used for cooling, and the other can be used for heating. In specific use, the first heat exchanger 8 can be set in the first target space, and the second heat exchanger 9 can be set in the second target space. The cooling and heating requirements of the first target space are different from the cooling and heating requirements of the second target space.

[0090] Cooling and heating demands include both cooling and heating demands. The first heat exchanger 8 can be placed in the target space with cooling demand, and the second heat exchanger 9 can be placed in the target space with heating demand, so as to cool or heat the target spaces with different cooling and heating demands respectively, making full use of energy and greatly avoiding the problem of energy waste.

[0091] In this embodiment of the invention, the continuous cooling system based on the ion thermal effect further includes a first fan 23 and a second fan 24.

[0092] The first fan 23 corresponds to the first heat exchanger 8. The first fan 23 is used to promote heat exchange between the medium around the first heat exchanger 8 and the first heat exchanger 8.

[0093] The second fan 24 corresponds to the second heat exchanger 9 and is used to promote heat exchange between the medium surrounding the second heat exchanger 9 and the second heat exchanger 9.

[0094] For example, when using the first heat exchanger 8 to cool the first target space and the second heat exchanger 9 to heat the second target space, both the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9 are air-cooled heat exchangers. The operation of the first fan 23 promotes the circulation of gas within the first target space, facilitating heat exchange between the gas and the refrigerant at the location of the first heat exchanger 8, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the first target space. Similarly, the operation of the second fan 24 promotes the circulation of gas within the second target space, facilitating heat exchange between the gas and the refrigerant at the second heat exchanger 9, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the second target space.

[0095] When cooling or heating the target liquid, a plate heat exchanger can be selected as the first heat exchanger 8 and the second heat exchanger 9 mentioned above, and the other structures of the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect are not affected.

[0096] In summary, the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect provided by this embodiment directly drives the mixing and separation of salt ions and solvent through electrodialysis technology. This requires a small external field strength, reducing energy consumption and improving separation efficiency and controllability, thus contributing to increased ionothermal refrigeration power density. Utilizing the circulating refrigerant to extract the latent heat of the solid-liquid phase transition of the solvent avoids the need for solid-phase material transportation, preventing engineering problems such as solid blockage and increased pump losses during transport. The refrigeration system eliminates the need for complex fixed circulation pipeline designs, simplifying the structure, reducing processing and maintenance costs, and making it more suitable for large-scale applications. Furthermore, it reduces the total solvent demand, significantly lowering material costs. Employing a dual electrodialysis device design or a multi-compartment design with a single electrodialysis device, alternating the direction of the electric field and the refrigerant flow, uninterrupted continuous refrigeration is achieved. The continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect provided by this embodiment effectively improves ionothermal refrigeration power density, reduces production and processing costs and system complexity, and enhances the feasibility of practical applications.

[0097] On the other hand, this utility model embodiment also provides a refrigeration method based on the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect provided in any of the above embodiments. The refrigeration method described below can be referred to in correspondence with the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect described above.

[0098] In the refrigeration method provided by this utility model embodiment, the output polarity of the DC power supply is switched at preset intervals, and the state of the valve group is switched at the same time.

[0099] Matching the output polarity of DC power supply 3 with the state of the valve group enables the first heat exchanger 8 to perform cooling and the second heat exchanger 9 to perform heating.

[0100] The derivation process of the beneficial effects of the refrigeration method in this embodiment is largely similar to the derivation process of the beneficial effects of the continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect described above, so it will not be repeated here.

[0101] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and not to limit it. Although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. A continuous refrigeration system based on the ionothermal effect, characterized in that, The application relates to an electrodialysis device (1) comprising a dialysis cell (2), a direct current power supply (3), and a pair of electrodes (4), a cation exchange membrane (5) and an anion exchange membrane (6) arranged inside the dialysis cell (2), the pair of electrodes (4) being arranged at two ends of the dialysis cell (2) and being connected to two poles of the direct current power supply (3) respectively, the output polarity of the direct current power supply (3) being adjustable, the cation exchange membrane (5) and the anion exchange membrane (6) being arranged between the pair of electrodes (4), and the dialysis cell (2) being filled with a solvent and a salt working medium pair. A refrigerant circulation loop comprising a heat exchange coil (7), a first heat exchanger (8), a second heat exchanger (9), a valve group and a power pump, the heat exchange coil (7) being arranged between the cation exchange membrane (5) and the anion exchange membrane (6), the valve group having at least a first interface (10), a second interface (11), a third interface (12), a fourth interface (13), a fifth interface (14) and a sixth interface (15), the first interface (10) being connected to an inlet of the heat exchange coil (7), the fourth interface (13) being connected to an outlet of the heat exchange coil (7), two ends of a refrigerant channel of the first heat exchanger (8) being connected to the second interface (11) and the fifth interface (14) respectively, two ends of a refrigerant channel of the second heat exchanger (9) being connected to the third interface (12) and the sixth interface (15) respectively, and the power pump being adapted to provide power for the flow of refrigerant. The valve group is adapted to be switched between a first state and a second state, in the first state, the first interface (10) and the second interface (11) are communicated, and the fourth interface (13) and the fifth interface (14) are communicated, in the second state, the first interface (10) and the third interface (12) are communicated, and the fourth interface (13) and the sixth interface (15) are communicated. The valve group comprises:

2. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein, A first three-way valve (16) having three interfaces, the three interfaces of the first three-way valve (16) being used as the first interface (10), the second interface (11) and the third interface (12) respectively; A second three-way valve (17) having three interfaces, the three interfaces of the second three-way valve (17) being used as the fourth interface (13), the fifth interface (14) and the sixth interface (15) respectively. The electrodialysis device (1) is arranged in two, and the heat exchange coil (7) is arranged between the cation exchange membrane (5) and the anion exchange membrane (6) of each electrodialysis device (1).

3. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system of claim 2, wherein, The valve group further comprises:

4. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system of claim 3, wherein, A third three-way valve (18) having three interfaces, the three interfaces of the third three-way valve (18) being used as the first interface (10), the second interface (11) and the third interface (12) respectively; A fourth three-way valve (19) having three interfaces, the three interfaces of the fourth three-way valve (19) being used as the fourth interface (13), the fifth interface (14) and the sixth interface (15) respectively. ​ 5. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein, The first one of the cation exchange membrane (5) and the anion exchange membrane (6) is provided with at least two, and a second one is provided between any adjacent two of the first ones; The heat exchange coil (7) is provided with at least two, and the heat exchange coil (7) is provided between any adjacent cation exchange membrane (5) and anion exchange membrane (6).

6. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein, The cation exchange membrane (5) and the anion exchange membrane (6) are arranged in pairs, and each cation exchange membrane (5) and anion exchange membrane (6) are arranged alternately; The heat exchange coil (7) is provided with at least two, and the heat exchange coil (7) is provided between any adjacent cation exchange membrane (5) and anion exchange membrane (6).

7. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The valve group is an eight-way valve (20), and the valve group further has a seventh interface (21) and an eighth interface (22). In the first state of the valve group, the seventh interface (21) is in communication with the third interface (12), and the eighth interface (22) is in communication with the sixth interface (15). In the second state of the valve group, the seventh interface (21) is in communication with the second interface (11), and the eighth interface (22) is in communication with the fifth interface (14). The inlet and outlet of one of any adjacent two heat exchange coils (7) are connected to the first interface (10) and the fourth interface (13) respectively, and the inlet and outlet of the other of any adjacent two heat exchange coils (7) are connected to the seventh interface (21) and the eighth interface (22) respectively.

8. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The output polarity of the direct current power supply (3) is switched simultaneously with the state of the valve group. The first heat exchanger (8) is adapted to be arranged in a first target space, and the second heat exchanger (9) is adapted to be arranged in a second target space. The cooling and heating requirements of the first target space are different from the cooling and heating requirements of the second target space.

9. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that Further comprising: A first fan (23) corresponding to the first heat exchanger (8), the first fan (23) is adapted to promote the heat exchange between the medium around the first heat exchanger (8) and the first heat exchanger (8); A second fan (24) corresponding to the second heat exchanger (9), the second fan (24) is adapted to promote the heat exchange between the medium around the second heat exchanger (9) and the second heat exchanger (9).

10. The continuous ionothermally based refrigeration system according to any of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The electrode (4) is a graphite electrode.

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