A cold store

Abstract

The utility model provides a cold storage belongs to cold storage technical field, including main cold storage warehouse body and solid state spring catch device. Main cold storage warehouse body inside has main storage space, and main cold storage warehouse body is equipped with main cold storage outer warehouse door, solid state spring catch device includes main shape memory alloy, drive mechanism and sets up in the first circulation loop in main storage space, and the first circulation loop is built -in fluid heat exchange medium, under the refrigeration state, drive mechanism passes through unloading shape memory alloy and generates the cold quantity and conducts to fluid heat exchange medium, and fluid heat exchange medium passes through the first circulation loop and transmits the cold quantity to main storage space. The utility model provides a cold storage, and the whole refrigeration system does not need to rely on refrigerant as the cold quantity transmission medium, eliminates the leakage risk of refrigerant storage, transportation link, avoids the damage of refrigerant leakage to ozone layer, avoids the environmental pollution problem that compressor refrigeration can bring.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of cold storage technology, and more specifically, relates to a cold storage. Background Technology

[0002] In numerous fields such as cold chain logistics, food processing, and pharmaceutical warehousing, cold storage facilities, as core low-temperature storage facilities, directly affect the quality and safety of stored goods and the operational efficiency of enterprises through their refrigeration performance and operational stability. Currently, the vast majority of cold storage facilities on the market use traditional compressor refrigeration technology. This technology uses a compressor to drive the refrigerant through condensation, throttling, and evaporation processes, utilizing the heat absorption and release during the refrigerant's phase change to achieve refrigeration. With its mature technology system and wide range of applications, it has long held a dominant position in the cold storage refrigeration market.

[0003] However, during long-term operation, traditional compressor-cooled cold storage facilities are prone to refrigerant leakage due to the constant vibration, temperature changes, and mechanical wear on the refrigerant delivery pipeline interfaces and valves. Refrigerant leakage not only directly causes a sharp drop in refrigeration efficiency but can also completely disable the cold storage facility. If not detected and addressed promptly, it can lead to the spoilage and damage of stored fresh food, medicine, and other goods within a short period, resulting in significant economic losses for the business.

[0004] Furthermore, the refrigerants used in traditional compressor refrigeration technology have a strong destructive effect on the ozone layer. Refrigerant molecules leaking into the atmosphere decompose into chlorine atoms under ultraviolet radiation. These chlorine atoms then undergo a chain reaction with ozone, continuously consuming ozone molecules in the ozone layer, leading to holes in the ozone layer and causing environmental pollution. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a cold storage solution that addresses the environmental pollution caused by refrigerant leaks in traditional cold storage systems that utilize compressor refrigeration.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is: to provide a cold storage, comprising: The main cold storage unit has a main storage space inside, and the main cold storage unit is equipped with an outer cold storage door; The solid-state ejector device includes a main shape memory alloy, a drive mechanism, and a first circulation loop disposed in the main storage space, wherein the first circulation loop has a built-in fluid heat exchange medium. In the cooling state, the drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium transfers the cold energy to the main storage space through the first circulation loop.

[0007] In one possible implementation, a first solid-state spring clip is provided on the side of the main cold storage outer door facing the main storage space, and the first solid-state spring clip includes a first actuator and a first shape memory alloy. When the outer door of the main cold storage is switched from the open state to the closed state, the first actuator unloads the first shape memory alloy to generate cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss when the outer door of the main cold storage is open.

[0008] In one possible implementation, there are multiple first solid-state ejector cards, and any number of the first solid-state ejector cards can be selectively opened or closed.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the flow path of the fluid heat exchange medium in the first circulation loop preferentially passes through the area where the main cold storage outer door is located; Alternatively, the first circulation loop is connected to a first circulation branch, which is located in the area where the outer door of the main cold storage is located.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the main storage space has multiple storage areas, and the first circulation loop includes multiple circulation branches, with each circulation branch corresponding to one of the multiple storage areas.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the main cold storage unit has multiple sub-cold storage units, each of which has its own storage space and each of which has an external cold storage door. When there is one solid-state card ejector device, the first circulation loop is simultaneously set in multiple of the sub-storage spaces; When there are multiple solid-state card ejection devices, the multiple first circulation loops are arranged one-to-one in the multiple storage spaces; or, the multiple first circulation loops are arranged simultaneously in any one of the storage spaces.

[0012] In one possible implementation, a partition door is provided between adjacent cold storage units. When there is a temperature difference between adjacent cold storage units, a plurality of second solid spring clips are provided on one or both sides of the partition door. The second solid spring clips include a second driver and a second shape memory alloy. When the partition door switches from the open state to the closed state, the second actuator unloads the second shape memory alloy to generate cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss when the partition cold storage body is open on the low-temperature side.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the solid-state ejector device further includes a second circulation loop, which has a built-in fluid heat exchange medium. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium, which then transfers heat through the second circulation loop. When the main storage space is a separate space, the second circulation loop is located in the external environment; When the main storage space has a first sub-storage space and a second sub-storage space, the first circulation loop is set in the first sub-storage space and the second circulation loop is set in the second sub-storage space.

[0014] In one possible implementation, during defrosting, the second loop is located in the external environment; The drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold energy enters the second circulation loop. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying heat enters the first circulation loop to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop.

[0015] In one possible implementation, in the defrost state, the second circulation loop is located in the external environment, and the solid-state ejector device further includes a defrost loop, which is located in the main storage space; The drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold energy enters the defrosting circuit. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying heat enters the first circulation loop to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this cold storage system are as follows: Compared with the prior art, this cold storage system consists of a main cold storage body and a solid-state spring-loaded clamp device. The main cold storage body ensures the airtightness of the main storage space through an outer door. It utilizes a solid-state spring-loaded clamp device to replace traditional refrigerant refrigeration, employing a main shape memory alloy, a drive mechanism, and a first circulation loop with an internal fluid heat exchange medium as its core components. In refrigeration mode, the drive mechanism unloads the main shape memory alloy, triggering a change in its physical properties, thereby generating cooling. This cooling is directly transferred to the fluid heat exchange medium in the first circulation loop. Subsequently, through the circulation of the fluid heat exchange medium, the cooling is evenly transferred to the main storage space, achieving the low-temperature storage requirement. This cold storage system eliminates the need for refrigerant as the cooling medium, thus eliminating the risk of leakage during refrigerant storage and transportation, avoiding ozone layer depletion caused by refrigerant leaks, and mitigating the environmental pollution problems that may arise from compressor refrigeration. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cold storage provided by this utility model; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first solid spring clip provided in the first embodiment of the present invention for the main cold storage outer door; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure in which the fluid heat exchange medium of the first circulation branch preferentially passes through the area where the outer door of the main cold storage is located, as provided in the second embodiment of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the division between the new and old inventory areas provided in the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the main cold storage unit divided into multiple sub-cold storage units according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the partition door with a second solid spring clip provided in the fifth embodiment of this utility model; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cold storage provided by this utility model in the state of setting up a second circulation loop and defrosting.

[0019] In the picture: 100. Main cold storage unit; 101. Sub-cold storage unit; 1011. Sub-cold storage unit outer door; 1012. Divider door; 10121. Second solid-state spring clip; 10122. Second actuator; 10123. Second shape memory alloy; 1013. New storage area; 1014. Old storage area; 110. Main storage space; 120. Main cold storage unit outer door; 121. First solid-state spring clip; 1211. First actuator; 1212. First shape memory alloy; 130. Solid-state spring clip device; 140. First circulation loop; 141. Circulation branch; 160. Second circulation loop; 170. Defrosting loop. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present utility model and are not intended to limit the present utility model.

[0021] Unless otherwise explicitly specified, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" is intended to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order.

[0022] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of directional terms such as “center,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “high,” and “low” to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description. It is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific protection scope of the present invention.

[0023] Please see Figure 1 The present invention provides a cold storage facility. A cold storage facility includes a main cold storage body 100 and a solid-state spring-loaded device 130. The main cold storage body 100 has a main storage space 110 inside and a main cold storage outer door 120. The solid-state spring-loaded device 130 includes a main shape memory alloy, a drive mechanism, and a first circulation loop 140 disposed within the main storage space 110. The first circulation loop 140 contains a fluid heat exchange medium. In the refrigeration state, the drive mechanism generates cooling by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium then transfers the cooling to the main storage space 110 through the first circulation loop 140.

[0024] This invention provides a cold storage facility that, compared to existing technologies, comprises a main cold storage body 100 and a solid-state spring-loaded device 130. The main cold storage body 100 ensures the airtightness of the main storage space 110 through an outer door. The solid-state spring-loaded device 130 replaces traditional refrigerant refrigeration, employing a main shape memory alloy, a drive mechanism, and a first circulation loop 140 with an internal fluid heat exchange medium as its core components. In refrigeration mode, the drive mechanism unloads the main shape memory alloy, triggering a change in its physical properties, thereby generating cooling. This cooling is directly transferred to the fluid heat exchange medium in the first circulation loop 140, and then, through the circulation of the fluid heat exchange medium, the cooling is evenly distributed to the main storage space 110, achieving the low-temperature storage requirement. This invention provides a cold storage facility where the entire refrigeration system does not rely on refrigerant as the cooling medium, eliminating the risk of leakage in refrigerant storage and transportation, avoiding ozone layer depletion caused by refrigerant leaks, and mitigating the environmental pollution problems that may arise from compressor refrigeration.

[0025] It is worth noting that the cold storage referred to in this application includes both fixed and mobile cold storage facilities, such as refrigerated containers and refrigerated trucks.

[0026] The solid-state ejector device 130 involved in this application can be understood as applying external force to the main shape memory alloy through a driving mechanism, causing the main shape memory alloy to transform from austenite to martensite, releasing latent heat, thereby causing the temperature of the main shape memory alloy itself to rise, and then transferring the heat to the fluid heat exchange medium in the form of heat exchange. Unloading can be understood as unloading the external force, causing the main shape memory alloy to transform from martensite back to austenite, absorbing latent heat, thereby causing the temperature of the main shape memory alloy itself to drop, and then transferring the cold energy to the fluid heat exchange medium in the form of heat exchange.

[0027] Similarly, the solid-state ejector involved in this application operates on the same principle as the solid-state ejector device 130. It can be understood as applying external force to the shape memory alloy via a driver, causing the shape memory alloy to transform from austenite to martensite, releasing latent heat, which in turn causes the temperature of the shape memory alloy itself to rise and be conducted to the corresponding storage space. Unloading can be understood as unloading the external force, causing the shape memory alloy to transform back from martensite to austenite, absorbing latent heat, which in turn causes the temperature of the shape memory alloy itself to drop, and then the cold energy is conducted to the corresponding storage space.

[0028] In the first embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 A first solid-state ejector 121 is provided on the side of the main cold storage outer door 120 facing the main storage space 110. The first solid-state ejector 121 includes a first actuator 1211 and a first shape memory alloy 1212. In this state, the first solid-state ejector 121 can be understood as an energy storage mechanism.

[0029] When the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is opened, ambient air from outside rushes into the main storage space 110, mixing with the low-temperature air inside. This causes the temperature inside the storage to rise rapidly, resulting in a significant loss of cooling capacity. This is a common problem faced by all cold storage operations, especially in logistics warehousing scenarios where doors are frequently opened and closed. The loss of cooling capacity is even more severe, not only increasing the load on the main refrigeration system but also potentially affecting the quality of goods due to temperature fluctuations.

[0030] Therefore, when the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is closed, the first shape memory alloy 1212 is loaded via the first actuator 1211, causing the shape memory alloy to transform from austenite to martensite, releasing latent heat, and then the first shape memory alloy 1212 is kept in the loaded state. When the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is opened and closed again, the first shape memory alloy 1212 is unloaded, causing it to undergo a reverse phase transformation from martensite to austenite, releasing the stored cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss in the main storage space 110 caused by the opening of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage. This cold energy acts directly on the interior of the main storage space 110, precisely replenishing the cold energy lost due to the opening of the door.

[0031] Specifically, there are multiple first solid-state cartridges 121, and any number of first solid-state cartridges 121 can be selectively opened and closed. In this way, different numbers of first solid-state cartridges 121 can be selected to be used according to the different amounts of cooling loss in the main storage space 110.

[0032] Taking the case where three first solid-state spring clips 121 are installed on the outer door 120 of the main cold storage as an example, a graded cold energy replenishment system that can be adjusted on demand is formed. Each first solid-state spring clip 121 is composed of an independent first driver 1211 and a first shape memory alloy 1212. It can be started individually or operated in combination. Its core design logic is to match the corresponding cold release power according to the degree of cold energy loss of the main storage space 110, so as to achieve the goal of precise energy replenishment and avoid waste. This design upgrades the cold energy replenishment from a single mode to an intelligent adaptation mode.

[0033] Specifically, when it is estimated that the main cold storage outer door 120 will be open for a long time and the temperature outside the cold storage is high, resulting in a significant loss of cold energy in the main storage space 110, for example, during hot summer weather when the cold storage needs to handle large-scale loading and unloading of goods, the door may remain open for more than 30 minutes. At this time, hot air above 35°C from the outside will continuously rush in, creating violent convection with the -18°C low-temperature air inside the storage, which can cause the temperature inside the storage to rise by more than 5°C in a short period of time. If the stored goods are ice cream, frozen meat, or other materials that are extremely sensitive to temperature, they are very likely to soften or deteriorate due to temperature fluctuations. In response to this extreme scenario, the system will trigger the three-card full-start mode: the three first solid-state cards 121 have already completed the loading and energy storage when the door was closed. When the door is closed again, the three first actuators 1211 simultaneously unload the corresponding first shape memory alloy 1212, causing it to undergo a reverse phase transformation from martensite to austenite. The phase change cooling released by each spring clip, when combined, forms a powerful instantaneous cooling power. The cooling energy is rapidly diffused to the vicinity of the warehouse door through heat exchange between the spring clip and the air, counteracting the large influx of hot air and quickly pulling the temperature inside the warehouse back to the set range, minimizing the impact of prolonged high-temperature opening on the quality of goods.

[0034] When the estimated opening time of the main cold storage outer door 120 is long, or the external temperature of the cold storage is high, resulting in significant loss of cold air in the main storage space 110, for example, in spring and autumn when the external temperature is around 15-20℃, if the cold storage door needs to be opened for 20 minutes for inventory checks, although the amount of hot air entering is less than in summer, the longer duration will still cause the internal temperature to rise slowly by 2-3℃. In scenarios where the external temperature is high but the opening time is short, such as in summer when the door is opened for 5 minutes for emergency retrieval, although the duration is short, the hot air will quickly raise the temperature in a localized area. For these two scenarios, the two first solid-state spring cards 121 release cold air simultaneously. The total cold air released by these two spring cards perfectly matches the moderate level of cold air loss, avoiding temperature rebound caused by insufficient cooling from a single spring card and eliminating the need to use a third spring card to avoid energy waste. This on-demand matching mode effectively controls energy consumption during spring card energy storage while ensuring a stable storage environment for goods, achieving a balance between performance and energy saving.

[0035] In other situations where the loss of cold air in the main storage space 110 is minimal, such as when the outside temperature is around 5°C in winter and the door is opened for 2-3 minutes due to sporadic retrieval of goods, the temperature difference between the outside cold air and the low-temperature air inside the storage is small, resulting in a limited influx of heat load and a temperature rise of only 0.5-1°C inside the storage. In this case, the cold air released by a single first solid-state cartridge 121 is sufficient to quickly neutralize the temperature fluctuations caused by a small amount of hot air, allowing the temperature inside the storage to quickly return to stability. The advantage of single-cartridge operation is that it minimizes energy consumption. During the energy storage phase, only the shape memory alloy of one cartridge needs to be loaded, reducing the electrical energy consumption of the first actuator 1211. During the cold release phase, energy replenishment is not redundant, avoiding unnecessary waste of phase change energy. For cold storage facilities where the door is frequently opened for short periods each day, the single-cart-based, multi-cart-based operating mode can significantly reduce overall energy consumption, resulting in substantial long-term savings in operating costs, fully demonstrating the energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages of cold storage.

[0036] The three first solid-state spring cards 121 mentioned above are essentially a refined management of cold storage cold energy loss. By binding variables such as the duration of door opening and external temperature to the number of spring cards activated, the problem of temperature loss upon opening the door in traditional cold storage is solved, and energy redundancy during the energy replenishment process is avoided. This transforms cold energy replenishment from a passive response to an active adaptation, thereby enhancing the energy efficiency of the cold storage.

[0037] In the second embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 In the cold storage's cold energy transfer system, the first circulation loop 140 serves as the core channel for the main solid-state spring card device 130 to deliver cold energy to the main storage space 110. The design of its flow path directly affects the efficiency and accuracy of cold energy replenishment. Addressing the issue of concentrated cold energy loss around the main cold storage door 120 when it is opened, the system employs two optimized designs to prioritize or target cooling in this area, ensuring that cold energy can quickly reach the source of cold energy loss and minimizing the impact of temperature fluctuations on the goods.

[0038] The first optimization scheme is to directionally plan the flow path of the fluid heat exchange medium in the first circulation loop 140, prioritizing its passage through the area where the main cold storage outer door 120 is located. The piping network of the first circulation loop 140 will form a near-field priority transport path with the main cold storage outer door 120 as the core. When the main solid-state spring clip device 130 generates cold energy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium, the low-temperature fluid heat exchange medium will first flow along the pipes close to the inside of the main cold storage outer door 120, quickly passing through the area where the main cold storage outer door 120 is located, and then diffuse into the depth of the main storage space 110 and other areas.

[0039] When the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is opened, external hot air mainly rushes in through the gap and opening of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage, resulting in the formation of an obvious hot air gathering area within the close range around the warehouse door, and the temperature recovery rate of this area is much higher than that inside the main storage space 110. The low-temperature heat exchange medium that preferentially flows through the door area can exchange heat with the hot air in the first time, quickly absorb heat through heat conduction of the pipe wall, cool the gathered hot air, and curb the diffusion trend of cooling loss from the source.

[0040] The second optimization solution is that a first circulation branch is communicated on the first circulation loop 140 (not shown in the figure), and the branch is specifically arranged in the area where the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is located. For the first circulation branch extending from the first circulation loop 140, its pipe diameter can be adapted according to the size of the door, and it will be distributed on the inner wall, ground and top of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage, forming a surrounding local heat exchange network. During operation, the system can control through valves to realize linkage or independent operation of the first circulation loop 140 and the first circulation branch.

[0041] When the opening time of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage is short and the cooling loss is small, conventional cooling can be performed only through the first circulation loop 140; when the opening of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage causes increased cooling loss, the valve automatically opens, part of the fluid heat exchange medium continues to flow along the first circulation loop 140, and the other part enters the first circulation branch to perform enhanced cooling on the area of the outer door 120 of the main cold storage. This design avoids energy waste caused by overall efficiency improvement of the first circulation loop 140.

[0042] In the third embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 , in actual cold chain storage operation, the same cold storage often faces the situation where multiple batches of stocks in different states coexist, among which co-storage of old stocks and new stocks is a typical scenario.

[0043] After the old stocks are stably stored in the cold storage for a period of time, their temperature is basically consistent with the target storage temperature of the cold storage; while the newly delivered stocks are affected by the transportation link, and their temperature is often higher than the target temperature (for example, the temperature of newly warehoused fresh meat may be 0-4°C, and the temperature of newly warehoused quick-frozen food may be around -5°C). If the refrigeration mode of traditional cold storage is still adopted, in order to cool the new stocks to the target temperature, it is necessary to forcibly reduce the refrigeration temperature of the entire cold storage, which will cause the old stocks to be in an ultra-low temperature environment for a long time. This not only causes energy waste, but also may affect the quality of the old stocks due to temperature fluctuations (for example, some fruits and vegetables are prone to freezing damage at excessively low temperatures). Conversely, if the original temperature is maintained, the new stocks will cool slowly and are prone to bacterial growth leading to spoilage. In response to this contradiction, the cold storage realizes temperature management for different stocks through the zoned temperature control design.

[0044] Specifically, the system first physically divides the main storage space 110 into multiple independent storage areas. This is typically based on a new storage area 1013 and an old storage area 1014. If multiple batches of new stock exist with different initial temperatures, it can be further subdivided into high initial temperature new stock areas and medium initial temperature new stock areas, etc. Corresponding to the storage area division, the first circulation loop 140 is optimized into multiple independent circulation branches 141, each corresponding to a storage area. Each circulation branch 141 is connected to the cooling output terminal of the main solid-state card device 130 and can independently receive cooling energy. Simultaneously, a temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the corresponding storage area in real time and feeds the data back to the central control system. The system then adjusts the opening of the flow control valve according to a preset temperature threshold, thereby controlling the flow rate of the fluid heat exchange medium flowing into that branch and achieving precise control of the cooling output.

[0045] The new storage area 1013 utilizes high-power refrigeration for rapid cooling, reducing the initial temperature of fresh meat (0-4℃) to -18℃ within 4-6 hours. This maximizes the inhibition of bacterial growth and ensures the freshness of new stock. The old storage area 1014 maintains a stable low temperature, preventing quality loss due to sudden temperature drops or fluctuations. For example, old stock such as frozen dumplings can have their shelf life extended by 1-2 months under stable temperatures. For stock requiring different target temperatures (such as simultaneously storing frozen foods at -18℃ and pharmaceutical vaccines at 2-8℃), the zoning and distribution design further enables the coexistence of multiple temperature zones within the same cold storage facility, meeting diverse storage needs.

[0046] In the fourth embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 In practical applications of cold chain warehousing, single-temperature-zone cold storage facilities are no longer sufficient to meet diverse storage needs. On one hand, different items have significantly different temperature requirements: frozen dumplings need to be stored below -18℃ to prevent thawing and spoilage; fresh fruits (such as apples and oranges) are best preserved at 0-4℃; while some medicines (such as insulin) require strict temperature control at 2-8℃, as excessively high or low temperatures will affect their efficacy. Mixing these items in the same temperature zone will inevitably lead to some items suffering quality damage due to unsuitable temperatures. On the other hand, some items require separate storage due to their inherent characteristics: strongly scented fruits like durian release volatile gases, which can easily permeate other items and cause cross-contamination if stored together; certain flammable and explosive low-temperature chemicals must be strictly separated from food and medicine to avoid safety risks.

[0047] To address these needs, the cold storage facility employs a main cold storage partitioning design, dividing the main cold storage unit 100 into multiple independent sub-cold storage units 101, forming a modular storage structure with one main unit and multiple sub-units.

[0048] Each sub-cold storage unit 101 is equipped with an independent outer cold storage door 1011, employing the same sealing design as the main cold storage outer door 120. When closed, it forms a completely sealed space, further enhancing the independence of the sub-cold storage unit. Each sub-cold storage unit 101 can independently adjust its refrigeration parameters according to the temperature requirements of the corresponding items. Through matching a dedicated circulation circuit 141 and a solid-state spring clip device 130, precise temperature control is achieved. The modular structure of multiple independent sub-cold storage units 101 makes warehouse management more flexible, allowing the usable area of ​​each sub-cold storage unit 101 to be adjusted according to changes in the amount of goods stored.

[0049] In the cold storage design with multiple cold storage units 101, the adaptation method between the solid-state spring clip device 130 and the first circulation loop 140 directly determines the flexibility and accuracy of the cooling supply. Depending on the number of solid-state spring clip devices 130, the system can meet the cooling needs of different storage spaces through three adaptation modes: single-source multi-zone, multi-source zoning, and multi-source centralized, thus balancing efficient supply for general scenarios with enhanced cooling requirements for special scenarios.

[0050] When there is only one solid-state card ejector device 130, the first circulation loop 140 is simultaneously installed in multiple storage spaces, providing cooling to multiple storage spaces at the same time. The system adopts a single-source, multi-zone adaptation strategy, extending the single first circulation loop 140 through multiple paths and simultaneously installing it in multiple storage spaces to achieve centralized cooling supply to all storage spaces. The core of this mode is to distribute the cooling generated by a single solid-state card ejector device 130 to different storage spaces through the same circulation loop via a loop split design. Specifically, the first circulation loop 140 starts from the cooling output end of the solid-state card ejector device 130, extends through the main pipeline to the entrance of each storage space, and then connects to each storage space through branch pipelines.

[0051] When there are multiple solid-state card ejector units 130, multiple first circulation loops 140 are respectively set in multiple sub-storage spaces, providing cooling capacity to each sub-storage space. That is, the system adopts a multi-source zoning adaptation strategy, where each solid-state card ejector unit 130 independently provides cooling capacity to its corresponding sub-storage space through its corresponding first circulation loop 140. In this mode, each sub-storage space is equivalent to an independent refrigeration unit, and its cooling capacity supply is completely unaffected by other sub-storage spaces.

[0052] When there are multiple solid-state card ejector devices 130, multiple first circulation loops 140 can also be simultaneously set in any sub-storage space to centrally provide cooling to the same sub-storage space. In other words, the system adopts a multi-source centralized adaptation strategy, which is suitable when a sub-storage space requires a large amount of cooling due to changes in cargo characteristics or scene. The cooling capacity of multiple solid-state card ejector devices 130 can be centrally input into the area through multiple circulation loops.

[0053] In this design, one cold storage unit 101 is a freezer, and the other is a thawing unit, typically for products such as meat and seafood. The freezer typically requires a temperature of -18°C or lower, while the thawing unit typically requires a temperature around 0°C. A partition door 1012 is installed between the two cold storage units 101. When not in transit, the partition door 1012 is closed and sealed, using insulation material to prevent heat exchange between the freezer and thawing units, thus avoiding cold loss from the freezer or temperature fluctuations in the thawing unit due to heat penetration. This partitioned design allows for direct transfer of goods from the freezer to the thawing unit, reducing the potential impact on products and lower efficiency associated with first transferring them from the freezer to the outside of the main cold storage unit 100 before transferring them to the thawing unit.

[0054] Please see Figure 6 When there is a temperature difference between adjacent cold storage compartments 101, a number of second solid spring clips 10121 are provided on one or both sides of the partition door 1012. The second solid spring clip 10121 includes a second actuator 10122 and a second shape memory alloy 10123. When the partition door 1012 switches from the open state to the closed state, the second actuator 10122 unloads the second shape memory alloy 10123 to generate cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss of the low-temperature side cold storage compartment 101 when it is open.

[0055] The second solid-state spring clip 10121 operates on the same principle as the first solid-state spring clip 121 on the main door side, consisting of a second actuator 10122 and a second shape memory alloy 10123. However, in terms of layout and function, it places greater emphasis on directional energy replenishment under temperature difference conditions. Depending on the magnitude of the temperature difference and the risk of cold loss, the second solid-state spring clip 10121 can be flexibly installed on one side (only the low-temperature side) or both sides (both the low-temperature and high-temperature sides) of the partition door 1012.

[0056] Based on the above description, please refer to Figure 7 In addition to the first circulation loop 140, the solid-state ejector device 130 also includes a second circulation loop 160. The second circulation loop 160 also incorporates a fluid heat exchange medium. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium, which then transfers heat through the second circulation loop 160.

[0057] When the main storage space 110 is a separate space, the stability of its internal low-temperature environment is more sensitive to heat. If the heat generated by the loading is not dissipated in time, the heat may penetrate into the storage room through the shell of the spring clip device, causing a local temperature increase and increasing the cooling load of the first circulation loop 140. Therefore, in this scenario, the second circulation loop 160 is set in the external environment to ensure the cooling capacity of the storage room through directional heat dissipation.

[0058] When the main storage space 110 has a first sub-storage space and a second sub-storage space, the first circulation loop 140 is set in the first sub-storage space, and the second circulation loop 160 is set in the second sub-storage space. This allows the first sub-storage space to become a low-temperature storage space, while the second sub-storage space becomes a high-temperature storage space. This dual-circuit driven dual-temperature zone design solves the problem that traditional cold storage with a single temperature zone cannot accommodate multiple types of fruits and vegetables.

[0059] High-temperature storage spaces are generally used for tropical fruits (such as bananas and mangoes, usually 12-15°C) or certain root vegetables, while low-temperature storage spaces are used for the storage of most temperate fruits and vegetables (usually 0-4°C), and freezers are generally -18°C or lower.

[0060] More specifically, the heat or cold generated by the solid-state ejector device 130 may not reach the optimal temperature range after being input into the sub-storage spaces. For example, the temperature of the high-temperature storage space may be only 5°C, lower than the usual 12-15°C, or the temperature of the low-temperature storage space may be only -10°C, higher than -18°C. Therefore, at least one backup solid-state ejector device 130 needs to be installed in each sub-storage space to form a primary and backup temperature control system with the basic circulation loop. The system collects temperature data in real time through multiple temperature sensors distributed in the sub-storage spaces and transmits it to the central control system. When the temperature deviates from the optimal range for a certain period of time (e.g., more than 5 minutes), the backup ejector activation procedure is automatically triggered. The backup drive mechanism loads / unloads its own main shape memory alloy, and the resulting phase change heat / cold is absorbed by the fluid heat exchange medium of the second circulation loop 160. After being heated / cooled, the medium is quickly transported to the heat exchange components of the high-temperature / low-temperature storage spaces, creating a superimposed effect with the heat / cold supply of the basic loop.

[0061] Please see Figure 7 In the defrosting state, if the second circulation loop 160 is located in the external environment, the drive mechanism generates cold by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold enters the second circulation loop 160. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the heat enters the first circulation loop 140 to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop 140.

[0062] Specifically, during long-term operation of the cold storage, the first circulation loop 140, as the core channel for cold energy transfer, is prone to frost buildup on its surface due to the combined effects of humidity and low temperature within the storage environment. Frost creates thermal resistance, reducing cold energy transfer efficiency, which not only increases the operating load of the solid-state card ejector device 130 but may also affect the quality of stored goods due to insufficient cold energy supply. By utilizing the functional switching of the dual circulation loops, and through the coordinated mode of cooling conducted by the second circulation loop 160 and heating supplied by the first circulation loop 140, efficient and low-consumption defrosting operations can be achieved, which is particularly suitable for scenarios where the second circulation loop 160 is located in the external environment.

[0063] In normal cooling mode, the first circulation loop 140 is responsible for transferring the cold energy generated by the main solid-state cartridge device 130 to the main storage space 110, while the second circulation loop 160 is responsible for dissipating the heat generated during the loading process to the external environment. These two loops function as a division of labor for cooling and heat dissipation. In defrosting mode, the system controls the phase change process of the main shape memory alloy through the main drive mechanism, enabling the switching of the dual circulation loops to achieve the effect of external cooling and internal heat supply, thereby de-icing the first circulation pipe.

[0064] In defrost mode, the second circulation loop 160 is located in the external environment. The solid-state ejector device 130 also includes a defrost loop 170, which is located in the main storage space 110. The drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold energy enters the defrost loop 170. The drive mechanism also generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the heat enters the first circulation loop 140 to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop 140. In this way, defrosting is achieved while continuing to input cold energy into the main storage space 110 of the main cold storage body 100, reducing temperature fluctuations within the main storage space 110 that may be caused by defrosting.

[0065] Specifically, the cold storage adds a defrost circuit 170 to the first circulation circuit 140 and the second circulation circuit 160, thus constructing a three-circuit synergistic defrost system. In the scenario where the second circulation circuit 160 is located in the external environment, the purpose of defrosting and temperature control can be achieved in parallel.

[0066] The defrosting circuit 170 balances defrosting and temperature control. It is located within the main storage space 110 and runs parallel to the first circulation circuit 140. The drive mechanism simultaneously unloads another portion of the main shape memory alloy. After being released from its constraints, the alloy undergoes a reverse transformation from martensite to austenite, and the released phase transformation cold is absorbed by the low-temperature fluid heat exchange medium. This cold fluid heat exchange medium flows through the defrosting circuit 170, continuously supplying cold to the main storage space 110, offsetting the heat absorbed during defrosting via the first circulation circuit 140. Meanwhile, the second circulation circuit 160 performs redundant energy scheduling. When the main shape memory alloy releases excessive cold, resulting in a low temperature inside the storage room, the second circulation circuit 160 automatically activates, releasing the excess cold to the external environment to prevent damage to goods due to ultra-low temperatures. If the defrosting heating power is insufficient, the second circulation circuit 160 can be suspended, ensuring that all heat is prioritized for the temperature control needs of the defrosting circuit 170, forming an on-demand energy balance mechanism.

[0067] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A cold store, characterized in that, include: The main cold storage body (100) has a main storage space (110) inside, and the main cold storage body (100) is provided with a main cold storage outer door (120); The solid-state cartridge device (130) includes a main shape memory alloy, a drive mechanism, and a first circulation loop (140) disposed in the main storage space (110), wherein the first circulation loop (140) has a built-in fluid heat exchange medium. In the cooling state, the drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium transfers the cold energy to the main storage space (110) through the first circulation loop (140).

2. A cold store as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, The outer door (120) of the main cold storage is provided with a first solid spring clip (121) on the side facing the main storage space (110). The first solid spring clip (121) includes a first driver (1211) and a first shape memory alloy (1212). When the outer door (120) of the main cold storage is switched from the open state to the closed state, the first actuator (1211) unloads the first shape memory alloy (1212) to generate cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss when the outer door (120) of the main cold storage is open.

3. A cold store as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The number of the first solid-state ejector (121) is multiple, and any number of the first solid-state ejector (121) can be selectively opened and closed.

4. A cold store as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, The flow path of the fluid heat exchange medium in the first circulation loop (140) preferentially passes through the area where the main cold storage outer door (120) is located; Alternatively, the first circulation loop (140) is connected to a first circulation branch, which is located in the area where the outer door (120) of the main cold storage is located.

5. A cold store as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, The main storage space (110) has multiple storage areas, and the first circulation loop (140) includes multiple circulation branches (141), which are arranged one-to-one in the multiple storage areas.

6. A cold store as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, The main cold storage unit (100) has multiple sub-cold storage units (101), each of which has its own storage space and each of which has an external cold storage door (1011). When there is one solid card ejector device (130), the first circulation loop (140) is simultaneously provided in multiple of the sub-storage spaces; When there are multiple solid card ejector devices (130), multiple first circulation loops (140) are arranged one-to-one in multiple storage spaces; or, multiple first circulation loops (140) are arranged simultaneously in any one of the storage spaces.

7. A cold storage facility as described in claim 6, characterized in that, A partition door (1012) is provided between adjacent cold storage compartments (101). When there is a temperature difference between adjacent cold storage compartments (101), a plurality of second solid spring clips (10121) are provided on one or both sides of the partition door (1012). The second solid spring clip (10121) includes a second actuator (10122) and a second shape memory alloy (10123). When the partition door (1012) switches from the open state to the closed state, the second actuator (10122) unloads the second shape memory alloy (10123) to generate cold energy to compensate for the cold energy loss of the cold storage body (101) on the low-temperature side when it is open.

8. A cold store according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The solid-state ejector device (130) further includes a second circulation loop (160), which has a built-in fluid heat exchange medium. The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium transfers heat through the second circulation loop (160). When the main storage space (110) is a separate space, the second circulation loop (160) is located in the external environment; When the main storage space (110) has a first sub-storage space and a second sub-storage space, the first circulation loop (140) is set in the first sub-storage space and the second circulation loop (160) is set in the second sub-storage space.

9. A cold store as claimed in claim 8, characterised in that, In defrost mode, the second circulation loop (160) is located in the external environment; The drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold energy enters the second circulation loop (160). The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the heat enters the first circulation loop (140) to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop (140).

10. A cold storage facility as described in claim 8, characterized in that, In the defrost state, the second circulation loop (160) is located in the external environment, and the solid card ejector device (130) also includes a defrost loop (170), which is located in the main storage space (110). The drive mechanism generates cold energy by unloading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the cold energy enters the defrosting circuit (170). The drive mechanism generates heat by loading the main shape memory alloy and conducts it to the fluid heat exchange medium. The fluid heat exchange medium carrying the heat enters the first circulation loop (140) to eliminate the frost adhering to the first circulation loop (140).

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