Refrigeration system

Abstract

This refrigeration system comprises: a plurality of first refrigeration devices that each include a first refrigeration circuit for circulating a first heat medium, a first condenser capable of transferring thermal energy of the first heat medium to a second heat medium, and a first evaporator capable of transferring cold energy of the first heat medium to a third heat medium; a first exhaust heat recovery line through which the second heat medium flows and which is connected to the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices; a first cold recovery circuit through which the third heat medium circulates and which is connected to the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices; another refrigeration device that is different from the plurality of first refrigeration devices; and a second exhaust heat recovery line through which a heat medium for recovering thermal energy from the other refrigeration device flows and which is connected to at least one of the first cold recovery circuit and the first exhaust heat recovery line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigeration system. The present application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-56839 filed in Japan on May 31, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] PTL 1 discloses a refrigeration device that uses ammonia as a primary refrigerant and CO2 brine as a secondary refrigerant to air-condition individual rooms of a building or to freeze freezer compartments and the like. Citation List Patent Literature

[0003] [PTL 1 ] Japanese Patent No. 5896525 Summary of Invention Technical Problem

[0004] In the refrigeration device described in PTL 1, a dedicated brine supply device and a dedicated ammonia refrigeration device are provided for each cooling target. Therefore, in a case where a failure occurs in these devices, there is a concern that the cooling target to be cooled by the device in which the failure has occurred cannot be cooled. Therefore, in the refrigeration device described in PTL 1, there is a concern that it is difficult to ensure stability of the refrigeration device due to its configuration.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, an object of at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigeration system capable of readily ensuring stability of the refrigeration system. Solution to Problem

[0006] A refrigeration system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of first refrigeration devices each including a first refrigeration circuit that circulates a first heat medium, a first condenser that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the first heat medium to a second heat medium, and a first evaporator that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the first heat medium to a third heat medium, a first exhaust heat recovery line through which the second heat medium flows and which is connected to the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to allow the second heat medium to flow, a first cold heat recovery circuit that circulates the third heat medium and is connected to the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to allow the third heat medium to flow, the other refrigeration device that is different from the plurality of first refrigeration devices, and a second exhaust heat recovery line through which a heat medium for recovering thermal energy from the other refrigeration device flows and which is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit or the first exhaust heat recovery line to allow the heat medium to flow. Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0007] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided the refrigeration system capable of readily ensuring the stability of the refrigeration system. Brief Description of Drawings

[0008] FIG. 1 is a view schematically showing a circuit of a refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a view schematically showing the circuit of the refrigeration system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a view schematically showing the circuit of the refrigeration system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a view schematically showing an example of a circuit of a first refrigeration device shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 5 is a view schematically showing an example of a circuit of a second refrigeration device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a view schematically showing an example of the circuit of the second refrigeration device shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the refrigeration system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of a refrigeration system according to a comparative example. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a refrigeration system in an intermediate state when the refrigeration system according to the comparative example is modified into the refrigeration system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Description of Embodiments

[0009] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative dispositions of components described as the embodiments or illustrated in the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and are merely examples for describing the present disclosure.

[0010] In the following description, when the upstream side is simply referred to, it refers to the upstream side along the direction of the main flow of the fluid in the portion or region related to the description of the direction. Similarly, in the following description, when the downstream side is simply referred to, it refers to the downstream side along the direction of the main flow of the fluid in the portion or region related to the description of the direction.

[0011] (Refrigeration System) Each of FIGS. 1 to 3 is a view schematically showing the circuit of a refrigeration system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a view schematically showing an example of a circuit of a first refrigeration device 20 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 includes a plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, a first exhaust heat recovery line 3, and a first cold heat recovery circuit 4.

[0012] (First Refrigeration Device) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 includes at least a first refrigeration circuit 21 circulating a first heat medium, and a first condenser 22 and a first evaporator 23 which are provided in the first refrigeration circuit 21, respectively. As shown in FIG. 4, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 further includes a first compressor 24 and a first expander 25 which are provided in the first refrigeration circuit 21, respectively. The first refrigeration circuit 21 is composed of a circulation system configured to circulate the first heat medium, and configures a refrigeration cycle that uses the first heat medium as a working medium.

[0013] The first compressor 24 is disposed on a downstream side of the first evaporator 23 and an upstream side of the first condenser 22 in a flow direction of the first heat medium. The first compressor 24 is configured to boost the first heat medium introduced from the first evaporator 23. The first heat medium boosted by the first compressor 24 is introduced to the first condenser 22. The first compressor 24 may be an electric compressor configured to be driven by electric power supplied from an electric power source (not shown).

[0014] The first expander 25 is disposed on a downstream side of the first condenser 22 and an upstream side of the first evaporator 23 in the flow direction of the first heat medium. The first expander 25 is configured to expand the first heat medium introduced from the first condenser 22. The first heat medium expanded by the first expander 25 is introduced to the first evaporator 23. The first expander 25 may be an expansion valve as shown in FIG. 4.

[0015] (First Condenser) The first condenser 22 is configured to transfer the thermal energy of the first heat medium to the second heat medium. In the first condenser 22, heat exchange is performed between the first heat medium flowing through the first condenser 22 and the second heat medium flowing through the first condenser 22, and the exhaust heat generated in the first refrigeration circuit 21 is recovered to the second heat medium. The first heat medium flowing through the first condenser 22 is cooled and condensed by the second heat medium flowing through the first condenser 22 due to heat exchange in the first condenser 22.

[0016] (First Exhaust Heat Recovery Line) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 forms a passage for causing the second heat medium to flow, and is formed by, for example, a pipe. The first exhaust heat recovery line 3 is connected to the first condenser 22 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 to allow the second heat medium to flow. The first exhaust heat recovery line 3 includes a second heat medium introduction line 31 for introducing the second heat medium to the first condenser 22 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, and a second heat medium discharge line 32 for discharging the second heat medium from the first condenser 22 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20.

[0017] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second heat medium introduction line 31 includes an introduction-side main pipe 311 and a plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 312. One end of each of the plurality of introductionside branch pipes 312 is connected to the introduction-side main pipe 311 to allow the second heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding first condenser 22 to allow the second heat medium to flow. The second heat medium is introduced to each first condenser 22 from the introduction-side main pipe 311 via the introduction-side branch pipe 312 corresponding to each first condenser 22.

[0018] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second heat medium discharge line 32 includes a discharge-side main pipe 321 and a plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 322. One end of each of the plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 322 is connected to the discharge-side main pipe 321 to allow the second heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding first condenser 22 to allow the second heat medium to flow. The second heat medium is introduced to the discharge-side main pipe 321 from each first condenser 22 via the corresponding discharge-side branch pipe 322.

[0019] (Cooling Device) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 further includes at least one (in the illustrated example, a plurality of) cooling device 33 to which a downstream end portion of the second heat medium discharge line 32 is connected and which is configured to cool the second heat medium. In the shown embodiment, the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 forms a passage for circulating the first heat medium, and the plurality of cooling devices 33 are connected to an upstream end portion of the second heat medium introduction line 31. The plurality of cooling devices 33 may be disposed in series or may be disposed in parallel between the downstream end portion of the second heat medium discharge line 32 and the upstream end portion of the second heat medium introduction line 31. The plurality of cooling devices 33 may be, for example, an exhaust heat recovery device 33A configured to perform heat exchange between the second heat medium and a heat medium having a temperature lower than that of the second heat medium and to recover thermal energy of the second heat medium, or a cooler 33B configured to perform heat exchange between the second heat medium and outside air or a coolant having a temperature lower than that of the second heat medium and to cool the second heat medium.

[0020] Since each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 is connected to the common first exhaust heat recovery line 3, the exhaust heat recovery device 33A is provided in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3, so that the exhaust heat recovery device 33A can collectively recover the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, and thus the exhaust heat recovery is easy. The exhaust heat recovered in the exhaust heat recovery device 33A can be used as a heat source for an external device of the refrigeration system 1, such as a heat pump.

[0021] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a pump (booster) 34 for boosting the first heat medium is provided on the upstream side of the connection position of the most upstream introduction-side branch pipe 312 in the second heat medium introduction line 31.

[0022] (First Evaporator) The first evaporator 23 is configured to transfer the cold-thermal energy of the first heat medium to the third heat medium. In the first evaporator 23, heat exchange is performed between the first heat medium flowing through the first evaporator 23 and the third heat medium flowing through the first evaporator 23, and the cold heat generated in the first refrigeration circuit 21 is recovered to the third heat medium. The first heat medium flowing through the first evaporator 23 is heated by the third heat medium flowing through the first evaporator 23 due to heat exchange in the first evaporator 23, and therefore evaporates.

[0023] (First Cold Heat Recovery Circuit) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 forms a passage for circulating the third heat medium, and is formed by, for example, a pipe. The first cold heat recovery circuit 4 is connected to the first evaporator 23 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 to allow the third heat medium to flow. The first cold heat recovery circuit 4 includes a third heat medium storage tank 41 configured to store the third heat medium, a third heat medium introduction line 42 for introducing the third heat medium from the third heat medium storage tank 41 to the first evaporator 23 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, and a third heat medium return line 43 for returning the third heat medium from the first evaporator 23 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 to the third heat medium storage tank 41.

[0024] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the third heat medium introduction line 42 includes an introduction-side main pipe 421 having one end connected to the liquid phase of the third heat medium storage tank 41 to allow the liquid third heat medium to flow, and a plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 422. One end of each of the plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 422 is connected to the introduction-side main pipe 421 to allow the third heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding first evaporator 23 to allow the third heat medium to flow. The third heat medium introduced from the third heat medium storage tank 41 to the introduction-side main pipe 421 is introduced from the introduction-side main pipe 421 to each first evaporator 23 via the introduction-side branch pipe 422 corresponding to each first evaporator 23.

[0025] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the third heat medium return line 43 includes a discharge-side main pipe 431 having one end connected to the third heat medium storage tank 41 to allow the third heat medium to flow, and a plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 432. One end of each of the plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 432 is connected to the discharge-side main pipe 431 to allow the third heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding first evaporator 23 to allow the third heat medium to flow. The third heat medium is introduced from each first evaporator 23 to the discharge-side main pipe 431 via the corresponding discharge-side branch pipe 432, and is introduced from the dischargeside main pipe 431 to the third heat medium storage tank 41.

[0026] (First Cold Heat Heat Exchanger) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 further includes at least one (in the illustrated example, a plurality of) first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44 (441, 442) provided in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 and configured to perform heat exchange between the gas to be cooled and the third heat medium to cool the gas to be cooled. In the shown embodiment, each of the plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44 is disposed on the upstream side of the connection position of the most upstream introduction-side branch pipe 422 in the third heat medium introduction line 42.

[0027] The third heat medium which has recovered the cold-thermal energy from each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 is introduced into each of the plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44, and the gas to be cooled is cooled by the third heat medium. The gas to be cooled cooled by the first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44 may be a gas such as air present in a space (for example, inside a refrigerator) to be cooled, or may be a heat medium that exchanges heat with the gas. The gas to be cooled is cooled by the first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44, so that the space to be cooled is cooled. It is preferable that the plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44 are disposed in parallel with each other in order to introduce the third heat medium having a relatively low temperature to each first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44. The plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44 may be disposed in series.

[0028] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a pump (booster) 45 for boosting the third heat medium is provided on the upstream side of the most upstream first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44 in the third heat medium introduction line 42.

[0029] Hereinafter, the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 in which the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 is connected to the first condenser 22 and the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 is connected to the first evaporator 23 are collectively defined as a first refrigeration device group 2. The cooling target of the first refrigeration device group 2 is cooled by the cold-thermal energy collectively generated by the first refrigeration device group 2. It is preferable that the structures and the components of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 are unified in accordance with the same standard. In this case, the number of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 that are operated is increased or decreased, so that the refrigeration capacity of the first refrigeration device group 2 can be increased or decreased incrementally. Therefore, the operation control of the first refrigeration device group 2 is facilitated.

[0030] The first refrigeration device 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 can be disposed at a position separated from the other first refrigeration devices 20. The plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 may be concentratedly disposed or may be dispersedly disposed.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 according to some embodiments includes the other refrigeration device 11 different from the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 described above, and a second exhaust heat recovery line 12 through which the heat medium for recovering the thermal energy from the other refrigeration device 11 flows and which is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 or the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 to allow the heat medium to flow.

[0032] According to the above-described configuration, since each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 is connected to the common first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and the common first cold heat recovery circuit 4, even when one first refrigeration device 20 is stopped due to a failure or the like, the refrigeration system 1 can be continuously operated by operating the other first refrigeration devices 20. In addition, the refrigeration system 1 can be restored to the original state by only replacing the failed first refrigeration device 20 with a new first refrigeration device 20. Such a refrigeration system 1 can readily ensure the stability of the refrigeration system 1.

[0033] In addition, according to the above-described configuration, since the other refrigeration device 11 is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 or the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 via the second exhaust heat recovery line 12, it is possible to generate the cold-thermal energy by the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the other refrigeration device 11, and it is possible to suppress an increase in size or complexity of the refrigeration system 1 including the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the other refrigeration device 11.

[0034] In addition, according to the above-described configuration, the amount of cold-thermal energy generated by the first refrigeration device group 2 can be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the number of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2. Such a refrigeration system 1 is excellent in the expandability of the cooling capacity of the first refrigeration device group 2, can accommodate a cooling target of various scales, and can flexibly increase or decrease the number or the cooling capacity of the first refrigeration device groups 2 according to the scale of the cooling target.

[0035] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the other refrigeration device 11 includes at least a plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and the refrigeration system 1 further includes a second cold heat recovery circuit 6.

[0036] (Second Refrigeration Device) FIG. 5 is a view schematically showing an example of a circuit of the second refrigeration device 50 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a view schematically showing an example of the circuit of the second refrigeration device 50 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5, and 6, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 includes at least a second refrigeration circuit 51 circulating a fourth heat medium, and a second condenser 52 and a second evaporator 53 which are provided in the second refrigeration circuit 51, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 further includes a second compressor 54 and a second expander 55 which are provided in the second refrigeration circuit 51, respectively. The second refrigeration circuit 51 is composed of a circulation system configured to circulate the fourth heat medium, and configures a refrigeration cycle that uses the fourth heat medium as a working medium.

[0037] The second compressor 54 is disposed on a downstream side of the second evaporator 53 and an upstream side of the second condenser 52 in a flow direction of the fourth heat medium. The second compressor 54 is configured to boost the fourth heat medium introduced from the second evaporator 53. The fourth heat medium boosted by the second compressor 54 is introduced to the second condenser 52. The second compressor 54 may be an electric compressor configured to be driven by electric power supplied from an electric power source (not shown).

[0038] The second expander 55 is disposed on a downstream side of the second condenser 52 and an upstream side of the second evaporator 53 in the flow direction of the fourth heat medium. The second expander 55 is configured to expand the fourth heat medium introduced from the second condenser 52. The fourth heat medium expanded by the second expander 55 is introduced to the second evaporator 53. The second expander 55 may be an expansion valve as shown in FIG. 5.

[0039] (Second Condenser) The second condenser 52 is configured to transfer the thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the second exhaust heat medium. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 described above is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit 4, and thus the third heat medium described above becomes the second exhaust heat medium. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 described above is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3, and thus the second heat medium described above becomes the second exhaust heat medium. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 described above is selectively connected to both the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 and the first exhaust heat recovery line 3. Therefore, the second heat medium and the third heat medium which are the same type of heat medium become the second exhaust heat medium.

[0040] In the second condenser 52, heat exchange is performed between the fourth heat medium flowing through the second condenser 52 and the second exhaust heat medium flowing through the second condenser 52, and the exhaust heat generated in the second refrigeration circuit 51 is recovered to the second exhaust heat medium. The fourth heat medium flowing through the second condenser 52 is cooled and condensed by the second exhaust heat medium flowing through the second condenser 52 due to heat exchange in the second condenser 52.

[0041] (Second Exhaust Heat Recovery Line) In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 forms a passage for causing the second exhaust heat medium to flow, and is formed by, for example, a pipe. The second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to allow the second exhaust heat medium to flow. The second exhaust heat recovery line 12 includes a second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13 for introducing the second exhaust heat medium to the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and a second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14 for discharging the second exhaust heat medium from the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50.

[0042] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13 includes an introduction-side main pipe 131 and a plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 132. One end of each of the plurality of introductionside branch pipes 132 is connected to the introduction-side main pipe 131 to allow the second exhaust heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding second condenser 52 to allow the second exhaust heat medium to flow. The second exhaust heat medium is introduced to each second condenser 52 from the introduction-side main pipe 131 via the introduction-side branch pipe 132 corresponding to each second condenser 52.

[0043] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14 includes a discharge-side main pipe 141 and a plurality of dischargeside branch pipes 142. One end of each of the plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 142 is connected to the discharge-side main pipe 141 to allow the second exhaust heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding second condenser 52 to allow the second exhaust heat medium to flow. The second exhaust heat medium is introduced to the discharge-side main pipe 141 from each second condenser 52 via the corresponding discharge-side branch pipe 142.

[0044] (Second Evaporator) The second evaporator 53 is configured to transfer the cold-thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the fifth heat medium. In the second evaporator 53, heat exchange is performed between the fourth heat medium flowing through the second evaporator 53 and the fifth heat medium flowing through the second evaporator 53, and the cold heat generated in the second refrigeration circuit 51 is recovered to the fifth heat medium. The fourth heat medium flowing through the second evaporator 53 is heated by the fifth heat medium flowing through the second evaporator 53 due to heat exchange in the second evaporator 53, and therefore evaporates.

[0045] (Second Cold Heat Recovery Circuit) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the second cold heat recovery circuit 6 forms a passage for circulating the fifth heat medium, and is formed by, for example, a pipe. The second cold heat recovery circuit 6 is connected to the second evaporator 53 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow. The second cold heat recovery circuit 6 includes a fifth heat medium storage tank 61 configured to store the fifth heat medium, a fifth heat medium introduction line 62 for introducing the fifth heat medium from the fifth heat medium storage tank 61 to the second evaporator 53 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and a fifth heat medium return line 63 for returning the fifth heat medium from the second evaporator 53 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to the fifth heat medium storage tank 61.

[0046] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the fifth heat medium introduction line 62 includes an introduction-side main pipe 621 having one end connected to the liquid phase of the fifth heat medium storage tank 61 to allow the liquid fifth heat medium to flow, and a plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 622. One end of each of the plurality of introduction-side branch pipes 622 is connected to the introduction-side main pipe 621 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding second evaporator 53 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow. The fifth heat medium introduced from the fifth heat medium storage tank 61 to the introduction-side main pipe 621 is introduced from the introduction-side main pipe 621 to each second evaporator 53 via the introduction-side branch pipe 622 corresponding to each second evaporator 53.

[0047] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the fifth heat medium return line 63 includes a discharge-side main pipe 631 having one end connected to the fifth heat medium storage tank 61 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow, and a plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 632. One end of each of the plurality of discharge-side branch pipes 632 is connected to the discharge-side main pipe 631 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow, and the other end is connected to the corresponding second evaporator 53 to allow the fifth heat medium to flow. The fifth heat medium is introduced from each second evaporator 53 to the discharge-side main pipe 631 via the corresponding discharge-side branch pipe 632, and is introduced from the dischargeside main pipe 631 to the fifth heat medium storage tank 61.

[0048] (Second Cold Heat Heat Exchanger) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 further includes at least one (in the illustrated example, a plurality of) second cold heat-side heat exchanger 64 (641, 642) provided in the second cold heat recovery circuit 6 and configured to perform heat exchange between the gas to be cooled and the fifth heat medium to cool the gas to be cooled. In the shown embodiment, each of the plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64 is disposed on the upstream side of the connection position of the most upstream introduction-side branch pipe 622 in the fifth heat medium introduction line 62.

[0049] The fifth heat medium which has recovered the cold-thermal energy from each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is introduced into each of the plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64, and the gas to be cooled is cooled by the fifth heat medium. The gas to be cooled cooled by the second cold heat-side heat exchanger 64 may be a gas such as air present in a space (for example, inside a freezer) to be cooled, or may be a heat medium that exchanges heat with the gas. The gas to be cooled is cooled by the second cold heat-side heat exchanger 64, so that the space to be cooled is cooled. The cooling target of each of the plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64 may be different from or the same as the cooling target of each of the plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44 described above. It is preferable that the plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64 are disposed in parallel with each other in order to introduce the fifth heat medium having a relatively low temperature to each second cold heat-side heat exchanger 64. The plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64 may be disposed in series.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a pump (booster) 65 for boosting the fifth heat medium is provided on the upstream side of the most upstream second cold heat-side heat exchanger 64 in the fifth heat medium introduction line 62.

[0051] Hereinafter, the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 in which the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the second condenser 52 and the second cold heat recovery circuit 6 is connected to the second evaporator 53 are collectively defined as a second refrigeration device group 5. The cooling target of the second refrigeration device group 5 is cooled by the cold-thermal energy collectively generated by the second refrigeration device group 5. It is preferable that the structures and the components of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 belonging to the second refrigeration device group 5 are unified in accordance with the same standard. In this case, the number of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 that are operated is increased or decreased, so that the refrigeration capacity of the second refrigeration device group 5 can be increased or decreased incrementally. Therefore, the operation control of the second refrigeration device group 5 is facilitated.

[0052] The second refrigeration device 50 belonging to the second refrigeration device group 5 can be disposed at a position separated from the other second refrigeration device 50 and the other first refrigeration devices 20. The plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 belonging to the second refrigeration device group 5 may be concentratedly disposed or may be dispersedly disposed.

[0053] Each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is configured to preferably correspond to a temperature range lower than the temperature range to which each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 preferably corresponds. That is, the first refrigeration device 20 and the second refrigeration device 50 have different refrigeration capacity ranges. In a certain embodiment, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 is configured such that a temperature range of the third heat medium introduced into the plurality of first cold heat-side heat exchangers 44 is a refrigeration range (for example, a range of -10°C or higher and 10°C or lower). Each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is configured such that a temperature range of the fifth heat medium introduced into the plurality of second cold heat-side heat exchangers 64 is a freezing range (for example, a range of -40°C or higher and -20°C or lower).

[0054] According to the above-described configuration, the refrigeration system 1 includes the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above. In this case, the efficiency of the refrigeration system 1 can be optimized by selectively operating the first refrigeration device 20 and the second refrigeration device 50 which have different refrigeration capacity ranges.

[0055] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the other refrigeration device 11 includes at least the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and the refrigeration system 1 further includes the second cold heat recovery circuit 6. As shown in FIG. 1, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 and to the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to allow the third heat medium to flow.

[0056] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the upstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13, that is, one end of the introduction-side main pipe 131, is connected to the third heat medium introduction line 42 at a connection position Pl on the upstream side of the most upstream first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44 and on the downstream side of the pump 45 in the third heat medium introduction line 42. In this way, the third heat medium is introduced from the third heat medium introduction line 42 to the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13.

[0057] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the downstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14, that is, one end of the discharge-side main pipe 141, is connected to the third heat medium introduction line 42 at a connection position P2 on the downstream side of the most downstream first cold heat-side heat exchanger 44 and on the upstream side of the connection position of the most upstream introduction-side branch pipe 422 in the third heat medium introduction line 42. Accordingly, the third heat medium is introduced from the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14 to the third heat medium introduction line 42.

[0058] According to the above-described configuration, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit 4, so that the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4. In this case, since the condensation pressure of the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be kept at a relatively low pressure, it becomes easy to maintain the refrigeration capacity of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 regardless of the outside air temperature.

[0059] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the other refrigeration device 11 includes at least the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and the refrigeration system 1 further includes the second cold heat recovery circuit 6. As shown in FIG. 2, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and to the second condenser 52 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to allow the second heat medium to flow.

[0060] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the upstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13, that is, one end of the introduction-side main pipe 131, is connected to the second heat medium introduction line 31 at a connection position P3 on the upstream side of the connection position of the most upstream introduction-side branch pipe 312 and on the downstream side of the pump 34 in the second heat medium introduction line 31. In this way, the second heat medium is introduced from the second heat medium introduction line 31 to the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13.

[0061] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the downstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14, that is, one end of the discharge-side main pipe 141, is connected to the second heat medium discharge line 32 at a connection position P4 on the downstream side of the connection position of the most downstream discharge-side branch pipe 322 in the second heat medium discharge line 32. Accordingly, the second heat medium is introduced from the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14 to the second heat medium discharge line 32.

[0062] According to the above-described configuration, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3, so that the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3. In this case, the refrigeration capacity of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 can be reduced as compared with a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the refrigeration system 1 can be reduced. In addition, according to the above-described configuration, the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3. Therefore, compared to a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4, a difference in pressure loss between the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and a difference in pressure loss between the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be made small. Therefore, the refrigeration system 1 can be easily constructed.

[0063] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the other refrigeration device 11 includes at least the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, and the refrigeration system 1 further includes the second cold heat recovery circuit 6. The second heat medium and the third heat medium described above consist of the same type of heat medium (second exhaust heat medium). As shown in FIG. 3, the above-described second exhaust heat recovery line 12 is connected to the third heat medium introduction line 42 via a first introduction line 81, is connected to the second heat medium introduction line 31 via a second introduction line 82, is connected to the third heat medium return line 43 via a first discharge line 83, and is connected to the second heat medium discharge line 32 via a second discharge line 84. The above-described refrigeration system 1 further includes a plurality of flow control valves 85, 86, 87, and 88 configured to control the flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of the first introduction line 81, the second introduction line 82, the first discharge line 83, and the second discharge line 84.

[0064] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, one end of the first introduction line 81 is connected to the third heat medium introduction line 42 at the connection position Pl described above. One end of the second introduction line 82 is connected to the second heat medium introduction line 31 at the connection position P3 described above. Each of the other end of the first introduction line 81 and the other end of the second introduction line 82 is connected to the upstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium introduction line 13, that is, one end of the introduction-side main pipe 131, at a connection position P5.

[0065] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, one end of the first discharge line 83 is connected to the third heat medium introduction line 42 at the connection position P2 described above. One end of the second discharge line 84 is connected to the second heat medium discharge line 32 at the connection position P4 described above. Each of the other end of the first discharge line 83 and the other end of the second discharge line 84 is connected to the downstream end portion of the second exhaust heat medium discharge line 14, that is, one end of the discharge-side main pipe 141, at a connection position P6.

[0066] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of flow control valves 85, 86, 87, and 88 described above include The flow control valve 85 provided in the first introduction line 81, the flow control valve 86 provided in the second introduction line 82, the flow control valve 87 provided in the first discharge line 83, and the flow control valve 88 provided in the second discharge line 84. The flow control valves 85, 86, 87, and 88 may be an opening-closing valve whose opening degree can be regulated to be fully closed and fully open, or may be an opening degree regulation valve whose opening degree can be regulated to be fully closed, fully open, and at least one intermediate opening degree between the fully closed and fully open.

[0067] By opening the flow control valves 85 and 87 and closing the flow control valves 86 and 88, the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4. By opening the flow control valves 86 and 88 and closing the flow control valves 85 and 87, the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3.

[0068] According to the above-described configuration, by opening and closing the plurality of flow control valves 85, 86, 87, and 88, it is possible to selectively switch between a state where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 and a state where the exhaust heat is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3. In this case, the advantages of a state where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 and a state where the exhaust heat is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 can be timely utilized.

[0069] Instead of the flow control valves 85 and 86 described above, a three-way valve capable of switching the introduction source of the second exhaust heat medium to the first introduction line 81 and the second introduction line 82 may be disposed at the connection position P5. In addition, instead of the flow control valves 87 and 88 described above, a three-way valve capable of switching the discharge destination of the second exhaust heat medium to the first discharge line 83 and the second discharge line 84 may be disposed at the connection position P6.

[0070] (Specific Example of First Refrigeration Device) In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above further includes an outer frame 26 that surrounds the first refrigeration circuit 21, the first condenser 22, the first evaporator 23, the first compressor 24, and the first expander 25 which are components of the first refrigeration device 20. In the shown embodiment, the outer frame 26 is a casing that forms an internal space for accommodating the components of the first refrigeration device 20. However, the outer frame 26 may be a frame assembly (frame) made of a plurality of frames surrounding the components of the first refrigeration device 20. In the shown embodiment, the outer frame 26 is provided with an insertion hole 261 for inserting the introduction-side branch pipe 312 connected to the first condenser 22, an insertion hole 262 for inserting the discharge-side branch pipe 322 connected to the first condenser 22, an insertion hole 263 for inserting the introduction-side branch pipe 422 connected to the first evaporator 23, and an insertion hole 264 for inserting the discharge-side branch pipe 432 connected to the first evaporator 23.

[0071] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above further includes a controller 27 for controlling the components of the first refrigeration device 20. In the shown embodiment, the controller 27 is accommodated inside the outer frame 26. The controller 27 is an electronic control unit for controlling the components of the first refrigeration device 20, and is configured as a microcomputer consisting of a CPU (processor) (not shown), a memory such as a ROM or a RAM, a storage device such as an external storage device, an I / O interface, a communication interface, and the like. The controller 27 is configured to control the output of the first compressor 24 such that, for example, the temperature of the third heat medium discharged from the first evaporator 23 reaches the target temperature.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 4, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above may further include a buffer tank 28 that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit 21 and is configured to store the first heat medium. The compressor 24 described above may be a single-stage compressor having a single-stage compression mechanism 241.

[0073] (Specific Example of Second Refrigeration Device) In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above further includes an outer frame 56 that surrounds the second refrigeration circuit 51, the second condenser 52, the second evaporator 53, the second compressor 54, and the second expander 55 which are components of the second refrigeration device 50. In the shown embodiment, the outer frame 56 is a casing that forms an internal space for accommodating the components of the second refrigeration device 50. However, the outer frame 56 may be a frame assembly (frame) made of a plurality of frames surrounding the components of the second refrigeration device 50. In the shown embodiment, the outer frame 56 is provided with an insertion hole 561 for inserting the introductionside branch pipe 132 connected to the second condenser 52, an insertion hole 562 for inserting the discharge-side branch pipe 142 connected to the second condenser 52, an insertion hole 563 for inserting the introduction-side branch pipe 622 connected to the second evaporator 53, and an insertion hole 564 for inserting the discharge-side branch pipe 632 connected to the second evaporator 53.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above further includes a controller 57 for controlling the components of the second refrigeration device 50. In the shown embodiment, the controller 57 is accommodated inside the outer frame 56. The controller 57 is an electronic control unit for controlling the components of the second refrigeration device 50, and is configured as a microcomputer consisting of a CPU (processor) (not shown), a memory such as a ROM or a RAM, a storage device such as an external storage device, an I / O interface, a communication interface, and the like. The controller 57 is configured to control the output of the second compressor 54 such that, for example, the temperature of the fifth heat medium discharged from the second evaporator 53 reaches the target temperature.

[0075] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigeration system 1 further includes a master controller 100 that is connected to the controller 27 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the controller 57 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 to be capable of transmitting and receiving an electric signal. The master controller 100 is an electronic control unit for controlling the operation of the refrigeration system 1, and is configured as a microcomputer consisting of a CPU (processor) (not shown), a memory such as a ROM or a RAM, a storage device such as an external storage device, an I / O interface, a communication interface, and the like.

[0076] The master controller 100 may determine whether or not each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 and each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 belonging to the second refrigeration device group 5 operate or stop operation and may transmit an operation signal which is a signal indicating whether or not to operate each of the refrigeration devices 20 and 50 to the controllers 27 and 57 of the respective refrigeration devices 20 and 50, based on the determination. The controllers 27 and 57 may control the corresponding refrigeration devices 20 and 50 to operate or stop operation in accordance with the operation signal from the master controller 100.

[0077] In a case where each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 operates such that the temperature of the third heat medium discharged from the first evaporator 23 reaches the target temperature, the master controller 100 may set the target temperature for each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20. The master controller 100 may set the target temperature of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 such that, for example, the operation load of the compressor 24 of each first refrigeration device 20 is uniform. The master controller 100 may lower the rotation speed of the compressor 24 of the first refrigeration device 20 having a high operation load by integrating the rotation speed and the operation time of the compressor 24 of each first refrigeration device 20, confirming the operating status of the compressor 24 of each first refrigeration device 20, and setting the target temperature of the first refrigeration device 20 with a high operation load of the compressor 24 to be higher than the target temperature of the other first refrigeration device 20.

[0078] In addition, when the refrigeration load of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 belonging to the first refrigeration device group 2 is small, the master controller 100 stops some first refrigeration devices 20, and rotates the first refrigeration devices 20 to be stopped when the refrigeration load is small. In this manner, it is possible to suppress an increase in the operation load of a specific first refrigeration device 20.

[0079] In a case where each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 operates such that the temperature of the fifth heat medium discharged from the second evaporator 53 reaches the target temperature, the master controller 100 may set the target temperature for each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50. The master controller 100 may set the target temperature of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 such that, for example, the operation load of the compressor 54 of each second refrigeration device 50 is uniform. The master controller 100 may lower the rotation speed of the compressor 54 of the second refrigeration device 50 having a high operation load by integrating the rotation speed and the operation time of the compressor 54 of each second refrigeration device 50, confirming the operating status of the compressor 54 of each second refrigeration device 50, and setting the target temperature of the second refrigeration device 50 with a high operation load of the compressor 54 to be higher than the target temperature of the other second refrigeration device 50.

[0080] In addition, when the refrigeration load of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 belonging to the second refrigeration device group 5 is small, the master controller 100 stops some second refrigeration devices 50, and rotates the second refrigeration devices 50 to be stopped when the refrigeration load is small. In this manner, it is possible to suppress an increase in the operation load of a specific second refrigeration device 50.

[0081] The master controller 100 may compare the refrigeration load of the first refrigeration device group 2 with the refrigeration load of the second refrigeration device group 5 and may make the circulation amount of the heat medium to the refrigeration device group with a high refrigeration load larger than the circulation amount of the heat medium to the refrigeration device group with a low refrigeration load. In addition, the master controller 100 may control the operation of each of the refrigeration devices 20 and 50 such that a total value of the electric power consumption of the first refrigeration device group 2 and the electric power consumption of the second refrigeration device group 5 is minimized, or may control the operation of each of the refrigeration devices 20 and 50 such that the total value does not exceed a predetermined value. The master controller 100 may predict the refrigeration load of the first refrigeration device group 2 or the refrigeration load of the second refrigeration device group 5 based on a predetermined pre-cooling schedule, and control the operation of each refrigeration device 20 or 50.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 5, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above may further include a buffer tank 58 that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit 51 and is configured to store the fourth heat medium. The compressor 54 described above may be a single-stage compressor having a single-stage compression mechanism 541.

[0083] The compressor 54 described above may be a two-stage compressor 54A having two-stage compression mechanisms 542 and 543 disposed in series, as shown in FIG. 6. In a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line 3, the pressure ratio required for the compressor 54 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is larger than in a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit 4. By using the two-stage compressors 54A as the compressor 54 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, it is possible to easily accommodate the required pressure ratio.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 6, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above may further include a gas-liquid separator 591, a gas passage 592, a check valve 593, and a first-stage expander 594. The gas-liquid separator 591 is provided on the downstream side of the second condenser 52 and on the upstream side of the second expander 55 in the second refrigeration circuit 51, and is configured to separate the fourth heat medium into a gas phase and a liquid phase. The first-stage expander 594 is provided on the downstream side of the second condenser 52 and on the upstream side of the gas-liquid separator 591 in the second refrigeration circuit 51, and is configured to expand the fourth heat medium. The gas passage 592 is a passage in which the gaseous fourth heat medium is taken out from the gas phase of the gas-liquid separator 591 and introduced between the compression mechanisms 542 and 543 of the two-stage compressor 54A. The check valve 593 is for suppressing backflow of the gaseous fourth heat medium to the gas-liquid separator 591 in the gas passage 592. The efficiency of the second refrigeration device 50 can be improved by introducing the gaseous fourth heat medium between the compression mechanisms 542 and 543 of the two-stage compressor 54A via the gas passage 592.

[0085] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the refrigeration system 1 further includes a plurality of flow control valves 9 (91, 92, 93, 94) individually provided for each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20. The plurality of flow control valves 9 are configured to control the flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of the introduction-side branch pipe 312 of the second heat medium introduction line 31 that is connected to the first condenser 22 and the introduction-side branch pipe 422 of the third heat medium introduction line 42 that is connected to the first evaporator 23.

[0086] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the introduction-side branch pipe 312 is provided with the manual valve 91 that is opened and closed by a manual operation and the automatic valve 92 that is driven by electricity and opened and closed according to an opening and closing instruction from the controller 27. In the shown embodiment, the manual valve 91 is disposed outside the insertion hole 261 or the outer frame 26, and the automatic valve 92 is disposed inside the outer frame 26.

[0087] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the introduction-side branch pipe 422 is provided with the manual valve 93 that is opened and closed by a manual operation and the automatic valve 94 that is driven by electricity and opened and closed according to an opening and closing instruction from the controller 27. In the shown embodiment, the manual valve 93 is disposed outside the insertion hole 263 or the outer frame 26, and the automatic valve 94 is disposed inside the outer frame 26. The plurality of flow control valves 9 described above may be any one of a combination of the manual valves 91 and 93 and a combination of the automatic valves 92 and 94.

[0088] According to the above-described configuration, by closing the plurality of flow control valves 9, it is possible to disconnect the target first refrigeration device 20 from the common first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and the common first cold heat recovery circuit 4. In this case, the pressure loss when the target first refrigeration device 20 is in the operation stop state can be reduced.

[0089] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the refrigeration system 1 includes the plurality of flow control valves 9 (91, 92, 95, 96) individually provided for each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20. The flow control valve 95 is a manual valve that is provided in the discharge-side branch pipe 322 of the second heat medium discharge line 32 that is connected to the first condenser 22, and is opened and closed by a manual operation. The flow control valve 96 is a manual valve that is provided in the discharge-side branch pipe 432 of the third heat medium return line 43 that is connected to the first evaporator 23, and is opened and closed by a manual operation. The flow control valves 95 and 96 are disposed outside the insertion holes 262 and 264 or the outer frame 26. In this case, by closing the plurality of flow control valves 9 (91, 92, 95, 96), it is possible to disconnect the target first refrigeration device 20 from the common first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and the common first cold heat recovery circuit 4. In this case, it becomes easy to remove the target first refrigeration device 20 from the refrigeration system 1.

[0090] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the refrigeration system 1 further includes a plurality of flow control valves 10 (101, 102, 103, 104) individually provided for each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50. The plurality of flow control valves 10 are configured to control the flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of the introduction-side branch pipe 132 connected to the second condenser 52 and the introduction-side branch pipe 622 connected to the second evaporator 53.

[0091] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the introduction-side branch pipe 132 is provided with the manual valve 101 that is opened and closed by a manual operation and the automatic valve 102 that is driven by electricity and opened and closed according to an opening and closing instruction from the controller 57. In the shown embodiment, the manual valve 101 is disposed outside the insertion hole 561 or the outer frame 56, and the automatic valve 102 is disposed inside the outer frame 56.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the introduction-side branch pipe 622 is provided with the manual valve 103 that is opened and closed by a manual operation and the automatic valve 104 that is driven by electricity and opened and closed according to an opening and closing instruction from the controller 57. In the shown embodiment, the manual valve 103 is disposed outside the insertion hole 563 or the outer frame 56, and the automatic valve 104 is disposed inside the outer frame 56. The plurality of flow control valves 10 described above may be any one of a combination of the manual valves 101 and 103 and a combination of the automatic valves 102 and 104.

[0093] According to the above-described configuration, by closing the plurality of flow control valves 10, it is possible to disconnect the target second refrigeration device 50 from the common second exhaust heat recovery line 12 and the common second cold heat recovery circuit 6. In this case, the pressure loss when the target second refrigeration device 50 is in the operation stop state can be reduced.

[0094] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the refrigeration system 1 includes the plurality of flow control valves 10 (101, 102, 105, 106) individually provided for each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50. The flow control valve 105 is a manual valve that is provided in the discharge-side branch pipe 142 connected to the second condenser 52, and is opened and closed by a manual operation. The flow control valve 106 is a manual valve that is provided in the discharge-side branch pipe 632 connected to the second evaporator 53, and is opened and closed by a manual operation. The flow control valves 105 and 106 are disposed outside the insertion holes 562 and 564 or the outer frame 56. In this case, by closing the plurality of flow control valves 10 (101, 102, 105, 106), it is possible to disconnect the target second refrigeration device 50 from the common second exhaust heat recovery line 12 and the common second cold heat recovery circuit 6. In this case, it becomes easy to remove the target second refrigeration device 50 from the refrigeration system 1.

[0095] In some embodiments, the first heat medium circulating in the first refrigeration circuit 21 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above consists of carbon dioxide. By using carbon dioxide as the first heat medium which is the refrigerant of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 can be installed either outdoors or indoors, so that the degree of freedom of an installation location of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 is high. In addition, by using carbon dioxide as the first heat medium, the maintenance cost of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 can be reduced as compared with a case where ammonia or the like is used as the first heat medium. In a case where ammonia is used as the first heat medium, a facility for neutralizing ammonia is required. Therefore, the installation area of the refrigeration system 1 increases, and maintenance requires man-hours. Therefore, there is a concern that the maintenance cost may increase. In addition, in a case where ammonia is used as the first heat medium, the first refrigeration device 20 has a relatively large size, and thus there is a concern that an installation location is limited to an outdoor location.

[0096] In some embodiments, the fourth heat medium circulating in the second refrigeration circuit 51 of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above consists of carbon dioxide. By using carbon dioxide as the fourth heat medium which is the refrigerant of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be installed either outdoors or indoors, so that the degree of freedom of an installation location of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 is high. In addition, by using carbon dioxide as the fourth heat medium, the maintenance cost of the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 can be reduced as compared with a case where ammonia or the like is used as the fourth heat medium.

[0097] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the refrigeration system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above includes the outer frame 26 (refer to FIGS. 1 to 4) described above that surrounds the first refrigeration circuit 21, the first condenser 22, and the first evaporator 23. The plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above include two or more first refrigeration devices 20 in which the outer frames 26 are stacked.

[0098] According to the above-described configuration, by disposing the two or more first refrigeration devices 20 by stacking the outer frames 26 thereof, it is possible to reduce the installation space of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 in the horizontal direction. In addition, two or more second refrigeration devices 50 may be disposed by stacking the outer frames 56 thereof, the outer frame 26 may be disposed by being stacked on the outer frame 56, or the outer frame 56 may be disposed by being stacked on the outer frame 26.

[0099] (Method for Modifying Refrigeration System) Hereinafter, a method for modifying a refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example into the refrigeration system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the refrigeration system 01 according to a comparative example. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a refrigeration system in an intermediate state when the refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example is modified into the refrigeration system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 8, the refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example includes an ammonia chiller 15A (15) that is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and the first cold heat recovery circuit 4 described above and uses ammonia as a refrigerant. The refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example may further include an ammonia chiller 15B (15) that is connected to the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 and the second cold heat recovery circuit 6 described above and uses ammonia as a refrigerant.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 9, the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above are added to the refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example. Specifically, the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 are installed and then connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line 3 and the first cold heat recovery circuit 4. The plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 described above may be added to the refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example. Specifically, the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 are installed and then connected to the second exhaust heat recovery line 12 and the second cold heat recovery circuit 6. In the intermediate state shown in FIG. 9, the ammonia chiller 15 (15 A, 15B), the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20, and the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 may generate cold-thermal energy for cooling a cooling target.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 7, in the refrigeration system in the intermediate state, the refrigeration system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is obtained by disconnecting the ammonia chiller 15 (15A, 15B) from the lines and removing the ammonia chiller 15 (15A, 15B) from the refrigeration system. In a case where the refrigeration system 01 according to the comparative example does not include the ammonia chiller 15B, the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50 and the second cold heat recovery circuit 6 may be additionally provided.

[0103] In some embodiments described above, the other refrigeration device 11 described above includes the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50. However, the other refrigeration device 11 described above may not include the plurality of second refrigeration devices 50.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first heat medium circulating in the first refrigeration circuit 21 of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 described above consists of carbon dioxide. As shown in FIG. 9, the other refrigeration device 11 described above includes the ammonia chiller 15 that uses ammonia as a refrigerant.

[0105] According to the above-described configuration, the refrigerants of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the ammonia chiller 15 are different from each other, and the refrigerant properties such as coefficient of performance (COP) / temperature curves are also different from each other. Since each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices 20 and the ammonia chiller 15 can be used in different ways in accordance with their respective refrigerant properties, depending on the load, the refrigeration capacity, the required temperature range, and the like of the refrigeration system 1, it is possible to improve the operation efficiency of the refrigeration system 1.

[0106] In the present specification, an expression representing a relative or absolute arrangement such as “in a certain direction”, “along a certain direction”, “parallel”, “orthogonal”, “center”, “concentric”, or “coaxial” does not strictly represent only such an arrangement, but also a tolerance or a state of being relatively displaced with an angle or a distance to the extent that the same function can be obtained. For example, expressions representing that things are in an equal state such as "same", "equal", and "homogeneous" not only strictly represent an equal state, but also represent a state where a difference exists with a tolerance or to such an extent that the same function can be obtained. In addition, in the present specification, an expression representing a shape such as a quadrangular shape or a cylindrical shape does not represent only a shape such as a quadrangular shape or a cylindrical shape in a geometrically strict sense, but also a shape including an uneven portion, a chamfered portion, and the like within a range in which the same effect can be obtained. In addition, in the present specification, expressions such as “comprising”, “including”, or “having” one component are not exclusive expressions excluding the presence of other components.

[0107] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and also includes a form in which modifications are added to the above-described embodiments or a form in which the embodiments are combined with each other as appropriate.

[0108] The contents described in some embodiments described above are understood as follows, for example.

[0109] 1) A refrigeration system (1) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) each including a first refrigeration circuit(21) that circulates a first heat medium, a first condenser (22) that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit (21) and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the first heat medium to a second heat medium, and a first evaporator (23) that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit (21) and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the first heat medium to a third heat medium, a first exhaust heat recovery line (3) through which the second heat medium flows and which is connected to the first condenser (22) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) to allow the second heat medium to flow, a first cold heat recovery circuit (4) that circulates the third heat medium and is connected to the first evaporator (23) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (4) to allow the third heat medium to flow, the other refrigeration device (11) that is different from the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), and a second exhaust heat recovery line (12) through which a heat medium for recovering thermal energy from the other refrigeration device (11) flows and which is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) or the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) to allow the heat medium to flow.

[0110] According to the configuration in 1) above, since each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) is connected to the common first exhaust heat recovery line (3) and the common first cold heat recovery circuit (4), even when one first refrigeration device (20) is stopped due to a failure or the like, the refrigeration system (1) can be continuously operated by operating the other first refrigeration devices (20). In addition, the refrigeration system (1) can be restored to the original state by only replacing the failed first refrigeration device (20) with a new first refrigeration device (20). Such a refrigeration system (1) can readily ensure the stability of the refrigeration system (1).

[0111] In addition, according to the configuration in 1) above, since the other refrigeration device (11) is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) or the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) via the second exhaust heat recovery line (12), it is possible to generate the cold-thermal energy by the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the other refrigeration device (11), and it is possible to suppress an increase in size or complexity of the refrigeration system 1 including the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the other refrigeration device (11).

[0112] 2) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to 1) above, the other refrigeration device (11) includes at least a plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) each including a second refrigeration circuit (51) that circulates a fourth heat medium, a second condenser (52) that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit (51) and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the third heat medium, and a second evaporator (53) that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit (51) and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to a fifth heat medium, the second exhaust heat recovery line (12) is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) and to the second condenser (52) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) to allow the third heat medium to flow, and the refrigeration system (1) further includes a second cold heat recovery circuit (6) that circulates the fifth heat medium and is connected to the second evaporator (53) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) to allow the fifth heat medium to flow.

[0113] According to the configuration in 2) above, the refrigeration system (1) includes the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) described above. In this case, the efficiency of the refrigeration system (1) can be optimized by selectively operating the first refrigeration device (20) and the second refrigeration device (50) which have different refrigeration capacity ranges. In addition, according to the configuration in 2) above, the second exhaust heat recovery line (12) is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit (4), so that the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4). In this case, since the condensation pressure of the second condenser (52) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be kept at a relatively low pressure, it becomes easy to maintain the refrigeration capacity of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) regardless of the outside air temperature.

[0114] 3) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to 1) above, the other refrigeration device (11) includes at least a plurality of second refrigeration devices(50) each including a second refrigeration circuit (51) that circulates a fourth heat medium, a second condenser (52) that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit (51) and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the second heat medium, and a second evaporator (53) that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit (51) and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to a fifth heat medium, the second exhaust heat recovery' line (12) is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) and to the second condenser (52) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) to allow the second heat medium to flow, and the refrigeration system (1) further includes a second cold heat recovery circuit (6) that circulates the fifth heat medium and is connected to the second evaporator (53) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) to allow the fifth heat medium to flow.

[0115] According to the configuration in 3) above, the refrigeration system (1) includes the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) described above. In this case, the efficiency of the refrigeration system (1) can be optimized by selectively operating the first refrigeration device (20) and the second refrigeration device (50) which have different refrigeration capacity ranges. In addition, according to the configuration in 3) above, the second exhaust heat recovery line (12) is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line (3), so that the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line (3). In this case, the refrigeration capacity of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) can be reduced as compared with a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4). Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the refrigeration system (1) can be reduced. In addition, according to the configuration in 3) above, the second exhaust heat recovery line (12) is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line (3). Therefore, compared to a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4), a difference in pressure loss between the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and a difference in pressure loss between the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be made small. Therefore, the refrigeration system (1) can be easily constructed.

[0116] 4) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to 3) above, each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) further includes a two-stage compressor (54A) that is provided on a downstream side of the second evaporator (53) and an upstream side of the second condenser (52) in the second refrigeration circuit (51).

[0117] According to the configuration in 4) above, in a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line (3), the pressure ratio required for the compressor (54) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is larger than in a case where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4). By using the two-stage compressors (54A) as the compressor (54) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50), it is possible to easily accommodate the required pressure ratio.

[0118] 5) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 1) to 4) above, the first heat medium that circulates in the first refrigeration circuit (21) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) consists of carbon dioxide.

[0119] According to the configuration in 5) above, by using carbon dioxide as the first heat medium which is the refrigerant of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) can be installed either outdoors or indoors, so that the degree of freedom of an installation location of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) is high. In addition, by using carbon dioxide as the first heat medium, the maintenance cost of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) can be reduced as compared with a case where ammonia or the like is used as the first heat medium.

[0120] 6) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 2) to 4) above, the fourth heat medium that circulates in the second refrigeration circuit (51) of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) consists of carbon dioxide.

[0121] According to the configuration in 6) above, by using carbon dioxide as the fourth heat medium which is the refrigerant of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50), each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be installed either outdoors or indoors, so that the degree of freedom of an installation location of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is high. In addition, by using carbon dioxide as the fourth heat medium, the maintenance cost of the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) can be reduced as compared with a case where ammonia or the like is used as the fourth heat medium.

[0122] 7) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 1) to 4) above, the first heat medium that circulates in the first refrigeration circuit (21) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) consists of carbon dioxide, and the other refrigeration device (11) includes an ammonia chiller (15) that uses ammonia as a refrigerant.

[0123] According to the configuration in 7) above, the refrigerants of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the ammonia chiller (15) are different from each other, and the refrigerant properties such as coefficient of performance (COP) / temperature curves are also different from each other. Since each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) and the ammonia chiller (15) can be used in different ways in accordance with their respective refrigerant properties, depending on the load, the refrigeration capacity, the required temperature range, and the like of the refrigeration system (1), it is possible to improve the operation efficiency of the refrigeration system (1).

[0124] 8) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 2) to 6) above, the second heat medium and the third heat medium consist of the same type of heat medium, the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) includes a second heat medium introduction line (31) for introducing the second heat medium to the first condenser (22) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), and a second heat medium discharge line (32) for discharging the second heat medium from the first condenser (22) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), the first cold heat recovery circuit includes (4) a third heat medium storage tank (41) that is configured to store the third heat medium, a third heat medium introduction line (42) for introducing the third heat medium from the third heat medium storage tank (41) to the first evaporator (23) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), and a third heat medium return line (43) for returning the third heat medium from the first evaporator (23) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) to the third heat medium storage tank (41), the second exhaust heat recovery line (12) is connected to the third heat medium introduction line (42) via a first introduction line (81), is connected to the second heat medium introduction line (31) via a second introduction line (82), is connected to the third heat medium return line (43 )via a first discharge line (83), and is connected to the second heat medium discharge line (32) via a second discharge line (84), and the refrigeration system (1) further includes a plurality of flow control valves (85, 86, 87, 88) that are configured to control a flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of the first introduction line (81), the second introduction line (82), the first discharge line (83), and the second discharge line (84).

[0125] According to the configuration in 8) above, by opening and closing the plurality of flow control valves (85, 86, 87, 88), it is possible to selectively switch between a state where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) and a state where the exhaust heat is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line (3). In this case, the advantages of a state where the exhaust heat discharged from the plurality of second refrigeration devices (50) is collectively recovered in the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) and a state where the exhaust heat is collectively recovered in the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) can be timely utilized.

[0126] 9) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 1) to 8) above, the first exhaust heat recovery line (3) includes a second heat medium introduction line (31) for introducing the second heat medium to the first condenser (22) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), and a second heat medium discharge line (32) for discharging the second heat medium from the first condenser (22) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), the first cold heat recovery circuit (4) includes a third heat medium storage tank (41) that is configured to store the third heat medium, a third heat medium introduction line (42) for introducing the third heat medium from the third heat medium storage tank (41) to the first evaporator (23) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20), and a third heat medium return line (43) for returning the third heat medium from the first evaporator (23) of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) to the third heat medium storage tank (41), and the refrigeration system (1) further includes a plurality of flow control valves (9) that are configured to control a flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of an introduction-side branch pipe (312) of the second heat medium introduction line (31) that is connected to the first condenser (22) and an introduction-side branch pipe (422) of the third heat medium introduction line (42) that is connected to the first evaporator (23).

[0127] According to the configuration in 9) above, by closing the plurality of flow control valves (9), it is possible to disconnect the target first refrigeration device (20) from the common first exhaust heat recovery line (3) and the common first cold heat recovery circuit (4). In this case, the pressure loss when the target first refrigeration device (20) is in the operation stop state can be reduced.

[0128] 10) In some embodiments, in the refrigeration system (1) according to any one of 1) to 9) above, each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) further includes an outer frame (26) that surrounds the first refrigeration circuit (21), the first condenser (22), and the first evaporator (23), and the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) include two or more first refrigeration devices (20) in which the outer frames (26) are stacked.

[0129] According to the configuration in 10) above, by disposing the two or more first refrigeration devices (20) by stacking the outer frames (26) thereof, it is possible to reduce the installation space of the plurality of first refrigeration devices (20) in the horizontal direction. Reference Signs List

[0130] 1, 01: refrigeration system 2: first refrigeration device group 3: first exhaust heat recovery line 4: first cold heat recovery circuit 5: second refrigeration device group 6: second cold heat recovery circuit 9, 10: flow control valve 11: other refrigeration device 12: second exhaust heat recovery line 13: second exhaust heat medium introduction line 14: second exhaust heat medium discharge line 15, 15A, 15B: ammonia chiller 20: first refrigeration device 21: first refrigeration circuit 22: first condenser 23: first evaporator 24: first compressor 25: first expander 26, 56: outer frame 27, 57: controller 28, 58: buffer tank 31: second heat medium introduction line 32: second heat medium discharge line 33: cooling device 33A: exhaust heat recovery device 33B: cooler 34, 45: pump 41: third heat medium storage tank 42: third heat medium introduction line 43: third heat medium return line 44, 64: heat exchanger 50: second refrigeration device 51: second refrigeration circuit 52: second condenser 53: second evaporator 54: second compressor 55: second expander 61: fifth heat medium storage tank 62: fifth heat medium introduction line 63: fifth heat medium return line 81: first introduction line 82: second introduction line 83: first discharge line 84: second discharge line 100: master controller 591: gas-liquid separator 592: gas passage 593: checkvalve 594: first-stage expander Pl, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6: connection position

Claims

1. A refrigeration system comprising:a plurality of first refrigeration devices each includinga first refrigeration circuit that circulates a first heat medium,a first condenser that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the first heat medium to a second heat medium, anda first evaporator that is provided in the first refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the first heat medium to a third heat medium;a first exhaust heat recovery line through which the second heat medium flows and which is connected to the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to allow the second heat medium to flow;a first cold heat recovery circuit that circulates the third heat medium and is connected to the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to allow the third heat medium to flow;the other refrigeration device that is different from the plurality of first refrigeration devices; anda second exhaust heat recovery line through which a heat medium for recovering thermal energy from the other refrigeration device flows and which is connected to at least one of the first cold heat recovery circuit or the first exhaust heat recovery line to allow the heat medium to flow.

2. The refrigeration system according to Claim 1,wherein the other refrigeration device includes at least a plurality of second refrigeration devices each includinga second refrigeration circuit that circulates a fourth heat medium,a second condenser that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the third heat medium, anda second evaporator that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to a fifth heat medium,the second exhaust heat recovery line is connected to the first cold heat recovery circuit and to the second condenser of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices to allow the third heat medium to flow, andthe refrigeration system further comprises a second cold heat recovery circuit that circulates the fifth heat medium and is connected to the second evaporator of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices to allow the fifth heat medium to flow.

3. The refrigeration system according to Claim 1,wherein the other refrigeration device includes at least a plurality of second refrigeration devices each includinga second refrigeration circuit that circulates a fourth heat medium,a second condenser that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to the secondheat medium, anda second evaporator that is provided in the second refrigeration circuit and is configured to transfer cold-thermal energy of the fourth heat medium to a fifth heat medium,the second exhaust heat recovery line is connected to the first exhaust heat recovery line and to the second condenser of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices to allow the second heat medium to flow, andthe refrigeration system further comprises a second cold heat recovery circuit that circulates the fifth heat medium and is connected to the second evaporator of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices to allow the fifth heat medium to flow.

4. The refrigeration system according to Claim 3,wherein each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices further includes a two-stage compressor that is provided on a downstream side of the second evaporator and an upstream side of the second condenser in the second refrigeration circuit.

5. The refrigeration system according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,wherein the first heat medium that circulates in the first refrigeration circuit of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices consists of carbon dioxide.

6. The refrigeration system according to any one of Claims 2 to 4,wherein the fourth heat medium that circulates in the second refrigerationcircuit of each of the plurality of second refrigeration devices consists of carbon dioxide.

7. The refrigeration system according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,wherein the first heat medium that circulates in the first refrigeration circuit of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices consists of carbon dioxide, andthe other refrigeration device includes an ammonia chiller that uses ammonia as a refrigerant.

8. The refrigeration system according to Claim 2,wherein the second heat medium and the third heat medium consist of the same type of heat medium,the first exhaust heat recovery line includesa second heat medium introduction line for introducing the second heat medium to the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices, anda second heat medium discharge line for discharging the second heat medium from the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices, the first cold heat recovery circuit includesa third heat medium storage tank that is configured to store the third heat medium,a third heat medium introduction line for introducing the third heat medium from the third heat medium storage tank to the first evaporator of each of theplurality of first refrigeration devices, anda third heat medium return line for returning the third heat medium from the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to the third heat medium storage tank,the second exhaust heat recovery line is connected to the third heat medium introduction line via a first introduction line, is connected to the second heat medium introduction line via a second introduction line, is connected to the third heat medium return line via a first discharge line, and is connected to the second heat medium discharge line via a second discharge line, andthe refrigeration system further comprises a plurality of flow control valves that are configured to control a flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of the first introduction line, the second introduction line, the first discharge line, and the second discharge line.

9. The refrigeration system according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,wherein the first exhaust heat recovery line includesa second heat medium introduction line for introducing the second heat medium to the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices, anda second heat medium discharge line for discharging the second heat medium from the first condenser of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices,the first cold heat recovery circuit includesa third heat medium storage tank that is configured to store the third heat medium,a third heat medium introduction line for introducing the third heat medium from the third heat medium storage tank to the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices, anda third heat medium return line for returning the third heat medium from the first evaporator of each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices to the third heat medium storage tank, andthe refrigeration system further comprises a plurality of flow control valves that are configured to control a flow rate of the heat medium flowing through each of an introduction-side branch pipe of the second heat medium introduction line that is connected to the first condenser and an introduction-side branch pipe of the third heat medium introduction line that is connected to the first evaporator.

10. The refrigeration system according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,wherein each of the plurality of first refrigeration devices further includes an outer frame that surrounds the first refrigeration circuit, the first condenser, and the first evaporator, andthe plurality of first refrigeration devices include two or more first refrigeration devices in which the outer frames are stacked.INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT International application No. PCT / JP2023 / 039239A. CLASSIFICATION OF SUBJECT MATTERF25B l / 00(2006.01)i;F25B 1 / 10(2006.01)1FI: F25B1 / 00 399Y; F25B1 / 00 396D; F25B1 / 00 3%R; F25B1 / 00 397Z; F25B1 / 10 ZAccording to International Patent Classification (IPC) or to both national classification and IPCB.FIELDS SEARCHEDMinimum documentation searched (classification system followed by classification symbols)F25B1 / 00; F25B1 / 1ODocumentation searched other than minimum documentation to the extent that such documents are included in the fields searchedPublished examined utility model applications of Japan 1922-1996Published unexamined utility model applications of Japan 1971-2023Registered utility model specifications of Japan 1996-2023Published registered utility model applications of Japan 1994-2023Electronic data base consulted during the international search (name of data base and, where practicable, search terms used)DOCUMENTS CONSIDERED TO BE RELEVANTCategory* Citation of document, with indication, where appropriate, of the relevant passages Relevant to claim No. X JP 2015-78820 A (HITACHI APPLIANCES, INC.) 23 April 2015 (2015-04-23) paragraphs [0005]-[0008], [0019]-[0101], fig. 1-9 1-7 Y 8-10 ___________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ___________________ Y JP 2012-73013 A (CHUBU ELECTRIC POWER CO., INC.) 12 April 2012 (2012-04-12) 8-9 paragraph [0273], fig. 33 Y JP 7-167519 A (DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.) 04 July 1995 (1995-07-04) paragraphs [0040]-[0046], fig. 1-3 10 Y JP 58-136960 A (MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION) 15 August 1983 (1983-08-15) description, p. 1, lower left column, line 15 to p. 2, upper left column, line 12, fig. 1-2 10| | Further documents are listed in the continuation of Box C. | | See patent family annex.* Special categories of cited documents:“A” document defining the general state of the art which is not considered“T” later document published after the international filing date or priority“O”“P”to be of particular relevanceearlier application or patent but published on or after the international filing datedocument which may throw doubts on priority claim(s) or which is cited to establish the publication date of another citation or other special reason (as specified)document referring to an oral disclosure, use, exhibition or other meansdocument published prior to the international filing date but later than the priority date claimed‘Y’date and not in conflict with the application but cited to understand the principle or theory underlying the inventiondocument of particular relevance; the claimed invention cannot be considered novel or cannot be considered to involve an inventive step when the document is taken alonedocument of particular relevance; the claimed invention cannot be considered to involve an inventive step when the document is combined with one or more other such documents, such combination being obvious to a person skilled in the aitdocument member of the same patent familyDate of the actual completion of the international searchDate of mailing of the international search report19 December 2023Name and mailing address of the ISA / JPJapan Patent Office (ISA / JP)3-4-3 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8915JapanAuthorized officer09 January 2024Telephone No.INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT Information on patent family membersInternational application No.PCT / JP2023 / 039239Patent document cited in search report Publication date (day / month / year) Patent family member)s) Publication date (day / month / year) JP 2015-78820 A 23 April 2015 (Family: none) JP 2012-73013 A 12 April 2012 JP 2014-89046 A JP 7-167519 A 04 July 1995 (Family: none) JP 58-136960 A 15 August 1983 (Family: none)

Images